Brabus 1400 R Signature Edition 2026 - Black is Bold

The rumors of the Brabus 1400 R sighting are rapidly confirmed. The Signature Edition is built on the KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO and is considered the successor to the Brabus 1300 R. It's powered by the well-known LC8 V-Twin, now offering 1,350 cubic centimeters of displacement. Power output rises to 190 HP, with maximum torque at 145 Nm compared to its predecessor.

The engine delivers its power to the rear wheel via a six-speed gearbox with a quickshifter, emphasizing the sporty origins of the KTM base with its gritty sound. According to Brabus, the underseat dual-pipe exhaust silencer ensures a brutal sound experience, although it doesn't offer additional power compared to the Super Duke. The high-mounted exhaust system visually brings the tail 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 the appearance. All body elements are made from precision-crafted visible carbon components, crafted using the prepreg process and finished with a high-gloss finish.

The special paint is named "Midnight Veil"—a dark shade that accentuates 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 signature. This is inspired by the Brabus Signature Stripes and integrated into a custom carbon mask. Compared to the Super Duke, this power naked might be slightly less polarizing, but it certainly won't be boring. It's easy to imagine the Dark Knight from Gotham riding this deep black masterpiece while fighting villains.

But the looks aren't just for show. The air intake is managed by an internal ram-air system, fed through this front geometry. The WIDESTAR side spoilers accentuate the flanks with delicate carbon layers, creating an optical emphasis on width. The tank cover, ignition lock cover, side panels, and belly pan are also made from visible carbon, highlighting the extensive use of high-end materials.

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

As with all Brabus Masterpiece vehicles, handcrafted work plays a central role. The seat is upholstered with a combination of Brabus Masterpiece leather and Dinamica microfiber. Meticulous handcrafting creates embossed Brabus logos in the center of the seat, complemented by form-optimized side winglets behind the backrest, designed to enhance the tail's aerodynamics.

Visually, they certainly make a strong impression. The seat is manufactured at 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 magnet valves adjust the damping in real-time—from maximum comfort to track-ready firmness. The rider can adjust the damping and spring base via the control module. Combined with the WP APEX SAT rear shock, this creates a more balanced ride compared to the previous model. We know and appreciate all this from the KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO.

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

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

With a recommended retail price of 49,900 euros (including 19% VAT), the Brabus 1400 R Signature Edition is positioned well above the 1300 R Edition 23, which recently cost 39,500 euros. The price reflects the worldwide limitation to 100 units 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 bikes like the Ducati Streetfighter V4 S, the BMW M 1000 R, or the MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR—though price-wise, it is (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. 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 elegant looks and detailed craftsmanship.

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

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

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

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