Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 vs. Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021

The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 and the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 are both powerful naked bikes with inline engines and liquid cooling. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS takes the lead with 180 HP compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP's 119 HP. The Triumph also has higher torque at 125 Nm compared to the Yamaha's 93 Nm. This gives the Speed Triple a more rev-happy and powerful engine, making it incredibly versatile for both city riding and high-speed performance.

Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension, but the Yamaha MT-09 SP has a Kayaba brand while the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS has Öhlins. Both suspensions offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustment. The rear suspension on both bikes is a monoshock, but the Yamaha has an Öhlins brand while the Triumph has a single swing arm. The Triumph also has Öhlins suspension for the front, giving it stable handling even in fast corners.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022

In terms of brakes, both bikes have double disk brakes at the front, but the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS has a larger diameter at 320 mm compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP's 298 mm. Both bikes also have advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control, but the Yamaha has additional features like cornering ABS, ride by wire, quickshifter, cruise control, and anti-wheelie.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Yamaha MT-09 SP has a slightly smaller wheelbase at 1430 mm compared to the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS's 1445 mm. The seat height is also slightly lower on the Yamaha at 825 mm compared to the Triumph's 830 mm. The Yamaha is slightly lighter with a kerb weight of 189 kg compared to the Triumph's 198 kg. Both bikes have similar fuel tank capacities, with the Yamaha at 14 liters and the Triumph at 15.5 liters.

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha MT-09 SP is praised for its lively, high-torque engine, extremely agile handling, top brakes, high-quality chassis, and pure driving pleasure. On the other hand, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is commended for its versatility, easy city riding, powerful engine, top quickshifter, quiet performance when needed, light and compact ride, stable handling, strong brakes, and precise handling.

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Yamaha MT-09 SP is criticized for its poorly legible TFT display, rather hard seat, and non-intuitive control of electronics. The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS has load change reactions at low speeds, a slightly too low steering angle, a narrow knee angle for tall people, stubborn mobile phone connectivity, squeaky brakes, overly defensive traction control even in track mode, vibrations on the handlebars, and suspension that doesn't respond sensitively enough.

In conclusion, while the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 and the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 are both powerful naked bikes, the Triumph offers a more powerful engine and a range of strengths including versatility, ease of riding, and precise handling. However, it also has some weaknesses such as load change reactions and stubborn mobile phone connectivity. The Yamaha, on the other hand, offers lively performance, agile handling, and high-quality chassis, but has weaknesses in terms of its display, seat, and control of electronics. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.