KTM Super Duke

Overview

But here is how I think about the KTM Super Duke — a motorcycle with a kind of soul all its own. This is a bike that says it warms up and is ready to take you for a ride you won’t forget. Those of you who have ever wanted something that just pushes back enough to keep it interesting may be calling This beast’s name. This isn’t going to be a fancy write up. Just me, about a machine that made it’s mark.

Power, Pure and Simple

Let’s get to the core of what makes the Super Duke a real thrill: the engine. It’s not a tea kettle V-twin. Feeling its power growling from under the tank, this motor doesn’t just roar — it’s practically daring you to open it up. Picture that twisting the throttle and you feel that surge of power sweep through. This is no gentle build up, we’re jolted awake with a grin. Whether it’s cruising through the city or ripping on an open road, there’s a ton to keep the adrenaline flowing aboard the Duke’s.

It’s more like a Dance Partner who’s leading

It found that one thing that stuck with me is how this bike handles a turn. It's almost like dancing, except with this dance you need to keep up. The Super Duke doesn’t do 'laid back.' A super lightweight frame and geometry designed to be agile, it’s a bike that wants to go fast, turn fast and sit deep. It wants respect, and if you give it that, respect it gives back in every corner. This bike will have you on your toes and some, weaving through traffic or carving up some winding roads. This is a bike that allows you to live it.

Features That Matter

This bike came loaded with features, but not for no reason. It’s nothing like one of those ‘loaded with gadgets’ kind of rides. There’s something about everything here that just feels intentional, practical and like it’s really meant to make your time on the bike better. The first big win is the riding modes. And if you are looking for something chill, you got what you are looking for. However, if you want to throw this bike into warp 9 you can flip it into Sport or into Track mode. And traction control? It’s like having a safety net there for you when things get wild — with this much power.

The TFT display also earns a shout. The light, bright, and not full of random info. You only see what you need, no more, no less. I was also glad that KTM didn’t want to throw all kinds of “high tech” stuff at this screen. You’re looking at a spaceship console, but it’s simple, effectives, and it gives you what you need at a glance.

It’s a Rollercoaster, Not a Sofa … Comfort

Here’s the thing: if you want something soft, something cushy, something smooth as silk in a seat, you might consider other options. The Super Duke wasn’t a comfort motorcycle; it was a thrill motorcycle. Seat’s firm, riding position is very aggressive. So it’s not exactly the kind of wheel you would take out for a long, lazy Sunday drive but if you’re in the mood for an adrenaline rush that’s all part of it. After a good ride there will be some soreness, but that’s the kind of reminder that this bike gives you. It’s something like ‘Yep we decided to go for it’ (and you’ll absolutely love it).

Is It Practical? Well, That’s Not the Point

Surely, the Super Duke is not really a practical thing. It’s not the bike you get for fuel efficiency, or storage space. It’s for someone who doesn’t want to miss a shred of the road, or every beat of the engine. If you like feeling a bikes raw power, this is the ride that will give you a chance to. It’s not about getting you from A to B in the most sensible way; it’s about enjoying the contents of the journey. If you’re okay with that, you’ll get it.

Final Thoughts — Who is this bike really for?

The Super Duke was really made for who, then? That’s not for everyone, definitely. What’s not to like about a bike with attitude and a little bit of a wild streak? It’s not going to pamper you, it’s not going to keep things relaxed. It’s the bike you’re more than happy to have as your default option, the bike to go to when you want to feel a little more alive, when you just want a ride that will shake you up in the very best way. It’s a bike with personality, so if you ever were someone who tends to like a bit of a thrill, this could be your new best friend. If you want comfort, practicality, something low key…you might want to think twice.

But what we have here is a motorcycle, namely a KTM Super Duke, and not just a motorcycle although this is in fact a full on experience. Not just riding, but living it through every second of it, is this bike. If that’s why you’re here, perhaps it’s time you rode this beast. Just know too, it’s got a personality — treat it right and you’ve got one heck of a ride coming up.