KTM 790 Duke 2018 vs. Honda CB500F 2016

KTM 790 Duke 2018

KTM 790 Duke 2018

Honda CB500F 2016

Honda CB500F 2016

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Overview - KTM 790 Duke 2018 vs Honda CB500F 2016

The KTM 790 Duke 2018 and the Honda CB500F 2016 are both naked bikes with similar engine types, cooling systems, and cylinder configurations. However, there are several key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 has a significant advantage over the Honda CB500F 2016. With 105 horsepower, the KTM offers powerful acceleration and a lively, high-revving engine. On the other hand, the Honda CB500F only has 48 horsepower, which may result in less thrilling performance.

Both bikes have liquid cooling systems, ensuring efficient heat dissipation during long rides. This feature is important for maintaining optimal engine performance and preventing overheating.

In terms of chassis, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 features a chromium-molybdenum frame, which is known for its strength and durability. The Honda CB500F 2016, on the other hand, has a steel frame. While both materials are commonly used in motorcycle frames, the chromium-molybdenum frame may offer better rigidity and handling.

KTM 790 Duke 2018

KTM 790 Duke 2018

The braking systems of the two bikes also differ. The KTM 790 Duke 2018 is equipped with double disk brakes at the front, each with four pistons. This setup provides excellent stopping power and precise control. In contrast, the Honda CB500F 2016 has a single disk brake at the front with double pistons. While still effective, it may not offer the same level of braking performance as the KTM.

In terms of tire dimensions, both bikes have a front tire width of 120 mm and a front tire diameter of 17 inches. However, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 has a wider rear tire (180 mm) compared to the Honda CB500F 2016 (160 mm). This wider tire may provide better stability and grip during cornering.

The wheelbase of the KTM 790 Duke 2018 is slightly longer than that of the Honda CB500F 2016, which may contribute to better stability at high speeds. Additionally, the KTM has a higher seat height (825 mm) compared to the Honda (790 mm), which may be more suitable for taller riders.

In terms of fuel tank capacity, the Honda CB500F 2016 has a larger tank (15.7 liters) compared to the KTM 790 Duke 2018 (14 liters). This may result in a longer range before needing to refuel.

Honda CB500F 2016

Honda CB500F 2016

In terms of strengths, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 offers a lively, high-revving engine with powerful acceleration and an optimally tuned chassis for sporty riding. It also has many electronic gimmicks and functions, including a precise quickshifter that makes fast riding easier. Additionally, the bike provides a comfortable seating position and produces an awesome sound even with the series muffler.

The Honda CB500F 2016, on the other hand, is praised for its easy handling and powerful, elastic engine. It also offers a comfortable seating position and features LED lighting technology, which provides enhanced visibility. Furthermore, the bike has a nice sound that adds to the overall riding experience.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 may have rough handling at low revs and can be difficult to maneuver in city traffic. Some riders have also reported oil leaks at the engine block on many 790 Dukes. On the other hand, the Honda CB500F 2016 has a missing gear indicator, which may be inconvenient for some riders.

In summary, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 offers more power, advanced electronic features, and a sportier riding experience compared to the Honda CB500F 2016. However, the Honda may be more suitable for riders looking for easy handling and a comfortable seating position. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on individual preferences and riding style.

Technical Specifications KTM 790 Duke 2018 compared to Honda CB500F 2016

KTM 790 Duke 2018
Honda CB500F 2016

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeIn lineEngine typeIn line
BoreBore88 mmBore67 mm
StrokeStroke65.7 mmStroke66.8 mm
Engine powerEngine power105 HPEngine power48 HP
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
Valves per cylinderValves per cylinder4Valves per cylinder4
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesDOHC
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement799 ccmDisplacement471 ccm

Chassis

FrameFrameChromium-molybdenumFrameSteel

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeSingle disk
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonDouble piston

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonSingle piston

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width180 mmRear tyre width160 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,475 mmWheelbase1,410 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height825 mmSeat Height790 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity14 lFuel Tank Capacity15.7 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA2

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

KTM 790 Duke 2018

KTM 790 Duke 2018

The KTM 790 Duke L is an absolutely sporty naked bike with a high fun factor. Whether a beginner rider can handle it depends very much on his or her personality and riding behaviour. There are certainly motorbikes better suited for learning, but sporty radius hunters will hardly be satisfied with anything else. The 790 Duke L is also rather unenthusiastic about everyday rides in the city. On the country road, however, it's a blast, even with only 48 hp. Simply a fun bike as it is written in the book.

Lively, high-revving engine with powerful acceleration

optimally tuned chassis for sporty riding

awesome sound even with series muffler

many electronic gimmicks and functions

extremely precise quickshifter that makes fast riding even easier

comfortable seating position

Rough handling at low revs

bitchy in city traffic

sometimes fiddly-looking switches on the handlebars

oil leak at the engine block on many 790 Dukes

Honda CB500F 2016

Honda CB500F 2016

Like its two-cylinder predecessors CB500 and CBF500, the new CB500F presents itself as a mature motorbike for beginners, returning riders or for the daily commute to work. With the modern LED headlight and LED tail light, Honda is moving with the times and thus offers a great package in the A2 driving licence class. With its nimble handling, it is convincing both in city traffic and on country roads, and thanks to the revisions to the engine and transmission, it cuts a sportier figure than ever before. The chassis, on the other hand, offers enough comfort, which is further supported by the adjustable brake lever.

easy handling

powerful, elastic engine

comfortable seating position

LED lighting technology

nice sound

missing gear indicator

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price KTM 790 Duke vs Honda CB500F

There are a few key differences between a KTM 790 Duke 2018 and a Honda CB500F 2016. There are the same number of bikes of both models available on the 1000PS.de marketplace, specifically 24. It takes less time to sell a KTM 790 Duke with 58 days compared to 63 days for a Honda CB500F. Since model year 2018 1000PS.de editors have written 35 reviews for the KTM 790 Duke and 22 reviews for the Honda CB500F since model year 2013. The first review for the KTM 790 Duke was published on 09/11/2016 and now has more than 160,600 views. This compares to more than 18,500 views for the first review on Honda CB500F published on 10/11/2012.

Price KTM 790 Duke

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Honda CB500F

Model year
Current average market prices

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