KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO road test and everyday ride 2024

During our winter getaway to Barcelona in March, we had the opportunity to test ride the new KTM Naked Bike for the first time. At the initial unveiling of the new KTM Naked Bike, professional racer Martin Bauer pushed this powerful machine to its limits. However, many riders will also enjoy cruising the Austrian hyper-naked on back roads and in daily commutes, which is why we took it through the city, along the highway, and into the Winkelwerk.

Let's start by discussing the key changes and advancements in the new KTM Naked Bike models. Starting in 2024, the KTM 1390 Super Duke R will feature an upgraded LC8 V-twin engine with a displacement of 1,350 cc, up from the previous 1,301 cc in the 1290 Super Duke. KTM has enlarged the bore to 110 millimeters while keeping the stroke at 71 millimeters, resulting in a power boost from 180 to 190 hp at 10,000 rpm and torque increase from 140 to 145 Nm at 8,000 rpm. One of the major innovations is the introduction of variable valve timing to meet the demanding Euro 5+ emissions standard while enhancing performance. The cam shift system, a first for KTM, adjusts between two intake cam profiles based on load and engine speed. Additionally, valve clearance check intervals have been extended to 60,000 kilometers. Other enhancements include an optimized airbox, larger throttle valve diameter of 60 millimeters, and improved flap control for noise compliance. The 1390 Super Duke R is equipped with the latest WP Apex components for the chassis, featuring a 48 mm upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a vertical central suspension strut at the rear, both fully adjustable with separate settings for "high speed" and "low speed" at the rear. The Evo version offers a semi-active chassis with five modes: "Auto", "Comfort", "Rain", "Street", and "Sport", with optional "Track" and "Pro" modes including automatic load compensation. The EVO suspension includes anti-dive function and factory start option for improved traction. With a larger 17.5-liter fuel tank, the KTM 1390 Super Duke R aims for a range of approximately 300 kilometers at 5.9 L/100km consumption. The fully fueled weight stands at 212.5 kilograms. These are the key technical innovations of the KTM 1390 Super Duke.

The KTM Naked Bike, known as the 1390 Super Duke R EVO, focuses on blending comfort and performance in terms of ergonomics. The seating position closely resembles the previous model, emphasizing a forward-leaning stance with a sporty knee angle. By shifting your weight forward, the riding posture becomes upright enough for easy maneuvering in city traffic. The wide handlebars enhance control at lower speeds. The engine, boasting 190 hp, exhibits a gentle nature at lower RPMs. Power delivery is smooth from 2,000 rpm, although the potent V2 engine hints at its preference for higher revs through vibrations. Despite this, acceleration is effortless even from low RPMs, with smoother performance at 2,500 rpm and optimal comfort at 3,000 rpm. Surprisingly, the engine's refinement and accessibility defy expectations for such a large, sporty engine, thanks to modern engine management. Paired with moderately sporty ergonomics, this results in a pleasantly surprising urban riding experience. The quickshifter operates smoothly at low speeds, occasionally faltering under partial load but generally reliable. During our test in 18 to 20 °C temperatures, the engine's heat dissipation is discreet, with vibrations adding to the distinctive ride feel without becoming bothersome. The semi-active WP suspension allows riders to switch between Comfort, Road, and Sport modes at the touch of a button, adapting to different road conditions. In its softest setting, the bike impressively glides over obstacles like manhole covers with remarkable comfort for a hypernaked bike.

