The reason for this can be attributed to several factors:
Class Regulations: MotoGP is governed by strict regulations regarding the specifications and design of motorcycles. These regulations are primarily focused on creating a level playing field among manufacturers and ensuring safety. The current MotoGP regulations specify that bikes must have a maximum of four cylinders and a displacement of up to 1000cc for four-stroke engines. The KTM Duke 1290, with its larger displacement and V-twin engine configuration, does not conform to these regulations.
Development and Cost: Developing a MotoGP bike requires significant investment and resources. Manufacturers typically focus their efforts on designing and refining bikes that align with the regulations and have the potential to be competitive in the MotoGP championship. Since the KTM Duke 1290 does not meet the current MotoGP regulations, KTM has chosen to focus on their RC16 bike, which is purpose-built for MotoGP competition.
Target Market: The KTM Duke 1290 is designed as a high-performance street bike, targeted at riders who enjoy powerful and agile motorcycles for road use. MotoGP bikes, on the other hand, are specifically designed for racing purposes and have different performance characteristics, including aerodynamics, weight distribution, and engine tuning, among others. The KTM Duke 1290's design and features may not be optimized for the demands of MotoGP racing.
It's important to note that the motorcycle industry is constantly evolving, and new developments and changes can occur over time. Therefore, it's always worth staying updated with the latest information from KTM or MotoGP regarding their bike offerings and plans for participation in the championship.