Earlier this week BMW announced they would not participate in either of the major motorcycle trade fairs of EICMA and InterMot. This evening they were joined by the KTM group withdrawing their suits of brands from the show season also.
Hubert Trunkenpolz – KTM AG CMO
“Trade shows are key business milestones for the entire motorcycle industry but given the situation, public health and the welfare of our staff are higher priorities over the coming months. We have taken this course of action with a great deal of thought and, as a company, KTM AG would be pleased and interested if show promoters, EICMA in particular, would consider moving dates to 2021, where we hope and expect the situation to be settled and back to normal.”
KTM AG have assessed their overall strategy for the rest of 2020 and have decided to make several key decisions in the wake of COVID-19 impacting public health, communities, the motorcycle industry and business on a global scale. In the best interest of their employees and customers, the company will withdraw from global trade shows for the rest of the year, including INTERMOT in Cologne, Germany and the EICMA exhibition in Milan, Italy.
The proper planning of such events is currently at risk due to the uncertainty surrounding public gathering restrictions in most countries. The annual success of these indoor shows also sees hundreds of thousands of visitors gathering in enclosed spaces for a period lasting days and even weeks. For these reasons, KTM AG have identified their exclusion as way to contribute towards a safe and strong return to normal activity.
Husqvarna Motorcycles will push ahead with current and future projects in order to provide the motorcycling market with exciting and innovative models and look for the best ways to show-off these developments. The KTM AG board of directors wish to communicate that the coming months represent a small squeeze on the brake, but hands are very much poised on the throttle for the rest of 2020.
BMW had already announced their withdrawal earlier this week Source: MCNews.com.au
Based on the 790 Duke but with the bigger engine and improved dynamics, this solo seater is a much sharper tool, hence the name Super Scalpel.
The parallel-twin size increases from 799cc to 890cc with a slightly wider bore and longer stroke, more compression (13.5:1) and more aggressive cams.
That results in any impressive power boost from 78kW to 89 kW with torque up 15% from 86Nm to 99Nm.
Internals have been made lighter with a new balance shaft for smoother performance.
It also features racier ergonomics, performance Brembo brakes, fully adjustable WP APEX suspension, WP steering damper, slipper clutch, improved electronic rider aids and an optional up/down quickshifter.
The Super Scalpel is also a precision instrument with new electronic rider aids that include a new 6D lean angle sensor.
It allows some drift and there is an anti-wheelie control.
The three power modes are sport, street and rain and there is an optional track mode with launch control, nine levels of traction control and wheelie control switched off.
Super Scalpel sits 15mm higher with a seat height of 834mm and more ground clearance for better lean angles.
They say rider egos are also sportier with the rider sitting higher and further forward. There are also no pillion pegs.
Super Scalpel is shod with track-day Michelin Power Cup 2 tyres.
The PIERER Mobility Group achieved in the business year 2019 record revenues in the amount of 1,520.1 mEur (+4.0%). This corresponds to an increase of 57.9 mEur. The preliminary EBIT reached 131.7 mEur (+2.3%) after 128.7 mEur in the previous year.
The operating earnings before depreciation (EBITDA) increased from 211.0 mEur to 240.8 mEur (+ 29.8 mEur) corresponding to an EBITDA margin of 15.8%. The Free Cash Flow improved significantly and amounts to 91.6 mEur compared to -16.7 mEur in 2018.
KTM designers at work
For the growth in the business year 2019 approximately 121 mEur were invested in product development and around 44 mEur in facilities and infrastructure. All key earnings figures refer to the continued operation of the Group (previous year excluding Pankl Group). On December 31, 2019, the PIERER Mobility Group employed 4,368 people, 3,639 of them in Austria.
With 234,449 KTM motorcycles and 45,650 Husqvarna motorcycles sold in the financial year 2019, sales increased by around 7% compared to the previous year.
Husqvarna TE300i
Maintaining the dividend policy, it will be proposed to the Annual General Meeting that a dividend of 30 cents per share is paid out for the financial year 2019. This years’ dividend corresponds to the dividend of the previous year.
