Chris, you should stop being so freaking humble. You are one heck of a rider. There are a few people on this earth who can ride the hell out of The Beast (or any other supernaked in fact) just as hard as you do. It’s always a pleasure to watch one of your videos. Keep up the great work!
Probably my most favorite bike reviewer or presenters. Doesn't get you all sleepy listening to specs and can talk about even mundane details and keep you entertained
i've ridden this bike and I still cant get over how good it is. The power is instant, like a timemachine, just ZAP. but the most impressive thing was the handling, by far the easiest bike i've ridden, and the brakes are so incredible. Right now i own a ducati 748 for the Vtwin sound, a zx12r for the horsepower and a cbr600 as a trackweapon. sounds like this ktm can do it all and better!
the only reviewer who rides the bikes like i ride. Much more entertaining to see the bike used properly than being puttered around at 30mph in 5th gear. surprised how well it jumps for a heavy bike... the crest jump test is essential if you live in Scotland or wales haha
Cheers, we feel the same. We always try to push the bike to the limits, if you're going to spend your money on a bike wouldn't you like to know what it's capable of? There are too many people doing average everyday tests/reviews, average has become the normal.
This is why this old 56 year old hooligan going back racing after 20+ layoff on the track. I live 25 minutes away from Mosport,you maybe too young remember it was Jackie Stewart favorite track. Here in southern ontario Canada. It does need better steering dampener.
Great review again Chris. You have a lot more cred as a serious rider than many reviewers but you are covering everything that “normal” riders need to know as well. To be honest though, if you say that it scares you, then that narrows the market of suitable pilots somewhat !!
Well said, I've been riding since my first street bike H1 500 even the 2015 H2 don't scare me like this bike can. It's a close one to my ZX14 turbocharged.
Hey Chris! I took your advice and bought a Superduke R. For all the same reasons you stated , who loves wheelies . Lol me. And l think the 2020 version is far more fun than the others. I was set on the Streetfighter but it just didn't make smile and laugh like the KTM. Keep up the good work.
I bought the new 1290 super duke r three weeks ago! I bought the bike without a test ride! I watched all the reviews on UA-cam! Your test report convinced me that the Superduke is the right bike for me! I can't wait until winter is over!
Take out a life insurance policy don't put it on kill me mode and when you're tired don't write up I drove one two miles it felt like I was in the gym training
I would like to see Chris do a full road review of the GT. This guy is the best motorcycle reviewer on UA-cam. I had a 2016 GT, I did lose my licence on it, but still the best bike I have ever ridden, let alone owned!
We'll see what we can do Greg, the GT does look like it's the next bike we need to take a look at. Sorry to hear you lost your license, we'll be careful!
Matches my experience - that even if you're trying to pick on something you're giggling while doing it. So. Much. Damn. Fun! Only real difference is I don't get tired riding it. Great review, thank you!
Chris you bike reviews are best on you tube. I still rememer you driving Ducati Scrambler desert sled. You make it look fun and so easy, and in this crazy stay home times just pleasure. Grettings from Slovenia and Vstrom 1000 XT rider.
This is a very good video of the bike. I have the 1290 same bike and I compared what you said to my thoughts and it’s a very realistic review. I still watch videos of the bikes I have because I love them. Have you still got your KTM or a new one now ?
Great video Chris a perfect description! How powerful is it after riding all night i finally get on my street and not holding on to it tightly i hit a lip on the pavement, lucky for me when momentarily lost contol i ended on the middle of my neighbor's lawn. Never underestimate this bike. I wish KTM put a much better steering dampener it's useless. Definitely upgrade.
The thought of trying to ride that thing on slippery greasy wet roads absolutely terrifies me ! Sorry I know my talent level & it’s not near high enough ! (And I’m not scared to admit it ) . Cracking video though & serious piloting skills as always from Mr Northover. 🙌🏻
Great review Chris 👍🏻 when KTM decided to make the 1290 R it was essentially made to just be a hoon on road/track so there’s always going to be draw backs to it for everyday use. So imo if you don’t want to be a hooligan get something else rather than criticise this bike for what it wasn’t really meant to do on a everyday commute!!
