KTM 1290 Super Duke GT: one for the GT nerds, in-depth discussion for the prospective owner

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT: the road test - • KTM 1290 Super Duke GT...
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[@AVweb]

This is a fair review. I've got a 2020 SDGT with 16,000 miles in the saddle in 18 months, almost all of it touring miles and most two-up. We got the GT after owning two BMW S1000XRs. Here are some general observations. Great thing about the GT is weight, or lack thereof. It doesn't have the stupidly high center of mass that makes the XRs kind of difficult at low speed, especially for short inseam riders. Ask anyone who has owned one and you'll get stories of tipovers. Once that beast gets beyond 10 degrees, it's hard to keep it upright. It's just okay but not great for interstate miles. We do 600 a day on it without much drama. Not good wind or weather protection, but not horrible. Its surplus power is absolutely mental. I once inadvertently left it in rain mode on some twisty roads and hardly noticed the difference in performance, even though it softens throttle response and caps power at 100. The LC8 engine is truly amazing and well sorted out. It's a Labrador under 4500 RPM and a snarling Doberman above that. No issues with the quick shifter, up or down. If you're not hard on the throttle, getting a smooth shift is still easy with a little finesse. I never, ever do a manual shift. It will always be worse. The stock bags are fine, if a little small. With a top case, we can carry all we need for an extended tour, but it does require canny packing. In that sense, it is a purist sport tourer. If you need to carry extra shit, get a Goldwing. We had to go with a 43 liter in order to accommodate extra layers for fall touring. I find the seat and riding position comfortable, but I'll have a little soreness at the end of the day. My wife has no complaints. (And at 80, she's hardly young.) I put bar backs on so the riding position is more upright. I'm not sure I really need them. Best tires for this bike, bar none, have been Michelin Road 4 or 5. You can still apparently get the 4s at a good price. My only serious complaint is the brakes. Compared to the XR--which has the best brakes *ever*, the GT's are wooden, lack energy and aren't progressive at all. On the XRs, chasing a faster rider through twisties, I could close distance by easily going deep into the turn with trail braking. I find it harder to do on the SDGT. I've adapted, but KTM should improve these brakes to BMW standards. I'd buy this bike again. Suits our purposes. But not until it gets adaptive cruise control.

[@yumyumbaboon]

Quite often brakes can be improved simply by swapping out the OEM pads for some better ones. Done this with my Duke 790 and the difference in bite and feel was night and day!

[@cynina9]

I have the 2020 version of the GT and also had the 2017. This bike loves it when your above 4,000RpM along a twisty road some where. I have put 42, 000km touring on the first one in 1 1/2years and 16,500km on the 2020 in 6 months. I can say that long straight roads are not fun on this bike but once you get to the twisty roads she loves it :)

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Not gonna argue with that kind of mileage! Have asked for a GT as a long-term loan, so we'll see what they say, and maybe I can try and rack up the distance like you have done so well. Forgive my curiosity but does that distance come from purely leisure riding, or as part of your working life as well?

[@forestmotoadventures]

@@IgnitionBikeShow Thanks for the thoughtful and excellent review. I greatly enjoy your content. Have you been successful in securing a test GT?

[@davidherringgo]

Much appreciated the close up shots and description of the TFT screen on the GT . I need to test ride the new KTM . My 16 Gen 1 SDR , I'm sure is a whole different riding experience. Thanks again .

[@julianmccoy-daly3934]

I'm absolutely loving this channel! I'm likely to be getting rid of my 2016 SDGT after only a couple of months. It's had a lot of issues, mostly due to the previous owner. Bought it 2nd hand with 13K miles from Bournemouth Kawasaki who have been great, but I've seen very little of it over the last two months that I've owned it. I'm gutted because I have always wanted one of these since they first came out and have been waiting for one to fall into my price range. Had Ducati ST4/ST4s, Aprilia Falco, KTM 950SM in the past. Problems were caused by previous owner having a decat done with a full system and a custom tune (we believe), then just putting the standard exhaust back on with no O2 sensors, and a hyper-sensitive quickshifter which would cut the ignition even over small bumps. They told me that it was just a big twin thing, but I disagreed and in the end those problems were sorted by a KTM dealer who on first ride said it was absolutely nothing like it should be. He fixed the quickshifter, put his own tune into the ECU and that was sorted. It was literally all over the place, surging on a constant throttle, cutting out and more odd behaviour. Being short of leg, the dealer acquired a Hyperpro lowering kit, which provides progressive springs and is meant to allow the bike to sag an extra 20mm (with rider on board) from the much softer initial rate. This has caused huge problems, and the bike currently feel like a chopper and the dealer has the bike back as I'm fed up with being the go-between for hyperpro, who never seem to answer a direct question, and the dealer / mechanic. Basically there was too little sag in the front, and far too much on the back. The dealer followed the instructions precisely, and it is very difficult to get it wrong. They run the British Superbikes team and so I would assume know what they are doing. None of the KTM dealers they contacted were even aware that it is possible to adjust the preload with their diagnostic tool. Really? And the only relatively local KTM dealer no longer has the franchise or the kit. The dealer I bought from are going to put the original springs back in, and I would be facing a hike to get any service in the future from KTM. The killer for me, though, is the vibration. We thought we'd sorted it out by buying proper KTM bar end weights (previous owner had removed them to fit some aftermarket handguards). Even with super-heavy evotech weights in the end it still makes my hands tingle or completely lose feeling, and my wife can feel all the vibration on the back too - so it's not just me. Anyone else experienced this? And I do agree the heat from the rear cylinder is almost unbearable at town speeds...

