It always puzzles me why some get a bike, say they hate it because of the handling so trade it in losing thousands on that bike and paying thousands more for the new one I wonder if a better spend when it comes to suspension, given most bikes leave the factory for one weights/size of person, is a visit to a suspension guru who would set it up for you and not for much cash. Just an example https://www.ducatiforum.co.uk/threads/£40-00-ohlins.55800/
I think the problem is the GT’s electronic suspension is not easy to fettle with. I’m a sucker for the latest and greatest bike tech, but electronic suspension doesn’t really interest me, seems you can get more from the normal stuff.
Their usual WP suspension is top notch stuff. Still amazes me an austrian company can go and call their company White Power Last guy with those views from Austria ended up quite famous
^^^ @ noobie, believe me I checked with a few companies reference suspension rebuilds. Nobody would touch it because of the electronic suspension and sensors. After a lot of research on KTM forums it was obvious that others had suspension issues also.The standard Superduke has a race cartridge kit available, but it doesnt fit therefore not an upgrade option. One weird thing is that the ride did get a little bit plusher (not much) after around 2k, again same findings for some other users. But it wasnt a resolution. For me though there were other issues to do with previous shoulder injuries and problems only arose after several days riding. The writing was on the wall for huge depreciation so struck an excellent deal on a pre reg Rallye sport, just in time, before KTM values take a huge hit tbh. The right decision for me, as even with fettling the discomfort would have remained.
I've ridden the GT and Super Duke R back to back and was left unimpressed with the GT. I found the seat uncomfortable (the edges felt sharp after a while) and the suspension unsettled. Overall, the SDR was more comfortable and composed on all roads and speeds. All the SDR lacked was the rider/wind protection of the GT (but it made up for it in style ). Much as I like the KTM engine, it was nice to get back on my Multistrada.
The semi-active suspension is properly sorted on the new 1290 Super Adventures. I would guess that's why KTM are rehashing the GT, to bring it up to the SA standards. Anyone hankering for a KTM 1290 alternative to the Multi should try the 1290 S. I took a 1200 GS for an extended test ride earlier this year. I had an 1190 Adv as courtesy bike for the day while my Superduke was in for servicing and I rode the GS back to back. I ended up selling my SMT and buying the 1190. The GS was more comfortable and had a quality feel. I completely get why they're such big sellers, buy the 1190 was faster. A lot. End of. Especially the top-end which is giggly-silly. I enjoyed the GS but the delinquent in me was itching to get back on the 1190. Different strokes for different folks.
New 2018 model shown here. No mention of serious upgrade, just a colour restyle. http://ktm.laguna.co.uk/ktm/new-ktm/bikes/sports-tourer.htm 5K off? - can't go wrong I reckon. If it's not to one's personal liking you'd get full money back selling privately come Summer time when all RRP's are back up to 16K.
There was a piece on the 2018 GT in yesterday's MCN. Few details but some obvious style changes, electronic and QS upgrades from the '17 Super Duke and some unspecified engine internal work suggested by changes to some of the engine casings. No mention of suspension but I be surprised if they haven't adapted the semi-active system from the 1290 Adv for the GT. It receives unfailingly good reviews and the GT's system does not, so why wouldn't they? Unless they're loathe to admit that the current GT has less than perfect suspension until they've shifted the last of them...
Was never keen on the multi beak either but at least that was an improvement on the old fugleystrada. These touring designers must love a beak.
It looks like they’ve just stuck the SuperDuke light on. I don’t mind it but it does look a little retrofit, the old headlight was designed specifically for the GT. If it’s any consolation, the SuperDuke headlight turns night into day.
The new one does, the old one doesn't... Those who can't get their heads around KTM's preying mantis split headlight should, I'm told, ride one at night. Lights after all are not for looking at, they're for seeing with. I know we like form but its bloody nice to have a bit of function now and again as well. I'd enjoy riding at night. I heartily like my otherwise fabulous 1190 to have something better than a guttering candle to light the way. The Adv S has cornering lights built into the headlight instead of in the fairing. Surely that's the way to go for the GT as well? As for beaks, I guess its all about aerodynamics. All these modern beaky bikes are remarkably good - even the nakeds - considering the sort of speeds they can sustain.
My dad was told that the shape and the split on his SuperDuke R headlight is to do with cooling. It’s so compact they had to cool it another way.
I actually like the praying mantis look. Function is king. Somehow it also does a surprisingly good job of reducing wind buffer.
I like it too. Didn't at first but it grew on me. At least, I didn't like the new 1290 Adv headlight at first, the smaller, angrier Superduke version looked good from the start. Agree on the aerodynamics. I thought the Streetfighter was good aerodynamically for a naked. And it is. But the Superduke (2016 mk1 in my case) is even better and its got a more upright riding position. The Streetfighter makes my neck and shoulders ache after a while at sustained three figure speeds. The Superduke doesn't. I could do it all day. Amazing really. If it takes an evil insect headlight to do this then bring on the insects. If I could see where I'm going at night as well I'd be really happy.
Like him or not, this review is insightful and he is bang on the money about an extended ride and improved gearbox. The bike is the Adventure, so bigger than standard GS. Bigger tank, more suspension travel, weight, gubins... but its essentially the same running gear and chassis as the 'normal' size GS that most folks would be happier with.
I like the look of the new GS, although I think it’s a very different proposition to the GT. Having never ridden the GT, I’m basing that on the GT being a slightly adapted SuperDuke, which is essentially a comfy/naked Superbike.
