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How does the KTM 1390 Super Duke R sound relative to other naked bikes?

by @geeta.autosover 1 year ago0 views7 answers
For many enthusiasts, the sound of a motorcycle is a part of the riding experience. With a large displacement V-twin engine, the KTM 1390 Super Duke R has a distinctive exhaust note that is different from the inline-four-powered competition. The stock exhaust system is regulated to strict noise regulations and sometimes quiets the bike's true vocal potential. Of course, many riders will fit aftermarket exhaust systems to make the bike sound better, but this can be illegal and degrade the bike's character. Opinions are all over the place on whether the Super Duke's sound is raw and aggressive, more or less appealing than the high-pitched scream of an inline four or the rumble of a larger V-twin. Moreover, the popularization that some motorcycles have experienced with electronic sound enhancement further complicates the subject and debate on what an authentic motorcycle sound is or should be.
KTM 1390 Super Duke R
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Comments (7)

@abhinit-kuover 1 year ago
The sound of the 1390's is good, but I still think the Ducati V4 is the cake in the naked bike category. It sounds like that thing is a MotoGP bike.
@richa-mittover 1 year ago
Not a popular opinion, but I think the stock exhaust sounds fine. For every bike that sets off car alarms, there are plenty that don’t need to.
@prem-shankover 1 year ago
One thing I love about the 1390 is that it sounds different than the majority of other bikes out there. With a good exhaust setup, it's got character.
@harish-kumover 1 year ago
I don't like the stock exhaust; it is too quiet. It’s like KTM put a muzzle on a lion. If you want to hear its true voice, aftermarket is the way to go.
@sachin-shaover 1 year ago
There is nothing like the sound of a big V-twin. The 1390 is a perfect mix of low-end rumble and top-end howl. It's music to my ears.
@sucheta-kuover 1 year ago
I actually like the sound of inline fours like the BMW M 1000 R. It sounds good on the 1390, but it doesn't have that spine-tingling scream at high RPMs.
@sana-ifranover 1 year ago
Stock exhaust isn't bad for the 1390, but put an Akrapovic on, and it's a different animal. It is intoxicating, that V-twin growl.
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