If it ain't broken, don't fix it. But by all means, make it meaner! Boasting 180 hp and 140 Nm, the 1301 cc LC8, V-Twin has undergone a subtle yet impactful development. Optimized to be lighter but retaining its torquey character, this powerhouse is the benchmark of V-twin evolution. And with engine and linkage mounts that add to the overall structure of the entire package - it quite literally is the part that holds THE BEAST together.

Thinner engine casings and revised water and oil cooler mounts have resulted in a 0.8 kg weight saving, compared to the previous generation. Oil delivery has also been improved by way of a lightweight aluminum oil line, eliminating the need for a double wall system. Additionally, the engine carrier bracket and linkage mount have been integrated into the engine case, allowing for a stiffer connection. This has also resulted in a 5 mm higher swingarm pivot for improved stability and anti-squat.

Top feeder injectors and 56 mm throttle bodies provide an improved air to fuel mixture at high rpms. This results in more torque and better fuel economy throughout the rev range.

You don't always need big changes to make big differences. In fact, when it comes to the PANKL transmission, we've made a few small tweaks which have resulted in quicker shift times, shorter shift action and lighter lever modulation. Smoother shift action also comes courtesy of an improved spline shaft and bronzed copper coating on the shift forks. Why do all this? Quite simply - quicker shift times equal faster acceleration.

When it comes to burning fuel efficiently, two sparks are better than one. The twin spark ignition system makes use of more powerful ignition coils and two spark plugs in each cylinder head. This makes for an optimized firing sequence, resulting in more power, better control, lower fuel consumption and lower emissions.

To perform like a BEAST, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO needs to breath like a BEAST. Thanks to a ram air intake positioned in the headlight mask, this rip snorting arrangement maximizes flow by forcing air into the combustion chambers. This in turn reduces the chance of low air pressure and increases the fuel burn rate. The addition of a newly designed and easy-to-access air filter box makes for easy servicing too.

State-of-the-art, machined titanium inlet valves with chromium nitride PVD coating - how impressive does that sound? These feature a flat design, and weigh 19 grams less than steel inlet valves. When combined with the meticulously engineered cylinder heads and combustion chambers on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO, offering a compression ratio of 13.6:1, there is ultimately one outcome, pure power.

Thanks to the resonator chambers on the cylinder heads, which have been engineered to increase the torque output in the lower to mid-range rpms, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO pulls like a train, while keeping fuel consuption and CO² emissions in check.

While the pressure lubricated PASC slipper clutch allows for feather-light clutch modulation while accelerating, it's how it handles slowing down that's the really impressive bit. When the engine experiences extreme back-torque during aggressive downshifting from speed, the clutch opens to prevent the rear wheel locking, giving the rider full control and perfect entry speed while hunting apexes.

A new quick turn throttle twist grip has been added to the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO's arsenal. With the twist-action reduced by 7 degrees, this R&D-developed solution not only offers faster and more responsive throttle input but also reduces the rider wrist angle and elbow drop at full-throttle. This is paired with buttery-smooth ride by wire which electronically translates the throttle commands of the rider into the best throttle valve positions for the current riding situation. Choking, jolting and involuntary wheelies are a thing of the past. Voluntary ones, however, could easily be a thing of your future

In the battle of physics and blasting holes in the space-time continuum, lighter is faster. But when you're working with a pure naked BEAST, finding the places to trim fat is often a challenge. Weight has been shaved off the crankcases, by making them marginally thinner, which, when combined with a new water pump and lighter clutch cover, provides a substantial overall weight saving.

Formula1-inspired forged piston technology means we can push the limits of load capacity despite the extremely short and lightweight design. This results in minimized reciprocating weight and maximized responsiveness. The piston skirts also feature a state-of-the-art, hard anodized finish which minimizes friction, adding to the engine's free-revving nature. What's more, the hard-wearing durability of these parts add many years to an already impressive engine life.

This is not a case of "bark being worse than bite" - this BEAST roars! Up to 60 mm of drainpipe-like dimensions at the headers optimize gas flow, while 2 catalytic converters control emissions, without compromising the V-twin engine note or horsepower.

Gone are the days of complicated air-filter maintainence. Thanks to an easy-to-access air filter box, swapping out your air filter for a fresh set of lungs is as easy as making sportsbike riders cry.