Sales volume: 280,099 motorcycles / + 7% compared to the previous year
Revenues: 1,520.1 mEur / + 4% compared to the previous year
EBITDA: 240.8 mEur / + 14% compared to the previous year
Free Cash Flow: 91.6 mEur / 6% of revenues
Conservative dividend pay-out of EUR 30 Cent per share maintained
Outlook (Guidance) for 2020 cancelled
KTM’s Stefan Pierer
Outlook 2020
The objective of PIERER Mobility Group is to further expand market shares in the global motorcycle markets despite the Corona crisis. The GASGAS motorcycle division will be integrated as a third brand into the group. Moreover, a strong focus is put on further development of the dealer network.
GasGas joined the PIERER Mobility Group
The e-bicycle activities (PEXCO) will be bundled in HUSQVARNA E-Bicycles GmbH, which was newly founded in January 2020. In this division, sales of more than EUR 100 million are expected for the 2020 financial year. Furthermore, the company also intends to develop in the electric two-wheeler segment to become a major international player in this field.
Risks to the company, the supply chain and the sales market resulting from the Corona crisis are being closely monitored. Any disruptions to business operations will be reacted to constantly by taking targeted measures. Among other things the short-term work program of the government is being used for the whole work force. The current development of the Corona crisis requires a daily reassessment of the situation.
PIERER Mobility AG confirms its sales target of 400,000 motorcycles for the 2022 financial year. In addition, KTM has set itself the goal of developing Husqvarna Motorcycles into the third largest European motorcycle manufacturer.
Key figures 2019 of PIERER Mobility Group (consolidated)
Everyone in the Australian motorcycle industry recognises the contribution that Jeff Leisk has made to motorcycle racing in this country.
Jeff’s racing achievements both here, in the USA and in the World Motocross Championship is what he is most widely known for, but those of us that have had rubbed shoulders a bit closer with Jeff know that his contributions after racing have been much, much larger than what he achieved on the track.
There are so many Australian racers that owe their good fortune to the backing of Jeff Leisk, and he has forged the success of the KTM brand in Australia. Jeff has headed KTM Australia for over two decades but we now wish him all the best in retirement.
On a personal note, I’m glad to be able to call Jeff and his family long term friends.
Jeff has handed over the reins of KTM Australia to American Brad Hagi who moves into the role after three years as President of KTM Asia. Mr Hagi started his career at Yamaha USA before then moving to Europe to take up a position as Director of Distributor Sales, working out of Ducati HQ in Bologna. He has also previously worked with the Piaggio Group.
After the death of two riders in the Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia in January, organisers are planning a series of measures to make the race safer including power restrictions to limit top speeds.
Over the years the rally has reduced engine sizes to 450cc to limit the high speeds of some riders who approach 200km/h on dirt and sand.
With the deaths of Paulo Gonçalves and Edwin Straver this year, organisers are now discussing a range of new safety measures.
They plan to have separate stages for motorcycles to the rest of the categories to limit the amount of fast and open sections and therefore top speeds.
There are also plans to limit the power of bikes and/or install speed limiters.
The antiquated navigation paper rolls that require the riders to take a hand off the bars to scroll through the routes will likely be replaced by more modern electronic handsfree versions.
It might also avoid the problem this year when an error in the roadbook forced officials to amend the finishing results on a super marathon stage this year.
Two time Dakar winner Toby Price of Australia goes over the paper route map
We don’t expect they will get satnav units, but the new units will include visual and audible warnings.
Like most other international motorcycle racing, airbag jackets will also become mandatory.
Limit welcomed
Andrew Houlihan
Albury racer Andrew Houlihan who competed in the challenging 14-day 2020 Africa ECO Race from France to Senegal this year has welcomed the changes.
“I think it needs to be slowed down a little,” he says.
“There were some crazy fast sections in the Africa Eco Race as well.
“Trickier navigation would also help. We had a little bit of the electronic road book in the liaison stages at Rally Du Marcos last year and it wasn’t too bad.
“I still like the idea of the paper roadbook but pre coloured like we had at Du Marcos and at Dakar.”
The list of motorcycle factory closures due to the coronavirus pandemic is growing daily.
Ducati has now announced it will extend the closure of its factory in Bologna until 25 March 2020 and Brembo and Yamaha have closed their European factories.
Ducati closed its factory in Borgo Panigale last Friday and was due to reopen tomorrow (18 March 2020).
However, the closure has been extended while the company implements changes to the production lines to keep workers further apart.
The company has also introduced a multi-shift work programme to halve the number of people on the assembly line at the same time.
