2017 KTM Super Duke GT Review
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- Опубліковано 9 лют 2017
- 2017 KTM Super Duke GT Review - For some reason I've never ridden a KTM of any kind until today. I've gone in at the deep end and my introduction to KTM riding is a ride out on the Super Duke GT - "The Beast" with a bit of a fairing and a windscreen to make it seem more sensible than it's "R" brother...but is it??
Thanks to Jason and the guys at the KTM centre in Hemel Hempstead for letting me borrow the bike for review.
I'm now on that Twitter thing! Join me @MissendenFlyer
I use the following equipment to record and edit my VLOGs:-
GoPro HD Hero 4 helmet camera
GoPro Session (4) "B" Camera
Nikon D7100 DSLR for static and video shots with various lenses
Lavalier microphone and sellotape for in helmet audio - £9 from E-Bay
Power Director 8 for the PC (for video editing)
Lavalier microphone for in garage audio - £20 E-Bay
My current motorcyles are:-
Honda CRF250L
Triumph Street Triple R
BMW R1200GS
Ducati 899 Panigale
For any additional enquiries please send a PM or leave a comment below... - Розваги
TMF, youve just recently cost me £9900 on a 2016 GT with 916 miles on the clock, also like new !. Your excellent video convinced me. Fantastic bike it is too. Many thanks.
I thought i'd update you, having purchased a GT on the back of this video I have to say its flawless. No issues what so ever, puncture aside, Hadn't ridden for several years when i rode this home. Its a brilliant review ,trusted and impartial. Thanks again. No regrets from me.5*
almost 4,000 miles this year.
Glad you like it Rob!
your reviews on motorcycles are bang on and always awesome footage with most fantastic information. I've seen your track days and bro, lol. I would just stick with what you're fantastic at, reviews. much love from here in States. Ride safe and look forward to more like these
Thanks (I think!)....
I have the GT. It's a fantastic bike. The standard seat needs a little breaking in but otherwise it's great. Done a number of 8 hour days in the saddle and was always very comfortable. Never saw the need to upgrade to the 'comfort' seat (which is also heated).
Good to know - cheers Crazy Train....
would love heated seat on my bike :)
Your speedo keeps fogging up, everytime the traffic starts driving very slowly on the highway. Coincidence?
Yeah, it's a bugger that isn't it.....
I've been subscribed for a while now, and you make some fine content. An awesome channel presented in a professional manner. You sir are a gent and a scholar.
+Tom Griffin Thank you very much Tom, appreciate your support and your kind words...good to have you along! All the best - TMF
Another great review, terrible time of year to be out riding but your braving the cold / glare to keep the reviews coming !! Nearly 20k subs .. won't be long before your at a million !
Hehe, I've been doing this fairly regularly/consistently for nearly three years now, if I'm only at 20K now it's going to be 47 years before I make the million subs!!! I love making and posting videos but clearly I'm very much in a middle aged male niche here!!
I'm 25 mind you ;-)
TheMissendenFlyer - you could start chasing super cars around London, get adopted by a rich parent, flash your wealth or start making playdoh videos 😂 UA-cam in a nutshell
TheMissendenFlyer
Yet 9 months later you've more than doubled your subs.
You must be doing something right...
Nice to see you getting to ride some great bikes so far this year! Keep it up !
Will try to Neil - cheers!
I've never taken any notice of the KTM brand of bikes before, but after watching this video I'm hooked! It looks great and with all the electronics and practical features on it, like where the panniers attach and the corner lights etc., it looks very practical too!
Well done TMF, another great and interesting video!
I'll be looking out for The Beast and it's brother now in future. lol. :-D
Yes definitely worth further investigation the KTM's - the looks have always put me off their road bikes but this one I could probably get used too as it's so darn nice to ride!
Another great review, I like the new style of vid! How did you find the seat height and was it top heavy at stand still? Cheers
Thanks - seat height was fine...I was on the balls of my feet but the bike doesn't feel top heavy so no issues even if you're not a tall fella/lady....
As always, an adult review, congrats. The Duke GT was one of the few bikes I have considered trading in for, having owned an old 990 Duke - that LC8 is a fabulous engine to make you feel young! I'll say this about you - you are about as experienced as a rider can be and if the GT would have intimidated you, it would have meant that KTM had made quite a mistake - you are precisely the rider it was intended for - older, experienced, unafraid of speed in the right context.......keep the reviews coming - they are respected and appreciated from an equally 'experienced' rider across the pond.
