Released two seasons ago, KTM’s 990 Super Duke took places in the bare opposition. And for 2007 it is even better.

KTM hasn’t changed the basic structure of the bike much. It still has the same 999cc 75¡ V-twin engine, trellis frame, WP suspension and quirky looks, but in its first update since release, KTM has refined the Duke. The geometry is a bit slacker with a 0.4° head tube angle and the fuel injection has been tweaked, partly to cut emissions but also to smooth out power delivery. The fuel tank is bigger – yay! – from 15 liters to 18.5 – the bells are new and according to the trends, the brakes are now radial calipers.

Now “refined” is not a word generally associated with the Super Duke. KTM, by its own admission, does not target this bike at beginners or commuters. This is a weekend toy, secondary tool and even a trackday weapon. And as such, it’s just great.

On the twisting, twisting mountain roads of the Barcelona area, the KTM’s sporty chassis and engine proved to be electric. Jumping between second and third gears for mile after mile of pristine cornering really showed what this bike is capable of.

The geometry change didn’t affect the sporty handling, although it did eliminate some slack at high speeds. I honestly can’t think of any other bike that can match the Duke for sheer fun to ride. The WP chassis and suspension work together perfectly and when combined with the motor, the whole bike clicks and feels good.

The solution of fuel injection has transformed the engine. The first generation Dukes suffered from a few gremlins (which had to do with riders starting the engine before the engine diagnosis was done), but these have been completely eliminated. From the first throttle opening to the finish, the Duke’s fueling was perfect.

Like most twins, the Super Duke doesn’t feel fast, but don’t let that fool you. While it lacks the aggressiveness of Aprilia’s Tuono and the chatter of Ducati’s Monster, the KTM is just as fast, while also being much smoother and easier to ride.

Unsurprisingly, it’s a struggle to do any distance with the Duke. The front cover offers no wind protection and anything above 80 mph is hard work, but keep it below that and the new 130-mile fuel range is bearable thanks to the relaxed riding position.

The 2007 KTM 990 Super Duke takes the best elements of all other naked bikes and combines them in one exceptional package. Handling can be excellent on the road or track, the V-twin engine is beautiful to use, the whole bike looks aggressive and raw and it now has a decent mid-tank range. There really isn’t much to dislike about the KTM. The lack of wind protection limits daily use, but for short jumps and as a fun weekend toy it is really excellent.