I want something like the GS but with more grunt I'm hoping the KTM will be the one.It still good to go out on the ZZR now and again though to remind me what acceleration feels like.
It should fit the bill, a lot more power (without a shaft drive to sap even more) and a fair bit less weight, the new 1290's have a shade more top end and a fair bit more low down so should be even better suited to touring.
They don't have that relentless shove above 100mph of ZZR, but are about the same 0-60 and only a smidge behind up to 100, then the extra 40bhp and slippery bodywork of the ZZR will see it pulling away with ease.
When being driven around in the mid range the twin cylinder torque and the bikes lower gearing mean it is very nippy, possibly matching (maybe beating) the ZZR in a top gear roll on from 60mph. The LC GS has a slight advantage below 4,000rpm over my old 1190, but after that the KTM overtakes and pull away with ease - and an extra 1500 rpm of screaming top end over the GS.
I would take the KTM over the ZZR for making fast progress on twisty back roads / Alpine passes solo or two-up, as well as for mile munching across Europe, the only other bike that might be of interest is the Ducati MTS.
See if you can get a long test ride on the KTM, resist the temptation to rag it to see how it goes when the Mrs is on the back, I can assure you it will be quick enough, so try and win the Mrs over with smooth riding instead - and try and get the dealer to throw on some Ergo seats - although the new models might be better than the old ones for comfort - but I doubt it, if they make it too comfy nobody will buy the Ergo Seats.
