KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 vs. Kawasaki Z900 2019

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2019

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Overview - KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 vs Kawasaki Z900 2019

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 and the Kawasaki Z900 2019 are both naked bikes that offer unique features and performance capabilities.

In terms of engine power, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 takes the lead with 177 HP, while the Kawasaki Z900 2019 falls behind with 125.4 HP. The KTM also boasts a higher torque of 144 Nm compared to the Z900's 98.6 Nm. The KTM has a larger engine displacement of 1301 ccm, while the Z900 has a displacement of 948 ccm. The KTM has a twin-cylinder engine, while the Z900 has a four-cylinder engine.

Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks for their front suspension, providing stability and control. The KTM has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the Z900 has a steel frame. The KTM's frame type is tubular, while the Z900's frame type is double cradle.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019

When it comes to braking technology, both bikes have four-piston front brakes. However, the KTM utilizes radial, monoblock technology, while the Z900 uses petal technology. The KTM also offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control, whereas the Z900 only has ABS.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire width of 120 mm and a front tire diameter of 17 inches. However, the KTM has a wider rear tire width of 190 mm compared to the Z900's 180 mm. Both bikes have a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The KTM has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1482 mm, while the Z900 has a wheelbase of 1450 mm. The seat height of the KTM is 835 mm, while the Z900 has a lower seat height of 795 mm.

Moving on to the strengths of each bike, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 provides a thrilling adrenaline rush and offers extensive configuration options. It also boasts 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.

On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 2019 offers light and natural handling with high stability. The engine provides a silky smooth pull from mid revs, and the chassis transparency is high, offering great feedback. The sitting position is comfortable and has a feel-good factor. Additionally, the Z900 is priced fairly.

Kawasaki Z900 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2019

However, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 does have some weaknesses. The precise stroke is not always easy to hit, and it is considered one of the most dangerous motorcycles for the driving license on the market.

Similarly, the Kawasaki Z900 2019 has a few weaknesses. The TFT display is mounted too low, making it less convenient to read. The menu operation can be cumbersome, and the rearview mirrors offer modest visibility.

In conclusion, both the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 and the Kawasaki Z900 2019 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM offers more power, advanced rider assistance systems, and extensive configuration options. On the other hand, the Z900 provides a comfortable riding experience, stable handling, and a fair price. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 compared to Kawasaki Z900 2019

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019
Kawasaki Z900 2019

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore108 mmBore73.4 mm
StrokeStroke71 mmStroke56 mm
Engine powerEngine power177 HPEngine power125.4 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power8,870 rpmRpm at Max. Power9,500 rpm
TorqueTorque144 NmTorque98.6 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,500 rpmRpm at Torque7,700 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio13.2 Compression Ratio11.8
Clutch TypeClutch TypeAntihoppingClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders4
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
DisplacementDisplacement1,301 ccmDisplacement948 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork

Chassis

FrameFrameChromium-molybdenumFrameSteel
Frame typeFrame typeTubularFrame typeDouble cradle

Brakes Front

PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
Shock mountShock mountFixed caliperShock mountFixed caliper
TechnologyTechnologyradial, MonoblockTechnologyPetal

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonSingle piston

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Traction controlAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS

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 width180 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,482 mmWheelbase1,450 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height835 mmSeat Height795 mm
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019

The epithet "Beast" is not completely out of the blue, the KTM is and remains a brutal naked bike - 177 hp from two pots with a combined displacement of 1301 cubic metres is nothing harmless. Nevertheless, it is surprisingly easy to control; the upright seating position combined with the good handling make it seem almost docile. Compared to its predecessor, it has been improved precisely at its weakest points. The engine now runs more smoothly, the shift assistant brings calmness in the acceleration phase and the chassis has been improved in quality. But it still loves the wild chase more than high speed in long curves.

Provides a wonderful adrenaline rush

extensive configuration options

terrific brakes with cornering ABS

practical electronic features

great seating position

electronic features can be set very sporty and also deactivated

very good shift assistant

Precise stroke not always easy to hit

one of the most dangerous motorbikes for the driving licence on the market

Kawasaki Z900 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2019

Fortunately, the new Kawasaki Z900 has lost none of its character through the use of electronics. It is and remains a playful mid-range naked bike, which at the same time masters the brisk pace on the country road magnificently. The riding pleasure and suitability for everyday use are high, the now installed riding aids offer a plus in safety. Your opponents will have a really hard time from now on.

Light and natural handling with high stability

Silky engine with full pull from mid revs

High chassis transparency, great feedback

Sitting position with feel-good factor

Fair price

TFT display mounted too low

Cumbersome menu operation

Rear view mirrors offer modest visibility

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price KTM 1290 Super Duke R vs Kawasaki Z900

There are a few key differences between a KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 and a Kawasaki Z900 2019. In terms of price, the actual average price of a KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 is about 45% higher. A KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 experiences a loss of 490 USD in one year of ownership. This is offset by a loss of 230 USD for a Kawasaki Z900 2019. Compared to Kawasaki Z900 2019 there are less KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 11 compared to 40. It takes less time to sell a KTM 1290 Super Duke R with 83 days compared to 116 days for a Kawasaki Z900. Since model year 2013 1000PS.de editors have written 65 reviews for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R and 46 reviews for the Kawasaki Z900 since model year 2017. The first review for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R was published on 11/8/2012 and now has more than 4,900 views. This compares to more than 93,200 views for the first review on Kawasaki Z900 published on 11/11/2016.

Price KTM 1290 Super Duke R

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Z900

Model year
Current average market prices

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