Superduke 1290R or...
Discussion
Morning all, having originally set my heart on an Aprilia RSV4 or Ducati 1*98 (see other post somewhere!), I tried both and felt that the riding position was going to give me too much grief on longer rides. I have decided to look at naked machines and am looking at a KTM Superduke 1290R or Triumph Speed Triple R. I know the KTM is the animal of the bunch here but has anyone had long term ownership or ownership in general to give any feedback on these two?
I'll add my experience..
I've had Ducati's for years, still have in fact. But towards the tail end of 2020 I purchased KTM's latest incarnation of the 1290SDR (the Gen3). So I'm nearly into 2 years of ownership and my Panigale hasn't turned a wheel since the KTM landed in the garage.
In that time it's been 99% reliable, the 1% was the common MTC error (once) which is usually poorly adjusted ese valve cables/stone getting stuck in the mechanism, pretty simple fix TBH.
I've done over 5K miles since purchase, and I would go as far as to say it's the best bike I've ever owned, certainly for the road. It just does everything well, you can bimble around town or switch to a hooligan instantly and attack every corner with confidence, it's just such a competent bike.
I'm 6ft tall and I can ride this all day, big days out 250-300 miles around Wales without issue.
Some stuff I've done/would recommend: -
Get the tech pack... it's a no brainer
The Gen3 is a completely different bike to earlier generations, different frame, swingarm has a linkage and the ergos are more sportsbike - You can and I have moved the bars to the rear position, takes about 30 mins to do, basically takes a little weight off your arms.
Tech pack gives you a quickshifter/blipper which is a dream to use, I run reverse/race shift which means you have to move the adjustable rearsets to the higher position, again a 10 min job.
The cable release for the pillion seat can pop out of it's mount, glued it in place been OK since.
Evotech rad guard, tail tidy
AR can, not bothered about a full system... there isn't much choice out there, but Akra do a full system and map, but as it's only for race use the map will check for the indicators being connected, if it detects them the bike won't start... there's a box you can buy to fool the ECU.
Healtech do a dongle to enable the removal of the ese valve/servo (this will also resolve MTC errors)
I've added heated grips also (KTM) which you control via the switchgear/dash
I've added throttle spacers, this quick mod makes it feel quicker than it was already.
There are 3 flavours of the Gen3 now: -
Original which I have
The RR which came out in 2021, basically everything from the PP catalogue, all sold only 500 made but beautiful things
The Evo for '22 which is gives you semi active suspension over the base model which is still available, same as mine but updated graphics.
Any questions let me know.
I've had Ducati's for years, still have in fact. But towards the tail end of 2020 I purchased KTM's latest incarnation of the 1290SDR (the Gen3). So I'm nearly into 2 years of ownership and my Panigale hasn't turned a wheel since the KTM landed in the garage.
In that time it's been 99% reliable, the 1% was the common MTC error (once) which is usually poorly adjusted ese valve cables/stone getting stuck in the mechanism, pretty simple fix TBH.
I've done over 5K miles since purchase, and I would go as far as to say it's the best bike I've ever owned, certainly for the road. It just does everything well, you can bimble around town or switch to a hooligan instantly and attack every corner with confidence, it's just such a competent bike.
I'm 6ft tall and I can ride this all day, big days out 250-300 miles around Wales without issue.
Some stuff I've done/would recommend: -
Get the tech pack... it's a no brainer
The Gen3 is a completely different bike to earlier generations, different frame, swingarm has a linkage and the ergos are more sportsbike - You can and I have moved the bars to the rear position, takes about 30 mins to do, basically takes a little weight off your arms.
Tech pack gives you a quickshifter/blipper which is a dream to use, I run reverse/race shift which means you have to move the adjustable rearsets to the higher position, again a 10 min job.
The cable release for the pillion seat can pop out of it's mount, glued it in place been OK since.
Evotech rad guard, tail tidy
AR can, not bothered about a full system... there isn't much choice out there, but Akra do a full system and map, but as it's only for race use the map will check for the indicators being connected, if it detects them the bike won't start... there's a box you can buy to fool the ECU.
Healtech do a dongle to enable the removal of the ese valve/servo (this will also resolve MTC errors)
I've added heated grips also (KTM) which you control via the switchgear/dash
I've added throttle spacers, this quick mod makes it feel quicker than it was already.
There are 3 flavours of the Gen3 now: -
Original which I have
The RR which came out in 2021, basically everything from the PP catalogue, all sold only 500 made but beautiful things
The Evo for '22 which is gives you semi active suspension over the base model which is still available, same as mine but updated graphics.
Any questions let me know.
Edited by Freakuk on Friday 8th July 09:38
I bought a KTM 1290GT in 2019, now done 21,000 miles. The only fault has been that I rode off before the rear electric pre-load had finished adjusting which gave an error the dealer had to reset.
I bought it because I'm not quite flexible enough now to cope with a more dedicated riding position and I like to go on long trips, couple of weeks at a time so luggage is necessary. It's comfortable enough for very long days, Calais to south of France 600 miles in a day is easy.
The GT is a bit heavier and offers more wind protection than the R but I think fundamentally they are the same bike. The engine is utterly brilliant, the handling on the GT is not quite sports bike like but I think the R is similar to sports bikes.
I'd buy another KTM tomorrow if mine was stolen, not sure what else I could get with the legroom and performance.
