KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020 vs. Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020 and the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 are both powerful naked bikes with impressive features.

In terms of engine power, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020 takes the lead with 180 HP compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021's 119 HP. The KTM also has a higher torque of 140 Nm compared to the Yamaha's 93 Nm. The KTM has a larger engine displacement of 1301 ccm, while the Yamaha has a smaller displacement of 889 ccm. The KTM has a 2-cylinder engine, while the Yamaha has a 3-cylinder engine.

Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front suspension, with the KTM having WP suspension and the Yamaha having Kayaba suspension. In the rear suspension, the KTM has a single swing arm with WP suspension, while the Yamaha has a swing arm with Öhlins suspension.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020

In terms of chassis, the KTM has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the Yamaha has an aluminum frame. The KTM has a tubular frame type, while the Yamaha has a twin tube frame type.

Both bikes have double disk brakes in the front, with the KTM having a larger diameter of 320 mm compared to the Yamaha's 298 mm.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes have ABS and cornering ABS. The KTM also has traction control, while the Yamaha has additional features such as ride by wire, quickshifter, traction control, and anti-wheelie.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM has a wider front tire width of 120 mm compared to the Yamaha's 120 mm. Both bikes have a 17-inch front tire diameter. The KTM has a wider rear tire width of 200 mm compared to the Yamaha's 180 mm, both with a 17-inch rear tire diameter. The KTM has a longer wheelbase of 1497 mm compared to the Yamaha's 1430 mm. The KTM also has a higher seat height of 835 mm compared to the Yamaha's 825 mm. The KTM has a larger fuel tank capacity of 16 l compared to the Yamaha's 14 l.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020 offers a new frame and seating position, a reverse linkage on the shock absorber, a better automatic gearshift, a powerful engine despite Euro 5 regulations, and sensitive electronics. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 boasts an upright and comfortable seating position, a well-tuned chassis, quick and easy adjustability of mappings and traction control, high-quality workmanship, lovely details, and a great tuned engine with excellent acceleration and pressure in the relevant rev range.

However, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020 does have a couple of weaknesses, including easily scratched plastic between the seat and tank and brake squeaks at walking speed. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 also has a few weaknesses, such as a horn mounted in a crude way and a poor display.