Watch the video and check out the pictures as Michael Rutter rides a 2019 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT on the Isle of Man. The TT, Macau GP and BSB winner takes in the roads and sights from the ferry port in Douglas to the pub at Creg-ny-Baa, stopping off at Jurby Motodrome on the way. And showing the versatility of the new Super Duke in the process. Or at least that’s what KTM will obviously be hoping.
The 2019 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT gets a host of upgrades aiming to make it more practical for touring. And more fun when you want to carve throughsome corners. The existing bike originally launched in 2016 had a lot of those qualities already. But the new Super Duke GT should improve the good bits. And hopefully solve some of the slight issues of the current model.
So you get the latest version of the 1301cc LC8 V-twin engine, producing 175hp. Which makes for plenty of acceleration, due to revised resonator chambers, titanium inlet valves and new engine mapping. And the video of the 2019 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT on the Isle of Man confirms that an optional Track mode will be selectable for when you want to make the most of the horsepower available. But there’s also smoother power delivery for more enjoyable touring. Plus riding modes more suited to long distances. along with traction control.
The WP suspension is also electronically adjustable. Which means you can go for comfort, street and sport settings, or adjust the pre-load for the weight of luggage and pillions, all at the touch of a button. There’s also lean angle sensitivity for braking power, traction control, and a full colour 6.5 inch TFT display to control it all. And it’ll connect to your phone through KTM My Ride and Bluetooth. Which lets you control and receive audio navigation, phones calls and your music playlists.
The front end has had a facelift, which includes a redesigned, larger screen with a new adjustment mechanism. You get the wind-deflecting hand guards now. And the fairing lowers are longer, still with the cornering lights of the existing model.
The headlight is a new, more powerful LED number. And other changes include moving the Cruise Control switch to the left handlebar. Plus the fairing side storage compartments now come with a USB charging point.
Michael Rutter said: “The GT is a world away from what I usually ride, I was amazed by the performance – particularly the engine; the torque and drive is phenomenal. Very impressive. Comfort is a big factor; the seat and bar position were spot-on at speed on track and on the road. For a bike designed to tackle a variety of riding types – having a blast and all-day touring – it works fantastically in all situations, even ridden hard on the fast and bumpy Jurby circuit. Best of all, it has heated grips – a big thing for all year riders and even for summer in the UK!”
The 2019 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT will be available in a choice of white or black paint.
Watch Michael Rutter Ride The 2019 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT On The Isle of Man Course
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