Brembo has also closed its Bergamo factory until next week and Yamaha has announced the closure of its Italy and France facilities until 22 March.
The Piaggio Group – owner of Aprilia, Moto Guzzi and Vespa – closed its factories over the weekend for a “deep clean” and were due to return to production this week.
Meanwhile, MV Agusta in Lombardy, the epicentre of the Italian coronavirus contagion, continues production with a reduced workforce.
However, they “guarantee production continuity”.
Production continues in “full compliance with the urgent provisions contained in the Prime Minister’s 11/03 decree and with the guidelines issued by Confindustria Lombardia”.
MV Agusta factory
What closures mean to riders
While motorcycle factory closures may not have a huge impact on the production of models, it could impact spare parts.
The closure of the Brembo factory is of more concern as it could hamper the supply chain and the production of many models such as BMW and Triumph.
Meanwhile, the pandemic has forced the postponement and cancellation of many motorcycle racing events and rallies.
Global motorcycle racing body Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme says the 2020 season could be extended into 2021.
A petition has also now been circulated to close the Isle of Man TT races in May-June.
The Pierer Mobility Group, including KTM, Husqvarna and GasGas, Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, will be interrupting operation and production late this month through until April 10. Due to the impact of the coronavirus on northern Italy, and the possibility of supply chain interruptions due to effected outside suppliers, staff will be sent on a two week company vacation from March 30 to April 10
The northern Italy region includes many suppliers to the group, and is heavily effected by coronavirus, with the move aiming to ensure no uncontrolled business interruption, with worldwide distribution and supply of spare parts not to be effected.
The group has also indicated that the financial guidances in place for 2020 have been cancelled, due to the unforeseen impact of the coronavirus, but has stated the availability of all models for the upcoming start of the season in the worldwide dealer network is assured.
The move marks a proactive step to managing the impact of coronavirus, as its reach and spread continue to effect nations around the world.
Official Statement:
PIERER Mobility Group reacts to the current exceptional situation. From March 30, Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer in Mattighofen will respond to the current situation with an interruption in operation and production until April 10.
This measure is triggered by a possible impending interruption in the supply chain from northern Italy. Many suppliers are located in this region, which is badly affected by the Corona virus. With this measure, KTM avoids a possible uncontrolled business interruption and anticipates parts of the company vacation in the summer to stabilize the supply chain in the long term. Not affected by these measurements is the worldwide distribution and the supply of spareparts.
The availability of all models is guaranteed for the upcoming start of the season in the worldwide dealer network.
The current development of the Corona crisis requires a daily reassessment of the situation. The published guidance for the financial year 2020 is thus canceled.
Wels, Mattighofen (pta/12.03.2020/17:35)
Two-week company vacation from March 30 to April 10
Availability of the model range ensured in the worldwide dealer network
Outlook (Guidance) for 2020 cancelled
Public disclosure of inside information according to article 17 MAR
I get the feeling that the KTM 1290 Super Duke R launch was kind of a big deal to team orange. They’d spent a week in prep’ at Portimao making sure the track bikes were run in and set-up nicely – and that the road loop had a solid mix of conditions.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
Jeremy McWilliams was on hand, as was Chris Fillmore, helping us get the most from our track time. Alex Hofmann turned up later too. KTM head of Product Adriaan Sinke and the bike’s Project Leader Hermann Sporn were on the ground – and on the bikes as well. Our time in Portugal would be a slick, seamless event – with the emphasis on fun.
The KTM fellas know how to have a good time….
Speaking of Portugal, I can see why it was chosen as the destination. Their roads and drivers are pretty ace, courteous to a fault almost, and speed limits are widely regarded as a guide. The weather is absurdly mild – I mean it’s 20 degrees in winter for god’s sake – the Portimao track is just brilliant and Portuguese tarts are divine. ‘Pastel De Nata’s’ you heathens. Little custardy bundles of joy that the Aussie contingent on the launch took what can only be described as an unhealthy obsession towards.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R at Portimao
Given that this is one of their 1290 flagship road bikes, it’s clear that KTM have put some serious effort into what they’re dubbing BEAST 3.0.