That's very kind of you Daniel, thanks...and glad you're enjoying my efforts :0)
PRICE NOW REDUCED BY £5000 at most dealers from today..........25/11/2017
+Mark Newman Wow, that’s a big chunk of cash off....
Great review.... always appreciate your comments on these reviews. Any chance of an FJR review in the future?
+Andrew Wagner Thanks Andrew - and I hope so, there has been a mention....
you are the default standard for any bike review well done !!
Wow thank you Reg
...very nice ride along review of this Duke! Thanks so much!
Glad you liked it - thanks for watching and for stopping by - TMF
Great review Mr TMF. Really have a soft spot for these. I like how it seems to be a jack of all trades, bit like the Street Triple, but just has that bit of protection from the elements and has some tidy luggage if you want it as well. Would love a Street Triple like this if Triumph saw sense and brought one out. Speed Triple may be would be better still with that bit more power if you were carrying decent weight.
Yeah it's odd isn't it because on looks and on paper it's nothing like the Street Triple, but something about the fun ride definitely reminded me of it (plus the seating position is very similar)...
Liking the new clean briefer intro. Great bike, and nice little look. The style is a bit Marmite for me. I prefer Ducati, Aprillia, style wise an all round quality product though. I imagine it's very wheelie happy. A lot of vloggers seem to own the R or have owned one. Cheers TMF
Yeah I'm completely with you on the looks, this is one of the better ones in my opinion but it still doesn't call to me like some of the other manufacturers bikes do - a real shame because this bike is lovely to ride and if it had the looks to match we'd all be riding them for sure....
I've owned many bikes throughout my 30y plus riding, but this is by far the best sports touring. Fantastic machine!!!!!
its by war most failure prone that's for sure.
Bought one and loving it so far 25k on it
..going to give this a like before it even starts!
I'm loving your confidence!
Was another great video. That KTM is, I thought an absolute beast. It still is a beat, but seemingly one that can be tamed.
Looking forward with interest to your upcoming review of the new GT, as it’s on my new bike list. The optional power parts seat is supposed to be extremely comfortable , let’s hope you have one of these fitted.
Stay tuned!
Best British moto blogger always can learn something when I watch your videos.Can you also do Ducati monster R test ride
Wow, that's very kind of you sir....would love to ride the monster, unfortunately I don't have a great deal of access to Ducati's to test ride (dealer not that approachable I feel).....
Glad you finally got around to trying the GT! I'll be doing a comprehensive review of my own Monster 1200 R soon, plus a friends Ducati collection (about 100 bikes!), so Sun H can watch those! :-D
Nice review mate.
You've answered all my questions.
I'm sold!!!
😁
Thanks.
....if only I was on commission!
But he...you got to ride one. I'm still on youtube (getting my GT kicks).
:0)
Q. How did you Shield the Seat from the Heat of the Engine.? It's a Pain in the Arrs after about an hour. Tried the Aluminum Heat 'Roofing' Insulation but that didn't work. Love the Bike but definitely not the Engine Heating up the Seat...
what a coincidence.
RJ has also done a review on GT this week.
Great review from both of you.
Yes I saw that too - almost the same route!
Amazing time we live in when such fantastic machines are being made!
Agreed!
Great video TMF. Any chance of an updated Superduke GT review?
Yes it’s about time isn’t it!
Glad you finally tried one. I was at Redline in Loughborough on Thursday. They have pre-registered 1190 Adventures in stock with £3k off list price. Crazy amount of bike for the money.
They are indeed lovely machines - if only they could make them look a bit more....lovely...they are getting there though, this GT is growing on me and the new Super Duke R with it's funny headlights I rather like the look of....
I did a review on this as well and posted it on my channel. Just loved the fun factor of this bike!! That V-Twin is just awesome!! I could certainly trade up for one of these!!
great review as always and with every detail possible!i would love it if you could give the honda cb1100 ex a go,or the africa twin if you can..glad to be a subscriber for all this time and keep it up!
Thanks for the kind words and will do! - All the best - TMF
Best review of this bike I've seen mate. this may be a strong contender when i change my Multistrada one day.
That's very kind of you Simon thank you....and yes do check it out, lovely machine to ride....despite not liking the looks too much I am quite tempted myself I must say...or maybe I should try the Super Duke R....
I just love this generation of bikes all the fun of a sports bike with none of the drawbacks. The manufacturers got there in the end !
