Spending 2022 with the KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo | MCN Review

[@rob.fisher]

The fact that neither Dan or Michael said they’d buy their long term test bikes (this and the Speed Triple RR) this year shows the massive value of proper journalism - fingers crossed it’s appreciated as it’s vastly different from influencer content, however good that might be. 👍

[@danny100d]

+1

[@jonkelly1920]

Very well put mate!!

[@dariuszek4dead]

This is what we need, the truth, and honest review.

[@shadowred1980]

Agree 100%

[@tor4866]

Very nice long term review! However to own a KTM you need to be a handyman… and like and have the skills to do maintenance yourself. Dan does not seems to fall into this category…

[@nickrider5220]

Well done MCN for being honest and putting customers first 👍 Maybe reliability is one of their 'optional ' extras you have to pay for to be unlocked 😉

[@jonkelly1920]

😂

[@kantorobo7718]

i give it 5 years before every manufacturer will try this microtransaction nonsense japanese brands included. It happened in games and it will also happen in automotive/bikes

[@davidwales9657]

@@kantorobo7718 vote with your wallet

[@nickloborec1416]

What a brilliant unlocked comment, your a legend Nick, lol. Hope they fix it, loved the old one.

[@Cyberdinemechatron]

I bought my 1290R 3rd generation in 2020. I've got about 11000km now. KTM had to make in the beginning of 2021 a recall campaign for the 2020 models, to check the wiring harness. They modified the rear under fairing and solved the possible issue. This year for example i made a trip down to Pompej Italy and back, total 2200km, four days in the summer heat, no mercy. On several short trips, i pushed my Superduke really hard over steep mountain passes in my beloved homeland Switzerland. 🙂No issues at all. Once a year i bring her to the dealer, they change all the fluids and both tires, that`s all for the moment. I also made this year an warrenty extension for further 24 months (extensions are possible for up to 12 years and 80000km). Thereby i have to worry less, if in the future may a damage should occur. The maintenance of this bike is pricy, thats true. You have to be aware of that fact, before you buy the Superduke! Sure, if you are skilled, have enough time, the equipment and a room wehre you can work, you can do it by yourself and save a lot of money. But to be honest in my case, i'd rather leave that for my KTM-dealer, also regarding the warrenty, which otherwise would expire. Still i'm happy as hell with this diamond of bike, kind regards from Switzerland.

[@Peskarik]

"....i pushed my Superduke really hard over steep mountain passes in my beloved homeland Switzerland...." - with the cameras, police and eye-watering fines, not to mention loss of licence and potentially criminal record? 🙂 You can't push a bike like that really hard in Switzerland, come on. Only on track, maybe unlimited piece of German highway

[@takeonetheater]

You live the “life” in Switzerland! I live in Southern California, very good riding year round but Europe sounds like great fun! I put on about 20km on my 2017 1290 without a single issue until being hit by a m4 BMW in Beverly Hills. The bike didn't live but fortunately, my girlfriend and I did! I have a 2008 990 Super Duke without a single problem...I believe reliability on KTM's through the 25 years I've been riding them is very good though little things may come up...see you on the road!

[@richardhenderson2650]

Really enjoy these long term reviews and the honesty is appreciated. Big publications talking about reliability concerns is important.

[@Notoxic30]

That was unexpected. I woul't want to deal with all this problems even under warranty. Thx for honest ownership review.

[@noMursye]

I've owned the 2021 1290 SuperDuke R for the past two years and put 15,000 km on it. While I love the bike overall, there have been some issues that are worth noting. One of the main issues I encountered was a faulty battery, which caused issues with some of the electronics. Once I replaced it with a more powerful battery, all of the electronics worked as they should. Another issue I faced was with the butterfly valves; I had to replace three of them, and two arrived broken from KTM. When the faulty valves acted up, the bike would unexpectedly go into limp mode. This was frustrating, and I had to shut down the bike, wait for 2-5 minutes and restart it. Thankfully, the issue is now fixed. Another problem I encountered was with the dash's reliability. I can confirm that the fuel gauge is not always accurate, and I found myself stranded on the highway when it showed 50km left. This is something to keep in mind if you plan to take long trips on the bike. Despite these issues, I still love the bike. However, it's essential to remember that with many electronics come a lot of possible issues. So, if you're considering buying a bike with similar features, regardless of the brand, it's important to be prepared for any potential challenges that may arise.