I bought it because I'm not quite flexible enough now to cope with a more dedicated riding position and I like to go on long trips, couple of weeks at a time so luggage is necessary. It's comfortable enough for very long days, Calais to south of France 600 miles in a day is easy.
The GT is a bit heavier and offers more wind protection than the R but I think fundamentally they are the same bike. The engine is utterly brilliant, the handling on the GT is not quite sports bike like but I think the R is similar to sports bikes.
I'd buy another KTM tomorrow if mine was stolen, not sure what else I could get with the legroom and performance.
Freakuk said:
I'll add my experience..
I've had Ducati's for years, still have in fact. But towards the tail end of 2020 I purchased KTM's latest incarnation of the 1290SDR (the Gen3). So I'm nearly into 2 years of ownership and my Panigale hasn't turned a wheel since the KTM landed in the garage.
In that time it's been 99% reliable, the 1% was the common MTC error (once) which is usually poorly adjusted ese valve cables/stone getting stuck in the mechanism, pretty simple fix TBH.
I've done over 5K miles since purchase, and I would go as far as to say it's the best bike I've ever owned, certainly for the road. It just does everything well, you can bimble around town or switch to a hooligan instantly and attack every corner with confidence, it's just such a competent bike.
I'm 6ft tall and I can ride this all day, big days out 250-300 miles around Wales without issue.
Some stuff I've done/would recommend: -
Get the tech pack... it's a no brainer
The Gen3 is a completely different bike to earlier generations, different frame, swingarm has a linkage and the ergos are more sportsbike - You can and I have moved the bars to the rear position, takes about 30 mins to do, basically takes a little weight off your arms.
Tech pack gives you a quickshifter/blipper which is a dream to use, I run reverse/race shift which means you have to move the adjustable rearsets to the higher position, again a 10 min job.
The cable release for the pillion seat can pop out of it's mount, glued it in place been OK since.
Evotech rad guard, tail tidy
AR can, not bothered about a full system... there isn't much choice out there, but Akra do a full system and map, but as it's only for race use the map will check for the indicators being connected, if it detects them the bike won't start... there's a box you can buy to fool the ECU.
Healtech do a dongle to enable the removal of the ese valve/servo (this will also resolve MTC errors)
I've added heated grips also (KTM) which you control via the switchgear/dash
I've added throttle spacers, this quick mod makes it feel quicker than it was already.
There are 3 flavours of the Gen3 now: -
Original which I have
The RR which came out in 2021, basically everything from the PP catalogue, all sold only 500 made but beautiful things
The Evo for '22 which is gives you semi active suspension over the base model which is still available, same as mine but updated graphics.
Any questions let me know.
What he said!I've had Ducati's for years, still have in fact. But towards the tail end of 2020 I purchased KTM's latest incarnation of the 1290SDR (the Gen3). So I'm nearly into 2 years of ownership and my Panigale hasn't turned a wheel since the KTM landed in the garage.
In that time it's been 99% reliable, the 1% was the common MTC error (once) which is usually poorly adjusted ese valve cables/stone getting stuck in the mechanism, pretty simple fix TBH.
I've done over 5K miles since purchase, and I would go as far as to say it's the best bike I've ever owned, certainly for the road. It just does everything well, you can bimble around town or switch to a hooligan instantly and attack every corner with confidence, it's just such a competent bike.
I'm 6ft tall and I can ride this all day, big days out 250-300 miles around Wales without issue.
Some stuff I've done/would recommend: -
Get the tech pack... it's a no brainer
The Gen3 is a completely different bike to earlier generations, different frame, swingarm has a linkage and the ergos are more sportsbike - You can and I have moved the bars to the rear position, takes about 30 mins to do, basically takes a little weight off your arms.
Tech pack gives you a quickshifter/blipper which is a dream to use, I run reverse/race shift which means you have to move the adjustable rearsets to the higher position, again a 10 min job.
The cable release for the pillion seat can pop out of it's mount, glued it in place been OK since.
Evotech rad guard, tail tidy
AR can, not bothered about a full system... there isn't much choice out there, but Akra do a full system and map, but as it's only for race use the map will check for the indicators being connected, if it detects them the bike won't start... there's a box you can buy to fool the ECU.
Healtech do a dongle to enable the removal of the ese valve/servo (this will also resolve MTC errors)
I've added heated grips also (KTM) which you control via the switchgear/dash
I've added throttle spacers, this quick mod makes it feel quicker than it was already.
There are 3 flavours of the Gen3 now: -
Original which I have
The RR which came out in 2021, basically everything from the PP catalogue, all sold only 500 made but beautiful things
The Evo for '22 which is gives you semi active suspension over the base model which is still available, same as mine but updated graphics.
Any questions let me know.
Edited by Freakuk on Friday 8th July 09:38
Last year I bought a new (so gen3 SDR). It has the tech pack and heated grips. I've done 3k miles, no issues other than the suppling dealers service department were dicks, I've now found a professional out who look after it for me.
A mate insisted I take his 1290R for a spin. I didn't take a lot of cajoling as I'd read about these things and couldn't help but be drawn in by the "character", "animal", "perfect naked all rounder" etc. I know I'm in a minority here, but I found it a fairly unpleasant and underwhelming thing to ride. The brakes and handling were first class, but in mixed conditions I just did not enjoy riding it. I know every tester seems to perpetuate the myth that it's an animal, but my mate left it in "hooligan mode" for my first ride, with the comment, "You'll be fine". If a fairly out of practice classic bike rider can give it full tilt on his first go, it may be less than its reputation. When not going for it (admittedly, when you do, it's incredibly quick in any gear) I found it to be surprisingly vibey and uncomfortable, and just not something I'd want to ride except for flat out fun - which, given its performance, might be shortlived.
