Spy video: Updated KTM 1290 Super Duke R

This is the first glimpse of the updated 2017 KTM 1290 Super Duke R which a professional spy photographer managed to grab while two bikes were out testing in Spain.

As well as grabbing the series of brief video footage as the bikes were out testing near to the KTM test facility in Spain, the spy photographer was the same person who was able to get the clear photographs of the bike too. These can be seen here…

The changes to the bike made as part of this mid-life refresh of the nutty naked bike are substantial in terms of the styling and it’s believed there are a host of electronic updates to the bike too.

MCN sources have suggested the bike has enhanced rider aids including cornering ABS, the latest Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) systems for monitoring wheelies, traction control and ABS. It should also have the WP electronic semi-active suspension from the GT model.

There are some fairly comprehensive styling updates too. The biggest change is a new front headlight which appears to be an LED unit. The assumption is this will be revealed as a 2017 model later this year as that will tally with the implementation of new Euro4 regs which come into force on January 1.