[@wilswood8137]

Having owned a gen2 for 3 yrs and done 8k mikes on it, I can say I think he’s been unlucky, the only problem I’ve experienced on mine was a switchgear problem, and kTm swapped it out for me no problem at all I’ve ridden into Europe and covered all of the uk on it, and can say it’s been brilliant and cracking fun 👌 I’ve heard about problems yes , but I haven’t experienced it . Am seriously thinking of going up to a gen3 in spring Good video , 👍🏼

[@Chilliesauce69]

I test rode a standard 2022 version from Gear 4 earlier this year and instantly put my SD990 and Panigale 889 up for sale straight afterwards as I loved it that much. I heard about certain issues with the 1290 but just fell in love with it and bought a 2020 model Gen 3. Me personally after buying one am really happy with my purchase and love the bike 100% I loved this review as some of my gripes was on the review, as was some of my good points. So it gives me belief that I understand my bike if that makes sense. And I get the MT 10 comment. BUT!! saying that, the KTM has bags full of character, AND it gets lots of attention when I pull up. Good long term test review and hopefully it may help someone in their future purchase. And as you say, it’s a lot of money if you’re not quite happy. ✌🏻

[@NudaMan]

Lmao the cp4 will break necks, Ktm will too but not as much

[@ajlbeer]

MCN proves itself an incredible resource yet again. Thanks you guys!

[@Gintonious]

Love these videos, you get a really unbiased view. Keep em coming!

[@CurtisBrandt]

Thanks for the thoughtful commentary. Dan clearly hasn't had the best experience with these 1290s, starting with the SDGT. That's a fair assessment. I've had a few 1290s including this exact bike under discussion. Taken in isolation, I'm not sure Dan's experience with the SDR was all that concerning. I do think Dan's observations are informed and pertinent, and I'd like to share a perspective on each of his 10 cons. 10. Chain adjustment - This is a bit silly. The chain on bikes with a single sided swingarm is much easier to adjust than with standard swingarms. I’ve been impressed how rarely these bikes require chain adjustment. They come with quality components. 9. Gearing - Spot on, way too tall (despite a very torquey engine) Improves with a 16 tooth countershaft, and some go with a larger rear sprocket too. Not very difficult or expensive to modify - I brought a 16 tooth countershaft sprocket with me to my 600 mi first service, had it installed for cheap - much better! Still a tall-geared bike but much happier engine at typical road speeds. 8. It's disappointing that a journalist will ride this bike for 6000 miles and not read the manual. These are complicated bikes. Self-cancelling turn signals last 8 seconds and are interrupted by a stop. No, I don’t completely trust mine, either. It pays to watch that you don’t turn it on too early, and have it cancel before the rider is ready. I tend to engage and cancel like usual, but I’m getting better at playing the game, too. The turn signal switch is VERY fiddly, and the least effective bit of switchgear on the bike. 7. Fuel gauge - I tend to have about a gallon left once the fuel light comes on, plenty to let you plan the next fuel stop. Very consistent. Do I try to play it out to the last mile once the fuel light goes on? Nope, not in any vehicle I own. Pretty silly. What bike has a markedly more reliable fuel gauge? 6. Reliability - Those are really frustrating problems. The warranty on the R models is just a year, would be better if it was two years like other models, better yet if there just weren’t so many problems. I have owned a few 1290s over the years, now, and haven’t had this degree of problems. 5. Starting problem - what a weird situation! Best to let 'er cycle through, huh? Or better yet, just don't stall the bike (I haven't stalled a 1290 in 22,000 miles). Watch the clutch though, LOL. 4. Oil leak - definitely frustrating, don’t want to see that! My 2019 SAS has a little bit of an oil leak coming from somewhere near the front cylinder head on the L side. She's almost due for the first valve adjustment, I may take 'er in early and have that looked at, at the same time. Definitely shouldn't happen. 3. Coolant - Pretty simple problem in this case, not sure it warranted more “doubt” about the bike. 2. Clutch - I had the same problem on my EVO at delivery. Fired up the bike, pulled in the clutch, clicked into first, and immediately stalled. Pulled her around to the garage and a mechanic bled the clutch, worked better. The friction zone starts pretty close to the grip, just BARELY leaving room for my fingers on the grip (I use two fingers on the clutch at a stop). I had to bleed it once more a few miles later, and since then it’s been holding fine. 1. Overall value - In my opinion, for the experience this bike delivers, aside from the electronics cutting out when you turn the bars, these are pretty minor things. Tell me, if you wanted a super naked, what bike, equally exciting, is more reliable? I’m not sure the Italian options are more reliable, and I certainly cannot agree with the MT-10 option. I’m sure that's a lovely bike, but there are zero times when, walking away after parking, I’d look back and admire the ride. I've had a few Yamahas, they're great, but the MT-10 is nowhere on the level of the European Supernakeds. In terms of reliability, it also depends upon the dealer network (I’d never buy a KTM, Ducati, or Aprilia unless there was a dealer nearby). I ride bikes like this for the experience and emotion, and this bike is 10 times as exciting as any Honda or Yamaha I ever owned. Every time I ride it. All of my KTMs have been.

[@Szlejer]

LOL, I bought my first brand new KTM about two years and I had more warranty problems in 10k kms than with ALL my previous bikes COMBINED in 60k... Still a great bike, but the reliability is poor compared to pricing.