[@Imotopilot]

Mat, after many months of watching your videos on the 1290 Super Duke GT, this Ducati fan boy has finally bought one. You will be missed amigo. 😢

[@billybean7488]

Just ordered the 2022 model, this video has helped loads thanks

[@nickbrown3232]

Today, I've done about 250 miles on my GT, I absolutely love the bike, have done since I bought it 18 months ago. It is comfortable, dynamic, pulls like a train, and looks stunning. I agree though that the quick shifter( mine is a gen 2 version) does get a bit clunky at low speed, it also works better in sport mode than street mode. (Confession I've never used comfort mode) Haven't tried 2022 version, but my indicator switch works OK, and switch gear generally is good. Sometimes the general failure warning appears, usually if I press starter too early, ie before bike has done its checks.

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Glad you're enjoying your long distance Beast. I love how we make allowances for something we love... 'General failure' is something I don't ever want to see, however temporarily, on my 20-odd thousand euro bike!

[@mickeyroberts77777]

Excellent review as always

[@b1gd312]

Perfect timing, I'm in the process of buying a 2019 as we speak

[@leejenkins6364]

Just purchased a super duke GT, thanks for the detailed reviews… greatly appreciated.

[@Wiewel1960]

Hello, Since of today ,I am a new subscriber ( and immediate fan 💪) of your channel! I have been riding KTM since 2019 ( 1090 + 1290 SAS) and it has been mainly the engine that has convinced me to keep riding these Austrian monsters! The GT is on top of my shortlist and after your excellent review I am looking forward to owning one in 2023…. All the issues you mentioned , were on my FAQ-list and you have ticket all the boxes 🙏 Many greetings from the Netherlands 👋

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Thanks Roeland, glad you enjoyed. After being with the KTM guys in Mattighofen though I think the next model update may only be for '24, so a bit ,longer to wait if you want the updated version of what is already a stunning sport-touring weapon.

[@alakso777]

Great videos on the KTM SD GT my friend! I’m riding a 2020 BMW R1250 RS which is a great bike, but I’m a serious torque junkie so the GT is on my radar as a possible replacement. Having said that I’m willing to wait another couple of years for the updated frame and suspension.

[@yvesdegheselle]

Thanks for the review

[@francoisfouche2281]

Another honest, in-depth and informative review by Matt, few people can do it better, thanks mate!

[@matdurrans3361]

Well thank you Francois, I think though that You Tube is a big place and if you look there's plenty of great bike journalists making excellent content, but I'll gladly take the compliment anyway!

[@crooksnchase]

Great deep dive into this bike. I like to learn these things about bikes I like.

[@scha0306]

For me, it's remarkable how close your comments in this video echo my own thought processes as a SDGT (1st gen) owner. I had a super frustrating, non-trivial number of electrical issues that saw the bike in the shop for far too many weeks, which would (should) have been enough for me to ditch it. And yet, I can't quit it! Your video comparing it to the 1290 Superadventure sealed the deal for me: on the marketplace right now, there really is nothing else that compares to the SDGT. Maybe the H2 SX SE, or the V4 Multi, but as you say, those are in a whole other price bracket (and they don't have 6.1 gal tanks). It's a keeper.

[@asherbroadbent9959]

Gen 1 owner too. This is my cycle that I imagine will continue. Throw it in the shop to be worked on. Whilst it's there I moan about how it's not reliable and I need a Japanese bike. I then start researching all the 'similar' bikes and realise none are quite in the same bracket. But, I will adapt I tell myself, once it's out the shop it's going onto Ebay... Then I get the bike back, do my regular quick blip and after the first throttle twist once the road gets good it's like "nah I can't give this up". I ride my friends IL4's and I just can't commit to that style once I have the duke in my hands for comparison.

[@nickedwards5440]

Thanks for a very enlightening review. I am considering buying one & this has been the most informative review I've watched.

[@paulpartridge2674]

Great review Matt , I own a KTM and love them not sure why but they just grow on you , looking forward to the SA 👍

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Yeah, agreed. They sometimes frustrate me, but every time I have one lined up to ride I'm never anything less than excited by the prospect. With the requisite amount of cash at hand I would have bought a 890 Duke R in place of my MT-09, and for sure in my fantasy garage there is a 1290 Super Duke R!

[@RonsRoutes]

Good review! My own SDGT (1st owner; 2017 model) has now reached 101k km and this upcoming 6th season it likely is going to hit 20k more. Problems with it the last 5 years? None. Nothing. Love it from the 1st km. Something else I would like to buy instead? Which one would that be? I have no clue. No, I didn't do any commuting with it. Because it is no fun to do that in the Netherlands. All my kilometers are holidays and fun weekends.

[@motorbiketoureruk]

I’m glad you rode it for a longer period, we as a group have always gone away on naked bikes, I bought this as I wanted a naked with a bigger tank and luggage, it’s perfect for hacking across spain france and doing the Alps and Pyrenees

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Yup, nothing beats time in the saddle, and doing this job where time is restricted is often hugely frustrating. Couldn't agree with you more, have asked KTM for a long-termer, hopefully they're confident enough to let this miserable old hack have one! Alps, Pyrenees? Sounds like heaven to me, I have yet to find better places to ride bikes - apart maybe from the Auvergne where I live and the Dolomites in Italy. But I'm sure there's plenty more areas in Europe, and I feel them calling. Found some great roads in the Harz mountains in Germany recently, and the North-east of Czech Republic. Will try and share what I find in future vids...

