KTM 1290 GT 2020

I traded the 1200 VFR a year or so ago for a KTM GT. Similar idea, but different take.  The KTM has roughly the same HP, but 100lbs lighter, much more torque.  I always loved the engine on the VFR it was a monster, I could pass a slow mover on a 2 lane road without even having to downshift, and be around them in mere seconds.  The KTM is even more torque and it wizzes by rather quickly too.  

I was a bit tired of the VFR because I had this constant elbow pain, something about the ergos put a strain on my elbow, and my knees would be wrecked after a half a day of spirited riding.  The KTM has a much more upright riding postion, which in itself has a whole different set of trade offs.  Taller seat height, which I remedied with a set of lowering springs, stiffer and it dropped the KTM 20mm.  Wow what a difference that made.

I really like all the doo dads too, semi active suspension.  I would describe the suspension settings as Comfort - wallow, Street - not quite, Sport - Bumpy as F**K.  The new springs really improved that too, its dialed in now.  I had an Ohlins shock on the 1200 that I kept for 12 years and had rebuilt 3 times, and Andretti front cassettes and springs, it was about as good as it gets, but I never could get the front end just right, but it worked ok fully adjustable one fork was rebound the other was compression - and old racer solution from way back in the day.  I sold it because I just cant do that bent over knee wrenching riding style anymore.

So far I am happy with the KTM, I put 80,000 miles on the Veefalo, so far I havent even scratched the surface on the KTM. 6k maybe now?

I am getting ready to put on new sprockets and chain, new tires, oil and filter, and then a valve adjustment. Some weird KTM required cleaning, a strange oil port you have to clean to get smooth shifts, its got a little removable oil jet you have to clean every few thousand miles. 

Here is a you tube vid of me an 3 guys in tow doing one of my favorite local rides to Bishops Castle in southern Colorado, make sure to crank up the quality..Youtube always puts it in the lowest setting???

Nice write-up, HS! 👍

I've always wanted one of the original Super Duke 990's from the mid-2000s.  Never could afford one back in the day, but older ones are cheap now.  But I already have a naked bike somewhat similar to the SD, even if it's not as sporty as a Duke, so that KTM will just have to remain one of my dream bikes.

Thanks for the quick review Miguel, it answered some questions for me.

After seven years on my (red) 7th gen I decided to replace it despite that incredible motor, and equally incredible brakes. But 600lbs and primitive electronics, in addition to the ergos, got me looking elsewhere. Bought it first year 2010, sold it 2017. The choice was the Multistrada or the SD GT. I also wanted those doo dads. Kinda flipped a coin but ended up getting the MS. I'm very happy with my choice, but oh, the road not taken...

And thanks for the vid. And for keeping VFRD roaring along.