[@CurtisBrandt]

@@Szlejer I’ve heard that sort of comment before. My experience hasn’t been quite so bad but your story isn’t too rare…

[@CurtisBrandt]

@@Szlejer also, to follow up, I’ve since had problem 5 happen on my EVO. Frustrating and best not to stall! 🤣

[@constantineeliadis5582]

My Aprilia Tuono (2018) sprung an oil leak that took 4 trips to resolve definitively... best motorcycle I ever rode but always a question in the back of your mind ... it would also overheat and quit around the city... some great bikes out there but ownership puts on a different lens than shopping...this review is the standard song of exotic/high spec machines both 2 and 4-wheel varieties that cost large and don't create a (positive) ownership experience post-delivery... especially after you watch all the shoot-outs and see the grins ... none of these lads are taking the bikes home to the garage... good on you for bringing the real-world perspective....

[@Lighthouse_Rides]

The gearing comment doesn't make sense, just because you're on a motorway doesn't mean you have to sit in 6th. But when you're sitting at higher speeds 6th is amazing. Rather than the other way around with BMWs where 6th doesn't feel enough. Other than that great honest review.

[@TheSuperpod]

Gear box is awesome on the SDR, in fact it is a marvel to ride it in 2,3 and 4th. 5th is great for cruising. Quick shifter is great too. 6th on the other hand on this bike feels very long and engine “harmonics’ feel off in it. I do not use 6th gear at all, no matter how fast I am going. Very rarely maybe. He is not wrong about it. I think they geared it really well for under 90-100 MPH,but need a long gear to meet high speed requirement for some of the tracks maybe and that’s the reason. Under 130 mph you don’t need 6th on this bike. This is also the only bike where I found this being an issue, but it blows every other bike I tried in how nice it feels in lower gears. Going through sweepers at full lean in 4th at 80-90 mph is sublime.

[@mcnevets]

true the sixt gear is probably for the Autobahn. :)

[@perryburns6515]

Good call Dan! I don't have any of the issues you spoke about on my first gen mt10 and it's still great fun to ride! The money you save could be used on a few choice upgrades and you wouldn't be too far off in ultimate performance either

[@tor4866]

MT10SP is a fun hooligan bike, but the overall performance compared to European super naked is way lower. And the comfort is low too. The KTM can be ridden all day long with ease… Only selling point for MT10 is the prize.

[@NudaMan]

@@tor4866 and the cp4 engine too

[@mark675]

​@tor4866 and the build quality! The mt10 is great, the ktms are lacking and some parts feel cheap

[@risingphoenix1187]

Thorough review as always and love the honesty. You guys will be around until the end of days. Lol 👍🏿

[@michaelowen3403]

I agree with the conclusion of this test. I had a 2021 1290 SDR and while it’s a hoot to ride for short stints I found it a bit hard work over longer rides on road. That could just be my personal taste but the reliability was definitely an issue. I had electronic issues caused by small stones being thrown into the exhaust valve put the bike into limp home mode on multiple occasions this had to be fixed at a dealership and was told it was not a warranty issue. The gear lever cut a hole in my new boot and fell off, constant key not in range issues, fuel range until empty was hopeless add to this you need to pay extra for electronics that are already on the bike and poor dealer support here in Australia I sold it after a year. It’s a real shame but owning a premium price new bike that constantly let me down was not for me so I traded it for a 2022 BMW S1000RR sport which is excellent and faultless after 4500kms.

[@ktkace]

Bmw wiring loom with biodegradable insulation material: imma self destruct in 2024 lol

[@yveslyssens8531]

I have a duke from 2020 (rr not the evo) and have not had any problems except for an empty battery of the key. The remark of the fuel gauge is correct, but I have already achieved 260 kilometers on a tank, so no problems in itself. but I'm old school and always keep an eye on my mileage. I'd be willing to buy one again.

[@kwak1k]

What mileage?

[@yveslyssens1427]

+- 20000

[@daReturn1888]

Awesome review, thank you! Much more useful comments than one usually gets from a 1-day review on other channels.

[@richarddaniel506]

I’m riding my 3rd Super Duke-2015, 2018 and now a 2022 Evo-so I may be a little biased! Good review, but he’s had A LOT more issues than I have had with mine. I’ve got about 5000 miles on it with no clutch, oil, coolant etc. issues at all. I have had a couple of false electronic “codes” pop up, but not serious. Touch the “enter” button & keep riding. She’s a little hard on tires but such a joy to ride I’ll live with that. She’s a very willing accomplice for anything you think you can handle.

[@andyb3331]

Same hear - I`ve got a 19 gen 2 - 19000 miles no problems - with the exception of the air in the clutch which seems to be a common problem even my mate with his 1299 Panigale has the same issue - but it takes about 30secs to do once in a blue moon! I can live with that!👍

[@TheSuperpod]

💯 Same here

[@paulhutchison]

I’ve had Gen 1, Gen 2, and now 2021 Gen 3. Only issues were the radiator leak and rear hub bearings on the Gen 1, which I sold at 42,000km. Gen 2 was 10,000km with no issues. So far 7500km trouble free on the Gen 3.

