Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021

The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 are both powerful naked bikes with impressive specifications. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

Starting with the engine and drive train, both bikes have the same engine power of 180 HP, but the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS has a torque of 125 Nm, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a torque of 140 Nm. The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS has three cylinders and a displacement of 1160 ccm, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has two cylinders and a displacement of 1301 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS features an upside-down telescopic fork from Öhlins both in the front and rear, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a similar setup but with WP suspension. Both bikes have a single swing arm rear suspension.

When it comes to the chassis, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS has an aluminum frame with a twin tube design, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design.

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2023

In terms of braking, both bikes have double disk brakes with a diameter of 320 mm and four-piston calipers. The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS uses Brembo brakes with radial, monoblock technology, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R also uses Brembo brakes with radial, monoblock technology.

Both bikes come equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. However, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R also includes anti-wheelie as an additional feature.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have the same front tire width of 120 mm and front tire diameter of 17 inches. The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS has a rear tire width of 190 mm and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a rear tire width of 200 mm. The wheelbase of the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is 1445 mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1497 mm. The seat height of the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is 830 mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a slightly higher seat height of 835 mm.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021

In terms of range and fuel consumption, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS has a range of 276 km and a combined fuel consumption of 5.6 l/100km, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a slightly lower range of 259 km and a combined fuel consumption of 6.17 l/100km.

In terms of strengths, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is praised for its versatility, easy city driving, and high-speed performance. It has a rev-happy and powerful engine, precise handling, stable cornering, strong brakes, and beautiful details. The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is praised for its powerful engine, agile and comfortable seating position, stable chassis, comprehensive electronics package, and acceptable fuel consumption considering its high power.

However, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS has some weaknesses, including load change reactions at low speeds, a slightly too low steering angle, a narrow knee angle for tall people, and vibrations on the handlebars. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R does not come standard with a shift assistant blipper.

In conclusion, both the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 are impressive naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS offers a versatile and powerful riding experience with elegant design, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R provides a thrilling and agile ride with a comprehensive electronics package.