It’s still sinking in, the idea that KTM, a company I’ve always associated with building pure off-road, dual-purpose and supermoto-inspired machines, now makes one of my very favorite dedicated streetbikes.
Who knew? Well, I suppose anyone who’s paid attention to the evolution of the orange machines rolling out of Alps these past few years might have had a clue. We did—and I’m still pleasantly surprised by the 990 Super Duke’s level of performance and refinement. To have gotten both of these areas correct, right out of the gate, is quite an accomplishment.
So, I showed up at a KTM press day conducted at the Streets of Willow Springs, a tight, technical race circuit, wearing a set of Shift Supermoto leathers. I figured a prime opportunity had finally come my way to put the one-piece suit to use. Only problem was, I not only found myself as one of very few journalists not wearing knee sliders, but the Super Duke performed much more like a supersport than I had anticipated it might. So I rode neat and tidy in the saddle, looking more Mike the Bike than King Kenny. Turns out the suit I was wearing had been discontinued some time ago. Who knew?
Well, keep up the good work KTM and I’ll be bringing fresh pucks along to your next road bike launch. For more on the Super Duke, see the full road test in the upcoming May issue.
