KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022 vs. Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2022

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022 and the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2022 are both powerful naked bikes with impressive performance and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, both bikes have similar engine power with 180 HP. However, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a higher torque of 140 Nm compared to the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS which has 125 Nm of torque. The KTM has a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1301ccm, while the Triumph has an in-line three-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1160ccm.

Both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension, but the KTM uses WP suspension while the Triumph uses Öhlins suspension. Both suspensions offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustments. The rear suspension on both bikes is a single swing arm with a monoshock, again with adjustable compression, preload, and rebound. The KTM uses WP suspension for the rear, while the Triumph uses Öhlins suspension.

In terms of chassis, the KTM has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the Triumph has an aluminum frame. Both frames are of high quality and provide stability and rigidity.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022

For braking, both bikes have double disk brakes with a diameter of 320mm and four-piston calipers. The brakes on both bikes use radial, monoblock technology and are supplied by Brembo.

In terms of rider assistance systems, both bikes offer advanced features such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The KTM also includes additional features such as a shift assistant with blipper and anti-wheelie control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM has a slightly larger wheelbase of 1497mm compared to the Triumph's 1445mm. The seat height on the KTM is 835mm, while the Triumph has a slightly lower seat height of 830mm. The KTM also has a slightly larger fuel tank capacity of 16 liters compared to the Triumph's 15.5 liters. The KTM has a kerb weight of 209kg with ABS, while the Triumph is slightly lighter at 198kg with ABS.

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2022

In terms of fuel consumption, the Triumph has a combined fuel consumption of 5.6 l/100km, which is slightly better than the KTM's 6.17 l/100km. However, the Triumph has a slightly smaller range of 276km compared to the KTM's 259km.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R offers brutal performance, accessible handling, a fully adjustable and stable chassis, high-quality standard tires, a comfortable seating position, and acceptable fuel consumption. On the other hand, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is incredibly versatile, with easy city riding and impressive speed when needed. It has a rev-happy and powerful engine, a top quickshifter, and can be ridden quietly when needed. The Triumph also offers a light and compact ride, stable handling even in fast corners, strong brakes, and precise handling.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM is noted for its full equipment that comes at an additional cost and fiddly indicator operation. The Triumph, on the other hand, has a quickshifter that is good but not perfect, a sound that can still be intrusive, and some vibrations in the handlebars.

In conclusion, both the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022 and the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2022 are powerful and impressive naked bikes with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.