[@motorbiketoureruk]

@@IgnitionBikeShow The Auvergne has some great riding, Alps Provence is heaven for me! Great food, warm and great roads. You’re a lucky one being in Auvergne and Dolomites ,stunning places! We need to get across to Eastern Europe as a few people have said about Czech roads to be great. I do hope you get a longtermer GT as it’s a great bike for euro touring (sportsbike style)

[@CorsaGarageJustin]

Lol at the poached egg comment. I own a 2019 GT and am attracted to the idea of the Multi V4 being a sexy Ducati, probably more comfortable, and a different type of fun. But already being an owner of this bike, it doesn't really make sense to fork out more money when this one is already super capable and unique and muscular in it's KTM kind of way.

[@donnix0714]

I have found that ALL bikes will shift into neutral more easily if you blip the throttle, and shift into neutral while the rpm's are falling back down to idle. I have a 2016 GT and it really is a do it all bike. It feels like it steers a little quicker than my 2018 Tuono. It feels good in the twisties and is actually a good back roads bike. Mine loves 3rd gear wheelies. The suspension is amazing, it soaks up bumps but doesn't bounce. I keep my suspension in the middle setting. On hot days (85 degrees and hotter), it will bake your feet.

[@BarryMDHo]

Put 20,000 km on my '19 SD GT, and agree with you on most points - not about it being "less agile" than a SA S however. Great detailed review!

[@matdurrans3361]

Thanks Barry, but after riding the bikes I'll stick with the agility verdict - but also add that I prefer the GT's handling approach.

[@AndreG.03]

I bought the first model of the S.D. GT two month ago... and i totally agree, even if i've not the same electonics of yours! (Luckily i'm learning how to drive it without T.C., to be able to have full control when i drove as you said - committed and in a decisive way! the one of mine will cut more than both me and the bike want..) However, it's absolutely not comparable to a S1000XR or others, the 1290 GT is the nearest bike to the idea of "a crazy-funny naked bike with panniers, big windshield and a few larger tank", to set with few clicks on the handlebars... and, speaking of this, yes, totally agree when you said that the most used control on the dash is the damping setup: again, from a solo-way ride with the lovely-rounder sister of the BEAST, to a ride for the grocery with your wife, with just few click... that bike is mad. And I love it!

[@Motobikereviews]

Bought this bike and enjoyed it a lot !

[@nantuck3]

I have the 2020 gt what a machine can't see me changing for this but will wait for the next upgrade, if only for the radar c/c. I'll be 66 buy then so maybe my last big bike who knows. Great review by the way.

[@matdurrans3361]

Thanks Paul, you certainly have a great bike at the moment and then yeah... the updated one sounds like a perfect 'final' bike. (You sound like me talking about my next motorhome!). After irritating some people at the factory I'd say the next GT will only be a '24 model, so another year and a half to wait...

[@KiwiBizDude]

Informative as always, thanks for that. Thinking of purchasing a KTM Duke GT, or an S1000XR.

[@loconinja7046]

Love this Bike, KTM always give you a good spec as standard.

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Except for having to pay for that 'Down-change' part of the quick-shifter. That sucks.

[@jamesdean8951]

Love mine - now at 40,000 miles with only one serious problem (fixed under warranty). A fabulous machine. You can enjoy the full rev range in tighter curves by dropping to rain mode - it sounds counter intuitive but it really lets you stretch and enjoy the bike.

[@TheHomeExpert5]

What was the serious problem?

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Can understand that. Good mileage, but as Read says, intrigued to know the 'serious' problem...

[@jamesdean8951]

@@TheHomeExpert5 gearbox failure

[@jamest5149]

Looking forward seeing what KTM do with the 2023 GT… hope its a upscaled SD with big tank, longer suspension travel and radar functions etc,but and the same engine/HP as the SD.

[@andrewferguson309]

I would say your comments are very fair and considered. I have just bought a 2022 version having swopped an MTS and whilst still only running in the bike is exactly what I hoped for a sports bike with a touring option. The MTS was billed as that but was far more touring. The GT encourages the sporting side and for anyone in the market if the ‘odd’ tour of 2 weeks but 50 weeks of normal then the GT wins hands down. It was a bit expensive with all the bits I must say so fear some residual issues but heyhoo. My main issue is the poor 2 year warranty compared with min 3 years for most other makes. Very poor effort from KTM.

[@masterspin7796]

The quick shifter on my BMW 1250 R/T takes a few miles to get used to it also lugs very bad at 1-2nd gear unless you are accelerating...most of the time I used the clutch for casual riding and also down shifting.

[@Dzinbhudist]

This one is on my shortlist after my big cruiser vtwin for long journeys

[@cport955]

I’ve got the previous version and it looks like there’s several things that are worse on the new model. Quick shifter is up and down as standard, the screen allows 8 favourites to be easily displayed and the indicator switch has a positive feel. P.S. heated grips have always been standard

[@Dzinbhudist]

Depends in which market, even previous here where I live quickshifter+ and heated grips are options purchased separately

[@giovanniricci4369]

As a current 1290 Evo who's thinking of moving to sport GT, I'm more attrcacted by the BMW 1250 RS, which I recently tested. I'll test the 1290 GT tomorrow and eventually make up my mind. Actually I'm so fond of the naked Beast that I'm still not sure if I really want to quit her, even though at 53 I'm starting to ache after a 3, 4 hours riding. Awesome content as usual thanks ✌

[@spearboy321]

Well........?