My mate, on the other hand, absolutely loves it, reckons it's the best bike he has ever owned and finds it a perfect counter to his old Harleys. He regaled me with tales of wheelies in fourth etc. Maybe that's its forte, but it does make it something of a one trick pony.
All I'd say is don't be taken in by the hype.
My mate, on the other hand, absolutely loves it, reckons it's the best bike he has ever owned and finds it a perfect counter to his old Harleys. He regaled me with tales of wheelies in fourth etc. Maybe that's its forte, but it does make it something of a one trick pony.
All I'd say is don't be taken in by the hype.
Many thanks for the input, all very good to hear and interesting to hear one comment that the KTM wasn't all it was cracked up to be. I have been offered a test on a gen 3 KTM but as it is out of budget I am thinking of declining as a gen 2 may feel different (be it in a good or a bad way) in comparison. As for the Triumph, it would be a 2016R onwards that I would look at. I did ride a Speed Triple back in 2012 and thought it was a fun bike with a naughty side. It took a while to get used to not having that top end rush that I am used to, coming from many years of riding Japanese sports bikes. I had also considered the Ducati Monster 1200 but ruled it out as I didn't feel it had the same appeal as the other two on my list.
trickywoo said:
Do you generally like V twins?
Some people just don't get on with them, same as others find inline 4 dull etc.
I don't get Triumph triples myself.
Same. I get (v)twins and inline 4s fine. Not so much triples.Some people just don't get on with them, same as others find inline 4 dull etc.
I don't get Triumph triples myself.
@OP have a gander at the new GSXS's - not everyones (ok noones) cup-o-tea looks-wise, but quick and the engine is a peach
robinh73 said:
Many thanks for the input, all very good to hear and interesting to hear one comment that the KTM wasn't all it was cracked up to be. I have been offered a test on a gen 3 KTM but as it is out of budget I am thinking of declining as a gen 2 may feel different (be it in a good or a bad way) in comparison. As for the Triumph, it would be a 2016R onwards that I would look at. I did ride a Speed Triple back in 2012 and thought it was a fun bike with a naughty side. It took a while to get used to not having that top end rush that I am used to, coming from many years of riding Japanese sports bikes. I had also considered the Ducati Monster 1200 but ruled it out as I didn't feel it had the same appeal as the other two on my list.
I have a Monster 1200R which is a completely different animal and a thing of beauty. Began production in 2016 and stopped in 2019 (I think). They have c12bhp (162bhp) more than the 1200S but it feels a lot more (I had a 1200S as a courtesy bike and it was very flat in comparison). The R has Panagale wheels, and footpegs, is 20mm taller (for more lean angle), carbon fender and what makes it look most different is that it has a different seat unit with a much smaller/narrower pillion seat which really changes the looks of the bike. It comes with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsas and lots of trick bits the other Monsters don't have - including that paint job!! It looks much leaner in comparisonI rode a KTM1290SDR when I was choosing and whilst it has more power I didn't notice. And on the Monster it is way more accessible. The KTM is quite revvy and whilst the Ducati is too it feels like it has more torque as the power comes in at lower revs. It's a real hoot, unlike the vast majority of Monsters. Also, I found the KTM very buzzy and the seat VERY hard. I think you can get a Monster 1200R for under £9k or maybe less so if it's in your budget don't rule it it. It's an awesome thing:
The Monster 1200R is now getting researched and prices are hovering around the £10k mark. At that, it is at the top of the budget but certainly does tick the boxes.
The Suzuki GSX-S I am sorry to say just doesn't do it for me, in a similar way that the BMW S1000r and Honda CB1000R don't. They are all excellent and very capable bikes, but I want something that excites me just by looking at it and delivers those thrills on the road with a different engine from the inline 4s I have been so used to.
I have tried a friend's Aprilia Tuono V4 and it is quite something, but there is something about it that I can't put my finger on. I think it may be the fact that it is essentially an RSV4 but with high bars and altered bodywork.
The Triumph has the looks for me, but I do wonder if the lack of power compared to the KTM (and Ducati now) will be frustrating. Having said that, it is still a 140hp bike, so not exactly lacking.
The Suzuki GSX-S I am sorry to say just doesn't do it for me, in a similar way that the BMW S1000r and Honda CB1000R don't. They are all excellent and very capable bikes, but I want something that excites me just by looking at it and delivers those thrills on the road with a different engine from the inline 4s I have been so used to.
I have tried a friend's Aprilia Tuono V4 and it is quite something, but there is something about it that I can't put my finger on. I think it may be the fact that it is essentially an RSV4 but with high bars and altered bodywork.
The Triumph has the looks for me, but I do wonder if the lack of power compared to the KTM (and Ducati now) will be frustrating. Having said that, it is still a 140hp bike, so not exactly lacking.
Look at a 890R…. Nothing will get close to you on the road…..and absolutely cracking value for what you get.
I had a Gen 1 SDR, a lovely bike but way too powerful for most situations. Couldn’t hold a steady throttle between 30 and 40 mph too. Really annoyed me. Crap front suspension as well.….
If you want a bike that you can exploit more then 20% then go 890R
I had a Gen 1 SDR, a lovely bike but way too powerful for most situations. Couldn’t hold a steady throttle between 30 and 40 mph too. Really annoyed me. Crap front suspension as well.….
