KTM 1290 Super Duke R based Husqvarna 1301 spotted testing

The Ducati Diavel may soon have a reason to sweat. Spotted testing is Husqvarna’s soon-to-be-launched power cruiser, the 1301. Based on the KTM 1290 Super Duke R, the test mule was snapped near the Austrian automaker’s headquarters and essentially seems to be a reworked or rather, reimagined rendition of the street-fighter.

Similarities include the main frame, upside down front forks, wheels, disc brakes, single-sided swingarm and importantly, the 1301cc engine too. Unlike the Super Duke R though, the number plate bracket sits on a tyre-hugger and the bike gets a plus-sized belly-pan as well, which could be a part of the camouflage. Compared to the KTM, the 1301 also has a different exhaust, a new single-piece tail light, new handlebars (possibly clip-ons) and the riding position does appear to be more aggressive.

Word isn’t out on what specifications we’ll see on the bike, but the LC8, twin-pot engine on the 1290 Super Duke R produces 173PS of power and 144 Nm of torque, while the motor tips the scales at just around 62kg. In the same state of tune, the power-cruiser will be able to look the Diavel in the eye, since the latter’s 1198cc engine makes 162PS and just over 130Nm of torque.

Whether or not, and how the engine is reworked, only time will tell, but the Husky does seem to be something of a conjunction between the Ducati and the Yamaha Vmax, given the Jap's output figures of 200PS of power and 167Nm of torque.

KTM is expected to make Husqvarna motorcycles through partner Bajaj’s facility in Chakan, Pune. Let’s hope this muscle machine is offered to us as well!

Images via: Visordown

Source: BikeDekho.com