[@giovanniricci4369]

@@spearboy321 eventually moved to the 1250 RS, after nearly 14000 km I keep appreciating it, but I also miss the Superduke ✌️

[@cpuuk]

Yes, finally someone calls out the STUPID indicator switch (same one on the SA). FYI the rider app navigation works OK, and will not ask you to turn around if you miss the turn, but calculates again.

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Indicators. So easy to get right, apparently also rather easy to get very, very wrong. Thanks for the rider app info.

[@mickdalton1]

Understand completely about the indicator button feel. Constantly checking my dash to see if it's on. Very irritating on a fast autobahn trip when you don't really want to take your eyes off the road

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Yeah, mind-boggling to me that what is otherwise a very pleasant and useful set of back-lit buttons manages to pass all the testing while retaining an indicator button that demands a glance at the dash 'just to make sure'. I say it's irritating, actually it's bordering on a crime against biking humanity (yeeees, I'm drinking red wine as I work through the comments!) that such an egregious fail made its way through the testing phase of implementation without being identified and rectified.

[@alien1366]

Thank you for this review. This is how I look at motorcycles and find it leads me down a narrow path of choice. Sometimes you can find a great bike but colour choices are awful. I'm afraid the manufacturers are getting away with too much due to finance and pcp deals taking out the sting of wrong choice and being able to hand it back. Test ride mileage is always too short and I can't help feel too many riders end up with a bike they don't get on with and hand it back with less than 1,000 miles

[@averagebiker]

Loved my GT. Felt like a more practical version of the R than a touring bike, which was a good thing for me. But I got endless electrical issues with less than 10k miles on the clock so it had to go 🙁

[@drewyager4020]

Same for me

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Sad to hear. Really sad. As you and Drew point out they are fabulous machines. When they work. I've had issues with test bikes, but nothing terminal. Having said that, as a man of modest means I would be gravely upset and disappointed if my 20-odd thousand euro bike gave me hassles like that from new... I've asked for a long-term loan bike and am intrigued to see how it will behave - on the obvious condition that I'm allowed to be as outspokenly miserable as always! I hope they accept the challenge!

[@drewyager4020]

@@IgnitionBikeShow have a back up plan

[@tommybarnhart6023]

… and @Drew Yager … if you don’t mind, what did you replace it with? And how do you feel about the replacement decisions now?

[@averagebiker]

@@tommybarnhart6023 last of the gen 1 MT-10s. Fantastic bike - it's not as good at going fast for long distances (less wind protection) and the fuel range sucks compared to the GT. But otherwise, it's fantastic - had it a year/6,000 miles. Still pretty comfortable, fast enough for me, sounds just as good as the GT, great fun and should be reliable (although I've had the throttle bodies replaced under warranty 😅). It's just nice not to be constantly thinking about faults though.

[@realscience948]

Hmmm….I may like this more than the other bikes I was considering!

[@jonelvidge9191]

Hi Matt, interesting review update. I was really hoping they’d put radar on it like the SAS- but they failed. Looking to swap my current bike and boiling down to this v bmw 1250rs. Hoping the 2023. Sadly I struggle to see how they justify the price here in the Uk. Especially when you compare it to the Kawasaki and Suzuki offerings in the SX and GT respectively. I love the simplicity and ease of a shaft having had several BMWs notably a dull 1250gs te and currently a very raw 1200 Urban GS. I used to love my KTM adv 990 - I suppose I like a bike to be a bit raw with lots of grunt

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Know where you're coming from Jon, there's something undeniably exciting about KTM's bikes at the moment - and this engine really is one of the 'greats'. Bad news on the updated GT model, after annoying people at the factory I now think it won't be next year, but rather 2024 before the radar featuring update appears.

[@jonelvidge9191]

@@IgnitionBikeShow ahh Ffs, good to know, might be a SAS 1290 then

[@drewyager4020]

For me this bike is the very best sport tourer. I’ve moved on to the R1250RS but I miss the SDGT

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

RS undoubtedly very good, but not exciting like the KTM.

[@drewyager4020]

@@IgnitionBikeShow yes. So true. But it starts every time so I’m good with a little less. Still miss the SDGT

[@brucekendall52]

Your current generation of reviews are out the top draw.Thks.

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Thanks Bruce, too kind by far. But I'll take it!

[@Valks-22]

The question of QS +/- generally keeps popping up but for the most part (even more so in the BMW circles) people complain on rough shifts but they also treat it as an automatic gearbox on their SUV trying to shift 1-2 or 2-3 at usual 2500rpm and 20% throttle. Solely my 5c but it generally (QS) works excellent under load and higher rpms where you need those quick shifts on any given bike. Shifting is half the fun, if you want to turn a given bike into your grocery getter SUV with a 9-speed auto for puttering around town you can just get a Honda with a DCT or a high cc scooter...

[@matdurrans3361]

Yeah, up to a point... but also no. I've used quickshifters on certain brands (Aprilia, Ducati, Yamaha spring to mind - my MT-09 is much better at low rpm) that are significantly better at less frenetic rpm. Put it there, and people will use it. Want it used only at higher rpm, then restrict its use at lower rpm. The joy of a system like this at lower rpm is real, when it works well, just like it is at higher rpm. See your point to a certain extent, but feels like you're giving manufacturers a free pass for technology that isn't really a finished product as yet.

