So, I just rang KTM Hemmel to see if they could do a major service on my SD and at the same time let me have a test ride on their 1290 demo.

The outcome was that they couldn't do a service until sometime in September, (useless for me), and they could only let me have half an hour on their demo bike because it was pre-sold and they wanted to keep the milage down.

But the shocker was that when I asked about the problems with rear wheel bearings and leaking gaskets they denied all knowledge of this and said that all the bikes they'd sold were faultless and they had had no problems at all. When I pressed them on this and asked if were they aware of the globally reported issues experienced by new 1290 owners they said they were not aware of any issues and that I was wrong about my view of the 1290 and that I was misinformed.

So....

Zero points for KTM Hemmel and their awareness of the bikes they sell and I'm now even more of the opinion I'd not buy one from an authorised KTM dealer. Especially Hemmel.

I'm a 1290 owner, use Hemel hampstead and haven't heard of these issues, but going to do some research now.
I wouldn't be too quick to judge them though. I've heard great things, have used them once, and all good. Plus getting a demo ride is not easy on these. I bought mine on faith, was last orange in the country. The fact they offer to let you ride one that's sold is concerning though. If sold, it shouldn't be ridden at all..

Good luck finding a demo, you won't regret it!!!
I sold my 990 to get one of these, and haven't looked back..

Well.

Just got hold of Paul, ex-Bracken, and he can do a service next Tuesday for me while I wait. Top guy, knows his stuff. Here's his number....

0770307600

He's still operating from the workshop in South London.