This review made me buy one and the only thing i can say is erverything he say is true and accruate thanks for you work and helping me decide what bike should i chose
How have I missed your reviews before? My bad, anyway, subscribed now. Very good all round review. Have to say, you can programme either of the 2 user modes to 'remember' your preferred settings and just switch to them when you jump on (toggle switch on the right switch gear). Steering lock is fine for me, no complaints, especially filtering.... didn't get that one. Disclaimer** I am on my third SDR so completely biased. Only complaint about the gen 3 is the zaust and induction noise, its lost the burble, crackle and pop on the overrun, unless a decent full system would bring it back?
Thinking about trading in my ‘19 s1000r sport for one of these , but have read a few bad comments on reliability & build quality on the older ones , just hoping the new 3,0 are as good as all the reviews say they are , would like to hear some thoughts from current owners
Nice to see a proper review of the King of the Hooligans bike by the King of the Hooligans moto journalist! The front brakes on my SDR 3.0 squeaked a bit at first, but I put new HH pads on and gave the discs a good scuff and cleaning and they're quiet now
Owned my 2019 ktm for 1 week now. Ridden a few hundred miles, my breaks don't squeek. The bike doesn't like 2nd going 15-25mph. Feels like it wants to stall. Slow speed stuff doing u-turns feels awkward. More then likely just due to the huge engine & low rpms. The switches & indicators are causing me issues. I had to take apart my race on buttons. Then spray WD-40 inside them, just to get it to stop going on by itself! Seems like a common fault & very annoying. Indicator left is damaged, need to replace it. Overall this engine is wicked! Quickshifter+ is super fun. I'm not sure why sometimes when I upshift using quickshifter it'll pop / bang quite loud. When i shift normally it doesn't do that. I'm guessing it's just unburnt fuel. Going from an MT-07 to this was a great upgrade for me. Super enjoyable! Only downside is the massive wind hit you get. Feel it in your neck & chest at higher speeds. The riding postion can also push you forward at least for me. Making my legs & ass sore after an hour ride. Sliding back on the seat helps. so far i'd give this bike: 7/10 reliability 9/10 torque 10/10 electronics super fun to use 10/10 for the desgin 8/10 for headlights (not as bright as i'd like but will do) 3/10 for parts. Super expensive should be more accessible. Especially for common faults. overall 8.5/10 I love this bike! Few issues with it but nothing that you can't fix yourself. The engine & main components seem solid.
I kinda understand when you say its tiring but it puts a massive smile on your face, that’s how I feel riding a Ducati monster but this ktm 1290 is like a monster on steroids for sure.
Epic job..sub'd. I bought a GT earlier this yr & absolutely love it..gutted it can't take the track dongle though, would like to sample the beast uncaged
Hi Chris, on those back roads you frequent, the 1290, or 890 would be the go? For those of us who can ride but maybe not quite up to your standard. Great vid tnx...
Hey Mark, the 890 is definitely easier to ride and you can concentrate more on corners, lines and enjoying the road. It’s arguably a more ‘pure’ riding experience than the 1290. The bigger one is still capable of the same riding but is a little more dominated by its engine 🤪.
How does the Super Duke compare to the Ducati Diavel? I am aiming to get back on two wheels and the Diavel was absolutely the best bike I have ever owned. I’m not even sure why I sold it. Diavel was very comfortable for me, I should be riding a cruiser at my age, but cant deal with the boring ride. I like having the power when I want it and braking and handling when I need it.
I have a buddy that had 2 of these and they both had and electronic fire in the same spot under the battery box. Both bikes where stock nothing electrical changed.
