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

The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 and the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 are both naked bikes with similar engine types, inline three-cylinder engines. 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 a higher torque of 125 Nm, while the Yamaha has 93 Nm. This means that the Triumph offers more power and torque, providing a more exhilarating riding experience.

Both bikes have fuel injection systems and liquid cooling, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. The Yamaha has a displacement of 889cc, while the Triumph has a slightly larger displacement of 1160cc.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front. However, the Yamaha MT-09 SP has Kayaba suspension, while the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS has Öhlins suspension. Both suspensions offer adjustments for compression, preload, and rebound. The Yamaha has a swing arm suspension at the rear, while the Triumph has a single swing arm suspension. Both bikes have Öhlins shock absorbers at the rear.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

When it comes to the chassis, both bikes have aluminum frames with a twin-tube design, providing a lightweight and rigid structure.

In terms of braking, both bikes have double disc brakes at the front. The Yamaha has 298mm diameter discs, while the Triumph has larger 320mm diameter discs. Both bikes offer advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Yamaha has a slightly smaller wheelbase of 1430mm compared to the Triumph's 1445mm. The seat height is also similar, with the Yamaha at 825mm and the Triumph at 830mm. The Yamaha has a kerb weight of 189kg, while the Triumph is slightly heavier at 198kg. The fuel tank capacity is 14 liters for the Yamaha and 15.5 liters for the Triumph. Both bikes offer a range of around 276-280km and have a combined fuel consumption of 5-5.6l/100km.

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha MT-09 SP offers an upright and comfortable seating position, a well-tuned chassis, and quick and easy adjustment of mappings and traction control. It also has high-quality workmanship, lovely details, and a great tuned engine with excellent acceleration and pressure in the relevant rev range.

On the other hand, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is incredibly versatile, offering ease of use in city traffic and impressive speed when needed. It has a rev-happy and powerful engine, a top quickshifter, and the ability to be driven quietly when necessary. It also has a light and compact ride, stable handling even in fast corners, strong brakes, and precise handling.

In terms of weaknesses, the Yamaha has a horn that is mounted in a crude way and a poor display. The Triumph 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, traction control that is too defensive even in track mode, vibrations on the handlebars, and suspension that does not respond sensitively enough with a basic set-up that is too tight.

In conclusion, while both the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 and the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 are powerful naked bikes with similar features, the Triumph offers more power and torque. However, the Yamaha has its own strengths such as a comfortable seating position and a well-tuned chassis. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.