2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Road Review (4K)

After Chris rode the KTM Super Duke R on track at the launch in Portimão, we wanted to know if it's as good on the roads as it was on track. Need bike insurance? Please check out our sponsors for a quote: www.bikedevil....
#ktm #superduke #bikeworld

[@sabamacx]

Kudos to your camera operators, director of photography and colorists. The orange really pops in this video.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks, that's me!

[@kunfajarudinwibowo]

Second to this, great color lut

[@ianv7401]

Possibly the best journo on youtube Fantastic video

[@williamcb78]

Koudos for keeping up !! 😉✌🏻

[@paulvanhout9695]

Chris, your reviews remain some of the best I have seen. Your ability to articulate the riding and ownership experience is outstanding and helpful.

[@Ghostrider-sc3rx]

dayummm....the way you ride man🔥you are one hell of a rider...❤️

[@cooperbrosracing]

This chap is probably one of my favourite reviews - Keep up the good work

[@vm4554]

"I don't think the front wheel touched the ground the whole day" LOL

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Doing our bit for the planet, saving rubber!

[@Dan-56]

Your enthusiasm always make your reviews fun to watch, and it really shows in this one 🏍🤪👍.

[@Sandman68]

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!

[@portaltwo]

"Meet Monday morning Chris. He's just as much of an idiot as normal Chris." LOL - I love this guy.

[@Bow-to-the-absurd]

This bike and Chris...... Match made in heaven!

[@timdavis8768]

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.

[@geraldperry7779]

Me also after his review on the Portuguese racetrack. Just find the steering dampener useless. So true that this machine makes you mentally tired.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

@@geraldperry7779 Thanks for letting us know, this feedback really helps. cheers

[@Ride_XP]

Okay mate I think you may now be my favorite motorcycle reviewer on KZbin! What a great review and so well made

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks Aaron, glad you enjoyed it.

[@calumkz]

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

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

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.

[@geraldperry7779]

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.

[@blacksonic1005]

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 KZbin! Your test report convinced me that the Superduke is the right bike for me! I can't wait until winter is over!

[@richardcerritelli9657]

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

[@flyingdutchy01]

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!

[@JDRides]

The way you ride, the videography and your to the point reviews makes me watch your videos religiously!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks, glad you enjoy them.

[@matteosimonutti]

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!

[@gregspice5916]

I would like to see Chris do a full road review of the GT. This guy is the best motorcycle reviewer on KZbin. I had a 2016 GT, I did lose my licence on it, but still the best bike I have ever ridden, let alone owned!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

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!

[@masongoss4615]

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 !!

[@geraldperry7779]

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.

[@melniknicolas]

That s some pretty intense riding there, incredible to watch

[@Zloi_oi]

Just bought this bike - sold mine Gen 1 - it looks sooo badass!

[@DaytonCarCare]

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

[@myideas8548]

Best unfiltered reviews. Thanks for not sounding like you're part of KTM's marketing program.

[@Phoenixr-ql2kc]

This is the closest review to my experience, this bike is insane. Great video, high quality audio and video.

[@darnhard]

Chris and Neevsy two of the best in the journo business, love their chatter and knowledge on bikes.

[@Zx11pilot]

That's the kind of review I like to see - now I know I want one :)

[@canonsnyder758]

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!

[@jerseyrider4369]

I currently have an MT 09 and I feel like I need a Super Duke in my life! Great video!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers!

[@jerseyrider4369]

@@BikeWorldTVshow it probably was the 5th gear wheelie thing. WOW

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

@@jerseyrider4369 That'll do it, it's a tool!

[@mikv3752]

Thanks for such an engaging review of the bike, had so much fun watching it as much as you enjoyed doing it. Cheers !!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers Mickey!

[@dogrange]

Excellent review, much practical info as well as detailed riding impressions, thanks!

[@user-ki1bf7hy7e]

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

[@yametekudasai2827]

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

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Amazing! Thanks for letting us know.

[@125KPH]

I'm a simple man... see Chris -> hit like

[@skyworks1621]

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.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks for the support.

[@kiwicanuck5459]

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.

[@Near2Future]

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.

[@markjurczyk]

Fantastic rider doing great review , best !!! Thank You

[@paulred158]

I hope you are enjoying your visit to our planet Chris as your riding abilities are from another planet.

[@BB3Lions]

Excellent review, much appreciated! Currently ride a street triple, was thinking of the 1290 but might go to the speed now.

[@robertprosser6856]

So this is what Jay Kay gets up to these days!😁

[@davidbadham3712]

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👌👍

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers!

[@ragerider6283]

Great vid. Savage. Love it. Definitely my favourite super naked. You can't beat a big V-Twin.

[@markshirley7639]

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 👌🏼

[@RUBBERNMETAL]

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.

[@Inked_CR]

Monsters are as mental.

[@mikeharrison72]

Always liked the Super Duke and this vid makes it look killer.