If you want a bike that you can exploit more then 20% then go 890R
KTMboy said:
Look at a 890R…. Nothing will get close to you on the road…..and absolutely cracking value for what you get.
I had a Gen 1 SDR, a lovely bike but way too powerful for most situations. Couldn’t hold a steady throttle between 30 and 40 mph too. Really annoyed me. Crap front suspension as well.….
If you want a bike that you can exploit more then 20% then go 890R
I had looked at the 890R but sort of dismissed it for some reason. But it sounds as though it is worth a look at.I had a Gen 1 SDR, a lovely bike but way too powerful for most situations. Couldn’t hold a steady throttle between 30 and 40 mph too. Really annoyed me. Crap front suspension as well.….
If you want a bike that you can exploit more then 20% then go 890R
I will have to try my friend's Tuono V4 again and see how a longer ride may feel.
robinh73 said:
KTMboy said:
Look at a 890R…. Nothing will get close to you on the road…..and absolutely cracking value for what you get.
I had a Gen 1 SDR, a lovely bike but way too powerful for most situations. Couldn’t hold a steady throttle between 30 and 40 mph too. Really annoyed me. Crap front suspension as well.….
If you want a bike that you can exploit more then 20% then go 890R
I had looked at the 890R but sort of dismissed it for some reason. But it sounds as though it is worth a look at.I had a Gen 1 SDR, a lovely bike but way too powerful for most situations. Couldn’t hold a steady throttle between 30 and 40 mph too. Really annoyed me. Crap front suspension as well.….
If you want a bike that you can exploit more then 20% then go 890R
I will have to try my friend's Tuono V4 again and see how a longer ride may feel.
Had a go of my friends 1290 last week and he jumped on my 790. I thought it'd be the same but a wee bit bigger and more powerful but it had a totally different feel to it.
It was smooth as butter and effortlessly cruised at stupid speeds which straight away reminded me why I got rid of the ZX10R. It was much bigger (almost had to tip toe), much heavier (as expected) but most of all I thought the position would have been a bit more sat up which to me it felt in a much more forward lean sports position with much higher pegs. It was an absolute monster of a bike, lovely looking and sounds insane but it just wasn't for me, might be getting old.
He has also been having an issue with it from new, something about it going into a limp mode kind of thing.
As above, the 890 should do anyone really but if you're looking on saving a bit more money again then have a look or try out the 790.
Just my 2 pence
It was smooth as butter and effortlessly cruised at stupid speeds which straight away reminded me why I got rid of the ZX10R. It was much bigger (almost had to tip toe), much heavier (as expected) but most of all I thought the position would have been a bit more sat up which to me it felt in a much more forward lean sports position with much higher pegs. It was an absolute monster of a bike, lovely looking and sounds insane but it just wasn't for me, might be getting old.
He has also been having an issue with it from new, something about it going into a limp mode kind of thing.
As above, the 890 should do anyone really but if you're looking on saving a bit more money again then have a look or try out the 790.
Just my 2 pence
There is no "or" for 1290R, it is in a class of its own, a supernaked built from ground up, not a converted sportsbike a-la-Tuono/Streetfighter
I have extensive experience with Gen.3 1290R, with and without passenger.
Also, I am current owner of 1050RS.
IMHO, 1290R is the most fun supernaked around, even at low speed if you open up the taps it goes brrap and jumps forward, it is addictive, Streetfighter does not do that, for instance, too much sportsbike genes in it. That low-rpm torque is fun and you do not need to break speed limits to have some fun on 1290R.
1290R is also sizable, if you are taller your knees will thank you, 1050RS is noticeably more cramped.
Despite the size, the handling is razor sharp, going from 1050RS it is noticeable that 1290R is easier to put into corners, it is a more modern bike in that respect. That said, it does not mean 1050RS with its Ohlins does not handle, it is precise and steady in the corners, just not as willing to drop into them as 1290R.
1290R is not buzzy above 2000 rpm (unless you are in 5th or 6th gear, but why would you ride at low rpm in high gear?), this bike converted me to twins, yes, 1200 Monster is pretty smooth as well, personally I think 1290R is more exciting.
I transported my gf to work through slow city traffic on 1290R, I was comfortable, she was comfortable, and the bike behaved exemplary, for me it was an eye-opener, I did not expect a 2-pot to be so friendly.
Because it is 2-cylinder the quickshifts are not as smooth as, say, on my GSXR1000R, but quickshifter works like clockwork and that is what counts.
Instrumentation is great, I wish it had lean angle indicator a-la-BMW.
I am big fan of 1290R, and now in Gen.4 they come with orange wheels, looks so desirable.
I keep my 1050RS for now, even though I was tempted to change to 1290R.
1050RS is a great bike in its own right.
It is torquey as well (119nm @ 7000, something like that), sounds good, looks great.
Gearbox works great, quickshifter is so-so, it is a known problem with that bike.
One thing important to me - cleaning and lubricating the chain, much easier on 1050RS, on 1290R the chain goes through the swing-arm and very little of the chain is exposed.
1050RS is a bit more cramped than 1290R, it is not as "darty" or as sharp in the corners as 1290R, and I do not think pillion would be as comfy on 1050RS as on a bigger 1290R.
1050RS is a more relaxed, in terms of engine behavior and handling, ride, it does not cajole you into huliganism as 1290R does, a gentlemanly ride, so to speak, but in no respect is it a Rocket/HD/Bobber, it is still a curve chaser, just of an older type.