15 years after the first 990 Superduke (and a full 26 years after the first Duke 620 was introduced – can you believe it?), KTM themselves describe the third major iteration of the 1290 as a purpose designed sports-bike that’s great on the track, but not a naked race-bike. It’s an interesting distinction that points to the effort that’s gone into ensuring it maintains focus on real world performance, but not at the expense of ridability.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
I raved long and hard hard about the last model in mylong term review here. Stupidly fun, comfortable and effortless performance. It didn’t mind a wheelie either. So I was having trouble imagining how much could they actually improve it in one model. Turns out… quite a lot.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
It’s basically all new. Hermann tells me that the rear axle assembly is carried over, but pretty much everything else is changed. As in.. everything. With an aim to push the performance bar even higher – and yet retain the accessibility and comfort. ‘Purity’ and ‘Simplicity’ were recurring themes. They’ve spent plenty of time working on reducing weight, and doing some serious tweaks to geometry.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
It runs a lighter frame that’s actually three-times stiffer than the previous one. And no, it isn’t an RC8 frame – it’s new. It holds the engine 36 mm higher to improve corner exit and front end feel. The rear sub-frame has ditched the old trellis design in favour of a new extruded aluminium unit that also uses a trick bit of carbon-composite as a stressed member. The sub-frame alone has shed a kilo-and-a-half and it can support 1000 kg of load, apparently. Could come in handy if your pillion has been throwing down those tarts I mentioned earlier..
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
It has a brand new swingarm with the bracing moved from above to below, and it now runs a shock linkage instead of the direct mount set-up from last year. This enables them to run a shock that has significantly more travel, contains more fluid and offers more feel. Which is why everyone else also runs shock linkages…
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
Combined with the revised swingarm pivot point, it reduces rear squat under hard acceleration which was one of the major goals. It’s now 15 per cent stiffer and it’s lighter (picking up a theme here?). Foot-peg positions are adjustable. As are the brake and gear levers. You can even adjust the pressure and throw length of the gear lever – and switch to race pattern shift by moving one bolt. And it’s designed in a way that the lever position stays exactly as it was. Clever design work focussed around the rider.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R in the hills of the Algarve
Despite the geometry tweaks, the seat and riding position is surprisingly even more comfortable than I remember the old one being, and the tank has a new shape. Giving up two-litres of fuel capacity (down to 16 L) in order to house a 2.6-litre larger air-box that now incorporates a genuine ram air system entering between the split headlights for improved performance at high speeds. That ties in with an additional set of top feeder injectors ahead of the intake for better fuel atomisation at higher velocities.
Air-box has grown much larger at the expense of fuel tank capacity
New 48 mm WP forks up front complete the suspension components and are now fully adjustable. Bar position is slightly lower and further forward than previously and can be adjusted through a range of 22 mm. Their focus on the rider seems to be evident by the fact that they’ve included recommended suspension setup details under the seat. Nice touch. We were running those settings for both the track and road sessions. They work. They work just fine…
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
Five spoke alloy wheels are new at each end. Designed with some input from AI they’re.. you guessed it, lighter and stiffer, and hold the new top spec’ Brembo Stylema stoppers at both ends. 320 mm up front and 240 out back. These are pretty much the top spec’ that mortals can get their hands on and are radial mounted monoblock numbers. They’re teamed up with an updated 6D lean angle sensor cornering ABS system that includes a ‘supermoto’ setting which ignores all other inputs other than the front rotational sensor. The 6D part refers to the sensors detecting drift now, in addition to fore-aft and left-right movement. Those same sensors are used for TC as well. When used in combination with a deactivated Wheelie control, it means backing it in under brakes, stoppies and wheelies are go. I’ll just leave it in that setting thanks very much.
Wayne doesn’t mind a wheelie…
More work has gone into the engine in terms of shaving weight from almost everything, including a new one-kilogram lighter exhaust that is Euro 4 compliant, and even Euro 5 ready for when that kicks in. The crank-cases have had 800 grams taken off them and overall the bike has dropped six-kilograms.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
Remember that this thing now makes 180 odd horsepower (an increase of 3 over the previous model) and 140Nm of torque. It’s a monster. 100 Nm from 3,000rpm.. 120 from 4,500… Shove feels almost limitless. And effortless at the same time. Worth pointing out that all of that comes with 15,000k service intervals – so it’s not a highly stressed bit of race kit.
