KTM 1290 Super Duke R | DOIN’ TIME

WRIST: Zack Courts
MSRP (2014): $16,999
MILES: 5,770
MPG: 35
MODS: Motion Pro helmet lock

So far, KTM’s flagship Duke has been thoroughly pleasing to have around. And, in thinking about it, that actually says a lot. When we compared the Aprilia Tuono V4R and MV Agusta Brutale 1090 last year, the upshot was, “I can’t believe they sell these things to people.” But the Super Duke is different. It is extremely tame as long as you treat it that way, happy to chug around as though it has nowhere to be. Combine that with a comfy seat, mirrors that work, and a 180-mile fuel range, and you’ve got a genuinely useable bike. It’s easy to forget what a vicious creature lurks within. It continues to impress.

To get a little more bark from this glorious motor, I have an exhaust on order. I don’t want it to be loud, but it deserves some personality. I also have pads coming for the front brakes, which I’ll combine with a good cleaning of the rotors in the hope of getting away from the dragging I’m experiencing now.

A few months back I ran this aftermarket Motion Pro Helmet Lock ( motionpro.com; $35) in Gear. We received a letter from a reader implying that helmet locks that go through the helmet's D-ring instead of around the chin bar are "useless." I agree that it's not as comprehensive as a lock through the chinbar, but I like the idea of a convenient helmet-lock solution. This is my daily vehicle, after all. Plus, I also occasionally (don't tell mom) wear open-face helmets. This system attaches to the bike via a hose-clamp-style loop with foam-rubber padding and, once installed, covers the screw mechanism for added security. Tidy and universal. So I'm putting my helmet where my lock is, and we'll see how many lids get stolen!