As far as 890R is concerned, it looks like a toy, it feels like a toy, it is an exciting ride, when you chase corners, or maybe as quick transportation through city traffic, it is light and easy to maneuver.
On longer rides, on more relaxed rides, on trips, 1290R beats it hands down.
I rode 1290R, 1200RS, 1050RS, S1000R, 890R on the same swiss mountain roads back-to-back and 1290R impressed me the most by far.
Neither 1200RS (had instrumentation faults as well) nor the S1000R (but it has the best instrumentation of them all) did it for me.
1050RS is and feels previous generation when you ride it back-to-back with current machinery.
890R is a fun bike but would not be my only bike.
I rode Streetfighter S and MT10 back-to-back, MT10 is not my cup of tea, Streetfigher S is great, would put it second after 1290R in my list, but would not want to own one, too sportibikey (=unusable on our roads) for me.
Did not have a chance to ride the latest Tuono, rode RSV4 and Tuono 1100 a couple of years back.
I understand the excitement, but given choice I take 1290R (Gen.3 forward, did not have experience on Gen.1 or Gen.2, and according to what one can read, Gen.3 is markedly different bike compared to previous Gens).
I have extensive experience with Gen.3 1290R, with and without passenger.
Also, I am current owner of 1050RS.
IMHO, 1290R is the most fun supernaked around, even at low speed if you open up the taps it goes brrap and jumps forward, it is addictive, Streetfighter does not do that, for instance, too much sportsbike genes in it. That low-rpm torque is fun and you do not need to break speed limits to have some fun on 1290R.
1290R is also sizable, if you are taller your knees will thank you, 1050RS is noticeably more cramped.
Despite the size, the handling is razor sharp, going from 1050RS it is noticeable that 1290R is easier to put into corners, it is a more modern bike in that respect. That said, it does not mean 1050RS with its Ohlins does not handle, it is precise and steady in the corners, just not as willing to drop into them as 1290R.
1290R is not buzzy above 2000 rpm (unless you are in 5th or 6th gear, but why would you ride at low rpm in high gear?), this bike converted me to twins, yes, 1200 Monster is pretty smooth as well, personally I think 1290R is more exciting.
I transported my gf to work through slow city traffic on 1290R, I was comfortable, she was comfortable, and the bike behaved exemplary, for me it was an eye-opener, I did not expect a 2-pot to be so friendly.
Because it is 2-cylinder the quickshifts are not as smooth as, say, on my GSXR1000R, but quickshifter works like clockwork and that is what counts.
Instrumentation is great, I wish it had lean angle indicator a-la-BMW.
I am big fan of 1290R, and now in Gen.4 they come with orange wheels, looks so desirable.
I keep my 1050RS for now, even though I was tempted to change to 1290R.
1050RS is a great bike in its own right.
It is torquey as well (119nm @ 7000, something like that), sounds good, looks great.
Gearbox works great, quickshifter is so-so, it is a known problem with that bike.
One thing important to me - cleaning and lubricating the chain, much easier on 1050RS, on 1290R the chain goes through the swing-arm and very little of the chain is exposed.
1050RS is a bit more cramped than 1290R, it is not as "darty" or as sharp in the corners as 1290R, and I do not think pillion would be as comfy on 1050RS as on a bigger 1290R.
1050RS is a more relaxed, in terms of engine behavior and handling, ride, it does not cajole you into huliganism as 1290R does, a gentlemanly ride, so to speak, but in no respect is it a Rocket/HD/Bobber, it is still a curve chaser, just of an older type.
As far as 890R is concerned, it looks like a toy, it feels like a toy, it is an exciting ride, when you chase corners, or maybe as quick transportation through city traffic, it is light and easy to maneuver.
On longer rides, on more relaxed rides, on trips, 1290R beats it hands down.
I rode 1290R, 1200RS, 1050RS, S1000R, 890R on the same swiss mountain roads back-to-back and 1290R impressed me the most by far.
Neither 1200RS (had instrumentation faults as well) nor the S1000R (but it has the best instrumentation of them all) did it for me.
1050RS is and feels previous generation when you ride it back-to-back with current machinery.
890R is a fun bike but would not be my only bike.
I rode Streetfighter S and MT10 back-to-back, MT10 is not my cup of tea, Streetfigher S is great, would put it second after 1290R in my list, but would not want to own one, too sportibikey (=unusable on our roads) for me.
Did not have a chance to ride the latest Tuono, rode RSV4 and Tuono 1100 a couple of years back.
I understand the excitement, but given choice I take 1290R (Gen.3 forward, did not have experience on Gen.1 or Gen.2, and according to what one can read, Gen.3 is markedly different bike compared to previous Gens).
Edited by Ho Lee Kau on Sunday 10th July 07:44
Ho Lee Kau said:
There is no "or" for 1290R, it is in a class of its own, a supernaked built from ground up, not a converted sportsbike a-la-Tuono/Streetfighter
I have extensive experience with Gen.3 1290R, with and without passenger.
Also, I am current owner of 1050RS.
IMHO, 1290R is the most fun supernaked around, even at low speed if you open up the taps it goes brrap and jumps forward, it is addictive, Streetfighter does not do that, for instance, too much sportsbike genes in it. That low-rpm torque is fun and you do not need to break speed limits to have some fun on 1290R.
