The orange team from KTM Centurion invited us to their unboxing of the “ultimate beast RR”, a bike that is not just a dressed-up Super Duke R but rather a cleverly crafted tool fit for purpose. Yes, I’m talking about Frankenstein’s monster, the 2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke RR. For 2023 KTM only felt it fitting to bring back the RR, the same mythical creature that got the Hyper-Nake fans dropping jaws in 2021.
This reincarnation of the RR sports a more gothic look, a host of cream-of-the-crop features and hardware—placing the RR at the top of the list for die-hard petrolheads. With only a limited number of 500 units having gone into production the RR is a motorcycle that everyone can apricate, whether you’re a super hoon, collector, enthusiast or just someone who loves to peacock.
So, what makes the RR the “ultimate” Duke, as they say? Well, we’ll let the numbers tell the first part of the story; 1,301 cc, 180 hp, 180 kg, and 140 Nm, with an arm-stretching 1:1 power-to-weight ratio. Adding to the performance numbers is an impressive 11 kg weight drop over the Super Duke R EVO—thanks to the extensive use of carbon fibre and ultra-lightweight forged wheels.
Numbers aside, this Duke boasts the most complete track-orientated electronics pack ever seen on a KTM motorcycle (as standard, adding advanced ‘Track’ and ‘Performance Mode’). KTM has equipped the RR with top-shelf WP Apex Pro suspension and a WP Apex Pro steering damper to complement both power and electronics, allowing the Super Duke to reach factory-level performance on the track.
Visually, the RR looks like a factory machine with the overall finish shouting out premium. From the carbon mudguards, brake calliper scoops, inner fairings, tank cover, and unique single-seat subframe, you can just tell that this Duke has GP DNA. I also think that opting for the black-on-orange livery with the white and grey capital RR on the tank gives the Duke a more special “winter test” look—screaming out exotic.
That exotic look and feel continues throughout the bike thanks to machined triple clams, machined rearsets, forged wheels and a suede seat. KTM has also fitted an Akrapovič slip-on as standard. KTM do, however, offer a full system as an optional extra. I think it’s kind of cheeky of KTM not to throw it in, especially because the RR is a track-biased Duke (but I’m sure this would make the RR illegal for road and track use in most European countries).
With the 2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke RR being as rare as they come, we were and still do feel privileged to see such petrol-powered exotica being made in our “EV” era and the icing on the cake, was seeing the only RR triplets in Africa at KTM Centurion.
For more information on KTM products visit – KTM Centurion