[@Unkownktm]

From the beginning you could tell this was all about the negatives. There was nothing about what the bike really is capable of doing. Looking at the rear tyre on this vid, does not look like it’s hit the twisties. Poor review with basic and some really irrelevant answers, like the slightly leaking Radiator hose. That can happen on any bike. If You own a bike you need to give it a good once over, regularly.

[@steventhomson8387]

This is one cool bike. Engine, looks and front "aggressive" light are stand outs. When all is said and done it's really hard to beat a litre bike. Very interesting wrap up guys.

[@1991julez]

As an MT10 owner who toys with the idea of a SDR, this video really helps confirm sticking with Yamaha is the smart choice. I’m probably not good enough to get the absolute most out of the MT10, so the extra performance you get from the SDR is absolutely not worth all the extra money and lack of reliability. Thanks MCN

[@mark675]

I've got an mt10 aswell 🙂 great bike! What reliability problems does the ktm have?

[@WeAreTheKDC]

@@mark675 watch the video 🥴

[@alexnutcasio936]

Most potential Duck owners feel the same way. Love the bike, hate the issues.

[@Lex-Rex]

I have a 2nd gen 1290 with over 15,000 miles on it and the only time I bring it in the shop is to have its tires changed. I have NEVER had any serious issues with the bike. I was actually toying with the idea of getting a new one, but after hearing this guy, I may not do it. I love my 2015 it is raw and analog compared to the new one and I like that.

[@bebop2599]

Had gen 1 and gen 2 MT10. The 10 is good but the Duke is better rewarding bike.

[@drgunit893]

Such a shame really about the issues because this seems like such a fun bike. But like Dan mentioned some of these things for a new bike just cannot happen like that. I would not be pleased. Thanks MCN team for the review !

[@SuPpOsEdLyThIsIsCoOl]

Great review. I’d love to know how many potential customers KTM have lost throughout the years due to reliability issues. With electronics becoming more prevalent- it’s a bigger issue more than ever

[@twowheelpilot]

Yep I have a 1290 SAR and it's a pain. Love the bike but it's forever flashing up sometime electronic wise!

[@christopherhickey1906]

Started off a good review, Must be the easiest chain to adjust , I have had a few other bikes that need to completely reboot before driving off , these reviews put people off the ktm 1290 however I would dismiss most of the comments , I have been riding them for years with very little problems and any I did have were easily rectified. Before buying realise they are not japanese bikes and will need a bit more fettling . If this review was for the tuono they would be raving about it and rightly so , however I have had as many problems with my tuono as my ktm and would still buy another . I do agree about the electronic suspension though , it is more to go wrong and would be expensive out of warranty. Loads of ktm haters that have never experienced them quick to comment. Some of his comments were absurd .

[@kirkdunn1379]

agreed, seems a bit of a pansy in a way.. you buy a motorcycle you will have to deal with owning a motorcycle... if you want a honda civic for a bike than whats the point, bikes are fun, rather have a fun bike with a few issues than a boring reliable bike

[@Firestorm637]

I have owned 2 super dukes. I still own a 2018. Perfect roadable rpm street bike. Truthfully middle weights are the new sweet spot. The 890 probably perfect. You really really have to pay attention on liter bikes. There will always be HALO BIKES. That tech filters down later for all to enjoy. Love your reviews as always. Your probably the most Knowledgeable KZbinr

[@jamesdean8951]

For balance I’ve got an early SDGT with 42k miles on it and has lived outside all its life - yes it has niggles but it has only let me down once. Much better after removing O2 sensors and exhaust valve. No faults since then

[@Firestorm637]

I am a pilot. I always take a Quick look around the car or motorcycle everytime I climb aboard. Check for obviously loose parts or bolts. Many STRUCTURAL BOLTS have a paint stripe so u know visibly loose. Check chain, oil, tires especially for nails, coolant, leaks, etc. This takes one minute to perform. This is more important has motorcycle checks are becoming less frequent like this car brothers. That is why checkups 12,000 miles and/or yearly in many cases.

[@russhodson]

I own a standard 2022 1290 and haven't had any issues, as KTM have made a few of these some of the problems ie, clutch may be that one bike? so although it was an honest unbiased video it dosen't tell you if all SDR's have the problems.

[@P38Aaron]

I have an SDR & after doing a trackday at Snetterton also had the clutch issue, changed the master cylinder out for an Oberon & not had any issues since. The SDR has been faultless for me & coming from a few minor niggles I had on the Duke 790 I'm happy with my choice

[@juliusjacob1416]

Very honest review. If you have the money and love the feel of a super duke, the reliability issues probably won’t put you off, but man is it ridiculous you have to deal with all of those things on a brand new bike costing 18k+. KTM is unbeatable at making bikes perform both on and off-road, but the cost of that performance is often (literally) high.

[@dariuszek4dead]

I would love to see this guy on the BMW M 1000 R 2023 next. He could compare it in the future with other naked motorcycles. I like the video, was pleasure to listen.

[@NudaMan]

The only bike that matches the M1kR, is a Ducati Streetfighter V4S/V4 SP2, aprilia,Ktm and triumph are not even in the 200hp+ club (I’m surprised Ktm hasn’t thrown a V4 in the super Duke yet?!?!)