1290R is also sizable, if you are taller your knees will thank you, 1050RS is noticeably more cramped.
Despite the size, the handling is razor sharp, going from 1050RS it is noticeable that 1290R is easier to put into corners, it is a more modern bike in that respect. That said, it does not mean 1050RS with its Ohlins does not handle, it is precise and steady in the corners, just not as willing to drop into them as 1290R.
1290R is not buzzy above 2000 rpm (unless you are in 5th or 6th gear, but why would you ride at low rpm in high gear?), this bike converted me to twins, yes, 1200 Monster is pretty smooth as well, personally I think 1290R is more exciting.
I transported my gf to work through slow city traffic on 1290R, I was comfortable, she was comfortable, and the bike behaved exemplary, for me it was an eye-opener, I did not expect a 2-pot to be so friendly.
Because it is 2-cylinder the quickshifts are not as smooth as, say, on my GSXR1000R, but quickshifter works like clockwork and that is what counts.
Instrumentation is great, I wish it had lean angle indicator a-la-BMW.
I am big fan of 1290R, and now in Gen.4 they come with orange wheels, looks so desirable.
I keep my 1050RS for now, even though I was tempted to change to 1290R.
1050RS is a great bike in its own right.
It is torquey as well (119nm @ 7000, something like that), sounds good, looks great.
Gearbox works great, quickshifter is so-so, it is a known problem with that bike.
One thing important to me - cleaning and lubricating the chain, much easier on 1050RS, on 1290R the chain goes through the swing-arm and very little of the chain is exposed.
1050RS is a bit more cramped than 1290R, it is not as "darty" or as sharp in the corners as 1290R, and I do not think pillion would be as comfy on 1050RS as on a bigger 1290R.
1050RS is a more relaxed, in terms of engine behavior and handling, ride, it does not cajole you into huliganism as 1290R does, a gentlemanly ride, so to speak, but in no respect is it a Rocket/HD/Bobber, it is still a curve chaser, just of an older type.
As far as 890R is concerned, it looks like a toy, it feels like a toy, it is an exciting ride, when you chase corners, or maybe as quick transportation through city traffic, it is light and easy to maneuver.
On longer rides, on more relaxed rides, on trips, 1290R beats it hands down.
I rode 1290R, 1200RS, 1050RS, S1000R, 890R on the same swiss mountain roads back-to-back and 1290R impressed me the most by far.
Neither 1200RS (had instrumentation faults as well) nor the S1000R (but it has the best instrumentation of them all) did it for me.
1050RS is and feels previous generation when you ride it back-to-back with current machinery.
890R is a fun bike but would not be my only bike.
I rode Streetfighter S and MT10 back-to-back, MT10 is not my cup of tea, Streetfigher S is great, would put it second after 1290R in my list, but would not want to own one, too sportibikey (=unusable on our roads) for me.
Did not have a chance to ride the latest Tuono, rode RSV4 and Tuono 1100 a couple of years back.
I understand the excitement, but given choice I take 1290R (Gen.3 forward, did not have experience on Gen.1 or Gen.2, and according to what one can read, Gen.3 is markedly different bike compared to previous Gens).
That is all good to hear and I have to say that my choice is down to the Triumph 1050R and KTM 1290. The only small downside is that the budget doesn't stretch to a gen 3 SDR, but I have seen a couple of low mileage gen 2's about for just in budget. From what I have heard and read,the gen 3 is a more forward/sportsbike feel riding position whereas the gen 1&2 are more upright. I know that the gen 3 is also a much revised bike in other areas too. I have extensive experience with Gen.3 1290R, with and without passenger.
Also, I am current owner of 1050RS.
IMHO, 1290R is the most fun supernaked around, even at low speed if you open up the taps it goes brrap and jumps forward, it is addictive, Streetfighter does not do that, for instance, too much sportsbike genes in it. That low-rpm torque is fun and you do not need to break speed limits to have some fun on 1290R.
1290R is also sizable, if you are taller your knees will thank you, 1050RS is noticeably more cramped.
Despite the size, the handling is razor sharp, going from 1050RS it is noticeable that 1290R is easier to put into corners, it is a more modern bike in that respect. That said, it does not mean 1050RS with its Ohlins does not handle, it is precise and steady in the corners, just not as willing to drop into them as 1290R.
1290R is not buzzy above 2000 rpm (unless you are in 5th or 6th gear, but why would you ride at low rpm in high gear?), this bike converted me to twins, yes, 1200 Monster is pretty smooth as well, personally I think 1290R is more exciting.
I transported my gf to work through slow city traffic on 1290R, I was comfortable, she was comfortable, and the bike behaved exemplary, for me it was an eye-opener, I did not expect a 2-pot to be so friendly.
Because it is 2-cylinder the quickshifts are not as smooth as, say, on my GSXR1000R, but quickshifter works like clockwork and that is what counts.
Instrumentation is great, I wish it had lean angle indicator a-la-BMW.
I am big fan of 1290R, and now in Gen.4 they come with orange wheels, looks so desirable.
I keep my 1050RS for now, even though I was tempted to change to 1290R.
1050RS is a great bike in its own right.
It is torquey as well (119nm @ 7000, something like that), sounds good, looks great.
Gearbox works great, quickshifter is so-so, it is a known problem with that bike.
One thing important to me - cleaning and lubricating the chain, much easier on 1050RS, on 1290R the chain goes through the swing-arm and very little of the chain is exposed.