The Pankl gearbox too has received serious tweaks, resulting in a smoother, shorter throw. The optional quick-shifter proved a must have in my book. Fast, direct and light, it worked just as well on the track under full load in both directions as it did on the road when cruising around. And the slipper clutch has also had some tweaks that have resulted in improved feel. New clutch plates and rotated plates specifically aimed at improving low speed engagement. I like.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
The final piece of the puzzle is in the electronics and interface. The new TFT dash and switchgear, with dedicated TC adjustment buttons (yay!) that are also used for cruise control and an array of new switchgear. I’m happy to say that the operation of traction control and modes is a big step forward on what was a tedious process previously. That being said, I’d probably leave it in the one setting most of the time and just adjust the TC up and down through the 9 stages. Easy peasy.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
The other thing I really liked is two new dedicated ‘preset’ buttons located to be used with your thumb that allow you to access your own custom presets and quickly toggle between them without diving into the main controls. So you’d probably end up running one with a wet set-up (higher TC setting, full ABS, lower engine braking, wheelie control on?), and a standard dry set-up. I felt that the track settings worked just fine on the road personally. And the rain, street and sport modes all appeared to have some level of anti-wheelie control by default that I’d prefer wasn’t there. Because, wheelies.
Starting to get the idea that it’s essentially a new bike? It is! Over 90 per cent new!
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
Our morning ride session started with a foggy but basically dry Portimao circuit. Not the best way to learn a new track that has a seemingly endless succession of blind corners, crests and serious elevation changes. But Chris Fillmore obliged by towing us around for the session showing us the lines. He’d earlier recommended some settings for us: Track mode, SuperMoto braking, Wheelie control off, TC around 6 and throttle set to street. He knows what he’s doing as they were pretty much bang on. I preferred the throttle in street mode as well and would leave it there all day. Turns out it’s preferred by Pikes Peak winners and mortals alike.
The fog lifted for our second session and by the third I was starting to feel comfortable and could really start to appreciate the new found stability and control. You can use the torque to pull higher gears than you might think.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
Let me walk you through a lap.
Across the start-finish line you’re nudging towards 270 km/h, which feels about as fast as you’d want to go on a naked bike to be honest – you really are hanging on pretty hard.
The track then drops away and then you put those new Brembos to work and bang it down two as you tip into the fast right hander. The brakes were faultless all day by the way. Zero fade – great lever feel and super strong. Clip the almost blind apex while back on the gas and let it run out wide so you then sweep back into turn two as one corner.
Wayne feels his way around Portimao on the 2020 KTM 1290 SDR
Down another one for the tight right hander – yes I was taking it in third – in fact I wasn’t dropping below third for the whole track. No need – the torque just pulls you effortlessly out and fires you at the next corner. Tip it onto the right knee and feed the power on, making sure to stay right to get a better entry for the next left – a blind uphill corner that both tightens a little and flattens at apex. The bike felt great on the change of direction here. A little like coming into turn 11 at Phillip Island (but steeper), which is one of my favourite corners. Loads of feedback from both ends and barely a wriggle from the bars during weight transfer. The side to side flick done with minimal effort. Considering there’s a dirty big 1301 cc engine underneath you – that’s an impressive feat.
Wayne feels his way around Portimao on the 2020 KTM 1290 SDR
That’s followed by a short straight, long enough to wind it right out to the redline in fourth before dropping it back to third as the track drops down into the left-hander. A little off-camber on entry, but flattening out on exit as you let it run right out to the kerb before tipping back into the blind left hander at full noise in fourth.
Between turns 3 and 4 is good for wheelies!
This next four or five corners of the track was probably my favourite section. Only as you crest the hill do you get to see the upcoming double right hander. Down to third, peel it in and give it another burst of throttle before getting hard on the picks and running it right out to the left kerb before tipping it into the tight right hander. Keep it no more than mid-track on exit, the track now rises again and crests before you. Front comes up in third, and again in fourth and your wheelying over a blind crest that drops away massively into the first of two bowls. If you were parked trackside at that spot you would have possibly heard me squealing and hollering inside my helmet as I went by each lap – even over the roar of the big twin. Mad. Brilliant. The next left is almost flat-out and then the track rises up into a blind double right hander that you enter in third at mid-track, and stay wide to take the two as one corner.
Did I say wheelies!
