Ktm Ups the V-Twin Ante
KTM UPS THE V-TWIN ANTE
Like Ducati, KTM is a modern European powerhouse that has risen from modest beginnings. For 2003, KTM will offer its first twin-cylinder streetbike, the 950 Adventure S “all-terrain roadster enduro.” This will be followed shortly thereafter by the 950 Duke. This is a hard-edged streetfighter, a Transformer robot on wheels. The low-mounted LC8 V-Twin crouches under a tall gas tank that attains Suzuki B-King altitude and bulk. Chassis is tubular steel and componentry is sportbike throughout, with Brembo front brake calipers and 320mm discs, adjustable WP suspension and an aluminum swingarm. Dry weight is a claimed 383 pounds. In Duke trim, the super-compact, liquid-cooled, 942cc LC8 engine will be tuned to produce 115 horsepower at 9500 rpm. Peak torque is said to be 69 foot-pounds at 7000 rpm. Look out, Multistrada...
-Kevin Cameron
