Motorcycle specifications KTMSuperduke 1290 GT 2023 Hyper-roadster civilisé

The fate of the Superduke GT is closely linked to that of the R. Its name may make it seem like a road-going or even a touring model, but in reality it's a severely perfused roadster. If an evolution was essential to continue its career, it appears almost timid in the face of the work carried out on several occasions on the hyper-burnt roadster.

There's no jolt or jolting in the GT's characteristic lines. Whether in silhouette, fascia, ribs or embellishments, almost nothing distinguishes this Phase III from its predecessor. A bit of color, more specifically the wheels. A new design, but above all 1 kilo less than the old wheels, and a new Continental SportAttack 4 tire.

What this "civilized" Superduke really needed was an updated engine. Not a very complicated exercise, given that the R took care of it in 2021. The operation seems painless for the intrepid 1301 cm3 twin-cylinder. Still 175 crankshaft-twisting horses and, above all, over 14 mkg (141 Nm to be precise) ready to rip off a few chunks of asphalt.

The chassis will prove more responsive with the new wheels, but there are no notable changes to the overall chassis(are you sure!?!). The frame even lags behind the structure of the R. On the hyper-roadster, it has been simplified and is supported by the engine to increase rigidity. The GT has not yet adopted this technical solution. But we've still got the big Brembo M50 brakes with 320 mm discs, a handsome single-arm, a big 23-liter fuel tank, a suitably sized bodywork and bubble to offer decent protection, headlights that light up corners and suspates that...... Rectif, change.

they 're still semi-active. Developed for greater efficiency, they react to the road profile in three modes (Comfort / Street / Sport) and 4 load options selected by the rider (Rider / Rider and passenger / Rider and luggage / Rider, passenger and luggage). An anti-dive function is fitted as standard.

Although the 1290 GT has a fiery temperament, it's not above taking care of the crew's well-being. Particularly the rider, who benefits from heated grips, a 9-position bubble adjustment system, handlebars with a 4-position 22 mm adjustment range, adjustable brake pedal and shifter, plus new controls for the new color TFT instrument panel.

Panel , panel.... More like a tablet. Directly derived from the SuperAdventure S. Piloting this interface with its attractive graphics, you can access a wealth of information and set a number of parameters: pilot-controlled suspension, traction control (3 levels and can be deactivated), Supermoto mode for ABS, cruise control and the new TBT+ (Turn-by-turn Plus) navigation system. This module is controlled by the KTM Connect app, to display on-screen turn-by-turn instructions. In case you're worried about poor network coverage, TBT+ can operate offline - just don't forget to download the routes first.
An optional Performance mode lets you set more parameters and "let go" of this road-going beast.

The Katoche didn't forget to pick up a lot of tricks from the old versions: active ABS in curves, hill-start assist, three Driving Modes, tire pressure monitoring, automatic turn-signal shut-off, luggage anchoring points. Which leads us to believe that suitcases are still not included, and that the UP&Down shifter has been downgraded to an optional extra. Mattighofen could do with a gesture, given the steep price tag.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos