Spy photographers have snapped shots of what appears to be a near-production prototype of the KTM 1290 Super Duke. The test mule in the pictures show some differences from the 1290 Super Duke R prototype revealed at the 2012 EICMA show.

The spy pictures reveal a stacked headlight design similar to the component used on KTM‘s smaller naked models such as the 390 Duke. Also notable is the rather large exhaust canister mounted on the right side of the rear wheel. The EICMA prototype had a custom Akrapovic system with one small silencer running up along the subframe and a second, more subtle underslung exhaust. The new larger exhaust is disappointing in comparison, though it was unlikely the EICMA bike’s exhaust would make be retained in a production model, even for the inevitable R version. Continue Reading »

KTM has released pictures of a new 1290cc naked prototype, the so-called “Beast” whose engine roar KTM revealed earlier in the week. To be officially unveiled next week at the 2012 EICMA show, the new model is still unnamed, though judging by the brief glimpses of its styling and the KTM North American dealer meeting slide that leaked earlier this year, we’re pretty sure this new prototype will eventually become the KTM 1290 Super Duke.

We’ll have more information Nov. 13 when KTM presents the bike at EICMA, but the Austrian manufacturer has released some details. The new model uses a 1290cc engine, likely a larger version of the RC8R sportbike’s 1195cc V-Twin engine, similar to the one used in the new 1190 Adventure revealed at Intermot. Other features include a new frame and swingarm, WP suspension and Brembo calipers. Continue Reading »