5:45 AM
MUSIC VIDEOS & STUFF
The most exciting exhibit at either Intermot or EICMA
was the first showing of the KTM 1290 Superduke R prototype – a
super-lightweight, trellis-framed naked bike powered by a 1290cc version
of the proven RC8R V-twin, complete with drive-by-wire, lots of
(disengageable) electronic rider assistance, lashings of carbon fiber,
new prototype WP suspension at both ends and the promise of a production
version within 12 months.
The excitement is based not so much on what is known about the new
prototype, but what the bike is based on. The RC8 R engine upon which
the bike is developed, produces 129 kW (173 hp) of power and torque of
120 Nm (88.5 lb.ft) in its 1190cc form, with rumors suggesting the new
bike will have somewhere between 180 and 200 horsepower by the time it
hits showrooms.
Whatsmore, thanks to the removal of everything that's not entirely
necessary, the chrome molybdenum trellis frame and the carbon fiber
everything else, this bike can be expected to be much lighter than the
RC8 R which already tips the scales at 200 kg with a full tank and all
lubricants.
Hence the new 1290 Superduke R built with "ready to race" KTM ethos is
undoubtedly going to be in the same category of power and weight as the
best-of-breed Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R, BMW S1000RR and Ducati Panigale
1199.
Indeed, it just might be lighter than the Panigale with a better power
to weight ratio than anything else, and it will come complete WITHOUT a
praying-mantis-doing-yoga riding position.
The last few weeks have seen a number of teaser images emanate from KTM, with even a recording of the bike's snarling engine having been released before we saw it in the flesh.
KTM must feel that it is on a roll at present, having just won the
inaugural Moto3 title and with its smaller sporty Duke's gaining
traction around the developing world thanks to the relationship with
India's Bajaj Auto, the third largest motorcycle manufacturer in the
world.
