- Seems to be donning a new fascia
- Other updates include tweaked panel designs
- Likely to be equipped with the radar system
It looks like KTM is all set to bring its 2023 roster with some important updates, thanks to the freshly spotted 1290 Super Duke and the previously spied 1290 Super Duke GT.
The 2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke will have a tad new polarising (still) headlight. The boomerang-like LED DRLs bracket a couple of vertically stacked projector lamps. While the latter replaces the horizontal LED units seen on the current models, the change is likely being made to free some real estate for the radar system inclusion.
The radar system is already available on the current 1290 Super Adventure S. However, the bike’s fascia looks the least desirable and in a dire need of cosmetic surgery. The 2023 model update should help this cause.
Moreover, the tank shrouds too seem elongated compared to the current model, which is sold overseas. The radiator also appears to be tweaked and extended for better heat dissipation. The overall setup, including the new fascia, gives the 1290 Super Duke a front-heavy and aggressive stance.
The motor seems to be largely retained in its current form. With that being said, KTM could tweak the internals to extract a bit more juice from the 1308cc LC8 V-twin motor.
Expect KTM to launch the 2023 1290 Super Duke sometime around early 2023. As for its entry into India, the chances are quite bleak since the Austrian manufacturer is still tapping into the middleweight motorcycle market of the country.