Great review....I'm currently weighing up one of these or a multistrada and this may have just sealed it
love these 'real world' reviews, keep them coming! I'd say sport tourers have evolved quite a bit in recent years but how does it compare in terms of comfort with adventure bikes? let's say you can change the seat on 'the beast'
Thanks Danilicius - the comfort is all there, just as comfy as any adventure bike I've ridden, just that the seat is a bit on the hard side, I'm sure that could easily be resolved though...thanks for watching and for the kind words - TMF
thanks for the review, was interesting to get your verdict at the end between the gt, xr and mstda. Ive test rode the xr and planning the mstda as well but this could be a new consideration although im not sure about the looks with the light as other people have said.
Also with the age comment, im 30 and been watching your videos quite a while
Thanks for watching Fellergrassmouse - good to have a youngster aboard ;0)
Interesting review as always....I'm 4000 miles into my GT and its the most versatile bike i have ever owned, its just as happy doing my 9 mile commute to work as it is doing 750 miles in 1.5 days the first weekend i owned it. Panniers take it to another level for touring & convenience and it really is an amazing bike. I have had some early teething troubles as have other owners but KTM have not shied away from dealing with them - testament to any decent manufacturer/dealership. Thanks for your views TMF, always valued.
Thanks Shaun - out of interest how have you got on with the panniers, from what I've seen they look pretty small??? Can you get a helmet in them?
Yes, you can get a full face helmet in them, I fit my Schuberth C3 in there no problem, albeit there is only one way they will fit, jacket and boots in the other means quite a nice way of 'dressing down' for the day when you arrive at destination.
Great video...again. A bike made for some riding in the Alps or Pyrenees, and the sound, wow. I don't like the looks but that's personal. Probably I would go for a S1000xr or a multistrada, or even the KTM adventure. When are you testing the "new" GS?
...no definite plans to ride the "new" GS yet but I'd certainly love too once they become available....stay tuned!
Great video as always, TMF. I'll definitely look at KTM next time I change my bike. I'll be interested to see what the new KTM 1090 Adventure is like, I'm realising I don't really need/use 160bhp! Oh and the new R1200GS Rallye looks good too.
..yeah I should be riding the 1090 Adventure fairly soon...so stay tuned for that one!
Steven Broom
That's my favorite for my bike - looking forward to your review (will watch later). Have a ZX6R 636 now but I need something a little more comfortable ;)
...this is very comfy to ride (ignoring the hard seat!)...
What a beast!!! Looks like fun aswell lol. Replacement for your GS? Haha. Great video!
Yeah it was a hoot - don't think it's a replacement for the GS...cheers Cameron...
Another Good Review pleased to see you have the speedo covered at times HA HA!! Take care and thank you .
Thanks Wayne, yes I dunno how or why that happened, the picture kept going all fuzzy...
MSF, would you say the GT is comparable to the r1200rt or is the comparison not valid? I want a sport tourer but I'm finding the RT just a bit boring when I test rode one recently. I have never rode a KTM & was under the impression that the 1290 GT would be too much bike for me but your review has me thinking otherwise.
+Andrew Kotys Not really a valid comparison to be fair - the KTM is much more of a hooligan bike, if it's thrilling touring you want then the KTZ is for you...give one a go, you'll love it!
Thanks TMF for the RT KTM see what I did there. It certainly appeals to me and its looks somehow also appeal to me as well. Going to need a Lottery win though. With regards to leg positioning is it as comfortable as a GS and is there a nice roar from the engine when you accelerate hard. Thats something I enjoy with my GS. Looking forward to further videos.
Hi Ted, simple - Yes and Yes!
Thanks TMF
great review! need to try one myself...
Wow that was quick....you sure you've had time to watch the whole video???? ;0)
TheMissendenFlyer had to get early comment in 😀
Good answer - you're forgiven this once then ;0)
Great !
Which one would you prefer as your fifth bike, KTM Súper Duke or BMW R1200R ?
Easy - super Duke!
Good video! What's your opinion for touring with pilion? Tks
Thanks....and not ideal I'd say! The pillion perch is just that (bit of a perch) and personally I wouldn't fancy being on the back of such a powerful beast....I guess it depends on how brave your pillion is! Thanks for watching - TMF
Terrific review. Thanks!
Thanks for watching Nolan....
Hello there. I was following your reviews on different bikes. So, what would you choose between 1290GT and 1200GS?!
