Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018

The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 are both powerful naked bikes with impressive specifications.

The Speed Triple 1200 RS has a 180 HP engine with 125 Nm of torque, while the Super Duke R has a slightly lower engine power of 177 HP but a higher torque of 144 Nm. The Speed Triple has a 3-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1160 ccm, while the Super Duke R has a 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1301 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks at the front, with the Speed Triple equipped with Öhlins suspension and the Super Duke R equipped with WP suspension. The chassis of the Speed Triple is made of aluminum with a twin tube frame, while the Super Duke R has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design.

Both bikes have Brembo brakes with four pistons at the front, using radial monoblock technology. The Speed Triple also has advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The Super Duke R has ABS and traction control.

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have the same front and rear tire widths and diameters. The Speed Triple has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1445 mm compared to the Super Duke R's 1482 mm. The seat height of the Speed Triple is 830 mm, while the Super Duke R has a slightly higher seat height of 835 mm. The Super Duke R also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 18 liters, compared to the Speed Triple's 15.5 liters.

Now let's discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each bike.

The Speed Triple 1200 RS has several strengths. It is incredibly versatile, making it easy to ride in city traffic but also capable of high speeds when needed. The engine is rev-happy and powerful, and the bike features a top quickshifter. It can be driven quietly when necessary and offers a light and compact ride. The handling is stable, even in fast corners, and the brakes are strong. The bike also offers precise handling.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018

On the other hand, the Speed Triple has a few weaknesses. It exhibits load change reactions at low speeds and has a slightly too low steering angle. The knee angle may be narrow for tall riders, and the mobile phone connectivity can be stubborn. The brakes may squeak, and the traction control is too defensive even in track mode. There may also be vibrations on the handlebars, and the suspension may not respond sensitively enough, with a basic set-up that is too tight.

Moving on to the Super Duke R, its strengths include providing a wonderful adrenaline rush and offering extensive configuration options. The bike has terrific brakes with cornering ABS and practical electronic features. The seating position is great, and the electronic features can be set very sporty or deactivated as desired. The Super Duke R also has a very good shift assistant.

However, the Super Duke R has one notable weakness. It is considered one of the most dangerous motorcycles for the driving license on the market, implying that it may not be suitable for inexperienced riders or those who are not confident in handling such a powerful bike.

In conclusion, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 are both impressive naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Speed Triple offers a versatile and powerful ride with stable handling and precise controls, while the Super Duke R provides an adrenaline-fueled experience with extensive customization options. However, it is important for riders to consider their own skill level and preferences when choosing between these two models.