KTM Motorcycles 1290 Super Duke R | DOIN’ TIME

WRIST: Zack Courts
MSRP (2014): $16,999
MILES: 10,495
MPG: 36
MODS: Blaze Saddlebags
UPDATE: 7

In the interest of exploring the market I swapped out the 1290's factory KTM PowerParts saddlebags (see Doin' Time Update 4 here)for a set of Bags-Connection Blaze panniers from SW-Motech (twistedthrottle.com; $385). Capacity for the Blaze bags is 14 liters per side, expanding outward to a claimed 21 liters with a circumferential zipper (the KTM bags are 18 liters per side). Both sets include waterproof rain liners. The main draw is that the factory bags sell for $625, so the Blaze set is significantly cheaper—$240 will get you a nice helmet, jacket, or a set of boots and gloves.

Where the SW-Motech system differs most from the factory KTM setup is mounting. Rather than bolting to the subframe, the Blaze set uses 1290-specific hardware (3.2 pounds of it) to secure universal saddlebags to the Super Duke’s tail. They drape over the pillion, each held in place with a bar that attaches to the passenger footpegs and a buckle mounted in the same place. The result is a less-refined fit, and because the small cowls on the tailsection aren’t removed, the bags sit noticeably wider than the factory baskets. So much for the 1290’s tight glutes.

Even still, I will admit that a handful of my colleagues have commented that they like the way the Blaze setup looks. Functionally, I have only small complaints. Top loading is nice (as opposed to clamshell, like the KTM bags), but the long, narrow opening that unzips is smaller than some objects that will easily fit inside. Being ballistic nylon, deforming the opening to fit a jacket or grocery bag is easy enough, but it feels clumsy. Also, the flap connecting the two bags covers part of the pillion (annoying but not prohibitive), and the setup leaves less room around the passenger footpegs.

Bottom line: There’s no competing with the fitment of the PowerParts setup that was developed in-house at KTM. I love the way the KTM PowerParts bags fit and operate, but the orange trim bleached to pink within a few months of SoCal sunshine; color me disappointed. When it comes to finish, the folks at SW-Motech are on point. The expanding feature is great, and quality seems high. Even little things like the outer map pocket and reflective trim are nice bonuses. A two-year warranty suggests confidence in longevity, but only time will tell.