Brabus 1400 R Signature Edition 2026 - Black is Beautiful

The rumors about the Brabus 1400 R sighting are quickly confirmed. The Signature Edition is based on the KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO and is considered the successor to the Brabus 1300 R. It is powered by the well-known LC8 V-Twin, now offering 1,350 cc of displacement. The power increases to 190 HP, with a maximum torque of 145 Nm compared to its predecessor.

The engine delivers its power to the rear wheel through a six-speed gearbox with a quickshifter, accentuating the sporty origins of the KTM foundation with its raw sound. According to Brabus, the underseat dual-pipe exhaust silencer ensures a brutal sound experience, but it doesn't offer additional performance compared to the Super Duke. The elevated exhaust system visually brings the rear closer to the center—a design feature that highlights Brabus's focus on dynamics and craftsmanship.

Brabus describes the concept as a combination of "pure power and modern elegance." The new WIDESTAR bodywork design defines its appearance. All body elements are made from precision-engineered exposed carbon components, manufactured using the prepreg process and finished with a high-gloss finish.

The special paintwork is called "Midnight Veil"—a dark shade that highlights the carbon structure. The front design is defined by the Brabus carbon front fender and the LED headlight unit with the new daytime running light design. This is inspired by the Brabus Signature Stripes and integrated into a custom-made carbon mask. Compared to the Super Duke, this power naked might polarize a bit less, but it certainly won't be boring. It's easy to imagine the Dark Knight from Gotham riding this deep black masterpiece while battling villains.

But the aesthetics aren't just for show. The air intake is managed through an internal ram-air system, fed by this front geometry. The WIDESTAR side spoilers accentuate the flanks with delicate layers of carbon, creating an optical emphasis on width. Additionally, the tank cover, ignition lock cover, side panel elements, and chin spoiler are all made of visible carbon, highlighting the extensive use of materials.

The tank cover features Dinamica pads on both sides, designed to enhance the contact point between rider and machine. The tank itself is covered with the same microfiber used for the seat padding—an example of the design coherence that Brabus claims for its special models.

As with all Brabus Masterpiece vehicles, craftsmanship plays a central role. The seat is upholstered with a combination of Brabus Masterpiece leather and Dinamica microfiber. Intricately crafted Brabus logos are embossed in the center of the seat, complemented by aerodynamically optimized side winglets behind the backrest, designed to enhance the aerodynamics of the rear.

Visually, they certainly make a strong impression. The saddle is crafted in the Brabus saddlery in Bottrop. Each seat module is numbered and corresponds to the limited edition number of the respective motorcycle.

The suspension is based on the adaptive WP APEX Semi-Active Technology (SAT). Electronically controlled magnetic valves adjust the damping in real-time—from maximum comfort to race-ready stiffness. Through the control module, the rider can adjust the damping and spring base. Combined with the WP APEX SAT rear shock, this results in a smoother ride than the previous model. This is all familiar and appreciated from the KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO.

Braking is handled by the new Brembo HYPURE four-piston monoblock brake system. Up front, 320-millimeter wave brake discs are at work, while a two-piston caliper with a 240-millimeter disc manages the rear. The system is optimized for weight reduction and heat dissipation, representing the finest the Italian market leader currently has to offer.

The robust wheels come from the Brabus Monoblock II EVO "Platinum Edition." They measure 17 inches, are crafted using forging and CNC processes, and their design is reminiscent of classic Brabus wheels from the automotive sector. The material is intended to reduce rotating mass while simultaneously increasing form stability. Additional carbon elements—such as the rear wheel cover, swingarm cover, and chain guard—complement the package.

With a recommended retail price of 49,900 euros (including 19% VAT), the Brabus 1400 R Signature Edition positions itself significantly above the 1300 R Edition 23, which was recently priced at 39,500 euros. The price reflects the limitation to 100 units worldwide and the increased effort in manufacturing and materials.

Brabus clearly targets collectors and enthusiasts with a focus on exclusivity and brand identity. Technically, the 1400 R competes with motorcycles like the Ducati Streetfighter V4 S, the BMW M 1000 R, or the MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR — but it is priced (sometimes significantly) higher, roughly on the level of a limited special edition.

The Brabus 1300 R, introduced in 2022, was based on the KTM 1290 Super Duke R EVO and delivered 180 HP with 140 Nm of torque. In the 1000PS test, Nils described it as a powerful yet uncompromising naked bike — "a Super Duke R in a tuxedo." Its character was defined by the raw punch of the LC8 engine, combined with an elegant appearance and attention to detail.

The new 1400 R compared to the 1300 R by the numbers:

• Ten more horsepower
• 5 Nm more torque
• More refined aerodynamics
• Enhanced bodywork with additional carbon
• Revised semi-active suspension

The Brabus 1400 R Signature Edition comes with a range of exclusive accessories. These include a custom premium indoor cover that stylishly protects the motorcycle, as well as a high-quality Brabus presentation mat. Also included are a bespoke key cover in Brabus leather and a carbon key box. A special touch: the TFT display showcases a unique BRABUS animation upon startup.

The Brabus 1400 R Signature Edition is not a reinterpretation but a refinement with a more extreme approach. The engine, materials, manufacturing quality, and tuning are meant to demonstrate how Brabus consistently advances its motorcycle models. KTM provides a very fine foundation, and Brabus transforms it into a handcrafted product. More craftsmanship, fewer units—the development follows a distinctly heightened quality and exclusivity standard.