KTM and Brabus tie-up to build the Brabus 1300 R

Christopher Chaves Updated: February 12, 2022, 09:29 PM IST

The beautiful behemoth you see in the photos here, the Brabus 1300 R, is the result of German performance tuning outfit Brabus working its magic on the KTM 1290 Super Duke EVO.

Since 1977, the BRABUS name has been synonymous with luxury, handcrafted exclusivity, and performance. Known globally among enthusiasts for the creation of high-performance supercars and as automotive customisation experts for over four decades, Brabus has since also established itself in the marine sector through its series of exclusive day boats. Now, the company is expanding once again - broadening its focus towards high-end motorcycling in collaboration with KTM. All we can say is, you go Brabus! Expand away, right?

The Brabus 1300 is basically a KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo that's been given Brabus' bespoke handcrafted treatment. Key ingredients of the burly Brabus 1300s mix are its high-end carbon body elements like the air ducts that flank both sides of the fuel tank which lend the bike some brawn, those stunning forged Monoblock Z wheels, the stylish custom-made seat – which can be heated, and the sweet double exhaust cans among other nice machined bits all over the bike. Also, the instrument cluster has lifted from the 1290 Super Duke Rs parts bin.

The 1300 R houses the same 1,301cc, V-twin engine as the KTM 1290 Super Duke R which puts down 180PS and 140Nm. It comes mated to a six-speed transmission and employs a slipper clutch. The Brabus 1300 also gets the latest WP APEX semi-active suspension which comes with six dedicated damping modes - Comfort, Street, Sport, Track, Advanced - or an Auto mode that automatically adapts to road and riding conditions.

The Brabus 1300 R can be had in two distinct colour options – Magma Red and Signature Black. Only 77 of each colour will go into production, with 77 signifying the year in which the company (Brabus) was formed.

KTM will be open to taking pre-orders for the Brabus 1300 R through its website from on February 14.