1050RS is a bit more cramped than 1290R, it is not as "darty" or as sharp in the corners as 1290R, and I do not think pillion would be as comfy on 1050RS as on a bigger 1290R.
1050RS is a more relaxed, in terms of engine behavior and handling, ride, it does not cajole you into huliganism as 1290R does, a gentlemanly ride, so to speak, but in no respect is it a Rocket/HD/Bobber, it is still a curve chaser, just of an older type.
As far as 890R is concerned, it looks like a toy, it feels like a toy, it is an exciting ride, when you chase corners, or maybe as quick transportation through city traffic, it is light and easy to maneuver.
On longer rides, on more relaxed rides, on trips, 1290R beats it hands down.
I rode 1290R, 1200RS, 1050RS, S1000R, 890R on the same swiss mountain roads back-to-back and 1290R impressed me the most by far.
Neither 1200RS (had instrumentation faults as well) nor the S1000R (but it has the best instrumentation of them all) did it for me.
1050RS is and feels previous generation when you ride it back-to-back with current machinery.
890R is a fun bike but would not be my only bike.
I rode Streetfighter S and MT10 back-to-back, MT10 is not my cup of tea, Streetfigher S is great, would put it second after 1290R in my list, but would not want to own one, too sportibikey (=unusable on our roads) for me.
Did not have a chance to ride the latest Tuono, rode RSV4 and Tuono 1100 a couple of years back.
I understand the excitement, but given choice I take 1290R (Gen.3 forward, did not have experience on Gen.1 or Gen.2, and according to what one can read, Gen.3 is markedly different bike compared to previous Gens).
Edited by Ho Lee Kau on Sunday 10th July 07:44
Gixer968CS said:
I have a Monster 1200R which is a completely different animal and a thing of beauty. Began production in 2016 and stopped in 2019 (I think). They have c12bhp (162bhp) more than the 1200S but it feels a lot more (I had a 1200S as a courtesy bike and it was very flat in comparison). The R has Panagale wheels, and footpegs, is 20mm taller (for more lean angle), carbon fender and what makes it look most different is that it has a different seat unit with a much smaller/narrower pillion seat which really changes the looks of the bike. It comes with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsas and lots of trick bits the other Monsters don't have - including that paint job!! It looks much leaner in comparison
I rode a KTM1290SDR when I was choosing and whilst it has more power I didn't notice. And on the Monster it is way more accessible. The KTM is quite revvy and whilst the Ducati is too it feels like it has more torque as the power comes in at lower revs. It's a real hoot, unlike the vast majority of Monsters. Also, I found the KTM very buzzy and the seat VERY hard. I think you can get a Monster 1200R for under £9k or maybe less so if it's in your budget don't rule it it. It's an awesome thing:
Monster has Panigale base model wheels from memory, not forged just to be accurate.I rode a KTM1290SDR when I was choosing and whilst it has more power I didn't notice. And on the Monster it is way more accessible. The KTM is quite revvy and whilst the Ducati is too it feels like it has more torque as the power comes in at lower revs. It's a real hoot, unlike the vast majority of Monsters. Also, I found the KTM very buzzy and the seat VERY hard. I think you can get a Monster 1200R for under £9k or maybe less so if it's in your budget don't rule it it. It's an awesome thing:
The KTM has 140nm torque accessible from around 4K how you though you had to rev it is beyond me, and I've owned plenty of Ducati's and still do.
Ho Lee Kau said:
There is no "or" for 1290R, it is in a class of its own, a supernaked built from ground up, not a converted sportsbike a-la-Tuono/Streetfighter
I have extensive experience with Gen.3 1290R, with and without passenger.
Also, I am current owner of 1050RS.
IMHO, 1290R is the most fun supernaked around, even at low speed if you open up the taps it goes brrap and jumps forward, it is addictive, Streetfighter does not do that, for instance, too much sportsbike genes in it. That low-rpm torque is fun and you do not need to break speed limits to have some fun on 1290R.
1290R is also sizable, if you are taller your knees will thank you, 1050RS is noticeably more cramped.
Despite the size, the handling is razor sharp, going from 1050RS it is noticeable that 1290R is easier to put into corners, it is a more modern bike in that respect. That said, it does not mean 1050RS with its Ohlins does not handle, it is precise and steady in the corners, just not as willing to drop into them as 1290R.
1290R is not buzzy above 2000 rpm (unless you are in 5th or 6th gear, but why would you ride at low rpm in high gear?), this bike converted me to twins, yes, 1200 Monster is pretty smooth as well, personally I think 1290R is more exciting.
I transported my gf to work through slow city traffic on 1290R, I was comfortable, she was comfortable, and the bike behaved exemplary, for me it was an eye-opener, I did not expect a 2-pot to be so friendly.
Because it is 2-cylinder the quickshifts are not as smooth as, say, on my GSXR1000R, but quickshifter works like clockwork and that is what counts.
Instrumentation is great, I wish it had lean angle indicator a-la-BMW.
I am big fan of 1290R, and now in Gen.4 they come with orange wheels, looks so desirable.
I keep my 1050RS for now, even though I was tempted to change to 1290R.
1050RS is a great bike in its own right.
It is torquey as well (119nm @ 7000, something like that), sounds good, looks great.
Gearbox works great, quickshifter is so-so, it is a known problem with that bike.
One thing important to me - cleaning and lubricating the chain, much easier on 1050RS, on 1290R the chain goes through the swing-arm and very little of the chain is exposed.
