KTM Reveals New Tablet-Sized TFT Dashboard
V80, H88 TFT screens and new switchgear to debut on upcoming models
KTM announced its new generation of digital dashboards and handlebar switchgear, which will be introduced on multiple new models. The new electronic architecture (KTM describes it all as the Human-Machine Interface, or HMI) includes a vertical 8-inch display, a horizontal 8.8-inch display, a new connectivity unit, and revamped handlebar switchgear.
The most eye-catching new features are the new displays, available in the vertical V80 configuration or in a horizontal H88 configuration. Both allow for touchscreen input and boast anti-reflection, anti-fingerprint, and anti-glare screen coatings. The V80 comes in a 1280x720 resolution, making for easy comparisons to similar-sized tablets. KTM didn’t specify the resolution for the H88, but it clearly has a much wider aspect ratio.
KTM says the screens can display up to 256,000 different colors, a significant increase from the 65,000 colors offered in typical TFT motorcycle displays. KTM also claims better visibility from all angles and in varying light conditions. The displays are customizable, with five different split-screen layouts available. The screen is touch sensitive, even when wearing gloves, and offers large shortcut buttons for frequently accessed functions.
One useful feature is offline map navigation, which is integrated into the motorcycle connectivity unit. The offline navigation provides real-time navigation without needing to sync or be tethered to a mobile device. Active route guidance and planning, plus preprogrammed points of interest can all be accessed without needing an online connection once it’s been downloaded.
Of course, the software can also be controlled via a five-way joystick and back button on the switchgear. The controls also include a new dedicated ride mode button, new cruise control buttons, and buttons for KTM’s Automated Manual Transmission system.
The switches are backlit for easy visibility, and KTM claims the layout puts them in optimal positions to make them easy to find while riding. The switchgear also includes new paddle buttons (shown right below the grip in the pic that follows) which will be used for shifting models equipped with AMT; for non-AMT models, the paddles can be customized to perform other functions.
The right switchgear has also been redesigned, and it will be deployed on a number of models.The photos supplied by KTM show the 1390 Super Adventure S EVO with a A/M (automatic/manual) switch at the bottom of the right switches.
Supplied photos labeled as being for the 990 Duke R (shown earlier) and the 1390 Super Duke GT, pictured below, have an empty block where the A/M button would sit, suggesting they will either not have AMT, or that it will be an option.
Techy readers out there will find it interesting to know the displays make use of an upgraded CCU3.0 connectivity unit with 3GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage, running on Android Automotive. Possible connectivity options include eSims, a GPS antenna, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. KTM says the software will seamlessly reconnect to your smartphone when you start the bike.
KTM says the new TFT dashboards will initially be available on upcoming “premium” models, but they are expected to trickle down to more models lower in the product range in the next few years.
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Dennis has been a part of the Motorcycle.com team since 2008, and through his tenure, has developed a firm grasp of industry trends, and a solid sense of what's to come. A bloodhound when it comes to tracking information on new motorcycles, if there's a new model on the horizon, you'll probably hear about it from him first.
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