KTM 790 Duke 2020 vs. BMW S 1000 R 2017

The KTM 790 Duke 2020 and the BMW S 1000 R 2017 are both naked bikes that offer powerful engines and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the BMW S 1000 R 2017 has a significant advantage with 165 HP compared to the KTM 790 Duke 2020's 105 HP. This makes the BMW S 1000 R 2017 a more powerful option for riders looking for high performance.

Both bikes feature fuel injection systems and liquid cooling, ensuring optimal engine performance and efficiency. The KTM 790 Duke 2020 has a smaller displacement of 799 ccm compared to the BMW S 1000 R 2017's 999 ccm, which may result in slightly different power delivery and torque characteristics.

KTM 790 Duke 2020

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front and swing arm suspensions with monoshocks in the rear. The KTM 790 Duke 2020 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the BMW S 1000 R 2017 features an aluminum frame. The frame type of the KTM 790 Duke 2020 is tubular, while the BMW S 1000 R 2017 has a twin tube frame. These differences in frame materials and types may result in variations in weight, stiffness, and handling characteristics.

Both bikes are equipped with double disk brakes in the front with four pistons and radial technology, providing excellent stopping power and control. The KTM 790 Duke 2020 has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 180 mm, while the BMW S 1000 R 2017 has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 190 mm. The larger rear tire width of the BMW S 1000 R 2017 may offer better traction and stability.

In terms of rider assistance systems, both bikes offer advanced features such as ABS, riding modes, and traction control. The BMW S 1000 R 2017 also includes dynamic suspension, which adjusts the suspension settings in real-time based on road conditions and rider inputs. This feature enhances the bike's overall performance and comfort.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 790 Duke 2020 has a wheelbase of 1475 mm and a seat height of 825 mm. The BMW S 1000 R 2017 has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1439 mm and a lower seat height of 814 mm. The BMW S 1000 R 2017 also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 17.5 liters compared to the KTM 790 Duke 2020's 14 liters.

BMW S 1000 R 2017

In terms of strengths, the KTM 790 Duke 2020 offers a high-revving two-cylinder engine, a quickshifter as standard, a great chassis set-up, playful handling, a high-quality electronics package, a TFT display, and a good price/performance ratio. On the other hand, the BMW S 1000 R 2017 boasts the best shift assistant in the naked bike league, a powerful engine with an awesome sound, great handling, a wide range of equipment and accessory options, very powerful brakes, and a semi-active suspension that eliminates the need for manual setup adjustments.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 790 Duke 2020 has the suspension spring preload adjustable at the rear only, which may limit customization options for some riders. The BMW S 1000 R 2017 has original equipment tires that may not be of the finest premium quality and an inactive seating position on the racetrack.

Overall, both the KTM 790 Duke 2020 and the BMW S 1000 R 2017 are impressive naked bikes with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities, whether it be power, handling, customization options, or price/performance ratio.