First impressions: KTM 990 Super Duke R launch and journalist trophy

Road Tester, Adam Child, is at the launch of the KTM 990 Super Duke R which is being held at Salzburg Ring, in Austria and the track’s renowned for being the fastest in Europe.

He’s competing in the KTM 990 Super Duke R Journalist Trophy, a one off event specially devised by KTM for the launch of the motorcycle, and here’s his first impressions of the Super Duke R.

“There have been some big changes to the engine and it’s now giving 10 per cent more power without effecting lower down or mid range power. After the first session it’s difficult to feel the extra power because the track’s so fast, for 40 per cent of the lap you’re at full throttle.

“However, out of the third gear chicane onto the start finish straight the KTM Super Duke R pulls really strongly. Suspension wise the bike remains unchanged and the brakes are mighty impressive, braking from flat in fifth at the end of the straight to the chicane there is no fade from the Brembo radials and the slipper clutch controls the rear end chatter brilliantly.

“The standard Pirelli Corsa 3 tyres are soon on the limit as the bike slithers slightly on the brakes.’

Adam Child’s full test report will be in May 28, 2008 issue of MCN.