How much of the 190 hp of the KTM 1390 Super Duke can be effectively utilized on the public roads? The maximum power is only available at 10,000 rpm. If you don't fully rev out the short and somewhat nervous first gear, you won't legally reach the most powerful rev range. However, on the Super Duke, this difference is less pronounced compared to other high-performance motorcycles. The large V-engine is capable of delivering ample torque to the rear wheel even at low revs and in the mid-range, eliminating the need to push the Super Duke to its limits for sporty and enjoyable acceleration. This unique characteristic led co-tester Schaaf to dub the 1390 Super Duke R a "country road motorcycle" that offers a delightful level of unreasonable sportiness. Despite the abundance of power available at lower revs, the bike doesn't run out of steam at the top end. Around 6,500 rpm, the Camshift system switches to the second cam profile, unleashing even more horsepower and Nm, revealing its truly brutal nature. While it may be challenging to fully exploit this power on public roads within the confines of traffic regulations, the real fascination lies in how effortlessly the Hyper Naked's massive power can be harnessed in a sporty yet manageable manner. In sport mode, the suspension delivers a firm and responsive ride, supporting high speeds and dynamic maneuvers. Unlike many other WP suspensions, the semi-active EVO suspension components offer precise and refined feedback. Coupled with the front-wheel-oriented riding position, riders receive clear input from the front end while in the saddle. The wide handlebars and ample lateral movement make the Hyper Naked easy and nimble to navigate through corners. The ergonomics of the Super Duke cater to all riding styles, but it feels most responsive when leaned into corners with body positioning. This slight forward lean provides a good sense of grip without requiring an extreme posture. One of the standout features of the Super Duke is its stability at all lean angles. Even at high speeds, the 1390 Super Duke R remains composed and unfazed, with its true potential likely only being tapped at around 30%. This sentiment extends to the high-performance Brembo brakes, which offer precise modulation, a distinct pressure point, and minimal effort or travel on the brake lever in the braking zone.

The KTM 1390 Super Duke R comes equipped with advanced electronic features that are now standard on modern hyper-naked bikes, such as lean angle-dependent, multi-adjustable assistance systems and a quickshifter. In practical terms, these systems function effectively, taming the powerful engine, but can also be adjusted or turned off completely for experienced riders. Additionally, the semi-active chassis of the Super Duke R offers some unique features, including the adoption of the anti-dive function from the Super Adventure model. While this feature may not have a significant impact on a naked bike with short suspension travel and sporty damping, it adds to the overall performance of the bike. With the optional Suspension Pro package, riders can further customize their riding experience by adjusting parameters such as rebound and compression damping electronically. Moreover, the suspension system can lower the rear end of the bike to enhance traction during aggressive acceleration, similar to the "ride height device" used in MotoGP. Our test of the Super Duke R EVO model also revealed the effectiveness of the quickshifter, which allows for smooth gear changes without disrupting the balance of the bike, despite the significant displacement of the engine cylinders.

When it comes to a KTM Naked Bike like the Super Duke, riders looking for an extravagant hyper naked bike want to showcase the motorcycle's power and strength. The new design of the Super Duke is undeniably attention-grabbing and stirs up opinions within the motorcycle community. The sound coming from the Akrapovic exhaust pipe is in line with the 190 hp output, yet surprisingly understated, particularly for the rider. While bystanders can clearly hear the roar of the potent pistons, the rider only perceives a fraction of it due to the subdued exhaust note. When seated on the Super Duke, the auditory experience is rather subdued. This could be seen as a step in the wrong direction, especially in a time of stringent emission standards and noise regulations.

KTM's reputation for additional charges and accessories is well known. However, given the high prices of the KTM Naked Bike models, one might wonder why extras such as quickshifter, engine drag torque control, engine brake control, and more still come at an additional cost in this premium segment. The KTM Naked Bike R EVO is priced at €24,499 in its base version in Austria, with the EVO version available for €26,999. While adding €340 for a quickshifter may not seem like much, it does leave a bit of a bitter taste. The EVO version also includes the Suspension Pro package, which unlocks additional features for the semi-active suspension. Along with a mode for automatic damping adjustment, riders also have three customizable slots where they can precisely adjust the rebound and compression damping of the suspension electronically. A must-have for all those who enjoy a sporty ride or hitting the racetrack.

However, the criticism of the accessories policy and the high price of the KTM 1390 Super Duke may be somewhat misplaced and quite common in this hyper-segment. When it comes to pricing, the KTM 1390 Super Duke stands out in comparison to its competitors in the Hyper Naked class. Models like the Suzuki GSX-S1000, Yamaha MT-10, BMW S 1000 R, Ducati Streetfighter V2, and other Hyper Nakeds that fall just short of the 200 hp mark are priced several thousand dollars lower than the 1390 Super Duke. Instead, it positions itself among the top-tier hyper Nakeds. The Ducati Streetfighter V4, BMW M 1000 R, and Kawasaki Z H2 SE, for instance, are on par with it, and even the highly exclusive MV Agusta Brutale 1000 models are not too far behind. In terms of pricing, the 1390 Super Duke R models are in good company. However, none of the competitors mentioned above charge extra for a quickshifter, so the criticism in this regard is valid. If you want to compare the current Hyper Naked bikes yourself, along with regional prices, you can check out the Hyper Naked 2024 price comparison here.