Comprehensive Maintenance Schedule for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R EVO
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R, known as “The Beast,” is a high-performance naked motorcycle from Austrian manufacturer KTM, introduced in 2014. It features a powerful 1301cc 75° V-twin engine, delivering up to 180 hp and 140 Nm of torque in its latest generation .
Evolution of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R
The bike has evolved over three generations:
- Gen 1 (2014-2016)
- Gen 2 (2017-2019)
- Gen 3 (2020+)
The third generation, launched in 2020, brought significant updates, including 90% new parts focused on improving handling with a stiffer, more performance-oriented chassis and a weight reduction of 6 kg . It also features advanced electronics like cornering ABS and lean angle-sensitive traction control.
Why Riders Love the KTM 1290 Super Duke R
- Incredible power-to-weight ratio: 180 hp and 180 kg dry weight in the latest model .
- Cutting-edge electronics package: Enhances performance and safety.
- Agile handling: Confidence-inspiring for various riding conditions.
- Aggressive, distinctive styling: Stands out on the road.
- High-quality components: Reflects KTM’s racing pedigree.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Gen 2 (2017-2019) | Gen 3 (2020+) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1301cc 75° V-twin | 1301cc 75° V-twin |
| Power | 177 hp @ 9750 rpm | 180 hp @ 9500 rpm |
| Torque | 141 Nm @ 7000 rpm | 140 Nm @ 8000 rpm |
| Dry weight | 195 kg | 189 kg |
| Fuel capacity | 18 L | 16 L |
| Front suspension | 48mm WP inverted fork | 48mm WP APEX inverted fork |
| Rear suspension | WP monoshock | WP APEX monoshock |
Key changes in Gen 3 include lighter weight, a stiffer chassis, updated electronics, and minor engine revisions for emissions .
Fluid Specifications
| Fluid | Type | Capacity | Change Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil | Motorex Power Synth SAE 10W-50 | 3.5 L | 9300 mi / 15000 km |
| Coolant | Motorex M3.0 Coolant | 1.7 L | Every 2 years |
| Brake fluid | DOT 4 | 0.18 L front, 0.2 L rear | Every 2 years |
| Clutch fluid | Motorex Hydraulic Clutch Fluid 75 | 0.1 L | Every 2 years |
Maintenance Schedule
| Mileage (mi) x 1000 | 0.6 | 9.3 | 18.6 | Every |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kilometers (km) x 1000 | 1 | 15 | 30 | |
| Engine oil & filter | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Oil screen | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Spark plugs | ✓ | |||
| Air filter | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Valve clearance | ✓ | |||
| Brake fluid | Every 2 years | |||
| Clutch fluid | Every 2 years | |||
| Coolant | Every 2 years | |||
| Chain tension & lubrication | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Every 600 mi / 1000 km |
| Brake pads | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Brake lines | Every 4 years | |||
| Spoke tension | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Steering head bearing | ✓ | |||
| Wheel bearing | ✓ |
Maintenance Tips
- Warm up the engine before riding, especially in cold weather.
- Regularly check tire pressures and tread depth.
- Lubricate and adjust the chain every 600 miles.
- Inspect brake pads and fluid levels before each ride.
- Clean and protect the bike from corrosion, especially after riding in the rain.
- Address any leaks, strange noises, or handling issues promptly.
- Follow the recommended service schedule and use high-quality fluids and parts.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue | Possible Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Hard starting | Old fuel, weak battery, fouled plugs | Drain fuel, charge/replace battery, clean/replace plugs |
| Unstable idle | Vacuum leak, throttle body issue | Check hoses for cracks, reset throttle position sensor |
| Clutch slip | Worn clutch, low fluid | Replace clutch plates, bleed/refill fluid |
| Brake squeal | Contaminated pads, worn rotors | Clean or replace pads, replace rotors |
| Leaking fork seals | Worn seals, scratched fork tubes | Replace seals, polish or replace fork tubes |
Sources for this Blog Post
Here are the sources referenced in the comprehensive maintenance schedule for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R EVO:
Primary References
- Chance Moto – The Evolution of KTM’s 1290 Super Duke R: Discusses the development and changes across the three generations of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R.
- Maintenance Schedule – KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020+: Provides a detailed maintenance schedule for the 2020+ models of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R.
- KTM Forums – Service Intervals: Forum discussion covering the service intervals for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R.
- Auto Evolution – KTM Super Duke: Provides specifications and reviews of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R.