+tiberiuss2 Depends what you are using them for - the GT is a much quicker fun bike, the GS is the consummate all rounder....long tours I'd take the GS, shorter days out, the GT....
I have the superduke 1290 se with the power parts seat, it is hard to begin with but after about 600 miles it starts the soften.
Thanks for the feedback Dave - good to know....
Good work buddy! My Bro owned a super Duke R for a year and loved it, hopefully you will get to test ride the new Ducati Super Sport in about 6weeks when they hit the showrooms 👍. Cheers, GMAN
...oddly enough (as a Ducati fan) I was underwhelmed by the Supersport when I saw it at the NEC - compared to my Panigale I just thought "naaa"...
TheMissendenFlyer , I agree about the SS, I'm sure it's going to be a hit and for anyone just wanting one bike I guess it will tick most boxes! Will be interesting to see how it rides but I'll stick with my Panigale 😜
Wow TMF don't think I have ever seen you blur out the speedo before, not even on your Panigale. This bike clearly has a lot of go!!!! Loving the reviews as always, just makes me want to buy all of the bikes you test though.
I have the same issue Darren, it seems you can't ride a rubbish new bike these days...they're all good for different reasons - it's a matter I guess of deciding what you mainly want the bike for and then buying according to your requirement.....
Hello Mr. Flyer, Well done and thank you. I do enjoy your jaunts and I cannot tell you how helpful they are in forming the initial buying ideas and in lining up my own 'comparos' with respect to building my own 3 bike collection over the next couple of years. If requests are being taken I hope you dont mind my enquiring about the Honda VFR1200F. Not on the radar of most and at the end of its cycle, as it were, and yet technologically of great interest. Not bothered about the DCT, dont mind either way except all DCT reviewers get caught up reviewing only the DCT. Oh, BTW, Hope you're well! Cheerio and Best Regards from Victoria, BC, Canada.
Hi Chris - thanks for the kind words, unfortunately I don't have a Honda dealer very nearby so it's not that easy for me to ride them, that said I do like the look of the VFR1200 (even though they don't seem to be that popular) and would love to ride one, and the Africa Twin, and the new 'blade....perhaps I need to look harder for a dealer!! Cheerio! - TMF
Ruislip, or Letchworth
Are your front forks leaking. I'm not sure to get the 2018 or wait for the 2019
In my option after seeing the spy shots of the 2019 model I'd purchase the 2018 in black, 2019 looks terrible! Yes you'll miss out on a TFT dash but the looks at present of the bike with the split headlight same as on the 1290 r super duke just looks wired, the angle is just wrong. For me the GT looks perfect as is, it didn't need a cosmetic make over. Not sure if they'll be adding a down shift bliper on the 2019 model, but again, that's not a big issue either as I'd not use it as much as the up shiftier. Here is a link for you to spy shot of 2019 model, it may change looks before production but not by much... Hope this helps, I'll be buying a 2018 in 2019, saving money already : }} ¬ long link as google has stopped shorten URL! www.google.com/search?q=ktm+gt+2019+spy+shots&num=20&client=firefox-b&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjm-J2C1ovdAhVQmJAKHTKaAQQQ_AUICigB&biw=1920&bih=944#imgdii=qI7L5DRyfCwqNM:&imgrc=olv3re5RsWwLyM
Hi, throwing lot of questions at you lately TMF :) sorry Budd but hope you can help me again, I have 3 bikes in my shopping basket at the moment: 1290 SRD R, Monster 1200S and MT-10. Last weeks S1000XR test ride brought me here, just watching this SRD GT review now and wondering would windprotection be the same betweeen R and GT if equipped R with aftermarket flyscreen? What do you think, having ridden both? Must say SRD R wins on the looks side of things for me BIG! time but having fair amount of wind protection (GT) is nice idea too. Haven't ridden any yet. Just Beemer S1000R last week but scrapped the idea of buying one (didn't tickle my pleasure sensors big enough).
The GT def offers more wind protection and if long tours are your thing is probably the one to go for - the SDR is just a manic machine, fabulous bike (picking one up for long term loan next week as it happens) and the GT is pretty much the same with added sensibleness. Personally I don't much care for the looks of the GT though - but that's just a personal thing....
cheers, looking forward to watch SRD R long term review so! stay sane
Yeah me too! :0) Can't wait to get properly acquainted with "The beast"....
Great review!
I really like the looks of the bike too but it's way too expensive in my opinion.
