KTM 990 Super Duke 2011 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2016

The KTM 990 Super Duke 2011 is a high-performance naked bike with a powerful engine. It boasts an engine power of 119 HP and a torque of 100 Nm, making it a formidable machine on the road. The bike is equipped with a 2-cylinder engine and has a displacement of 999 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the KTM 990 Super Duke 2011 features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension and a WP brand rear suspension. The frame of the bike is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular frame type. The front brakes have four pistons and utilize radial technology, with the Brembo brand providing reliable stopping power. The front tyre width is 120 mm, with a diameter of 17 inches, while the rear tyre width is 180 mm, also with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase measures 1450 mm, and the seat height is 850 mm. The bike has a fuel tank capacity of 18.5 liters.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2016 is a beast of a bike with monstrous engine power. It boasts an impressive 173 HP and a torque of 144 Nm, making it one of the most powerful naked bikes on the market. Like its predecessor, it also has a 2-cylinder engine, but with a larger displacement of 1301 ccm.

KTM 990 Super Duke 2011

The suspension setup of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2016 is similar to the 990 Super Duke, with an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension and WP brand rear suspension. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular frame type. The front brakes have four pistons and utilize radial technology, but the 2016 model also features monoblock technology for even greater braking performance. The front tyre width remains the same at 120 mm, but the rear tyre width has been increased to 190 mm. Both have a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase measures 1482 mm, and the seat height is slightly lower at 835 mm. The fuel tank capacity has been slightly reduced to 18 liters.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 990 Super Duke 2011 is known for its high-performance capabilities and extreme potential, although it may not be fully achievable for all riders. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2016 boasts a monstrous engine and torque, with a wide rev range and little vibration. It also features strong brakes, extensive electronics, great extras, and high-quality details. The aggressive looks of the 2016 model are unrivaled in the naked bike segment.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2016

However, the KTM 990 Super Duke 2011 does have some weaknesses. The geometry of the bike may not be optimal for all riders, and the ride comfort may be suboptimal. Additionally, some riders may find the instrument design to be lacking.

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2016 has received rave reviews, but one potential weakness is that the automatic gearshift may be a little too coarse for some riders' preferences.

Overall, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2016 is a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering more power, improved brakes, and a more aggressive design. However, the 990 Super Duke 2011 still holds its own as a high-performance naked bike.