When we competed in Pikes Peak in 2017, we realized our biggest rivals were the KTM Superdukes, particularly in terms of power. A slightly modified KTM Superduke could exceed 180 HP, while our XR1R was at 150 HP. This significant power difference led us to consider a new approach.
We thought about using a KTM Superduke as the base to build our ultimate weapon for winning Pikes Peak. The idea was to take a Superduke and reduce its weight as much as possible.
Our approach to the chassis involved a dual-material design: the front would be a tubular structure, with a special steering head allowing for precise geometrical adjustments, while the rear would be constructed from carbon fiber, balancing strength with lightness.
For the rest of the bike, we would apply the same techniques we used in the XR1R: carbon fiber Rotobox wheels, Ceracarbon carbon fiber fork, titanium axles and bolts, ultra-light Bottpower triple trees, titanium and carbon exhaust, a carbon fiber subframe, etc.
We also thought about engineering a titanium gas tank, employing a method similar to that which Honda successfully used on the 2006 CRF450R.
Moreover, if we made our chassis compatible with the original KTM chassis, it would allow us to create a kit for KTM Superduke owners, that would allow them to transform their bikes into an XK1 (our project name) without changing the chassis, thus maintaining the bike’s homologation.
However, in 2018, while developing this idea, we had the opportunity to collaborate with Yamaha Europe in their Yard Build program. This led to the creation of the XR9 Carbona, diverting our attention from the initial KTM Superduke-based project.
Unfortunately, 2019 was the last year motorcycles competed in Pikes Peak. That year, the race was marked by the tragic death of rider Carlin Dunne on a Ducati Streetfighter V4 Prototype. With no option to compete in Pikes Peak again, our KTM Superduke-based project never saw the light.
What do you think of this idea? Do you think it would have resulted in an interesting bike?
Yes for sure.Even if the original destination of the project is no longer valid it may interest a lot of people, it’s a superb project to make a street killer monster , Or a fantastic hill-climb racing motorcycle since it’s its DNA.
Hello Jacques, thank you for the support! It’s encouraging to know that the project’s original vision still holds appeal. 😊
That’s exciting! Can only imagine what power-to-weight ratio you were after..! 😉
I don’t have the numbers in my head, but you can be sure that the bike would have had a great power-to-weight ratio! 😊
I do agree with Jacques.
It is always interesting to read about the different projects at Bottpower, and the details about them (ktm being best at Piles peak, the opportunity with yamaha, etc).
I don’t know all the considerations, but I would love to see this bike happening.
Which model/size of Super Duke would be the donor bike?
Cheers
Hi Eduardo, thank you for your comment. I am glad that you like the idea.
The donor bike was the KTM Superduke 1290 R.
Hi David,
Never new about this project. to mark up with KTM would truly be such a great way to go. I’m saddened to hear that bikes can go longer compete in the Pike’s Peak challenge. A true shame.
However, producing a kit like you did for Buells is a sensational idea and prospect. Perhaps find another competition to enter such a project and see what comes from it.
I’m very confident that you’d have even more interest than the XR1 etc.
Given the shared Chassis, you’d peak the interest of Husqvarna riders too.
Food for thought ✨👍
Hi Rigo, thank you for your comment.
I am glad that you like the project idea, but there are many things to consider and right now we have other projects going on. But never say never, we will see what happens in the future! 😊
what can you offer for a 2023 KTM 890 DUKE R?
Hello Iain, I am sorry but we do not have any product for the 2023 KTM 890 DUKE R.
Being a past 1290R owner, I can only imagine the wicked machine that would have been.
What are your thoughts on the Indian FTR1200? Any potential in your eyes?
Hi Jim, thank you for your comment!
The Indian is a really cool bike, but we have no plans to work with it. Right now, we are focused on the Morlaco 2 with a two-valve air-cooled Ducati engine (our latest post is about this project).