Alright, so let’s talk about that KTM 1290 Super Duke R I got my hands on last summer. Honestly? Wasn’t planning to test it. Saw this bright orange beast parked at my buddy’s garage while picking up my Honda. He just tossed me the keys and said “Feel the beast.”
First Touch Experience
Cranked it up – damn thing roared like angry thunder. Almost dropped my coffee. Jumped on and adjusted the bars: wide but comfy. Seat felt like sitting on concrete though. Not the couch-like cruiser seats I’m used to.
Road Testing
Took it downtown first. Immediately noticed the throttle was twitchy – like barely touching it would launch you into next week. Rain mode helped tame that animal. Weirdest part? This giant 1301cc bike felt lighter than my old Suzuki 650 when leaning into curves. Like throwing around a bicycle with a jet engine.
Dirty Little Secrets
Found out quick why people call it The Beast:
- Good Stuff: Wheelie monster (no effort needed), handles better than ninjas on ice skates, exhaust growls like God clearing his throat. Fuel gauge actually tells truth – miracle!
- Bad Stuff: Seat becomes medieval torture device after 30 minutes. Engine heat cooks your legs in traffic. Dashboard looks like spaceship controls – spent 10 minutes trying to reset trip meter.
Highway Run
Opened throttle on empty highway… Holy. Mother. Of. Speed. Felt like getting shot from cannon. Wind ripped my helmet sideways at 100+ mph. Passed minivan so fast the driver probably saw orange blur and heard “RRRRRRRAAWRRR”. Fuel economy? Yeah nah. Saw gas needle visibly drop during that stunt.
Last Impressions
Parked it with shaky knees. Thing’s basically a two-wheeled demon that laughs at physics. Would I own one? Only if:
1) I lived near twisty mountain roads
2) Had massage therapist on retainer for butt recovery
3) Won lottery for tire replacements. Absolute riot to ride though – makes you feel 10 years younger and dumber.
