First Ride: 2010 KTM 690 Duke R

The updated model from Austrian manufacturer KTM was supposed to be debuted at the EICMA show this month in Milan, but MCN (UK) managed to get their hands on one for a test. This new version has increased horsepower and better mid-range power as well. This is, of course, the 'R' model of the standard Duke and it received serious suspension revision and neat, new graphics. Have a read and see if this middle-weight razor-sharp bike is in your future...

http://tinyurl.com/yf58sp2

Skip Barber Superbike School Review

Well, I am not sure if anyone would find fault with a racing school the quality of what Skip Barber offers, but this reviewer certainly enjoyed his time at the school. The school is sponsored by KTM and the KTM RC8, Super Dukes, and 690 Dukes are all offered for students to ride in the class. You can probably guess which bike the author chose. If you are interested, there is one more class this year - 5 - 6 December 2009 - and there are five dates schedules for 2010.

http://tinyurl.com/yhj348g