KTM is working hard to amp up its motorcycle lineup for 2023. We’ve already spotted the upcoming KTM 990 Duke a few times and now, spy shots of what looks like an updated 1290 Super Duke have surfaced online.

2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke Spotted - What Are The Changes?

Spotted in KTM’s very own backyard, Austria, the bikemaker is mainly focusing on the 1290 Super Duke’s styling for 2023.

The test mule seen here boasts plenty of design updates, starting with its front fascia. Gone is the brawny but bulky vertically split headlight and in comes a new vertically stacked twin projector setup, similar to what we saw on the 990 Duke’s test mule, and yes, similar to the Suzuki GSX-S1000.} Also, the indicators have become sleeker LED units and now sit under the TFT instrument cluster rather than being part of the headlight assembly.

The headlight unit appears to be miles away from the final product though, lacking KTM’s signature boomerang-shaped LEDs that will surely be present on the panels surrounding the projectors.

This new setup will not only make the bike look sleeker, but it also leaves some scope (read space) if KTM wants to plonk a radar-system upfront which, by the way, is already present on the 1290 Super Adventure S. }

Emphasizing the new fascia are the revised body panels. These panels extend further than the ongoing model and appear to run parallel to the USD forks. In addition, the test mule also packs chunky radiator shrouds overrunning the front wheel, which gives the bike a front-heavy look.

2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke Spotted - What’s Unchanged?

Apart from the aesthetics, the mechanical elements - engine, suspension, brakes, alloys, and chassis - all appear unchanged for the most part which makes sense as the bike’s already pretty loaded with top-spec stuff.

The only notable change here appears to be the aluminum engine cases which hints at internal changes, possibly to the tune. However, don’t expect any monumental power gains.

2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke Expected Launch Date

*2022 model shown

Since this isn’t an overhaul and focuses more on the aesthetics of the motorcycle, expect the MY23 1290 Super Duke to be officially unveiled by the end of this year.

Till then, hang tight because we expect more KTM models to undergo a similar design change, especially considering KTM nakeds have always shared similar designs.

Image Credits: Cycle World