2024 KTM Super Duke GT

The very definition of a sport-touring bike is hard to nail down these days. Over the years the formula has fragmented into a ton of different subsets. There is no question that the 1290 Super Duke GT leans a lot more toward the “sport” side of the equation than the “touring” side. Based on the previous-generation 1290 Super Duke R Evo naked bike, the GT is just as much of a beast, but it just happens to have a bit more boxes ticked in the creature comfort department.

Cruise control, heated grips, nine-way-adjustable windscreen, electronic semi-active WP suspension, rider aids galore, and a proven trellis frame. The Super Duke GT is like a cruise missile with a comfortable cockpit.

The same basic 1,301cc 75-degree LC8 V-twin that powered the previous Super Duke R Evo and 1290 Super Adventure S/R models cranks out a claimed 160 hp and 104 lb.-ft. of torque. A crankshaft with low reciprocating weight gives it a free-revving nature, while huge, lightweight 108mm forged-aluminum pistons (with 71mm of stroke) were designed to rev. The cylinder heads feature double overhead cams with four valves per jug, and DLC-coated cam followers for max efficacy and reduced friction. The heads have twin plugs to ensure maximum burn and optimize combustion. Electronic fuel injection feeds the cylinders with a pair of 56mm throttle bodies, while an exhaust system with a pair of catalyzers not only maximizes flow, but meets the latest emissions limits.

The chassis features WP semi-active suspension that adapts in real time, and is adjustable with the touch of a button. There are three modes (Comfort, Street, Sport) and preload is four-way adjustable. A steering damper comes standard. The Super Duke GT’s 17-inch wheels are pulled from the 1290 Super Duke R Evo and wrapped in Continental ContiSportAttack4 rubber.

Brembo four-piston Monoblock calipers grab 320mm floating discs up front. Cornering ABS includes Supermoto mode which allows the rider to turn off ABS in the rear while front ABS remains functional.

The 2024 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT starts at $20,499.