Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016

Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

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Overview - Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016 vs KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

The Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 are both powerful naked bikes that offer a thrilling riding experience. However, there are several key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 takes the lead with 173 HP, compared to the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016's 145 HP. This gives the KTM an advantage in terms of acceleration and top speed. The KTM also has a higher torque of 144 Nm, compared to the Ducati's 125 Nm. This means that the KTM will have more low-end power and better acceleration.

Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension, with the Ducati using Öhlins and the KTM using WP. These high-quality suspension systems provide excellent handling and control. The rear suspension on both bikes is also from the same brands, Öhlins for the Ducati and WP for the KTM.

Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016

Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016

In terms of braking, both bikes feature four-piston Brembo calipers with radial, monoblock technology. This ensures powerful and precise braking performance. The KTM is praised for its bombastic braking system, which further enhances its stopping power.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1482 mm, compared to the Ducati's 1511 mm. This may result in slightly different handling characteristics, with the KTM being more agile. The seat height on the KTM is also higher at 835 mm, compared to the Ducati's 785 mm. This may affect the comfort and ergonomics for shorter riders.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

In terms of design, both bikes have a tubular frame and similar tire dimensions (120 mm front and 190 mm rear width, with 17-inch diameter). They both have a stylish and classy look, although the KTM is specifically mentioned for its classy appearance.

When it comes to weaknesses, the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016 is criticized for its unconventional handling and lack of punch. This suggests that it may not offer the same level of agility and power as the KTM. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 is mentioned to have somewhat nervous handling on the racetrack and a high price.

In summary, the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 are both powerful and stylish naked bikes. The KTM has a more powerful engine and a higher torque, while the Ducati offers top chassis hardware and an automatic gearshift as standard. Both bikes have high-quality suspension and braking systems, although the KTM is praised for its bombastic braking system. The Ducati is criticized for its unconventional handling and lack of punch, while the KTM has slightly nervous handling on the racetrack and a higher price. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016 compared to KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016
KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore98 mmBore108 mm
StrokeStroke71.5 mmStroke71 mm
Engine powerEngine power145 HPEngine power173 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power8,750 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,870 rpm
TorqueTorque125 NmTorque144 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque7,250 rpmRpm at Torque6,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.5 Compression Ratio13.2
DisplacementDisplacement1,198 ccmDisplacement1,301 ccm

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 width190 mmRear tyre width190 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,511 mmWheelbase1,482 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height785 mmSeat Height835 mm
Dry Weight (with ABS)Dry Weight (with ABS)182 kgDry Weight (with ABS)189 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity17.5 lFuel Tank Capacity18 l

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016

Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016

Ducati returns to consistency and brings out more of the classic character of the Monster, while the design has been sharpened in small steps: Shorter tail, shorter wheelbase, smaller tank. The engine has become cleaner and more powerful at the same time, the electronics more comprehensive. In addition to ABS and TC, the Monster also has wheelie control, and the S version even has cornering ABS. The standard quickshifter underlines the sportiness of the Monster, which could be more aggressive in its power delivery. On the other hand, these 150 hp can be ridden by a very wide range of customers.

Top chassis hardware

timeless design

strong brakes, intuitive menu navigation

automatic gearshift as standard

Unconventional handling

not of high quality in every detail

lacks punch

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is undoubtedly a beast in terms of its data - 173 hp, 144 Newton metres of torque, 189 kilos dry weight are values with which you can make an impression on the quarter mile. It's almost a miracle that the Austrian is so easy to handle and agile despite its 1301 cubic capacity. On the country road it is therefore enormous fun, but on the race track you have to have a very precise riding style in order not to have to work a lot on the Super Duke R - but admittedly a very nice form of work! In addition, the expensive Special Edition can fully score visually with its many power parts and the beautiful paintwork

Superb engine

agile handling

comfortable seating position

bombastic braking system

classy look

somewhat nervous handling on the racetrack

high price

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Ducati Monster 1200 S vs KTM 1290 Super Duke R

There are a few key differences between a Ducati Monster 1200 S 2016 and a KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015. It takes less time to sell a KTM 1290 Super Duke R with 70 days compared to 127 days for the Ducati Monster 1200 S. Since model year 2014 1000PS.de editors have written 6 reviews for the Ducati Monster 1200 S and 65 reviews for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R since model year 2013. The first review for the Ducati Monster 1200 S was published on 2/20/2014 and now has more than 24,400 views. This compares to more than 4,900 views for the first review on KTM 1290 Super Duke R published on 11/8/2012.

Price Ducati Monster 1200 S

Model year
Current average market prices

Price KTM 1290 Super Duke R

Model year
Current average market prices

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