This middle aged geezer loves your reviews so keep up the good work. :-)
Yes it is pricey isn't it - lovely machine though. The other day I noticed a second hand mini for sale at a garage, it looked really nice (dark blue, white wheels, Le Mans stripe) and it was £5000...certainly puts into perspective how much bikes cost these days doesn't it....funny old world!! ...and nowt wrong with being a middle aged geezer.....
Great video mate. I have to say, it seems like a terrific all around bike but I don't love the looks, much prefer the updated Super Duke R although the split head light might take some getting used to. KTM are on a roll along with Triumph, Yamaha and BMW! So many great bikes to ride and so little time!
Exactly! And I agree on the looks, I think the Super Duke R I could probably live with on the basis that it's probably a scream to ride....but I've not yet had a go on one alas...
Another great review TMF. If you could pick one bike only.....this or the GS which would it be and why?
Tough one, GS marginally because it's a better all rounder - the SDGT is more of a fun bike in my mind, not sure I'd want to go travelling for a long time on it, or to the shops, due very small panniers....
Thanks......cannot get the KTM SDGT here in Brisbane Australia for a test ride. All sold out well in advance and a limited supply. Would be perfect if the GS had the grunt of the KTM
You're right there!
Brilliant review,on a brilliant motorcycle.I test rode this machine before i bought my GS.Just found the GS more refined if that makes sense.How much longer do i have to wait until the MT10 gets a review :)hahahah!!!!
I keep asking my local Yamaha dealer the same! Will be an interesting comparison with this beast....
Iv bought this bike now after doing some research and wanting a replacement to my diavel. Bikes great. Handling is superb just flops into bends like a street or hyperstrader, pulls faster than my diavel and very comfy for such a sporty bike. Looks so different to other bikes and I like that. Downsides I don't like are i think it sounds a little conservative giving it's the beast. It doenst feal as grunty as my diavel. Maybe due to lack of sound. I'd say it feels more like a big cc triple. And it's not good for pillion work. Seats too high and my partner was sliding all over the seat (material is crap). She couldn't grip my waist with her legs as the pegs are too high. Diavel was perfect for that. I'll keep it for a yr but next bike will be the adventure unless the misses gets her bike license then I'll get a tuno!
Nice one - thanks for watching and stopping by Mark - all the best - TMF
Great review, any word on the old display? Didn't the Beast and the Adventure both get a new display???
Yes the new display looks great with the colour TFT - the new adventure also got the new display on the "R" and "S" models I believe (not the "T" that I recently rode/reviewed)...
Bummer is why the GT doesn't have it.
In the GT class any plans to test the new 2017 K1600GT due out at the end of the month ?
Would love too - just need my local dealer to get a demo in and I shall be knocking on their door :0)
Rode this in Europe last year, how is the efi? the one I had (2016 model) was very choppy at slow speed. And it doesn't feel as powerful as the regular 1290 duke.
I had no issue with the throttle response but a couple of people have made a similar comment - and yes agreed, the Super Duke R does feel faster....
I'm surprised MCN have not head hunted you yet!........do like the KTM's, but always thought they were a bit overpriced, maybe from your review they are worth the money? Excellent review as always 👍🏻
Thank you Steve - I don't think MCN like me very much ever since the "More Crap than News" incident....
well I rode the ktm 1290 for 40min (I will test another for longer) and I was not impressed either I was riding it wrong or I was expecting to much.Coming from an in-line 4 fz1 fazer which I am used to the KTM throttle felt baggy but getting up to speed it was also on/off strange really and the sound was like a lawn mower from the exhaust maybe I am missing something as I really wanted one but I dunno now.I suppose a Vtwin is far removed from a in-line 4 ? wind blast did not bother me plenty of protection.
Indeed it is....
Really love your videos Mr flyer,and you were in my home town of hemel hempstead ☺
Everyone's flocking to Hemel these days - did you see RJ around the other week???
Yes I dId see the mighty RJ video good stuff. You keep up the good work☺ and love your collection of bikes the perfect blend .
Thanks Keith - will do...
Friend of mines GT just had a catastrophic gearbox failure whilst on holiday in Italy today. I'm curious if this is a 'lottery win failure' or not. I know my 2014 1290 Superduke had a number of issues before I parted ways. I do love them though.
Crikey, that doesn't sound like much fun on your hols :0( ...and I'm with you, brilliant bikes despite these stories...
You're right about KTM seats. I put the KTM power parts seat on my KTM1190 Adv, it's original seat was too hard as well.
Are they all that hard then?? Must be the Austrian way.....
