For 2022, KTM has been working on its best-seller, the Super Duke R, particularly the EVO version which sports semi-active WP suspension. Some updates also for the R version including new colors and a new throttle control.
For 2022, KTM is expanding the family of its Super Duke 1290 R with the introduction of the EVO version, characterized by a set of WP semi-active shock absorbers with three damping modes, Comfort, Street and Sport in addition to the ability to change the shock absorber preload by operating the controls on the handlebars and viewing the changes on the large TFT screen. The modifications vary over 10 levels which correspond to 2 mm each, allowing all riders to find the ideal set-up.
For the most demanding, the Suspension Pro pack can be ordered as an option which, in addition to the three standard settings, offers other modes called: Track, Advanced and Auto. The first defines the stiffest possible setting for track use, the second allows the rider to select the desired level of damping for the fork and monoshock on a scale of 1 to 8. Automatic mode, on the other hand, is the most intelligent mode of the three: it is able to learn the driver's driving style and automatically adapt the required level of damping: soft and comfortable when traveling around town, supported and more precise when attacking with a quick pass. The automatic setting switches from one preset mode to another instantly and without any interference on driving.
The set also includes three levels of automatic preload, Low, Standard and High which change the configuration to less aggressive and with a reduced saddle height, or neutral and balanced and finally with a more loaded front for a sportier ride. Additional functionality, the anti-dive mode, which can be deactivated, which electronically prevents the fork from sinking during the most intense braking.
The EVO variant gets new colorways with a MotoGP-inspired blue/orange paint scheme and a silver/orange option. Under the semi-active WP Apex suspension and the new colors, the Super Duke R remains unchanged. The powerful 8 cc eight-valve LC1301 V-twin still develops 180 horsepower and 140 Nm of torque, but introduces a new “quick turn” throttle control that reduces the total stroke by 7° bringing it to 65°. A solution that protects the pilot's wrist from fatigue and makes the engine's responsiveness even more immediate.