As always, fantastic review Chris! I have a 2020 SDR myself, love it (super fun on track and the road). In terms of comfort on the street, it makes sense to move the footpegs to the front/low position and the handlebar in the rear position (and opposite for the track) as it will allow for a more relaxed body position for day to day stuff and wear you out less. How did you like the suspension and playfulness compared to other fun road bikes (890, Hypermotard, Tuono) etc?
Suspension wise it actually feels quite a lot more sporty and stiff than the Hypermotard or 890, a bit more track focussed. More like a Tuono in that respect, although I’m basing that on a V4 Tuono from a few years back as I’ve not been on one recently.
@@chrisnorthover7582 yeah that's my impression too, once the suspension is setup properly it is sublime on the track and on smooth pavement, but definitely a bit harsh for every day riding. The 890 and even more so the Hyper have a lot more suspension travel that would make them more compliant on bumpy roads. Sometimes the SDR feels like overkill on the street but I still love it as it does put a huge smile on your face, but it does make you ride a bit like a maniac...
Kudos to your camera operators, director of photography and colorists. The orange really pops in this video.
Thanks, that's me!
Second to this, great color lut
Possibly the best journo on youtube
Fantastic video
Koudos for keeping up !! 😉✌🏻
Chris, your reviews remain some of the best I have seen. Your ability to articulate the riding and ownership experience is outstanding and helpful.
dayummm....the way you ride man🔥you are one hell of a rider...❤️
This chap is probably one of my favourite reviews - Keep up the good work
"I don't think the front wheel touched the ground the whole day" LOL
Doing our bit for the planet, saving rubber!
"Meet Monday morning Chris. He's just as much of an idiot as normal Chris." LOL - I love this guy.
Your review literally sold me on this bike... Just came back from the dealer where I bought one. Can't wait to take delivery... Thanks!
Your enthusiasm always make your reviews fun to watch, and it really shows in this one 🏍🤪👍.
This bike and Chris......
Match made in heaven!
Chris, you should stop being so freaking humble. You are one heck of a rider. There are a few people on this earth who can ride the hell out of The Beast (or any other supernaked in fact) just as hard as you do. It’s always a pleasure to watch one of your videos. Keep up the great work!
Okay mate I think you may now be my favorite motorcycle reviewer on UA-cam! What a great review and so well made
Thanks Aaron, glad you enjoyed it.
The way you ride, the videography and your to the point reviews makes me watch your videos religiously!
Thanks, glad you enjoy them.
Excellent review, much practical info as well as detailed riding impressions, thanks!
Probably my most favorite bike reviewer or presenters. Doesn't get you all sleepy listening to specs and can talk about even mundane details and keep you entertained
This is the closest review to my experience, this bike is insane. Great video, high quality audio and video.
Best unfiltered reviews. Thanks for not sounding like you're part of KTM's marketing program.
i've ridden this bike and I still cant get over how good it is. The power is instant, like a timemachine, just ZAP. but the most impressive thing was the handling, by far the easiest bike i've ridden, and the brakes are so incredible. Right now i own a ducati 748 for the Vtwin sound, a zx12r for the horsepower and a cbr600 as a trackweapon. sounds like this ktm can do it all and better!
That s some pretty intense riding there, incredible to watch
Thanks for such an engaging review of the bike, had so much fun watching it as much as you enjoyed doing it. Cheers !!
Cheers Mickey!
Your reviews are always amazing
the only reviewer who rides the bikes like i ride. Much more entertaining to see the bike used properly than being puttered around at 30mph in 5th gear. surprised how well it jumps for a heavy bike... the crest jump test is essential if you live in Scotland or wales haha
Cheers, we feel the same. We always try to push the bike to the limits, if you're going to spend your money on a bike wouldn't you like to know what it's capable of? There are too many people doing average everyday tests/reviews, average has become the normal.
This is why this old 56 year old hooligan going back racing after 20+ layoff on the track. I live 25 minutes away from Mosport,you maybe too young remember it was Jackie Stewart favorite track. Here in southern ontario Canada. It does need better steering dampener.