[@dariuszek4dead]

@@NudaMan I don't need a perfect match, I just want to hear about riding experience from the person who rides other "TOP OF THE LINE" naked motorcycles. I think that he should stay with naked motorcycles. Motorcycles with great power, so he can build his knowledge around this subject, and share it next with us. I also believe that he pays attention to details. And as a person, he is credible.

[@kurvaonwheels]

Excellent review, I was really looking into KTMs. I love how they look, sound and feel and make you feel, but there's no peace of mind with them.

[@SteveC-Shaman]

I just put 2200km on mine in the Smoky Mountains (2023) ... dead stock so far, and no complaints. The suspension was great, the bike handles amazingly if almost too eager to go through corners. It did literally nothing wrong. I need that flyscreen because the wind blast is a bit too much at the speeds I like to ride. One quirk: if you turn off traction control and do a big smoky burnout, the computer hates you and flashes all kinds of ABS/TC failures on screen. An ignition cycle fixes it.

[@robertobruselas3952]

I went looking for the Suzuki1000GT in the shop and suddenly I saw the KTM1290SDREvo. I was instantly in love. What a machine.

[@AkansasRIDER]

Fair - except chain adjustment. Dukes are easiest quickest bike to adjust and don’t need it on a lift, just as easily done on side stand.

[@dimosk7389]

wow, the chemistry between these guys is like my chemistry knowledge in high school...non-existing

[@expatbiker6598]

We don't look for emotions. We want facts. Chemistry my foot.

[@stfuliberal]

Did you want them to start kissing each other or a good reach around?

[@JDeezle21]

To live with I'd get the Kawasaki Z H2 S.E. if I'm spending more or the Yamaha MT-10 base if I'm spending less.

[@jacquebussey8700]

This is one of the best reviews of anything that I've seen in a very long time! Bravo!

[@RicardoMatosgoogle]

Great video. In 2022 I find this unbelievable. I have a 21 HD Sportster S and I feel stressed about my bike all the time, nothing has happened yet, but the feeling of uncertainty that if something fails and the brand doesn't take responsibility or doesn't know how to fix it or it is passed the warranty time...gives me a lot of stress.

[@gerry343]

The clutch issue sounds more like a leak past the seals within either the clutch master cylinder or the operating cylinder. Got to agree these niggling problems should not occur on a £18 grand bike.

[@paul.vanhout57]

Very unique bikes with exceptional performance - KTM needs to up their quality assurance game. I have owned KTM enduros and also a RC8R and have had a very good ownership experience. That said there seems to be quite a few niggles with their current street machines. Currently own a 2019 690 Enduro and a 2020 Husky FE350S which have been faultless.

[@FlowDesign82]

I bought a new Super Duke GT in 2017, and the only issue I've had with it since then, was the same issue with the clutch. The issue there is that the cilinder actually is not air tight, that's why the issue comes back. It was solved under warranty and did not come back since. This is not really a KTM issue, because the same parts are used by many manufacturers. I think this SDR EVO test bike had a bit more issues than average, but too be honest, all the issues mentioned in this video are not dramatic at all. So people complaining about KTM has a bad reliability based on this video, I'd tell them that's very much exaggerated. Look up other videos or talk to a group of owners of any brand, and there will always be some with an issue and most that did not have any issue at all or just really minor stuff.

[@no2rides115]

It’s a great engine but if I am paying that much for a bike I don’t want to be dealing with all the reliability issues. Thanks for the honest review.

[@neilallen460]

Sold my Gen 3 at a huge loss. The reliability is horrendous!

[@kelvino2370]

As someone contemplating one, I am really grateful for your honest opinions. Cheers gents.

[@neilallen460]

Did you buy?

[@kelvino2370]

@@neilallen460 not yet, got back from a month in the UK. Can’t work out whether to keep the BM at the same time.

[@thebigoaktree8401]

Good honest review. Love the KTM Super Duke (variants), and it adventure bike line as well. They are beautifully looking and monsters on and off road. However the last thing I would want to do is buy a super expensive bike only for it to break down/glitch out regularly. Companies need not put on electronics that aren’t fully fleshed out, just to say (“our bike has…”). Because of this I too would go Yamaha MT 09 - MT 10 because of reliability concerns.