Back down into the second bowl with a little wheelie and if you get the line right you’ll hit the bottom in fourth, peeling into a full throttle left-hand sweeper that climbs its way back up to the top of the hill. So many times I’d run in there and realise I had more grip available as I could turn the bike in sharper than first thought. Step up Wayno. Out wide for the entry into the third gear left-hander and then get set-up for the first of two right-handers that build speed onto the front straight.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
The first is a blind double apex, a little like a mirror image of turn-two at Phillip Island. Out to mid-track, mid corner before spotting the exit and winding on the throttle. Up to fourth and you’re barreling into the last blind right-hander at decent speed as you crest the hill mid-corner and the track drops away quite substantially. A little heart in mouth stuff here as you plunge down the hill, cranked over while piling on more throttle as you drift it out to the exit. Griiiiiiiiiip. Up into fifth as you crest the rise at the start of the straight and the front comes up again under full noise at well over 200 km/h and you fire down the main straight.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
Any vision you have seen from Portimao, onboard or not, doesn’t do the elevation changes any justice. It’s a blast. And the blind corners only add to the challenge. Dare I say more fun than any other track I’ve ridden. And I don’t for a second think that the bike didn’t have a fair bit to do with that. The beauty of the Portimao track was that it showed just how easily the bike can be ridden hard. It’s flattering and confidence inspiring at the same time.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
While I’m certainly no McWilliams, I wasn’t exactly hanging around, yet not once did I feel like I was either wanting more – or getting untidy as my lap times progressed throughout the day. And my concerns about the bikes all new geometry spoiling the fun when it comes to wheelies were unfounded as you can see by the pics… It’s still a doddle.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R with the trick bits..
In the fourth session I got to sample one of the ‘track bikes’ with a bunch of power parts thrown at it. Oh my. The full Akrapovic Evo system had me at hello and bellowed a much nicer bark that didn’t prove obnoxious on the go. It’s lighter again over the standard set-up (of course!), and with the mandatory re-tune, it liberates even more power and torque.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R with the trick optional exhaust
The track bikes also came with the new triple clamp, adjustable rearsets and Apex Pro adjustable steering damper. And it was fitted with slicks as opposed to the already excellent Bridgestone S22 Battlax tyres on the other bikes. The fact that the track bike didn’t feel radically different to the standard bike shows just how good the standard bikes are. That said, the track bike set-up was obviously better again. Just… more. More grip. More feel. Slightly pointier geometry for even better agility, but still super comfortable. Sometimes more, really is more.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R with optional exhaust
After lunch, where our brains had taken some time to process the preceding few hours of awesomeness, we toddled off with Hermann for a road loop. I love the fact that the guy who is responsible for the direction of the bike rides like he does on the road. Trev tells me that all the KTM crew go like cut cats and he’s no exception. He likes to loft the front too. Good man.
KTM crew know how to have fun
The road loop was a nice mix of fast flowing bends and tighter blind corners as we wound our way out to a little seaside cafe for a coffee break and a chat. It’s obvious that the 1290 SDR is an everyday proposition.It would rip as a commuter too in my opinion.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
After an hour-and-a-half of hard track riding (not including breaks), and I’m guessing another two-hours of road riding I certainly wasn’t ready to call it a day. You could load it up with luggage and set off into the sunset on it without an issue.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
On the road it proved just as good a thing as I expected based on the track time. Super comfortable, stable, yet nimble – and that engine. Oh so torquey. I found myself sitting back a little further on the road with my butt touching the rear seat pad occasionally.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
I wonder what the track bike geometry with the power parts head stem would be like on the road. I also wonder if you’d get away with running the Evo exhaust on the road. I reckon you nearly would… Oof. I need a moment.
Wayne one wants one just like this…
While I didn’t really get the time I’d usually get on my long term review to go through all of the settings (ok fine – I was too busy enjoying myself riding), I’m very much looking forward to doing that in a few months when they land in Oz ,which should be April apparently.
So where does that leave us?
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R with optional exhaust
Well the new Super Duke R has moved the game on again. Its lighter, stiffer, gives more feedback, is more refined, has higher levels of performance and is even easier to ride than ever.
I reckon it’s slightly less prone to wave the front in the air due to the improved squat control, but don’t panic – it’s still happy to cut loose and point to the sky when you want it to. Despite being undoubtedly more refined, it hasn’t lost its soul.
