Top 100 Motorcycles last10 year: 6 - KTM Super Duke 990

Top 100 Motorcycles last10 year: 6 - KTM Super Duke 990

6 - KTM Super Duke 990 year 2005

Engine

To call the KTM Super Duke's 999cc, DOHC V-twin a mere ‘motor’ is a bit like saying atomic warfare is bad for the flowers. Twisting the throttle unleashes such incredible accelerative forces on the KTM 990 Super Duke it’s possible to give yourself wrinkles over your body. The fuel economy is laughable, often 80 miles to reserve, but frankly you’ll be enjoying yourself too much to care.

Handling

Staggeringly responsive. You just need to glance at a corner on the KTM 990 Super Duke and BANG! you’re there. The WP suspension is spot-on, with plenty of feedback through the wide bars. The four-piston Brembo brakes are superb and never seem to lose their ferocious bite. Even the little nose fairing on the Super Duke works well over distances. Forget pillions, though, and bigger riders might struggle to fit the KTM Super Duke.

Equipment

The KTM ‘Hard Parts’ catalogue is packed with extras for the KTM 990 Super Duke like Akrapovic race exhausts, crash bobbins, luggage and carbon-fibre bodywork.

Reliability

KTM built their reputation on well-engineered, high-specification off-road machines and those enduring qualities shine through on the KTM 990 Super Duke. It will run and run.

Specifications

Top speed        151mph

1/4-mile acceleration     11.4 secs

Power 120bhp

Torque             73ftlb

Weight             179kg

Seat height        820mm

Fuel capacity    17.5 litres

Average fuel consumption         34mpg

Tank range       130 miles

Insurance group            15

Engine size        999cc

Engine specification       8v V-twin, 6 gears

Frame Aluminium trellis

Front suspension adjustment     Preload, rebound compression

Rear suspension adjustment      Preload, rebound, compression

Front brakes     Twin 320mm discs

Rear brake       240mm disc

Front tyre size   120/70 x 17

Rear tyre size    180/55 x 17