[@t.s.racing]

I have both a 1993 and a 1994 GSXR1100 W, and I only have 2 complaints. 1: The 6 piston front brake calipers. 2 : The hydraulic clutch. I'll be changing the calipers this winter to 4 piston calipers from a latter model GSXR1000. The automatic cam chain tensioners were replaced with A.P.E. manual adjusters, the first day, as well as the gas valves were replaced with PINGEL as well. One of them has a rare 4 into 2 into 1 Stainless Yoshimura exhaust header. Both have braided steel brake and clutch fluid lines. Never a issue or complaint with either one. I also have 3 Harleys that 2 of them get drag raced regularly and I would likely love the power delivery of the KTM, but I would never own one based on all of the negatives regarding reliability. Yes, my Harleys are very reliable. T.S. RACING

[@seanc6754]

I am a massive KTM fanboy and the super Duke are is my dream bike and I'm not going to lie this was kind of a bummer to listen to.. once I have the rest of the money saved up I think I might just go ahead and go for the brand new m1000r because they look just absolutely sick

[@roseysnapper]

These honest, long-term reviews are absolute gold dust. I have a friend who’s thinking of buying a KTM and I’ve been pointing him in the direction of your previous KTM reviews; I’ll send him this link too so that he makes an informed decision. Looking forward to hearing the other MCN staff long-term summaries.

[@stfuliberal]

Perfect you do that, I have some beachfront property in Arizona that I could sell you both as well. The 1290 is a fantastic naked, a true hooligan bike.

[@frannieswannie6046]

i have owned 2 husqvarna bikes in the past 5 years. another currently. love them. always have/had problems with clutch/gearbox problems. noman. this is 2022 ktm

[@armandskalve331]

I really liked last suggestion about Yamaha MT 10 👍🏻

[@Davebobandbetty]

I had the same problems if I stalled my SAS . Warning lights stayed on and it gets in your head. I haven't had the other problems apart from a fuel gauge packing up before the 1st service. I'm really pleased with the bike .

[@nokneedownian8521]

I had the 790 duke and loved it enough power quick shifter pops and bangs from exhaust. However the reliability was an issue it some times over heated. The tft developed cracks like it had been in a knife fight all replaced under warranty and the dealer was great but it became so I didn't trust the bike so it had to go but I still miss it

[@Sion_Jones]

I have a 2021 GT and have had exactly the same clutch issue as you. As it is a slow decline, you don't notice the problem until you can't get it in neutral at a standstil with the engine running. Had it bled before a long weekend away in the UK and was ok. A couple of months later, I went to France and it started doing it again. Not being able to select neutral at all the channel tunnel checkpoints and autoroutes booths was a pain. When I got home, it was investigated under warranty and the Clutch master slave cylinder was diagnosed as the problem. They didn't have one in stock, so the clutch was bled again and I am due to have the new master slave cylinder fitted this week at the first service. Other issues I've had is the headstock bearings loosening slightly. Suspension error on the dash (I'll see what they say when it's taken in for its service). ECU error occasionally popping up on the dash. Overall, even with these niggles, I love the bike. I've had many bikes over the years and nothing gives me the grin factor that this bike does. The LC8 engine is a masterpiece. Not too vibey, but loads of character. Loud without being obnoxious. I wouldn't hesitate to get another GT or even a R (now that I know there is a powerparts pannier fitting).

[@Firestorm637]

A recovery tank coolant leak with that small hose is completely different from actual coolant leak from way larger actual engine coolant lines. In 1970’s as emission/pollution stuff making engines run hotter higher boiling points needed to prevent boil overs. This resulted in higher pressure radiator system to help lower the boiling point. If the radiator began to become a little too hot instead of coolant going on ground(pollution) recovery tanks were added to catch the excess coolant. It was also a PRO as once the engine cooled it pulled the coolant back into the system. No need to be topping of your coolant so frequently.

[@pistolpete6321]

Really great video, super helpful and informative!

[@ketilkristensen9127]

I have had my SDR 2022 for 5 months and done 7500 miles. Had to bleed the clutch now. No other issues.

[@stranobikes]

Excellent review. I'm with Dan, KTM would not get my money.

[@MrRodwatson]

Not yet anyways....🤔

[@Final_Boss_Racing]

Neeves. THE GOAT!!

[@Infinitiivinen]

Thank you. I have thought buying KTM superduke with electronics and stuff... . 3 years ago I bought kawa zx-9r 2003 with 40000 km on it. Now after 15tkm havent have any problems, not even with carbs.

[@Firestorm637]

The super Duke compared to Streetfighter V4 styling. The Streetfighter is a beautiful styled Italian SEMI naked bike. The SD is a true naked with that whole engine on display like a Lamborghini. So easy to work on. The styling is whatever pulls on your heartstrings. If I could see more of the V4 that might pull my heartstrings more!

[@JamesWilson-ve9zi]

Another excellent review tell it how it is Dan and Michael. £18000 is a lot of money for a bike with that amount of issues. Can you imagine buying one out of warranty? What a endless money pit. Keep up the good work.

[@R1koe2840]

Haven’t had a problem with mine. In his likes he said the bike was quality, in his dislikes he said it wasn’t. IDK

[@richardmueller6322]

Had an RC8 and similar issues: Oil leaks that could not be located and fixed, electronic gremlins like couldn't start the bike every now and then etc. etc. I would never ever buy a KTM, even though the bike was great when it was running....really a shame they have not fixed all these issues by now.....

[@shadowred1980]

Nice one Dan, thanks for being honest and sharing the warts and all with this bike. Looking forward to the coverage of your next long termer.