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

You are right about the sub-literate masses. I don't usually like GTs, but I do this one. Too much performance for me, though. I agree about paying extra for the blipper downshift. And I also think a lot of TFTs are difficult to read due to the small font. Does the screen adjust. I'll be sticking to my 390 which also has a difficult to read TFT.

[@loconinja7046]

This has a 7 inch TFT so should be ok for you 👍

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

@@loconinja7046 He explained the font is small, not the actual screen.

[@eliteengineerdaz]

@@user-sw2lv3zp6o Just checked some images online... Wow your right! What a waste of such a large screen 😳

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

A fellow moaning git who despairs for the modern short attention span. Cheers to you.

[@FloatsLikeBrick]

I've had my 2016 Gen1 SDGT for over 5 years and 20k miles now, along side an S1000XR for the last (nearly) 4 years and 26k miles. XR gets used more as it's just easier and more reliable. Not a single issue with the BMW. The GT has had - Gearbox failure (5th gear), rear wheel bearing failure, 5 SCU's, a rear shock and a second gearbox failure. It now has a low mileage 2018 engine in it (way cheaper than fixing the second gearbox fail as it put a hole in the engine case too). But I just can't bring myself to get rid. It's just soooo much fun (with TC permanently off). Except the crappy suspension. Hate the bloody thing for that, why 'o why KTM can't I either remove the useless stock stuff to fit SDR boingy bits without codes showing, or actually be able to set the rates MYSELF through the dash to tailor it to me? The suspension will be the reason it goes one day . . . . . . . . . . . But also no interest in "upgrading?" to a newer one as too many more electronic b******s to deal with and go wrong.

[@AntaresSQ01]

I literally just bought an SDGT to replace my written off Gen 1 S1000XR, based on the test ride I have so far, I very much feel that it IS a competitor to the XR at least. Yes the position is not as armchair-ey but it's all about luggageable performance. The Ninja 1000SX and GSXS1000GT don't even TOUCH the XR when it comes to both performance and handling, only the KTM is on the same plane of existence whilst still being able to provide good wind protection, 3 box luggage and accommodate a passenger.

[@sobedaytona]

Hi there! Good review. Thanks. I just don't share your opinion on the quick shifter. Mine is really smooth at all speeds, even when shifting early between 1st and 2nd. In no way comparable to the horrible, clunky one of the GS...

[@brucekendall52]

My quickshifter on my 2022 1290R is butter smooth.

[@naranjalorange8584]

So is mine.. 2019 model

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Fair enough, but I've got to admit my experience is not the same. Occasionally, yes, but mostly no. My budget MT-09 at half the cost is considerably smoother, and the best I've experienced have been from Aprilia. But, if it works for you, then that's all that matters.

[@luclemoine5668]

I’m in the market and hesitate between the KTM and the S1000xr. Had a lot of wind buffering on the beemer. How does the KTM compares? Great reviews by the way, love the channel!

[@drewyager4020]

There are riders out there that think the XR is better. Ie cuban rider but the KTM is a lot more fun to ride. Lighter. Harder pulls and a little stiffer suspension

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

XR more polished, a better long-distance option, but less fun, involving, exciting, characterful when you want to play. A sensible, pleasant partner or the wild thing that makes the highs really high, but where the lows can occasionally be correspondingly low? Passion or business? Serious or sexy? Volatility or predictability? A few cliches there, but I'm well into a bottle of red, and short of a 1000 word discussion both are great bikes. My head would by the Beemer. My heart the Katoom. You pays yer money...

[@luclemoine5668]

@@IgnitionBikeShow Thanks for your insights. It’s decided and done: I will take delivery of my new KTM next week, albeit with a little bit of a frightened heart given the reliability issues I read about… I upgrade from a Duke 890, which had some issues as well, but the balance between the smiles every time I rode it and the stress from the issues is still positive which proves your point: when the heart is in it you tend to forgive a lot. If you are in Belgium and on the lookout for a guide to explore our Ardennes (eg Spa Francorchamps area) I’m available and the drinks are on me. Thanks again for the great reviews

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

@@luclemoine5668 Cheers Luc, almost headed there during my last trip in the ol' camping-car (as the French call them), but didn't quite make it. Definitely on my list for sometime next year. I'll definitely take the beers and a guide to some of the best roads of the region.

[@luclemoine5668]

@@IgnitionBikeShow deal, I’ll make sure you have the best roads in the area and you can drive my GT as a complementary test if you like.

[@user-cn8vb9hh5z]

All quibbles are eclipsed by that magnificent engine. Its got stomp everywhere. They should have called it an "ST".

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Yeah, the engine. Oh, the engine. What a thing. Truly a piece of engineering deserving of motorcycling legendary status.

[@matthewelliott7333]

@The Bike Show About to buy a new rig. What would be your choice for road riding...Super Duke GT or Super Adventure S?? To clarify, I will be doing commuting in traffic during the week, highway work and then twisty stuff on weekends...

[@Tom.aS-D]

Stuck in traffic plus traffic lights in hot sommer days and the bike will be cooking with you on it🥵 the only way to keep oil temperature down is keep moving😁

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Ease of use - SA S. Ultimate happiness on a twisty road - GT.

[@stiffmeister0hYeah]

@@IgnitionBikeShow I'm really struggling with the decision. Unfortunately on the newer models, I've heard/seen problems with the wireless key situation. Both MCN and another video where the guy in UK gave his bike back. I'm going to aim for a 2016 but which the SA - or GT...decisions!! It's long distance straight stretches and twisties from Cabo San Lucas, MX to the US (Baja California). One area is 220 miles or 350km between gas stations.

