A couple of weeks ago, you had the opportunity to read the book. Now, thanks to the tubes of the internet, you can see what the introduction of the 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R looked like in all its HD glory. See the day start in pea soup fog before moving to scenic coastal highways. Later, watch the SDR handle the challenges of the Portimao circuit. Finally, watch Evans tie it all together in the end-of-day briefing in front of a picturesque backdrop. There’s even some talk about this being the film to beat in next year’s Oscar race.
2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Review – First Ride
Through movie magic, you’ll actually get to see the engine’s internals while Evans describes the impressive weight savings and changes in power output. The engine cases alone lost almost two pounds while the exhaust system, despite gaining a second catalyst, also lost 2.2 lb. While the horsepower peak may not have changed much, the torque comes on earlier and stronger than last year’s model.
The stiffened chassis uses the engine as a stressed member while the swingarm pivot has moved closer to the countershaft sprocket. The net result is a bike that turns in easier, behaving more like a proper sportbike than before. Additionally, the new swingarm pivot location combines with the new shock linkage to promote anti squat to assist the Super Duke R in holding its line while exiting a corner hard on the gas. A bespoke Bridgestone S22 rear tire was also developed to deal with the engine’s prodigious output.
KTM went so far with its lightening design goal that it tried to reduce the weight every part that changed by 5%. For example, the rear subframe is now a combination of cast aluminum and carbon composite. The SDR’s bodywork is now thinner in the center and thicker on the edges where it needs to be stronger.
So, without further ado, we offer, for your awards consideration, the 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R video review.
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