[@Tommy1198S]

Thank you for your honesty and integrity, counts for a lot.

[@kostasjezuz4846]

Nice setting for the video, love to hear the leaves rustling!

[@beingsolo80]

Dan is blessed to be being paid to learn from the Master.

[@lukaszwilczynski8356]

Hi Guys, from Yamaha mt10,Honda cb1000r and Ktm 1290 super duke r Which You all will recommend the most as every day Bike?

[@wladyslaw_mw_wb]

Dan’s voice is better than any motorcycle exhaust for sure!😅

[@Toxicdemon2]

I havn't had any of the issues he mentioned...

[@Lighthouse_Rides]

The clutch issue will be the slave cylinder, still an issue and need upgrading to Oberon slave cylinder.

[@naranjalorange8584]

Yep, exactly what it is, shouldn't happen this new really, will be a warranty job

[@colinrhodes1838]

I’ve had my Gen 3 for over a year now, had a few niggles but nothing that a quick twist of a screwdriver or wrench could not fix. It definitely helps if you have a mechanical aptitude and ability - having said that - My god this is the best damn motorbike I’ve ever ridden, fun factor and grin factors are so off the scale that I am more than happy to overlook the gremlins - KTM does need to up their quality game but thanks to KTM for the best fun bike money can buy.

[@robinblom645]

Great as usual, I don't agree regarding indicators it's a great safety feature and works flawlessly for me, think its distance based.

[@renetand]

Great review. At the back you have(??) panniers hangers. Which system do you have and is there a KZbin short or documentary?

[@stephenchapman8344]

The fact that you wouldn’t buy it says it all. Great review. 👍

[@revvaddictz]

The issue with clutch is the Clutch Slave master cylinder!!! It has happened to 2 of my friends with SuperDukes.. For some reason they use Brembo brakes and not brembo clutches

[@_Makanko_]

This is a proper halo bike. I do think my first bike will be the 390duke. I know it's KTM and you read a lot of things regarding reliability (good and bad) but I just want something European cool and it fits the bill. Really nice these long term reviews!

[@panchochilli11]

Love my 390 Duke, the later generations are generally pretty good for liability…

[@o021455]

Great review & THANK YOU for your expertise and honesty!!!!

[@TheSuperpod]

My experience with Gen 3 2020 model was much better reliability wise. I only had one head cover oil leak very early on and nothing else since in almost 20000 miles. Agree about 6th gear, I don’t use it at all, even riding at 100 MPH. Handling and engine are the best I’ve ever had. I had lots of issues with hydraulic clutch on my 2018 Panigale V4S as it needed bleeds constantly until finally one recall resolved the issue. I don’t bleed clutch on my Duke between fluid changes. One other thing, I never had to adjust my chain and this is with constant wheelies and hard accelerations. For me personally SDR is the benchmark of a road going motorcycle. On the other hand I had 2022 Super Adventure S for 6000 miles and less than half a year and I didn’t like it all and had annoying electronic gremlins with electronic suspension and key fob, so yeah sometime KTM can be giving annoyances. I would buy Super Duke R again and again. It is a phenomenal bike!

[@leventeyuboglu4501]

I am between the two, can you elaborate more? handling, stability, agresive riding? thanks

[@TheSuperpod]

@@leventeyuboglu4501 I would only get SAS , if you are going to do a lot of gravel , fire roads. If you are on pavement only, it is SDR for me hands down. SAS handling is good, just not as sharp as SDR, but SAS can corner just as fast on the road on the edge of the tire. Braking performance is much less than SDR. Comfort level for multi day riding is of course more on SAS. Easier with gas stops too. But the one thing I couldn’t live with was its engine tune. My SDR has full Akra and engine feels absolutely amazing. I experimented with race exhaust and Rapid bike thing on SAS, but I couldn’t “fix” the engine feel. It was very “dry” and vibey. Compete opposite of smooth and rev happy SDR. I was astounded by how engine tune can affect essentially the same engine feel. I am an “aggressive” rider and love wheelies. If you are chilled and need some off-roading capabilities then SAS may be Ok, otherwise it is SDR with luggage all day! PS I ride 500EXCF off-road, I am not a fan of limitations big bikes have off-road. Cheers

[@leventeyuboglu4501]

@@TheSuperpod that is hell of an answer, well appreciated, thanks. engine and handling first and all the rest are second to me. I also use light enduro off-road and never even think to use sas offroad. so, sdr than. thanks

[@kt2816]

Im glad your on first name basis with your ktm mechanic

[@chrisbarnes9260]

Great review and a shame the bike is let down by things that shouldn’t happen these days. Would we accept this from another manufacturer ?

[@mosca3289]

Kudos for giving details on unreliability.

[@panchochilli11]

Another great vid! Love my KTM, but they abs need to up reliability.

[@stephenbarrett9881]

I've been eying up KTMs for my long distance tourer for several years now, but reliability has been highlighted in most reviews I've seen. I love the idea of the handling and power they offer - "while on song" as Dan says. But I'm (still) waiting for the reliability to catch up.