[@steve5825]

Your videos are far too engaging to nod off to. Top job in every way. I’ve just bought a GT but I’m subscribing anyway despite not being about to change again anytime soon.

[@je4266]

Love this review! And all reviews on channel but us KTM riders looking at GT over new SMT. Or XR1000 my ktm dealer is easier than the BMW Ducati dealer… wait for 2024 GT With radar cruise? 24k$ or get a leftover 2022 superduke Evo 16$k

[@jamest5149]

The indicator issue is real… its the same on my RSV4… constantly thumbing the wobbly indicator switch and having to look down to see it has finally cancelled…. Just put a detent on the button KTM/Aprillia… did anyone actually test it to sign off this switch gear 🤦‍♂️

[@shcfullspeed]

I watched the video, and the downside of the Duke GT seems to be the seat, but the groin side is too wide and uncomfortable. what do you think?

[@shadwox9808]

I tried this bike at a demo ride and for me the bike doesnt like low rpm with hight gear like an inline 4 it always want you to rev it to be please so for me i just dont like that for a GT bike. great video mate. Ride safe.

[@davidcolin6519]

Are you sure you rode the latest generation? I know that the gen 1s were very lumpy low down, but I've not heard that complaint for more than 3 years. Or maybe there was a problem with the FI, but it sounds quite suspicious to me.

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Thanks. Low rpm lugging a high gear is much, much better and smoother than it used to be. I know our orange friends will just say that they've provided a quick-shifter (or half-a one as standard) so just grab a lower gear...!

[@dejanmarinovic2000]

It is never going to be like an inline 4 regarding engine elasticity , but it does come from factory with too long gearing and lean feeling .Shorter gearing and replacing O2 sensors with fuel dongles ( both cheap)are making dramatic change in this regard.

[@davidcolin6519]

@@dejanmarinovic2000 Seeing as I wouldn't have an inline 4 if you paid me, that has to be a good thing. Interestingly, I had loads of I4s and they would all appear to be very smooth. But on any long journey, various fingers would go AWOL to numbness. Yet the singles and V twins I've had have been noticeably less smooth, but I've never had numb fingers.

[@TallyHoTech]

Do you wash the starch off your rice?

[@fabiena1787]

The GT must be some sort of niche market for KTM, but still: I cannot figure how it is possible for this bike to be at the same time the most expensive in their lineup, and the one with the oldest tech amongst the big LC8. I own a '21 SAS (I guess some would call it the '22?), it's my second one. And I'm always really tempted by the SDR, and I'd like to go back to a 17" front wheel (that said, the SAS behaviour is basically really good, even with a 19" on the front). On paper, the SDGT would be the perfect compromise, but so far, it failed to seduce me.

[@davidcolin6519]

Yeah, I was expecting the new R frame on this update, as were a lot of people. I think the R&D dept must have blown their budget on the latest SAS, cos that has had rave reviews. The trouble is, I like road bikes AND I like off road bikes, but the way I ride a road bike is as a road bike, and I ride a dirt bike like a dirt bike; hard. So I'll ignore the compromise option and have one for each, even if it means not having the latest dirt bike, or even the latest Super sport tourer.

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

No arguing from me about anything you have to say. The GT is lagging behind a bit in terms of tech, and yet the price suggests otherwise. And from what I learned when I dropped it off at the factory I'd have to revise my previous guess and say that the updated version will probably only be here for '24.

[@atillahatipoglu3794]

2 years owning such a great machine but but….austria ktm should back up more serious the spare parts distribution …Gt great power perfect balance …still thinking of upgrading with a 2022 model but reliability in guarantied parts is still big problem..you are waiting for months if covered or not by the guaranty …the more you ride the more you love this bike with this powerfull engine…but head quarters austria do help us customers who loved this bike

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Sad to hear, but you obviously love the bike despite the hassles!

[@esstee9595]

Re suspension... @ 12:37: "I set it once and just leave it....we all do don't we?" Yes. This is why electronically adjustable "totally reactive" suspension is useless and unwarranted. It's just a gizmo for tech heads to play with...untill permanent error codes or locked up settings upset the joy. Give me manual, fully-adjustable suspension at both ends please, and keep the electronic "wizardry" for Hogswarts grads. Nice in depth, faily unbiased review. Thanks.

[@troppo4872]

Thanks. The SA-S is a better sport tourer...as you have no doubt found out... ;-)

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

That report is coming in a week or so and... yeah, but no. I thought that going in, but afterwards - SA S handles touring better, is easier to ride (has the off-road option which doesn't count for the purposes of my test), is a bit more comfortable but the shorter gearing didn't suit it as much as I thought, the brakes are nowhere near as good, and the riding position though kinder on the body definitely makes you less inclined to go' IOM TT-crazy' on the road. Love them both, but - spoiler alert - preferred the GT for being the better sport bike for the road. And yes, I did surprise myself coming to that conclusion.

[@jamesseymour526]

When is this model going to hit U.S.A.

[@wazzamagoodiddlydoo]

I 100% agree about KTM's cynical gouging policy on the 'upgrades'. I will NEVER buy a bike from a manufacturer who operates in this way. The technology is already installed but you have to pay extra to make it available? Feck off KTM. Full disclosure: I was wanting to buy a new 1290GT but the local retailer didn't have any and had no plans to get any so... I bought an R1250RS (I 100% agree about the quickshifter on this one too! I shift manually in the lower 3)

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Yup, gotta agree Warren. I just can't get my head around this kind of mean-spirited approach when my modest MT-09 has both-ways 'unlocked' as standard. What's the gain? If the margins are that small then up the price a bit and include as standard. I think the base price here is 20,600 euros, so it's not like omitting it helps that number be something more palatable. It's a confusing one. And is there anyone who has said, ever, yeah - 'Up' is enough for me, I'll not take the 'Down' option? And if it's a cost thing, why not list the whole QS as an option, rather than just half of it? Daft. Pointless. Creates needless aggro. Just plain wrong, I think.

