“This is the first V twin I've owned. I had reservations as I had always owned Japanese makes, primarily across the frame fours, apart from a Honda CBX 1000 six back in the day.
Went for a test ride on one and "Wow" sold on it after 15 minutes. Sure it's not as smooth as a four but it feels less sanitised not rough.
The torque is phenomenal and it just keeps pulling and pulling.
With a top quality chassis, White Power suspension and Brembo brakes it handles supremely well.
The finish in my opinion is a class above most makes.
Mine is not used on a daily basis but I look forward to riding my KTM SUPERDUKE 1290 more than any other bike I've owned.
Take one for a test ride you will not be disappointed.”
“Does exactly what I had hoped - 5000 miles in 6 months - visit to The Alps in July was brill
Plenty of torque - decent handling - I don't ride quick enough to push the boundaries but have loved every minute on the bike
I have the SE spec and love the finish - so far no negatives
Not too impressed with the dealers level of service - seem really keen but once the sale id completed I was basically given the keys and left to it”
“I owned a Kawasaki z1000 2015 model I managed 1100 miles in a year I have owned KTM 1290 superduke R for 3 months and now managed 1800 mile. I think that says it all. Fun is ment to be grabbed with both hands so go grab a Duke you won't regret it”
“First!!! Don't agree with the insurance database stating the 180HP bracket. Yes this can be achieved but out of the box the bike isn't 180 brake.
I ride my SDR every day, all weathers, no exceptions. I have been riding 20 years. Ridden CBRs,GSXRs,DUCATIs,custom engined fighters, busa's,SP2s,you name it. Never have I ridden a bike with so much torque! The SDR works for taller riders, it's comfy, quick and great handling. Needs sport setup if you want to push hard but remember it is a road bike.. Only experienced riders will get the most Out of it. Less experienced riders could ride with the assists on and still have fun, but if you are a hooligan you will have so much fun you'll get arrested! If you love your twins, this bike will take some beating.”
“Have driven GSXR 1000 for over 20 years and was very happy with the performance and reliability with the Suzuki .but as Suzuki have not changed the look for 7 years I thought I would have a change and the KTM 1290 was my one for me ,it lives up to her name and goes like shit off a shovel and she handles well round corners well. so if you have a spare £17.000 this encodes all the extras put on the bike. so good luck and ride well
Graeme.”
