KTM chooses Dunlop SportSmart2

The new KTM 1290 Super Duke R features Dunlop’s newest technologically advanced SportSmart2 fitted as original equipment.

The SportSmart2 was developed with KTM for the Super Duke R, designed to accentuate and optimise the rider experience. The SportSmart2 offers consumers a tyre that meets the high performance requirements of the Super Duke R in all aspects of the “Beast”. Dunlop has specifically worked on optimizing wet, dry and handling on track as well as focusing on the road needs of the rider by enhancing comfort, durability and high speed potential.

Specifically, wet performance is delivered by a tread pattern that maximises water evacuation with the front tyre having a ‘reverse V direction’ pattern to improve drainage. Dry performance is also enhanced due to liquid polymer and several grip resins which have been refined through Dunlop’s race experience. The new construction and compound benefits include riding stability at high speeds, high mileage capability, while even wear maintains handling performance, extends tyre life and reduces vibration.

Launched this week, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R is an ultra-sporty bike designed to provide a pure uncompromising ride. The muscle bike is KTM’s new flagship model with a chassis that is precise and manoeuvrable and, in KTM’s words, is the ‘hottest street-legal naked bike around’. Technology includes a liquid cooled 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, double-ignition engine with a 75°V arrangement which generates 180 horsepower and weighs just 189kg.