KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 vs. Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory 2017

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 and the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory 2017 are both powerful naked bikes that offer thrilling rides.

In terms of engine power, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a slight advantage with 177 HP compared to the Aprilia Tuono V4's 175 HP. However, the Aprilia Tuono V4 has a higher torque of 120 Nm compared to the KTM's 144 Nm. The KTM has a larger engine displacement of 1301 ccm, while the Aprilia has a displacement of 1077 ccm. The KTM has a 2-cylinder engine, while the Aprilia has a 4-cylinder engine.

Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension, but the KTM uses WP suspension while the Aprilia uses Öhlins suspension. The rear suspension on both bikes is also from WP and Öhlins respectively. The KTM has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the Aprilia has an aluminum frame.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018

For the brakes, both bikes use Brembo technology and have radial brakes at the front. The KTM has monoblock brakes, while the Aprilia does not specify this detail.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have the same front and rear tire widths and diameters. The KTM has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1482 mm compared to the Aprilia's 1445 mm. The seat height on the KTM is 835 mm, while the Aprilia has a slightly lower seat height of 825 mm. The dry weight of the KTM with ABS is 189 kg, while the Aprilia weighs slightly less at 184 kg. Both bikes have a fuel tank capacity of around 18 liters, with the Aprilia having a slightly larger capacity of 18.5 liters.

Moving on to the strengths of each bike, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 offers a wonderful adrenaline rush and has extensive configuration options. It also 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. The KTM also has a very good shift assistant.

Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory 2017

On the other hand, the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory 2017 boasts the best electronics package in the naked bike league. It offers super-sport level cornering speed and precision, thanks to its stable chassis. The brakes on the Aprilia are excellent and the bike is spookily easy to ride. It also has 200hp served up with unbelievably perfect control. The Aprilia comes with sporty original equipment tires.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 can be challenging to hit precise strokes and is considered one of the most dangerous motorcycles for the driving license on the market. On the other hand, the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory 2017 may not be brutal enough for some riders and lacks configuration options ex works. The suspension is great, but not semi-active, which means it needs to be adjusted for mixed road/track use.

In conclusion, both the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 and the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory 2017 offer thrilling rides with their powerful engines and excellent performance. The KTM offers more configuration options and practical electronic features, while the Aprilia boasts the best electronics package in its class and superior cornering speed and precision. Both bikes have their strengths and weaknesses, but ultimately provide an exhilarating riding experience.