[@mujtabakamal]

Your reviews are always amazing

[@rodsimcox7118]

PLUS it can be ridden quietly, smoothly, precisely, with incredible comfort and pretty well perfect fuelling. In other words it's ALSO a bike for someone trying to forget just how many years he has been doing it. All the footage you ever see is always manic, but this bike, even the Gen 2, does much more than that. (AND it can whack itself past traffic on the K's highway better than (e.g.) the V4 Factory Aprilia Tuono. And . . .and . . . and . . .)

[@nigelrachinger339]

Your review was excellent. You talk about the bike the bike like you would do to a mate.

[@Icem4n84]

I've had mine a week and I love it! I'm commuting on it and I regret nothing!

[@GameWinner85]

I got mine, but sometimes then you going slowly 1 gear I can hear some squeezing noise like some part vibration.....

[@Icem4n84]

@@GameWinner85 I'll keep an eye on that. I wonder if the floating disc is becoming seized up, most people don't clean the bobbins at all. Just a random thought.

[@GameWinner85]

@@Icem4n84 yeah but its almost brand new I done just 150 miles...Maybe some vibration coz no speed and just 2 cylinders...I will watch it anyway.

[@shobhit2944]

An amazing review of an incredible bike ..loved it👍👍

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers!

[@wanterman5641]

Agreed agreed agreed, awesome review of the beast.

[@paulhammal7231]

Excellent review. Stumbled across this. Long time no see, Chris. I’m picking up my 2.0 on Thursday..... can’t wait 😛

[@Rayk76]

Ill admit it riding 25+ years and I can't wheelie !!!! Yes I've never really practiced, please teach me man, superb review 👏

[@tubeyouianzz]

at last someone who can ride testing it lol, instead of poncing around, good job :-) MT-10 does it for me though!

[@geraldperry7779]

I have the 2020 KTM 1290 R my buddy has MT10sp what a great machine. What Chris said that this bike tires you out mentally is so true,from that I let down my guard going around corner holding with one hand, lucky me i hit big lip pavement. I must had angel over me came close as ever losing it.

[@barbieandbellaadventuresby9134]

Great review😎 You’re of course preaching to the converted here, so want this bike for my sunny Sunday morning blatttttttttt🏍

[@TheVinman93]

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 ?

[@williamcb78]

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. 🙌🏻

[@joaomoreira5879]

Hi Chris congrats for the very fine review. What is the most fun of the two between this and the 890 Duke R? If given the change to you to choose one of those two what would you choose? Best regards.

[@samiam5326]

Good question.

[@sabamacx]

I'd say the 890 by far. You can actually use the gearbox before losing your license.

[@geraldperry7779]

@@sabamacx or dying. It's touch too mental the 1290R begin win 890 or 790.

[@apextv9861]

This is the best “all scenario” kind of bike on the market right now period.

[@adamstratford6740]

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!!

[@rgthomson1]

I have one and there is no brake squeak, you are right this bike can have you knacked in no time hanging on with its huge grunt, it is a beast and i love it, now wheres my keys

[@Sap7e87]

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!

[@paulbradshaw9046]

I disagree about the turning radius, seems small to me I agree about the headlight not being too good in tight turns My brakes do not sqeak... hmm My biggest complaint is the dumb turn signal buttons, they suck! (and had to get mine swapped out already) Gotta have the Akra full exhaust with track map!!!! So much better. I prefer city commuting on this to my 1190ADV-R. Its a close to perfect bike, especially with the race exhaust. In most US States, they don't give us a hard time about loud exhausts.

[@marcosolo810]

Excellent review and enviable skills.

[@ridebecauseucan1944]

Just an awesome vid ! Well done !

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it.

[@Joric78]

I've got the previous (2018) model as a daily ride year round, and I love it. Of course rain and cold aren't much of a thing in my part of Oz, and our sealed roads look to be a bit wider and smoother than those nadgery little trails you were riding (even back roads through the hills). Only real gripe I've got is that despite being a bit over 5'11 (6ft if it's a woman asking), it's a bit of a struggle to swing a leg over in my leathers and regular fit riding jeans (no issue in less restrictive clothing). I might have to check the ride height though, because it looks and feels taller than the 2020 model, despite the sales guy telling me they are the same seat height.

[@samiam5326]

Brisbane?

[@naranjalorange8584]

Haha. I'd say seat height is exactly the same, from my feelings, not from a tape measure

[@geraldperry7779]

I know am 6'1" and i was thinking am getting too old ride sportbike at 56. Reminds me of big 2 stroke 500cc dirt bike. Cheers from a very cold day in Canada.

[@an1ma169]

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

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks Nik!

[@robertmulholland7319]

Great review Chris as always just got one it’s mental 😀

[@Jeez726]

Great vid. How about a Tuono video or comparison?🙏

[@abymathew295]

MAAAAAN U ARE OSSSOM. .SO ENERGETIC...IT FELT LIKE I WAS RIDING THE BIKE....😍😍😍😍

[@crownmoto]

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

[@malcellison8831]

I think I’d be very happy if I could ride half as well as you, Chris 😀 Great review.