Great review again Chris. You have a lot more cred as a serious rider than many reviewers but you are covering everything that “normal” riders need to know as well. To be honest though, if you say that it scares you, then that narrows the market of suitable pilots somewhat !!
Well said, I've been riding since my first street bike H1 500 even the 2015 H2 don't scare me like this bike can. It's a close one to my ZX14 turbocharged.
Hey Chris! I took your advice and bought a Superduke R. For all the same reasons you stated , who loves wheelies . Lol me.
And l think the 2020 version is far more fun than the others. I was set on the Streetfighter but it just didn't make smile and laugh like the KTM.
Keep up the good work.
Me also after his review on the Portuguese racetrack. Just find the steering dampener useless. So true that this machine makes you mentally tired.
@@geraldperry7779 Thanks for letting us know, this feedback really helps. cheers
Chris and Neevsy two of the best in the journo business, love their chatter and knowledge on bikes.
This is the best review of a bike anybody could ever wish for. And what a great bike that 3.0 is. Well done and I look forward to the next one👌👍
Cheers!
Chris is one of my fav bike reviewers to watch, wish i had the 1290 in my collection or even his riding skills would be nice.
Excellent review. Stumbled across this. Long time no see, Chris. I’m picking up my 2.0 on Thursday..... can’t wait 😛
I bought the new 1290 super duke r three weeks ago! I bought the bike without a test ride! I watched all the reviews on UA-cam! Your test report convinced me that the Superduke is the right bike for me! I can't wait until winter is over!
Take out a life insurance policy don't put it on kill me mode and when you're tired don't write up I drove one two miles it felt like I was in the gym training
Great review😎 You’re of course preaching to the converted here, so want this bike for my sunny Sunday morning blatttttttttt🏍
Excellent review, much appreciated! Currently ride a street triple, was thinking of the 1290 but might go to the speed now.
I would like to see Chris do a full road review of the GT. This guy is the best motorcycle reviewer on UA-cam. I had a 2016 GT, I did lose my licence on it, but still the best bike I have ever ridden, let alone owned!
We'll see what we can do Greg, the GT does look like it's the next bike we need to take a look at. Sorry to hear you lost your license, we'll be careful!
Matches my experience - that even if you're trying to pick on something you're giggling while doing it. So. Much. Damn. Fun!
Only real difference is I don't get tired riding it. Great review, thank you!
Fantastic rider doing great review , best !!! Thank You
Just bought this bike - sold mine Gen 1 - it looks sooo badass!
That's the kind of review I like to see - now I know I want one :)
great video and loved some of the closing statements :) , like me also " still a bit scared of it " as we should be when it lights up
I'm a simple man... see Chris -> hit like
Great review Chris as always just got one it’s mental 😀
Great vid.
How about a Tuono video or comparison?🙏
I think I’d be very happy if I could ride half as well as you, Chris 😀 Great review.
Great vid. Savage. Love it. Definitely my favourite super naked. You can't beat a big V-Twin.
Awesome video! Any ideas on alternatives if you want a nutter bike but also a commuter?
I hope you are enjoying your visit to our planet Chris as your riding abilities are from another planet.
Chris you bike reviews are best on you tube. I still rememer you driving Ducati Scrambler desert sled. You make it look fun and so easy, and in this crazy stay home times just pleasure. Grettings from Slovenia and Vstrom 1000 XT rider.
Thanks for the support.
Always liked the Super Duke and this vid makes it look killer.
An amazing review of an incredible bike ..loved it👍👍
Cheers!
So this is what Jay Kay gets up to these days!😁
Excellent review and enviable skills.
Great video! A man of your talent being "a bit scared of it" says a lot about The Beast!
Would appreciate a review on the S1000XR please.
Stay safe!
Just an awesome vid ! Well done !
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it.
How does it compare to the FTR 1200? Great review as always!
Great review as always. Bought an 890 Duke after watching your review on it. What kind of gear were you wearing in this review?
