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KTM launches next generation of naked bikes

KTM 790 Duke next generation

KTM  has launched the next generation of KTM naked bikes – 390 Duke, 790 Duke Prototype (pictured above) and 1290 Super Duke R – at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan.

KTM Australia marketing manager Greg Chambers says these models will be coming to our market but pricing is yet to be announced. With the exception of the 790 Duke Prototype, the bikes will arrive in the first quarter of 2017.

This follows the unveiling of the 1290 Super Adventure S and R and the 1090 Adventure and 1090 Adventure R at the INTERMOT show in Cologne last month. The R off-road models will arrive in Australia in May.

790 Duke Prototype

The future direction of KTM can be seen in the wild looking 790 Duke Prototype designed, as usual, by Kiska.

It is powered by an LC8c inline twin where the “c” stands for compact.

The compact prototype looks even smaller without mirrors and tail. Speaking if which, how are they going to fit a number plate with the short rear funder and the central tail muffler?

The prototype is fitted with fly-by-wire technology, a host of electronic rider aids, wireless phone connectivity, quickshifter and customisable rider modes and traction control.

390 Duke

All single-cylinder Duke models get a new, bolt-on rear subframe, a larger 13.4-litre steel fuel tank and steeply rising style lines.

The emissions of the 390 Duke’s 373.2 cc engine now conform to Euro 4 but power and torque are not affected.

The 390 Duke also gets an LED headlight and daytime running lights, adjustable brake and clutch levers, new exhaust, a larger 320mm front brake disc and ride-by—wire throttle for smother power delivery.

Riders should enjoy the light display of the new full-colour TFT display. For example, engine revs read-out turn blue during warm-up and change to red when near the limiter.

KTM MY RIDE with hands-free function and audio player is available as an option. It integrates incoming call information and the music program directly into the TFT display. Both functions are operated via a menu switch on the handlebar.

1290 Super Duke R

The 1290 Super Duke R gets wider and lower handlebars, Brembo monobloc brakes, MSC with Bosch cornering ABS, WP suspension, an optional, two-way quickshifter+, a multifunctional colour TFT display and LED headlight with  daytime running lights.

It has also had the Euro 4 treatment on the 1301cc engine with a higher 13:6.1 compression ratio. KTM claims it runs smoother, consumes less fuel and cuts down on CO2 emissions by about 10%.

Yet the power has increased 4kW to 131kW.

The Super Duke R has a new cruise control and the key transponder also operates the fuel cap.

It also has stiffer WP fork and rear shock springs and a “sportier setup”.

The latest Metzeler Sportec™ M7 RR super sport rubber are fitted as standard.

The optional “Track Pack” has launch control, a MTC slip adjust, a “Track” ride mode, freely selectable engine maps, My Ride wireless connectivity and anti-wheelie mode that can be switched off for maximum fun.

It comes in two colours, mainly black or mainly white.