It is still a KTM in every way and Ready To Race
Hopefully KTM Australia price it competitively, and realistically I think the quick-shifter and track modes should come as standard kit as opposed to being options. If they get the pricing right – they’ll have a line of potential buyers longer than the queue out the front of Pastels de Belem.
And I’ll probably be amongst them… Yep. I reckon it’s that good.
Obrigado Portugal.
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R with optional exhaust
Why I like it
Even better than the old model in almost every way (and that was a ripper)
So, so easy to ride. Bulk fun. This is what a sports-bike should be
A seemingly endless supply of torque from the epic 1301 cc engine
Ultra stable yet nimble, plenty of feedback from both ends with grip for days
Still happy to be a bit of a loon
Much improved switchgear including direct controls for tc and presets (yay!)
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
I’d like it even more if….
It should really have the quick shifter as standard
Pity about the fuel range being slightly reduced. Hard to quantify what the range will equate to in real world conditions. KTM say 300 ish?
@Hermann – you need to develop that clip-on fairing kit we talked about please for those of us who’d like to take it onto faster tracks like Phillip Island. I don’t need payment for the idea – just send me one, stickered up like the motogp bike. Ta 😉
2020 KTM 1290 SuperDuke R
KTM 1290 Super Duke R Specifications (2020)
Engine
Engine Type
2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75°
Displacement
1,301 cc
Bore / Stroke
108/71 mm
Power
132 kW (180 hp) @ 9,500 rpm
Torque
140 Nm @ 8,000 rpm
Compression Ratio
13.5:1
Starter / Battery
Electric starter / 12V 12Ah
Transmission
6 gears
Fuel System
Keihin EFI (Throttle body 56 mm)
Control
8 V / DOHC
Lubrication
Pressure lubrication with 3 Eaton pumps
Engine Oil
Motorex, SAE 10W-50
Primary Drive
40:76
Final Drive
17:38
Cooling
Liquid cooling
Clutch
PASC™ slipper clutch, hydraulically operated
Ignition / Engine Management
Keihin EMS with RBW and cruise control, double ignition
– Sales volume: 280,099 motorcycles / + 7% compared to the previous year – Revenues: 1,520.1 mEur / + 4% compared to the previous year – EBITDA: 240.8 mEur / + 14% compared to the previous year – Free Cash Flow: 92.1 mEur / 6.1 % of revenues – Offensive with HUSQVARNA E-Bicycles in Europe – Integration GASGAS
Preliminary revenues and earnings in the business year 2019
The PIERER Mobility Group achieved in the business year 2019 record revenues in the amount of 1,520.1 mEur (+4.0%). This corresponds to an increase of 57.9 mEur.
The preliminary EBIT (Earnings Before Interest and Tax) reached 131.7 mEur (+2.3%) after 128.7 mEur in the previous year.
The operating earnings before depreciation (EBITDA – (Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation) increased from 211.0 mEur to 240.8 mEur corresponding to an EBITDA margin of 15.8%.
The Free Cash Flow improved significantly and amounted to approximately 92.1 mEur compared to -16.7 mEur in 2018.
For the growth in the business year 2019 was invested around 121 mEur in product development and around 44 mEur in plants and infrastructure. All the key earnings figures refer to the continued operation of the Group (previous year excluding Pankl Group).
On December 31, 2019, the PIERER Mobility Group had 4,368 employees, 3,639 of which were employed in Austria. The Group forces the dual training within the framework of the KTM Academy. The aim is to increase the number of the apprentices – currently 160 – to 180 and further develop the employee training.
2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R
Market position expanded
In the past business year, the PIERER Mobility Group with its brands KTM and Husqvarna Motorcycles outperformed the overall market (-6.3%) in the key motorcycle markets (> 120cc) with a registration increase of +14.5% and expanded its market position.
With 234,449 sold KTM motorcycles and 45,650 sold HUSQVARNA motorcycles in the financial year 2019 the sales volume was increased by about 7% compared to the previous year. In comparison BMW sold 175,162 motorcycles and Ducati 53,183.
In Europe, the overall market grew by around 8.9% in the fiscal-year of 2019. In the same period, KTM succeeded in maintaining its high market share by around 12 %.
In the US market, which declined in the business year 2019 (-2.7%), KTM was successful in positioning itself. KTM increased its registrations by 3.6%, thereby raising its market share as of December 31,2019 to 9.7%.