1050RS is a bit more cramped than 1290R, it is not as "darty" or as sharp in the corners as 1290R, and I do not think pillion would be as comfy on 1050RS as on a bigger 1290R.
1050RS is a more relaxed, in terms of engine behavior and handling, ride, it does not cajole you into huliganism as 1290R does, a gentlemanly ride, so to speak, but in no respect is it a Rocket/HD/Bobber, it is still a curve chaser, just of an older type.
As far as 890R is concerned, it looks like a toy, it feels like a toy, it is an exciting ride, when you chase corners, or maybe as quick transportation through city traffic, it is light and easy to maneuver.
On longer rides, on more relaxed rides, on trips, 1290R beats it hands down.
I rode 1290R, 1200RS, 1050RS, S1000R, 890R on the same swiss mountain roads back-to-back and 1290R impressed me the most by far.
Neither 1200RS (had instrumentation faults as well) nor the S1000R (but it has the best instrumentation of them all) did it for me.
1050RS is and feels previous generation when you ride it back-to-back with current machinery.
890R is a fun bike but would not be my only bike.
I rode Streetfighter S and MT10 back-to-back, MT10 is not my cup of tea, Streetfigher S is great, would put it second after 1290R in my list, but would not want to own one, too sportibikey (=unusable on our roads) for me.
Did not have a chance to ride the latest Tuono, rode RSV4 and Tuono 1100 a couple of years back.
I understand the excitement, but given choice I take 1290R (Gen.3 forward, did not have experience on Gen.1 or Gen.2, and according to what one can read, Gen.3 is markedly different bike compared to previous Gens).
Small correction, the current KTM is the Gen3, of which there have been 3 distinct variants, the latest 2022 spec being the evo with active suspension, but you can also buy they base model which is the exact same bike without the active suspension (same as the original 2020 version). The middle one was the RR which was a limited 500 production run back in 2021.I have extensive experience with Gen.3 1290R, with and without passenger.
Also, I am current owner of 1050RS.
IMHO, 1290R is the most fun supernaked around, even at low speed if you open up the taps it goes brrap and jumps forward, it is addictive, Streetfighter does not do that, for instance, too much sportsbike genes in it. That low-rpm torque is fun and you do not need to break speed limits to have some fun on 1290R.
1290R is also sizable, if you are taller your knees will thank you, 1050RS is noticeably more cramped.
Despite the size, the handling is razor sharp, going from 1050RS it is noticeable that 1290R is easier to put into corners, it is a more modern bike in that respect. That said, it does not mean 1050RS with its Ohlins does not handle, it is precise and steady in the corners, just not as willing to drop into them as 1290R.
1290R is not buzzy above 2000 rpm (unless you are in 5th or 6th gear, but why would you ride at low rpm in high gear?), this bike converted me to twins, yes, 1200 Monster is pretty smooth as well, personally I think 1290R is more exciting.
I transported my gf to work through slow city traffic on 1290R, I was comfortable, she was comfortable, and the bike behaved exemplary, for me it was an eye-opener, I did not expect a 2-pot to be so friendly.
Because it is 2-cylinder the quickshifts are not as smooth as, say, on my GSXR1000R, but quickshifter works like clockwork and that is what counts.
Instrumentation is great, I wish it had lean angle indicator a-la-BMW.
I am big fan of 1290R, and now in Gen.4 they come with orange wheels, looks so desirable.
I keep my 1050RS for now, even though I was tempted to change to 1290R.
1050RS is a great bike in its own right.
It is torquey as well (119nm @ 7000, something like that), sounds good, looks great.
Gearbox works great, quickshifter is so-so, it is a known problem with that bike.
One thing important to me - cleaning and lubricating the chain, much easier on 1050RS, on 1290R the chain goes through the swing-arm and very little of the chain is exposed.
1050RS is a bit more cramped than 1290R, it is not as "darty" or as sharp in the corners as 1290R, and I do not think pillion would be as comfy on 1050RS as on a bigger 1290R.
1050RS is a more relaxed, in terms of engine behavior and handling, ride, it does not cajole you into huliganism as 1290R does, a gentlemanly ride, so to speak, but in no respect is it a Rocket/HD/Bobber, it is still a curve chaser, just of an older type.
As far as 890R is concerned, it looks like a toy, it feels like a toy, it is an exciting ride, when you chase corners, or maybe as quick transportation through city traffic, it is light and easy to maneuver.
On longer rides, on more relaxed rides, on trips, 1290R beats it hands down.
I rode 1290R, 1200RS, 1050RS, S1000R, 890R on the same swiss mountain roads back-to-back and 1290R impressed me the most by far.
Neither 1200RS (had instrumentation faults as well) nor the S1000R (but it has the best instrumentation of them all) did it for me.
1050RS is and feels previous generation when you ride it back-to-back with current machinery.
890R is a fun bike but would not be my only bike.
I rode Streetfighter S and MT10 back-to-back, MT10 is not my cup of tea, Streetfigher S is great, would put it second after 1290R in my list, but would not want to own one, too sportibikey (=unusable on our roads) for me.
Did not have a chance to ride the latest Tuono, rode RSV4 and Tuono 1100 a couple of years back.
I understand the excitement, but given choice I take 1290R (Gen.3 forward, did not have experience on Gen.1 or Gen.2, and according to what one can read, Gen.3 is markedly different bike compared to previous Gens).
Edited by Ho Lee Kau on Sunday 10th July 07:44
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