[@tonyheitsman4728]

Wine much!!! Holy fuck man.

[@paveldespot469]

You're not winging about the indicators! Its such a basic control. All of KTM's bikes would be well-served with an upgrade in that department. It's just a switch and its lack of feedback and quality stands out on otherwise great machines.

[@rockyp3917]

I agree with you Matt, this bike unfortunately doesn't know what it wants to be.

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Yeah, though upon reflection I feel it's me who probably didn't recognise it as a traditional sport-tourer. RS BMW, Ninja Kawa, GT Suzuki, that sort of thing. In that space it's expensive, but bloody exciting, and significantly out-performs the lot of 'em.

[@g33keh76]

'quickshifters' are for 'shifting quick', i.e when you want to shift fast. Pootling round a town and using the quickshifter is not the right way to use it. using it whilst accelerating strongly gives the best results, downshift with the throttle all the way off. (i'm a GT owner)

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Yeah... but also no. I'm of the belief that if manufacturers put a piece of technology there to be used, and don't specifically say "For Sport Riding High RPM Use Only" then they should expect it to be used in all circumstances. "Here's a VW Golf R with DSG 'box but only use the 'box when you're caning it" is something nobody has said ever, and rightly so. No leeway for bike manufacturers. It should work at lower rpm. Systems from other bike manufacturers do much better. And as for the 'throttle all the way off' thing. Totally disagree Keh, it's one of the better elements of the system. Some - like my MT-09 - might be better, smoother at low rpm, but they 'only' down-change when the throttle is fully closed. It simply will not drop a gear if the throttle is even partially open. The KTM and certain others - Aprilia off the top of my head - also allow open throttle downchanges. This is brilliant - imagine a situation where you're constant, partial throttle in a line of slow-moving cars on a twist country back road. You spot a gap to overtake, prod the gear lever down for a lower gear and off you go, requisite acceleration achieved. I can't do that on my Yamaha. I first have to remember to completely close the throttle (not ideal in a line of cars) before it will let me grab the lower gear for improved acceleration. The GT's is a good system (letting you up-change with the throttle fully closed is also an excellent feature) but there's no denying it could be more refined in certain mundane riding scenarios - and no matter how hard we might try to deny it, even us supposedly keen sport riders fall into the 'mundane' type of riding category for most of our riding.

[@kennigt]

Footpeg vibration forgotten ;)

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Can honestly say I never noticed anything to report. For any of my limbs. It's a big V-twin, so pleasant background vibes, yes. Unpleasant? No. Back in the day the RC 8 at high rpm was terrible, at the handlebar in particular - to the point of totally numbing hands after a proper (south African - no speed cops) blast. But genuinely nothing to report from this, and no, before anyone comments, I'm not getting paid by KTM. And what little reputation I have as a journalist I've made by saying what I think, when I want to say it.

[@kennigt]

@@IgnitionBikeShow Maybe they sorted it. Back in 2020 I tested 1290GT and beside too vertical position to my likening, left foopeg was alive a bite. But yes, that is the nature of big V2, hence I settled again on V4. Tuono this time.

[@afandou1966]

Pay for the down shifter when all the necessary hardware are already available, good luck KTM!

[@drewyager4020]

Wish they would do Apple car play

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Yup. Well overdue.

[@michaeltelemachus5112]

Good viewing thank you. You should not have to qualify the words 'manly' or 'macho' in that way when you use them. By the way, my son bought a new GT early last year and was rid of it within weeks because of reliability issues.

[@matdurrans3361]

Thx Michael, and unfortunately I've heard too many stories like your son's. KTM makes brilliant sport bikes, but it does seem that they have problems with reliability on a scale not experienced by other manufacturers. No KTM I've tested - 2 weeks at the longest - has ever left me high and dry by the side of the road, but they have frequently thrown electrical hissy fits and robbed me of one or more features before seemingly repairing themselves and returning to full functionality. But, in a professional lifetime of riding all manufacturers' bikes - that has never, ever happened to me with the likes of BMW or Honda or Yamaha...etc. But, thinking back on it, over 50% of the KTM's I've ever tested have been electronically fragile - and this from a fleet of test bikes that are prepared with the same level of care as the MotoGP bikes. I've asked for a KTM long-term loaner to examine this issue in greater detail, I hope (am actually confident) that they will take up the challenge...

[@michaeltelemachus5112]

@@matdurrans3361 Keep up the great work.

[@TheHomeExpert5]

Thousands more would buy KTM Motorcycles if they were reliable. There is no doubt that they have great performance.

[@PoekietheJackRussel]

Done 30.000km on my2018 1290 SAS, no problems at all.

[@TheHomeExpert5]

@@PoekietheJackRussel congratulations, you are the only person in the world who is purchased a KTM motorcycle and has not pulled their hair out from all the issues. Lucky you.

