2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo [Specs, Features, Photos]

The 2022 KTM RC 1290 Super Duke R Evo Adds Toppings to a Proven Performance Recipe

Model Overview
Specifications
Features
Photos
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Building on the status and foundation of the standard KTM 1290 Super Duke R, the Austrian brand has introduced a new version called the 1290 Super Duke R EVO. This new naked bike shares the same 1301 cc LC8 V-Twin from the 1290 Super Duke R that pumps out an impressive 180 horses and 103 lb.-ft. of torque mated to a six-speed transmission to make it among the most powerful bikes in the Austrian brand’s 2022 model lineup.

Additionally, this derivation of the European naked bike incorporates substantial technological improvements, explicitly incorporating the second generation of WP APEX semi-active suspensions with a slight weight increase of 2kg.

The addition of the new semi-active SAT technology maintains its ferocity and gains in usability. This way, you can ride comfortably on rough asphalt and turn this naked bike into a weapon of extreme and precise performance on the track with a simple switch.

This KTM 1290 Super Duke R EVO suspension system has three standard modes: COMFORT, STREET, and SPORT, and you can adjust the rear spring preload via the TFT display up to 20mm.

For the rest, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R EVO continues to have the RAIN, STREET, and SPORT riding modes besides the optional TRACK and PERFORMANCE modes, with the ability to minimize the intrusion of traction control and anti-wheelie.

Throttle response has a different boost with a new quick actuation grip, which is faster acting and prevents excessive wrist travel and dropping the elbow when accelerating hard.

The 2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo starts at $19,599 USD / $20,599 CAD.

On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo in one place.

Model Overview

General Info

Price: $19,599 USD / $20,599 CAD.

Key Features:
- Lighter and torquey 1301 cc LC8 V-Twin engine
- Second-generation WP APEX semi-active suspensions
- Adjustable rear spring preload of up to 20mm via the TFT display
- Easy-to-access air filter box

Main Specs

Engine: 1301cc V-Twin
Power: 180 hp (132 kW) at 9,500 rpm
Torque: 103 lb-ft (140 Nm) at 8,000 rpm
Wet Weight: 437 lbs (198 kg)
Seat Height: 32.9 in. (837 mm)

Competitors

2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo Specifications

From KTM

ENGINE
Engine	1301cc, 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75°
Power	180 hp
Bore x Stroke	108 mm x 71 mm
EMS	Keihin EMS with RBW and cruise control, double ignition
Power in KW	132 kW
Starter	Electric starter
Lubrication	Forced oil lubrication with 3 oil pumps
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch	PASC (TM) slipper clutch, hydraulically actuated
Transmission	6-speed
Chain	525 X-Ring
CHASSIS
Suspension Front	WP Semi-active Suspension USD Ø 48 mm (GEN.2)
Suspension Rear	WP Semi-active Rear Shock (GEN.2)
Brakes Front	320 mm Disk
Brakes Rear	240 mm Disk
Tank capacity (approx.)
Color
ELECTRICAL
Ignition
Spark Plugs
Headlight	LED
Tail Light	LED
WARRANTY
Warranty
Extension

2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo Features

If it ain’t broken, don’t fix it. But by all means, make it meaner! Boasting 180 hp and 140 Nm, the 1301 cc LC8, V-Twin has undergone a subtle yet impactful development. Optimized to be lighter but retaining its torquey character, this powerhouse is the benchmark of V-twin evolution. And with engine and linkage mounts that add to the overall structure of the entire package – it quite literally is the part that holds THE BEAST together.

Thinner engine casings and revised water and oil cooler mounts have resulted in a 0.8 kg weight saving, compared to the previous generation. Oil delivery has also been improved by way of a lightweight aluminum oil line, eliminating the need for a double wall system. Additionally, the engine carrier bracket and linkage mount have been integrated into the engine case, allowing for a stiffer connection. This has also resulted in a 5 mm higher swingarm pivot for improved stability and anti-squat.

The frame, which uses the engine as a means to increase torsional rigidity, has resulted in the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO being 3 times stiffer than its predecessor. This allows for an effortless, confidence-inspiring riding position which translate into an ultimately faster ride. This is achieved by maximizing the feedback from the chassis and the front tire. The frame also makes use of thicker diameter tubes with thinner walls, which is the single biggest weight saving measure on the bike – saving 2 kg compared to the previous generation model.

Finding the optimal seating position is made easy with an adjustable 760 mm wide handlebar. Riders can tailor their preferred reach with 4 positions over 22 mm, front to back, making it easy to attack corners and crucial for hanging on down the straights.

While the headlight mask doubles as an intake snorkel, it’s the twin LED headlights that really shine. Sharp, menacing lines enhance THE BEAST’s overall look, while providing ample illumination when it gets dark. Daytime running lights also ensure you will get noticed, which not only earns you kudos when it comes to street cred, but more importantly, makes you more visible to other road users.

There isn’t much to say about the bodywork of the new KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO as there is so little of it to talk about. But that’s exactly how we like it! Aggressive and menacing, the bodywork and panels had to achieve two objectives – tick all the ergonomic boxes and shave weight wherever possible. As such, every panel and plate has been calculated for optimum thickness and minimized where possible. The only thing that remained heavy was attitude.