TheMissendenFlyer yup pretty much mate. My 2003 640 adv, is soft/ plush but so it is the other extreme. They need to find a middle area in hardness/ softness. My 1190 after market seat is actually made in Spain and it is great.
A bike I'd very much like to ride! Unfortunately the nearest KTM dealer is bloody miles away. Great job
What a shame, you're missing out - really was a lovely ride.....
TheMissendenFlyer
yeah I bet!
A rather long comment, but I think needs to be said. Just completed over a 10,000 km tour starting in Montana, through Canada to Alaska and back. Love the bike. Surprisingly comfortable for the long ride, especially considering my grey beard, post-retirement age. The engine is superb. Your review is very much on target.
But the bike is a long ways away from being ready for North American touring. To me the two biggest issues are the marginal reliability and the very poor cruise control performance. I had two suspension related faults; neither critical. However, a critical fault could easily leave you stranded 500+ km from the nearest dealer, who probably only deals in the dirt bikes. Between towing, waiting and repair, it is easy to imagine several thousand dollars and quite a few days spent getting it fixed. Little, if any mobile phone service to request help and bears; you know the big brown or black beasts that make short time of a person.
The KTM dealers along the route all confirmed that they see a higher than usual number of failures with both the Super Duke and Adventure models with many of the faults ending the trip.
The cruise control is next to the throttle, which makes controlling throttle on a 173 bhp engine while messing with the controls a bit dicey. Further, often there is a very long delay between pressing Resume and an actual reaction. One can easily lose 15 to 20 kph while waiting.
Then there is a long list of annoyances that show that KTM is not familiar with touring. Silly things, like no center-stand to accomodate chain maintenance and, ridiculously small panniers and windscreen.
I hope that KTM takes the matters seriously because these bikes are great additions to the market. The dealers say that KTM is slowly responding, but too slow to maintain the SD and Adv's reputations. For now, I would recommend looking at someone else's product.
By the way, the tour is absolutely great. Of course, the scenery is wonderful, but the best is/are the people. Sherman, Buckshot Betty, Ernst and Susan, the gas station attendant saw two bears fight until one was killed. The latter in the station parking area, so not a lot of gas sold that day. Amazing, generous people.
Thanks for the comment Ernest - interesting reading! All the best - TMF
This bike looks superb. I wish I was rich. I love the styling.
Yes it sure is a nice bit of kit - thanks for watching and good to hear from you again!
Great review TMF. Does raise the question if 170BHP is too much for the roads?
...do you really need an answer on that? That's like saying should girls wear stockings when tights are available...or maybe it's not.....
LOL
Cracking analogy Mr F! Made me smile. Too much is, of course, never enough.
Thinking about buying one of these, got a deal for 10.500€ for a 2017 model with extras, not a bad deal at all but she already has 48.000 km
Question for you Missenden. Do you prefer a V twin sound or that of a triple?
What a question! I like 'em all Stephen!! The V Twin certainly sounds mighty and manly, the Triple much angrier when at full chat and an inline four like a screaming race car....how can you separate out what's best??!! How about you??
I know what you mean. When you're on any kind of bike and it responds to what you wish it to do everything feels right in the world, but there is an added factor to the fun by the sound the engine makes. I think twins always sound just brilliant with the right can and when they can rev up to ten thousand revs. So they have to be rev happy twins not like a lazy Harley. The music between 4 to 10K's is so sweet on an L or V twin from either Suzuki, Ducati or Aprilia. These thick my box.
TMF, How does this compare to the KTM 1290 Super Adventure line, or is the Super Adventure more like a BMW GS ?
Yep you got it - the Super Adventure is closer to the GS....stay tuned as that ride is in the can...will post up in the next few days - TMF
great video flyer
Thank you Luke...
A bike built for a tour of long twisty roads!
Reminds me how good my old 990SMT was. Miss that bike.
Why did you get rid of it???
TheMissendenFlyer a good question! I fell for the 899 and was offered a good price on the trade in.
It does feel like 'the one that got away' though. In Sep '15 I rode it through Holland, Germany, Austria, and down to Italy for the Moto GP at San Marino, then back through Switzerland and home.... It was perfect. I couldn't afford to keep it at the time sadly.
Nice machine TMF but is there really any point to having so much power? Its a bit like having a super car, you cant use all the power on the road soI struggle to see the point. I barely use all the grunt my 125bhp GS has to offer.