In the most important future market for KTM, India, its registrations (brand KTM) in the fiscal year by over 35% in comparison with the previous year. The market share rose from around 4.5 % to around 7.3 %.
The 100% acquisition of Motorcycle Distributors Australia Pty Ltd. further strengthened the market presence in Australia and New Zealand. As a result of a market offensive, 15,343 KTM and Husqvarna motorcycles were sold in these important markets in the past business year.
KTM HQ have taken over the distribution of their own products throughout Australia – Jeff Leisk pictured
In the 4th quarter of 2019, a majority interest in the Spanish offroad brand GASGAS was acquired. With the acquisition of a market leader in trial motorcycles, we have succeeded in entering this segment.
Offensive in HUSQVARNA E-Bicycles
With the early and complete takeover of PEXCO GmbH, Schweinfurt/ Deutschland a further growth step was taken in the field of e-mobility and to participate in the attractive market growth in the e-bicycle sector. For the business year 2020 sales of more than 100 mEur are expected. For the mid-term, it is intended to become a significant player in this area.
Positive outlook 2020 – Striving for Market leadership in Europe
In the financial year 2020, the PIERER Mobility Group will continue to focus on organic growth in all core areas. The objective is to further expand market shares in the markets that are important for KTM and Husqvarna – despite the challenging market environment. As part of the industrial cooperation with GASGAS Motorcycles, to integrate the GASGAS motorcycle division into the Group as a third brand in order to achieve the market leadership in Europe.
GasGas
The integration of the e-bicycle business (PEXCO) into the newly founded HUSQVARNA E-Bicycles is being pushed forward and implemented.
For the business year 2020 a revenue growth of 8 – 10 % is expected. As a result of the expansion into the electric 2-wheeler activities and the integration of the third motorcycle brand GASGAS, an EBIT margin between 6 – 8 % for the business year 2020 is temporary expected. Due to the operating earnings before depreciation (EBITDA), which remains at a high level, a positive free cash flow between 45 to 55 mEur is also anticipated for the business year 2020. A sustainable positive free cash flow between 3 – 5 % of sales is expected.
Sadly Paulo later died and the eighth stage was cancelled in his honour, leaving less opportunity for Toby to make up time. The 10th stage was also cut short when too many riders crashed.
In the wake of these setbacks, Toby’s podium finish is a truly champion effort.
Toby celebrates with victory donuts!
Toby wasn’t the only Aussie who did us proud in the Dakar as both a tough competitor and aa Good Samaritan.
Mr Consistency, Rodney Faggotter (Yamaha, Queensland) finished most stages in the top 20 and recorded career best 13th outright and a sixth in one stage.
Rodney Faggotter
Like Toby, on the 10th stage Rodney stopped to help a crashed rider and was given the time back by the officials.
“I had a solid 2 weeks and rode the most ‘in control’ but also at the best I have ever done,” Rodney says.
“The riders in front of me are the best rally riders in the world and most of them full time athletes. I’m pumped to be near and amongst these guys!”
Matt finished in last place at 100th and placed last in 96th!
However, even to finish a gruelling Dakar is a massive feat and to have all four Aussie entrants complete the event is a tribute to their heroics.
About a third of the 158 field did not finish due to crashes or mechanical failures.
Five women made it to the finish of the Dakar led by Laia Sanz in 17th place overall, with Dutchwoman Mirjam Pol, South Africans Kirsten Landman and Taye Perry, and Spaniard Sara García also in the general classification.
Like many Aussie sports stars and celebrities, Toby is raising money for the bushfire appeal.
He is auctioning his starting jersey and pants for firefighters
Toby is also doing his bit for the current critical bushfire situation by auctioning his starting jersey and pants with proceeds going to the NSW Rural Fire Service.
It is open worldwide, just send in your bid in Australian dollars on his Facebook page or Instagram.
Current highest bid is still $13,001.
Auction closes on tomorrow (18 January 2020) at 5pm (AEST).
If you can’t bid, please donate on this link. Sp far he has raised more than $5000.
Two time Dakar winner Toby Price of Australia goes over the paper route map
Andrew Houlihan
Toby congratulates Ricky
Toby celebrates with victory donuts!
Rodney Faggotter
Ben Young
Trevor Wilson
Jack Miller’s MotoGP helmet
Deus Trumpy