[@davidcolin6519]

@@TheHomeExpert5 Let me guess, you've never actually had one yourself? Because it certainly sounds like it And the OP is a long way from the only one. I have a friend who has an original 990SD from new and it has been the most reliable machine he has owned in over 40 years, including many Japanese machines. Just because you read about a lot of problems doesn't mean that there are a lot of problems, it may simply mean that a small number of people have made a lot of noise. I have had 3 KTMs and had one problem in total. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that my experiences with some of the superstars of "reliable" brands, like Honda, have been significantly worse than with KTMs.

[@expatbiker6598]

KTM have come along way. Your statement was true 7 years ago but not anymore. Of course we all hear disgruntled customers more because happy customers have nothing 2 report. Just a week ago. BMW have called a recall on all 1200 and 1250 GS. That's almost 0.5 million bikes.

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

What the posters below have stated is correct - these commenters are by definition a vocal minority, the happy majority are usually silent. I, too, know plenty of KTM owners who have had trouble-free ownsership after many models. But, my own journalistic experience is that although not one KTM has ever left me stranded by the side of the road over the past 30 years, many of then have worried me with messages of impending electrical doom. Some have had electrical parts - usually in recent times the adaptive suspension - stop working briefly, only to return to normal working order later in the ride. It is frustrating. It is less than ideal for a premium manufacturer. No other manufacturer's bikes do this to me on such a regular basis. I love the abilities of KTM's bikes, but I'd be a liar and a deceitful journalist if I didn't admit the frequency of the issues wasn't a concern. I've asked for a long-term loan bike, I'd love to see if this brand that I admire so much stands up to the type of stress the average owner inflicts on his bike...

[@davesnowpros6785]

No interest in this bike at all but I watched all of because I love this channel. (Except the electric bike stuff)

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Thanks Dave, and I understand the electric viewpoint, but... They're coming, and although a man of my age will be able to ride ICE until I day, it is unfortunately a tidal wave you cannot dodge. They are, even now (the better, more expensive ones) very entertaining to ride, and will only get better (and faster!), so it might be time to let a bit of the advancing technology into your life...

[@davesnowpros6785]

@@IgnitionBikeShow that's one view point. No-one is talking about synth fuel. That seems to be the obvious solution, without changing any infrastructure and having to mine millions of tonnes of rare lithium.

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

@@davesnowpros6785 Yeah, know what you mean. Cobalt and all the other lovely minerals and how the DRC seems to hold the world's largest deposits and they're mined by kids and... China .... and it's all a dirty business and very much not the 'clean' solution we're led to believe. If I ever mention any of this stuff it really seems to annoy a section of the viewers... Makes me laugh when South Africa talks about electric vehicles when all of our power comes from dirty great coal-fired power stations. Oh well, as long as the planet lasts long enough for me to shuffle off it with a collection of dirty bikes to play with! Half-joking, half-serious. We do as a population tend not to discuss things like this with enough vigour though, so I absolutely respect where you're coming from.

[@davesnowpros6785]

@@IgnitionBikeShow exactly. Thanks for all you do Mat. It's brilliant.

[@patrickhenighan8588]

P

[@aussiesam01]

"The Ducati is totally kitted out, so I'm not going to factor that bike into my reckoning." Great journalism. This bike is too good, so it doesn't count.

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Steady on Aussie, meant to be a bit light-hearted there, and was conscious of boring even myself but - it's dual-purpose, that's why I ruled it out. And it's more expensive. If I don't draw the line somewhere then I end up comparing the bike to EVERY other bike. If you've seen my V4 Multi review then you know I love that bike to bits, but having ridden the KTM GT and got a better understanding of where they're placing it - road sport-tourer, 'soft' super bike like the Ninja SX or Suzuki GT then the Multi V4 doesn't really compete in the same space. Bit glib of you old fella, which is a shame since from a couple of well constructed sentences it sounds like you might have something of more value to contribute. Couple of beers, bit of banter, some swearing and a couple more beers and a some falling into hedges and I'm sure we'd get on, rather than resorting to cheap shots...

[@aussiesam01]

@@IgnitionBikeShow Not intended as a cheap shot, just a reflection of how that part of the report came across (to me, ie. personal view). I always enjoy your reports and this one is no different. I just found that one point a bit odd given that if I was looking at the KTM then the Ducati would also be in my field of view. I didn't intend to insult you personally. BTW I write for a living. Now, come and get your beer, I'm in Brisbane. You're welcome any time mate.

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

@@aussiesam01 Cheers! I figured as much. Btw, that bloody V4 Multi kinda rewrote the rulebook for me - too damn good by far! Always a problem trying to restrict the post-test discussion to 'meaningful' comparisons without including too much. Still love this GT, and having spent a bit more time with it I don't think the Multi should necessarily be included in the comparo. Having said that, nothing's ever that clear-cut, is it? With that sort of money in my bank account I would consider both models as my only bike and... yeah, I need another ride on the Ducati but I have to say I think my money would probably be going to Italy rather than Austria. Would love to share a pitcher or three with you, and fight some hedges on the way home. Have a couple of mates I keep threatening to visit in Oz so perhaps I'll take up that offer sometime - when I'm all grown up and can afford international flights again!

[@cosmicsurfer5911]

Jy maak 'n man mos lus broer. 🤣🤣🤣

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Steady on, old chap.

[@DavidRHill23]

But the looks! Good grief KTM make ugly bikes. When does Husqvarna get a crack at making a GT based on this package?

[@IgnitionBikeShow]

Erm... Dunno. And yeah, it's a bit challenging on the eyeballs, no denying.

[@mrniceguy4920]

jesus man, the first two minutes just make me not want to watch this video. lighten up.