Test: KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

When I was behind its wide steering wheel during the test, it seemed to me that I was entering some other dimension. It's like I've been hitting the fast play button all the way. By that, I don't mean any buttons on the handlebars that you can use to customize how the whole bike works to your liking. Sometimes it's really surprising where we come from. What all bikes are capable of and how to play with them. I know it's presumptuous to say that even a beginner can drive it, but it's true - in the mildest conditions (suspension, slip control, engine power) anyone, even a beginner, can drive it. But, yes, it's always like that, but. In fact, it is a beast in the guise of a sports traveler, where a leather racing suit is still a mandatory piece of equipment.

So one word of caution should be made: if you are someone looking for the freedom and pleasure of easy riding while riding, skip what you are reading because you are not the right rider for this KTM. Motorcycle made on the monster we call Super Duke, and this relationship is more of a tourist version GT does not hide at all. This is a heavy-duty bike that has slightly better wind protection than its stripped-down version, which is a roadster in the truest sense of the word, where it is always difficult to stay in the saddle. The seat here is very comfortable, padded and large enough for you to enjoy the quick turns with the girl in the back as well. The side cases suit him well, so he can be a traveler too. It is already equipped as standard with state-of-the-art electronics and semi-active suspension, which in practice means you can safely get the most out of it at any time, whatever the circumstances.

When I mention the brutal 144 Newton meters and the fact that 170 'horses'It may be clear to you that this is a motorcycle that can also be a race car. When KTM makes a motorcycle and says it's sporty, trust them better. That's why I was grateful for it every time MSC (stability control system) with an excellent ABS system that also works on slopes. Safety is ensured by various settings for the operation of the motor electronics, ranging from complete control and restraint in the rain program to complete debauchery in the supermoto program, which allows you to drive at the border without interfering with the electronics.

But this requires the right go-kart track or, if you are well prepared, good asphalt on the mountain passes. The motorcycle, which costs just under $ 19, offers great value for the money. 23 liter fuel tank There are built-in LED lights that will illuminate the turn from the inside at night and significantly improve visibility, and you don't have to worry about turning off the turn signals because they will take care of it themselves.

While driving, it proves to be very reliable and has excellent directional control, you just have to be careful not to mislead all that electronics and quality components because it easily drives very fast on any road and requires a lot of self-control. necessary. Especially when you overdo it with the quickshifter, which makes a loud bang from the tailpipe and drives adrenaline through your veins.

• Basic data

  Sales: AXLE doo, Kolodvorskaya c. 7 6000 Koper Phone: [phone], www.axle.si, Seles Moto Ltd., Perovo 19a, 1290 Grosuplje Phone: [phone], www.seles.si

  Base model price: 18.849 €

• Technical information

  engine: 4-stroke, 1.301cc, twin, V3 °, liquid-cooled

  Power: 127 kW (170 km)

  Torque: 144 Nm

  Energy transfer: 6-speed gearbox, chain, rear wheel slip as standard

  Frame: steel pipe

  brakes: front 2x discs 320 mm, Brembo radial mount, rear 1x 245 disc, ABS cornering

  Suspension: WP polarized suspension, USD front telescopic fork, 48mm, rear single shock

  Tires: before 120/70 R18, rear 190/55 R17

  Growth: 835 mm

  Fuel tank: 23 liters

  Wheelbase: 1.482 mm

  Weight: 205 kg

We praise and reproach

workmanship, equipment

driver assistance systems

polyactive suspension perfectly adapts to all substrates

power and torque

brakes

comfortable sporty travel position

wind protection above 160 km / h

slightly rough operation of the two-cylinder engine at very low rpm and revs

it may offer a little more comfort for the passenger

final grade

You want to inject some pure adrenaline into your daily motorcycle life without suffering from supersport deals or roadsters.