I completely understand your point Ploppy but I guess it's "because you can" - it's fun to know it's there....plus of course it means you get all that low down acceleration available...thanks for watching as ever - TMF
Hello TMF, is the GT as much fun as Super duke R or is it tamed and slower?
It is quick, but in my view the Super Duke is a different animal (just it's stance and so on makes it feel quicker even if it actually isn't).....
TheMissendenFlyer Thank you, TMF
finally a bike from our neighbours in Mattighofen 💪
great review. nice bike.
still waiting for your comparison of the ktm 1290 super adventure and the bmw GS 😉
great job 👍
cheers Tom
...not much longer to wait Thomas ;0)
TheMissendenFlyer
oh exciting 🤗
AussieRider
well mate that was an informativ answer. it sounds amazing to ride an adventure bike with 160 hp but besides that I think it can t keep up with the GS.
I prefer a chaft drive. that was the reason why I baught a 2015 GSA.
I m realy looking forward to seeing TMFs review 😉
last year I testdrove a yamaha tenere 1200 ... that was a disapointment 🙁
cheers Tom
Nice bike. Never sure about KTMs. Dunno why. Why couldn't they drop a comfy seat on it? Great review
AussieRider
the brand new super tenere felt like the old air cooled GS. it felt heavy and old fashioned compared to the GS LC.
my best friend rides a 1300 xjr and he doesn t like the bmw bells and whilstles but even he prefers the GS than the tenere 😂
in fact I like ktm a lot. ready to race... an they did a great job at the dakar... but I love my GSA the most 😉
cheers
What is a "quickshifter" and how does one use it? Thank you.
Its a device that allows you to change up through the gears without using the clutch - see >> ua-cam.com/video/de-lIXeUqYA/v-deo.html
I think it looks pretty good. I seriously considered the 1290 super adventure which shares the same engine in a slightly different tune. What put me off at the time were reports of poor reliability and problems. Porous crankcases, warped disks and a bike that insisted on spitting out it's coolant. Still, you can always find a moaners forum (birds of a feather and all that) and no bike is perfect....
Yeah I think you're right Mike, the exceptional bad cases always get more "air time" than the more normal happy customers....my BMW GS and Ducati Panigale are prime examples, I've never had a serious issue with either (niggles yes) but if you search on the forums you'd think everyone is having problems all the time. I think these days all the main stream manufacturers are pretty good...even the Italian ones! Thanks for watching - TMF
Is there any herky jerkyness from off-throttle / on-throttle like so many modern bikes have?
Not that I noticed....
It's not a looker is it... but sounds like a great bit of kit for sure. Nice to see KTM putting some great bikes together these days.
Indeed...I think the looks could grow on you though as it's otherwise a brilliant machine....
That's what happened to me, Andy. Everything about KTM - including the aesthetics - just grows on you.
I have a 2016 1290 Super Adventure, so I may be biased. But I think that Super Duke is a beautiful animal. It looks really good with the matching hard bags, too. And I agree with you about the engine and the manners. It's one hell of a beast if you want it to be - the power is on demand and truly insane - but a very lovely and mellow ride when you want it to be.
I find V-twin engines in general very satisfying to ride, whether in a Harley, a Ducati, or a KTM. This bike is no exception. It possesses a lovely growl, a lovely harmonic, and a torque band for days. There's just no downside to that powerplant!
IMHO, KTM has hit it out of the park for the last few years. They really have...
The looks will grow on you. I promise...
I absolutely love that bike, looks and all. However they could bring the headlight and screen unit up slightly for better wind protection. This would amplify its touring credentials. As for the seat we would have to pay Touratech a visit i think. Great review, thanks.
PS: Dont forget to do one on the KTM superadventure S please.
.....I can give you the Super Adventure T if that's any use???
TheMissendenFlyer if its the one u put up a few months ago about the misile ive seen it lol. thanks bud.
Nope - that wasn't me - I've one coming up soon on this machine :0)
Yep SA T review awesome cheers
Thanks. Another good review of another bike I have always wanted to ride.....love that engine!
The only thing I don't like is the switchgear. And why are the CC buttons on the RH side? Stupid, stupid. My Explorer had the buttons there and it was a right pain in the arse. The BMW system is much better.
Rgds
Glenn
Yes that is a current bugbear of mine, the Triumph Tiger Sport I'm currently riding also has CC on the right - makes no sense at all - the logical German approach (a la BMW) is the right one....CC controls on the left!
