Naturally, 173hp and 144Nm of the most muscular V-twin sports-touring engine around takes some guidance, and the highly intelligent lean-sensitive MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control) system reacts millisecond by millisecond to control slip levels for active safety and ultimate riding pleasure.

Riders can choose their traction level by selecting from modes including ‘street’, ‘rain’ and ‘sport’, while particularly ambitious riders can even turn the traction control off.

With the throttle closed, the most advanced braking system on the market – the Motorcycle Stability Control (with C-ABS) system with lean-angle sensitive cornering ABS – has your back. Nothing brakes more progressively or safely, even at extreme lean angles, and this combined system can not only be switched off, but also placed in ‘Supermoto’ mode, for the right environment.

The optionally available MSR (Motor Slip Regulation) intervenes if engine braking is too high. Safety first, but riding pleasure a very close second at KTM.

Speaking of riding pleasure, KTM’s SCU (Suspension Control Unit) reads the vehicle load, matching suspension to rider and pannier weight, and adapts damping rates in real-time to the rider and riding surface and based on information from stroke sensors and accelerometers. The semi-active WP suspension provides three spectrums: ‘Comfort’, ‘Street’ and ‘Sport’.

No stone is left unturned in the quest for ultimate comfort; with heated grips, cruise control and an easily and widely adjustable windshield keeping you and your ultimate travel partner comfortable for as far as this long-distance V-twin rocket’s 23-litre tank will carry you.

With speed, comfort and refinement, KTM’s 1290 Super Duke GT is the ultimate blend of orange passion and engineering, and to celebrate, we’re offering a free set of Genuine KTM panniers for the same great price of $26,995 + ORC.

But be like a Super Duke GT, and move fast – this offer is available for a limited time.

For more information on the KTM Super Duke GT visit www.ktm.com.au.