Perfect review 👍🏻
Agreed agreed agreed, awesome review of the beast.
MAAAAAN U ARE OSSSOM.
.SO ENERGETIC...IT FELT LIKE I WAS RIDING THE BIKE....😍😍😍😍
Ill admit it riding 25+ years and I can't wheelie !!!! Yes I've never really practiced, please teach me man, superb review 👏
Hello, just asking. Does the anti-wheelie, supermoto mode etc.. already build in the system or need to add on when buying the bike ?
Fantastic review & bike👍
This is a very good video of the bike. I have the 1290 same bike and I compared what you said to my thoughts and it’s a very realistic review. I still watch videos of the bikes I have because I love them. Have you still got your KTM or a new one now ?
Love your guys' content! Can you do more range reviews like you did with the Z line from Kawasaki? Thanks from Washington State!
Cheers, did you see our Duke range vid? ua-cam.com/video/Y9ySfxiMRsQ/v-deo.html
Great review .
So what are the fastest track bikes tht can be used as a daily commuter as well?
I currently have an MT 09 and I feel like I need a Super Duke in my life! Great video!
Cheers!
@@BikeWorldTVshow it probably was the 5th gear wheelie thing. WOW
@@jerseyrider4369 That'll do it, it's a tool!
Love your style bro 😎
Your review was excellent. You talk about the bike the bike like you would do to a mate.
Great video Chris a perfect description! How powerful is it after riding all night i finally get on my street and not holding on to it tightly i hit a lip on the pavement, lucky for me when momentarily lost contol i ended on the middle of my neighbor's lawn. Never underestimate this bike. I wish KTM put a much better steering dampener it's useless. Definitely upgrade.
The thought of trying to ride that thing on slippery greasy wet roads absolutely terrifies me ! Sorry I know my talent level & it’s not near high enough ! (And I’m not scared to admit it ) . Cracking video though & serious piloting skills as always from Mr Northover. 🙌🏻
good and honest review thx
Great review Chris. I’m looking at swapping my 2017 R1 for one of these, purely for the riding position…
Is the quickshifter as good as it should be ?
very good review!
Its more sporty riding postion? God review🤙🔥
the front wheels are barely touching the ground... love the way you ride, man.
I like first when I see Chris will present this motorcycle.
Great video!
Does it not have the lean angle lighting ?
Where's the rest of the ftr build series?
Great review Chris 👍🏻 when KTM decided to make the 1290 R it was essentially made to just be a hoon on road/track so there’s always going to be draw backs to it for everyday use. So imo if you don’t want to be a hooligan get something else rather than criticise this bike for what it wasn’t really meant to do on a everyday commute!!
This review made me buy one and the only thing i can say is erverything he say is true and accruate thanks for you work and helping me decide what bike should i chose
Amazing! Thanks for letting us know.
Great review it is scary.😎
How have I missed your reviews before? My bad, anyway, subscribed now.
Very good all round review. Have to say, you can programme either of the 2 user modes to 'remember' your preferred settings and just switch to them when you jump on (toggle switch on the right switch gear).
Steering lock is fine for me, no complaints, especially filtering.... didn't get that one.
Disclaimer** I am on my third SDR so completely biased. Only complaint about the gen 3 is the zaust and induction noise, its lost the burble, crackle and pop on the overrun, unless a decent full system would bring it back?
Glad you found us, lots for like this to come. Cheers
Thinking about trading in my ‘19 s1000r sport for one of these , but have read a few bad comments on reliability & build quality on the older ones , just hoping the new 3,0 are as good as all the reviews say they are , would like to hear some thoughts from current owners
I really like your videos.
Cheers Scott.
Nice to see a proper review of the King of the Hooligans bike by the King of the Hooligans moto journalist!
The front brakes on my SDR 3.0 squeaked a bit at first, but I put new HH pads on and gave the discs a good scuff and cleaning and they're quiet now
I love KTM 💯🔥💯2020/21
Owned my 2019 ktm for 1 week now. Ridden a few hundred miles, my breaks don't squeek. The bike doesn't like 2nd going 15-25mph. Feels like it wants to stall. Slow speed stuff doing u-turns feels awkward. More then likely just due to the huge engine & low rpms.
