1701 RF final

It’s the extra handlebar width that is
most noticeable, and I had to be careful
not to put too much input into the bars
and upset the handling. Additionally, the
handlebar has lots of adjustment in all
directions, so it allows for a wide range of
personalization.
The riding position is very comfortable,
even though it is somewhat aggressive.
I was pleased to discover that even at
over 160 mph on the straight at Losail,
I could tuck in and the windblast was
much less than I had expected. Credit
that to the large, aggressive-looking LED
headlight and the angle-adjustable
instrument pod.
Both the clutch and brake
levers are adjustable, too.
Also, the pegs and foot
lever placing can be
changed via three
different step plate
positions.
The KTM
PowerParts catalog
rearset footpegs on
the racebike were an
improvement at Losail, as
with the standard setup I was touching
hardware and my feet on some corners,
although it was never a big problem.
The standard positions are ideal for the
street, and in reality the footpegs are a
terrific compromise between comfort and
ground clearance when leaned over.
It is impossible to find a downside to the
2017 KTM 1290 Super Duke R. Although
enormously powerful, it is also extremely
docile and easy to ride around town. The
tweaks and changes to the bike have been
well thought out. For those who ride track,
the electronics and quickshifter—especially
the blip-downshifter with the back-torque
limiting function—make a major difference
to both overall speed and safety.
Add in that aggressive looking, supersexy
LED front light coupled with the
reduced rear bodywork that exposes the
cool trellis subframe, and KTM once again
has a winner—and no doubt huge demand
for this amazing motorcycle.
28 RIDEFAST MAGAZINE JANUARY 2017