2023 Ktm 1290 Super Duke R Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Positioned in Ktm's naked motorcycle lineup, the 2023 Ktm 1290 Super Duke R relies on a 1301 cc (79.4 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 177 HP (129.2 kW) while maximum torque reaches 140 Nm (103.3 lb-ft), transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 136 HP per liter, the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.
On the scales, the 1290 Super Duke R measures 189 kg (417 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.94 HP/kg (1.07 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 835 mm (32.9 in) seat height — resulting in a taller command-style riding posture suited to medium-to-tall inseams, combined with a 1,482 mm (58.3 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 16-liter (4.2 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 5.6 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 286 km (178 miles) between fill-ups.
Within MotoLibrary's Ktm archive, this model family spans 9 indexed model years from 2013 to 2023, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
136 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.94 HP/kg (1.07 kg/HP)
Theoretical Range
~286 km (178 mi)
Engine
Displacement1301.0 ccm (79.39 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine Details75° V arrangement
Power177.0 HP (129.2 kW))
Torque140.0 Nm (14.3 kgf-m or 103.3 ft.lbs)
Bore x Stroke108.0 x 71.0 mm (4.3 x 2.8 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
IgnitionKeihin EMS with RBW, twin ignition
LubricationForced oil lubrication with 3 pumps
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchSlipper clutch, hydraulically actuated
Driveline525 X-Ring chain
Performance
Fuel Consumption5.60 litres/100 km (17.9 km/l or 42.00 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases129.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis
Frame TypeChrome-moly tubular space frame, powder-coated
Rake25.2°
Front SuspensionWP APEX 48
Front Travel125 mm (4.9 inches)
Rear SuspensionWP APEX - Monoshock
Rear Travel140 mm (5.5 inches)
Wheelbase1482 mm (58.3 inches)
Ground Clearance160 mm (6.3 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre120/70-17
Rear Tyre200/55-17
Front BrakesDouble disc. ABS. Radially mounted four-piston brake calipers
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