[@gur262]

German MOTORRAD also reported squeaky brakes, sometimes hard to push the bike due to something with em. But much better reliability than other ktms before. Like. Actually good. Tested it for 50 000km

[@MacPain1982]

Nice review :) How would you compare it to 890? Is it the same amount of fun. Which one would you choose for normal road riding?

[@Showmetheevidence-]

I’d go with the 890 just because it’s lighter.

[@aaronkelley6335]

Yeah same. Dude at my work rides an 890 (I ride a z900). 890 is tiny! A blast for riding around town. 1290 would be too much for the street imo.

[@mbal4052]

The 890 is a toy..this is a beast. For those of us able to handle one there’s nothing else like it

[@thomasbrauner5463]

Chris: „I put my road head on“ Me: 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@naranjalorange8584]

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?

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Glad you found us, lots for like this to come. Cheers

[@TylertheViking93]

Perfect review 👍🏻

[@rempel29]

Great review as always. Bought an 890 Duke after watching your review on it. What kind of gear were you wearing in this review?

[@Aiken47]

I have had this for 4mths, I can’t regret it one bit. I love this bike. I used to own the 790 and the 390.What you put into the throttle ie slow and soft or wheelie time is up to you 😁 you won’t get tired if you take it easy on the Meh days.

[@thedjangoway9052]

I like first when I see Chris will present this motorcycle.

[@suvajitbardhan6805]

the front wheels are barely touching the ground... love the way you ride, man.

[@diggerdave519]

Great review Chris. I’m looking at swapping my 2017 R1 for one of these, purely for the riding position…

[@geraldperry7779]

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.

[@aaronkelley6335]

Love your guys' content! Can you do more range reviews like you did with the Z line from Kawasaki? Thanks from Washington State!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers, did you see our Duke range vid? kzbin.info/www/bejne/j2rchJmunrKFqbM

[@MrAdrafiq]

@Chris. My man, the weight of knowledge that you carry with that humbleness. Its admirable. Fan! Student!

[@MrAdrafiq]

Also, music at 12:11 ???

[@weiz4944]

Great review as always! Hi Chris, would you prefer this or 890 Duke R?

[@chrisnorthover7582]

Personally I prefer the 890 as a road bike, but the 1290 is better at being an idiot.

[@weiz4944]

Thank you Chris! I am an idiot now😂

[@gordonhenry7760]

How does it compare to the FTR 1200? Great review as always!

[@zorama7679]

I own a 390 duke and it's the same thing about headlight's light spread... not good at all in corners and foggy night coz of the white LED light scattering on white fog...lol and the squeaking breaks especially on the front...so true. (after 2 years)

[@fabzrustrider9838]

I love KTM 💯🔥💯2020/21

[@scottmiller4516]

I really like your videos.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers Scott.

[@Thru-The-Lens]

Love your style bro 😎

[@Delboysparody]

Great review .

[@jimbojonesporfavor]

Awesome video! Any ideas on alternatives if you want a nutter bike but also a commuter?

[@musamusa2961]

Thank God, I will buy one for myself

[@eck63s36]

Now that’s how you ride this thing !!

[@blipco5]

I see these go up for sale after only a couple of years with very low miles on them. It makes me believe that after the initial thrill wears off, the owners look at it as too much of a handful for everyday riding. I rode my friend's touring model, it's a hella awesome bike, but all the time....?

[@sabamacx]

This or the Hypermotard 950 SP?

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

We have a Streetfighter vs Super Duke coming if that helps?

[@sabamacx]

@@BikeWorldTVshow It'll be fun to watch, but the Streetfighter is too much of a toy: all track, and other bikes are better for real-world road riding.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

@Ben Petty The vid should be up tomorrow Ben.

[@apantelop]

@@BikeWorldTVshow I think Ben was also referring to "SDR vs Hypermotard" and not SDR vs SFV4. Weirdly enough I was also cross-shopping the SDR vs the Hyper, i.e. hooligan (torquey) fun bikes that don't have a specific purpose besides putting a smile on your face (they are not upright superbikes, they don't have similar competitors in the market, they are not race bikes, they are in a category of their own etc).

[@_anything_fast_9963]

Fantastic review & bike👍

[@alegio3]

Watched your superb 690 SMC R video, inspired me to buy the bike. Watched your equally superb 1290 R track video, then bought one too. Your riding and enthusiasm are the best on KZbin but brother slow down on the videos output, I’m going broke !

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Sorry, Streetfighter vs Super Duke coming next!

[@sigberetta72]

@@BikeWorldTVshow My 2019 690 SMCR has slightly squeaky brakes also!

[@Waar4]

I love this guy

[@Firestorm637]

I own a 2018 Super Duke 1290r and a MV Agusta dragster 800rr edition. Love V2’s and triples. Middle weights bike are the Goldilocks bikes. Triples are almost like a V4. I am fine with my 2018 Super Duke. No other engine like it.