The switches & indicators are causing me issues. I had to take apart my race on buttons. Then spray WD-40 inside them, just to get it to stop going on by itself! Seems like a common fault & very annoying. Indicator left is damaged, need to replace it.
Overall this engine is wicked! Quickshifter+ is super fun. I'm not sure why sometimes when I upshift using quickshifter it'll pop / bang quite loud. When i shift normally it doesn't do that. I'm guessing it's just unburnt fuel. Going from an MT-07 to this was a great upgrade for me. Super enjoyable! Only downside is the massive wind hit you get. Feel it in your neck & chest at higher speeds. The riding postion can also push you forward at least for me. Making my legs & ass sore after an hour ride. Sliding back on the seat helps.
so far i'd give this bike:
7/10 reliability
9/10 torque
10/10 electronics super fun to use
10/10 for the desgin
8/10 for headlights (not as bright as i'd like but will do)
3/10 for parts. Super expensive should be more accessible. Especially for common faults.
overall 8.5/10 I love this bike! Few issues with it but nothing that you can't fix yourself. The engine & main components seem solid.
Do you think ktm should come with Rc1290?
I kinda understand when you say its tiring but it puts a massive smile on your face, that’s how I feel riding a Ducati monster but this ktm 1290 is like a monster on steroids for sure.
Monsters are as mental.
such a good reviewer
Epic job..sub'd. I bought a GT earlier this yr & absolutely love it..gutted it can't take the track dongle though, would like to sample the beast uncaged
Thanks Nik!
Like on most bikes it's not what it does it's how it makes you feel ! More fun and smiles per mile than almost anything 👌🏼
Hi Chris, on those back roads you frequent, the 1290, or 890 would be the go? For those of us who can ride but maybe not quite up to your standard.
Great vid tnx...
Hey Mark, the 890 is definitely easier to ride and you can concentrate more on corners, lines and enjoying the road. It’s arguably a more ‘pure’ riding experience than the 1290. The bigger one is still capable of the same riding but is a little more dominated by its engine 🤪.
Which bike this competition you please tell me
How does the Super Duke compare to the Ducati Diavel? I am aiming to get back on two wheels and the Diavel was absolutely the best bike I have ever owned. I’m not even sure why I sold it. Diavel was very comfortable for me, I should be riding a cruiser at my age, but cant deal with the boring ride. I like having the power when I want it and braking and handling when I need it.
how is the maintenance on this bike
I have one, amazing bit of kit..nicest balance point for big wheelies 😁
Great vid👌🏻👌🏻
Now that’s how you ride this thing !!
I have a buddy that had 2 of these and they both had and electronic fire in the same spot under the battery box. Both bikes where stock nothing electrical changed.
As always, fantastic review Chris! I have a 2020 SDR myself, love it (super fun on track and the road). In terms of comfort on the street, it makes sense to move the footpegs to the front/low position and the handlebar in the rear position (and opposite for the track) as it will allow for a more relaxed body position for day to day stuff and wear you out less. How did you like the suspension and playfulness compared to other fun road bikes (890, Hypermotard, Tuono) etc?
Suspension wise it actually feels quite a lot more sporty and stiff than the Hypermotard or 890, a bit more track focussed. More like a Tuono in that respect, although I’m basing that on a V4 Tuono from a few years back as I’ve not been on one recently.
@@chrisnorthover7582 yeah that's my impression too, once the suspension is setup properly it is sublime on the track and on smooth pavement, but definitely a bit harsh for every day riding. The 890 and even more so the Hyper have a lot more suspension travel that would make them more compliant on bumpy roads.
Sometimes the SDR feels like overkill on the street but I still love it as it does put a huge smile on your face, but it does make you ride a bit like a maniac...