KTM 1290 Super Duke R Gen3 2020-2023 Service Manual

Cycle World's own nickname for the 2020 relaunch says it plainly: "Beast 3.0." KTM's chassis, engine, and electronics all got genuinely reworked that year, with the chrome-molybdenum steel trellis frame using larger sectional diameters and thinner walls for enhanced rigidity, plus a new aluminum/carbon composite rear subframe and single-sided swingarm with linkage system. Rider Magazine found the resulting bike about 15 lbs lighter overall, handling noticeably better while retaining the same or better comfort than the outgoing generation.

The liquid-cooled 1,301cc LC8 75-degree V-twin gains new top-feeder fuel injectors and 56mm throttle bodies, a new ram-air intake, and larger exhaust headers, delivering a claimed 180 hp (up 3 from the previous generation) at 9,500 rpm with a 10,100 rpm redline, and 103 lb-ft of torque at 8,000 rpm — KTM called it the most powerful LC8 twin the company had offered to date, all while meeting tighter Euro 4/5 emissions standards. Titanium intake valves save weight over steel, and a smoother-shifting Pankl gearbox rounds out the drivetrain.

Electronics took a genuine step forward too: latest-generation lean-angle-sensitive traction control with a six-axis IMU, a wheel-slip controller, and a pitch angle controller for front-wheel-lift management. Premium stopping power comes from new Brembo Stylema four-piston Monoblock calipers on dual 320mm discs, and a new WP Apex rear shock with external reservoir delivers a more progressive, less choppy ride than the previous-generation Duke. Motorcycle News called the result one of the best super-nakeds available, with a more premium feel and deeper reserves of performance than its predecessor. 2020 colors were limited to black or orange, with pricing starting at $18,699.