KTM 890 Duke R 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The KTM 890 Duke R 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both impressive motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Starting with the KTM 890 Duke R 2023, it boasts a powerful and rev-happy inline twin engine with a displacement of 890cc. It delivers an impressive 121 horsepower and 99 Nm of torque, providing exhilarating performance. The engine is paired with a chain transmission and features fuel injection for efficient power delivery. The bike also comes with a high-quality adjustable suspension from WP, with a 43mm upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock swing arm at the rear. The suspension offers 140mm of travel at the front and 150mm at the rear, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride. The chassis is made of chromium-molybdenum and features a tubular frame design, providing strength and stability. The bike is equipped with powerful Brembo brakes, with double disk brakes at the front and a four-piston radial piston design. The KTM 890 Duke R also comes with advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The bike features a sleek and modern design, with LED headlights, a TFT display, and connectivity options. It has a seat height of 834mm and a dry weight of 166kg, making it relatively lightweight and agile. The fuel tank has a capacity of 14 liters, providing a range of 295km. The bike has a combined fuel consumption of 4.74 l/100km.

KTM 890 Duke R 2023

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is an enduro motorcycle that offers a different riding experience. It is powered by a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301cc, delivering a whopping 160 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. The engine is also paired with a chain transmission and features fuel injection. The bike features an advanced suspension system from WP, with a 48mm upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock swing arm at the rear. The suspension offers an impressive 200mm of travel at both the front and rear, ensuring excellent off-road capabilities. The chassis is made of chromium-molybdenum and features a tubular frame design, providing strength and durability. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S comes with powerful Brembo brakes, with double disk brakes at the front and a four-piston radial piston design. The bike also features advanced rider assistance systems, including electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. It is equipped with cornering lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. The bike has a seat height of 849mm and a dry weight of 220kg, making it slightly heavier than the KTM 890 Duke R. The fuel tank has a capacity of 23 liters, providing a range of 416km. The bike has a combined fuel consumption of 5.7 l/100km.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 offers a powerful and responsive engine, with a finely controllable response. It also has a sporty seating position that ensures great front-wheel feel, making it ideal for spirited riding. The bike features high-quality adjustable suspension from WP, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The powerful Brembo brakes offer excellent stopping power, and the low vehicle weight enhances agility. The KTM 890 Duke R also comes with extensive electronics, including ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The bike is equipped with modern features such as LED headlights, a TFT display, and connectivity options.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 offers a very sporty and cultivated V2 power plant, delivering impressive performance. Despite its high weight, the bike offers accessible handling and a comfortable, driving-friendly seating position. It also comes with good brakes, including cornering ABS, ensuring safety in all riding conditions. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S features a comprehensive electronics package, including electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The bike is equipped with a clear and well-structured instrumentation, featuring a huge 7-inch display.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The KTM 890 Duke R 2023 has a more demanding sitting position compared to the basic model, which may not be comfortable for all riders. Additionally, the tight basic set-up may not suit everyone's taste. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends. The bike's package design and pricing policy may also be seen as opaque, and the dashboards and switches may not feel very high quality.

In conclusion, the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both impressive motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The KTM 890 Duke R offers a powerful and agile naked bike experience, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S provides a sporty and capable enduro riding experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use of the motorcycle.