Great review:-)
Thanks
You're so lucky to be able to ride in February :)
Sorry about that Alex, believe me it's not as pleasant as that every day (today for example - minus 3 degrees and snowing as I type)....
A pouncing rhinoceros eh! I could never really put into words it's looks but I think you nailed it.
Good review as ever but you didn't seem that blown away with the bike.
This was me being blown away, that's about as excited as I get.....to be fair it would have to have the looks of a Panigale to blow me away completely, this did ride beautifully but I'm not quite on board with the angular looks and all that orange...
I welcome KTM because I strongly believe: vive la différence!
However I am not attracted personally because I'm not keen on these tall motorcycles. 835 mm is the statistic mentioned that puts me off. I'm not short, I just don't want to sit up that high.
I think the V twin can help with low CoG because as it is narrow it can be put lower in the frame than say, a transverse four.
I have the image of a pouncing rhino in my head now.
...I'm sure a Rhino somewhere once must have pounced...
Great to see you testing out a varied selection of bikes. What i call a Marmite bike :)
Yeah I'd agree with that on the looks front - but ride one before you write it off (assuming you don't like marmite)....
iphone recording is pulsing all the time TMF, true beast she is, thx for another good review buddy, has she backlit buttons? I'd expect them at this price
Yes that's a "feature" of the phone ;0) I didn't notice if the buttons were back lit, sorry about that, I suspect not (I've never had a bike where they were!).....
new Triumphs have and nem Multi as well apparently
quite a feature I think, manufacturers give us traction controls, wheelie controls and other gizmos but seem forgetting about basics.... how many times you rode at night thinking 'where is this stupid button' :) ride safe
Yeah it would be handy I must admit! Cheers - TMF
Just picked up a leftover 2017 for $6000 (USD) off MSRP, pretty damned happy with it!
I test rode one last summer but let it go. Such a mistake. :(
You going to start hanging with RJ now? ;) Tis a beastie that one, quite the machine!!
Hehe, yes I think he beat me to the same dealership by a few days....would love to meet him some day!
Having watched this again it looks like a Golden Eagle which incidentally happened to be the name of the pub you parked it in front of to do the walk around. Not really a rhinoceros, they are big, fat and heavy. Since you made this there may have been issues with that weird front headlight over heating? I prefer it in grey/black.
What on the Super Duke? ...I know there has been issues on the smaller Dukes.....
Well this is what I was told by a local dealer albeit a BMW one ;@)
Thinking about going from a gs 2014 to a gt 2017.Not for “racing”,also got to keep in mind touring and pillion any comments appreciated 🤟
Somewhat more cramped than the GS for the pillion - may not be an issue for you.....
Wanting the GT but only being 5’5 :(
A PR spin on the looks might be sabre tooth tiger, rather than pouncing hippo. But the origami bike made me laugh - spot on...
Wish I'd thought of that!
Pretty good first impressions. I hope you tried the bike with the MTC off, as it's a completely different bike. The Ride-by-wire on the SDR is terribly intrusive and I imagine it's not much different on the GT. On the SDR it cuts power and torque where it shouldn't- that is in addition to the throttle retardation imposed by RBW which in my opinion makes it horrible to ride.
Actually I didn't ride it with the aids switched off (a bit wet out there and as you know these bikes are powerful...). I found the ride-by-wire really nice, no issues, perhaps whatever the problem was they've fixed with this latest incarnation?
TheMissendenFlyer Possibly. Though it would be impossible for you to tell how good the RBW functions without having tested the bike with MTC off. For KTM to have fixed the issue they would first need to perceive it as problem. I've spoken to other SDR owners and they had the belief it was working good until they turned the aids off to see what the bike is really capable of and how artificial and intrusive the RBW programming is.
Please do a thorough review for this bike like you did for the SDR.
Maybe next year when the weather warms up!
A few things I didn't like about it.
a) Crayola Orange...KTM please stop with the orange.
b) No luggage rack or ability to fit top box. It is otherwise designed to travel on.
c) Single side swingarm. Probably makes tire changing easier, but bike stands already take up enough space in the garage and to own this, I'd need yet another.
Something for the Thruxton R guys to ponder. KTM saw fit to shod this 175 hp beast with the same shoes as the Thuxton standard i.e. Pirelli GTs. Still think yout sub 100 hp bike needs Super Corsas?
Hehe, like it saddlebag - especially the first and last point (although given orange is what the KTM brand is all about I guess we're stuck with the Crayola effect!!)