[@michaelking9818]

They are good

[@Albertalorian]

In Canada, with our wild weather, they tend to have even more issues. One of my bike mechanic buddies who works at the local KTM/Aprilia dealer, says KTM stands for "Keeps Taking Money" lol.

[@jonnybegood4848]

I've had the same issue with the hydraulic clutch which the dealer bled for me at my 12 mo. service interval. I'm under warrantee but was charged. -Didn't think this was something that should be corrected at no charge. I'll point that out if this happens again. The low fuel warning light and estimated range has really had me sweating on more than one occasion giving suddenly different miles left warning. Lastly of import is it's not unusual to get various warning alerts at start up regarding the suspension, breaking or computer managed solutions. These are usually resolved or, at least the warning goes off if the bike is turned off for a couple of minutes or so.

[@MrSimonfoz]

That many issues is unacceptable!

[@kugangles9860]

For a model that's been around for almost 10 years they should have these issues ironed out. I've owned a few KTM's great bikes when they're running fine.

[@timothy9596]

Thank you so very much for this review. Not only does KTM rip their customers off by making them pay for things that come standard on most other bikes, but there are quality issues that I had no idea about. This bike just got knocked off the short list for my next bike.

[@Bullet62013]

I have no complaints about my 2018 Sdr its been a very versatile and flawlessly running bike, more smiles per mile on this beast....lol. I do have one complaint, the finish on the rims is not very durable at all, in comparison to Suzuki rims, which I've had many of racking up 500k street miles over the years just on Suzuki Motorcycles. I do keep my bikes well maintained and immaculately clean but my rear rim on this SDR has so many little chips in it now that I am having a buddy powder coat both rims this winter,at a cost of 400 plus new front bearings. I do ride a very fast pace on the street as I have some awesome twisty roads in my area but I rode this was on my other bike as well and my rims had normal wear and tear. I guess it could be the single sided swinging arm lets more debri kick up but I don't know this is my first bike to have this style arm but the bottom line is the rim paint is not very durable, not enough coats of paint or clear and if it's powder coated than it's a really poor job IMO, other than that it's been a great bike..... very beastly....lol

[@MegaVick30]

Great vid, very complete. Love it!

[@jamesfuller201]

Such a shame because KTM are so close to making the perfect bikes. I have the 19 plate Gen 2 GT and have had no bother but I know it had a massive rebuild with the previous owner due to a snapped valve. It was a gamble buying it but so far it’s just awesome!

[@javierr1blue]

I love these long term views. I love the honest review. MT10 yes !! Mt10.

[@f1hotrod527]

The reliability is disappointing. It is an amazing motorcycle, but it does not matter how well it performs if it is broken down. Thanks for the honest review.

[@KB-yj5xp]

Great review as usual, thanks guys

[@natural9743]

None better than MCN

[@weefrasey1]

Seems to me like just a lot of back luck... I have a 21 plate SDR with 9000 miles on it, not a single issue with the bike since day 1.

[@notsureonthisusername3319]

I absolutely love the Super Duke, but unfortunately I will never buy one due to reliability issues. Seems like every other person who has had a KTM had some kind of problem.

[@neilcivil9480]

5500 miles 2 years old and never had a problem with mine.

[@mstfsircold]

Thanks for your valuable review!

[@Firestorm637]

The oil filler cap screws is on a bolted extended pipe to make it easier to add oil. I guess that extended pipe bolts could loosen leak oil. It’s very high up on sump and not under pressure. Another reason even Honda wants to see their bikes every 4000 miles for checkups. We are spoiled in cars with 12,000 mile oil change and/or yearly checkups. Many new vehicles need yearly software updates unless you own a Tesla which had both FOTA and SOTA OTA updates.(firmware and software over the air updates) most manufacturers just dream of over the air updates but they would rather you show up at dealership. Lol. Some manufacturers offer only SOTA updates but mainly for infomat system. A recall on a Tesla 9 times out of 10 is a update over the air. No dealerships. Built with reliability in mind not serviceability

[@sectumsempra2405]

Fantastic review. these are the things that we need to know.

[@brianglendenning1632]

KTM reliability does seem to be an issue, but for context, my BMW S1000R (owned since new, 55000km) has had two water pumps replaced (warranty), fork seals (not warranty), the timing chain tensioner issue and an intermittent hot start issue. My theory, fwiw, is these machines are complex and they are not engineered with that hefty redundancy for reliability that something like an SV650 or an MT07 might have built in. Hard to think of a current super-naked or hyper-naked that has not had known issues. If you sure the bike specific forums you see the problems that each of these bikes have. I would buy another BMW, and would probably buy a KTM or an Aprillia, but if I was to minimise exposure to those issues then you look at GSXS1000 or MT10, but…well, not quite hit the same spot. There IS something about the way the SD, SF and S1K ride that justifies the extra cost and potential reliability risk. But I am lucky the dealers are all within 14 km from home, and all seem to have a customer focus. But that might not be the same for everyone else.