KTM 890 Duke 2021 vs. KTM 890 Duke R 2021

The KTM 890 Duke 2021 and the KTM 890 Duke R 2021 are both naked bikes with similar technical specifications. They both have an inline engine with a displacement of 889ccm and 890ccm respectively. The engine power of the 890 Duke is 115 HP, while the 890 Duke R has a higher engine power of 121 HP. The torque of the 890 Duke is 92 Nm, while the 890 Duke R has a higher torque of 99 Nm. Both bikes have a fuel injection system and a liquid cooling system.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension and a swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock absorber. The suspension components are branded by WP, a well-known suspension manufacturer. The rear suspension of both bikes has preload adjustment and is made of aluminum. The chassis of both bikes is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular frame.

The braking system of both bikes consists of double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 300mm for the 890 Duke and 320mm for the 890 Duke R. Both bikes have four-piston calipers and radial technology for improved braking performance.

KTM 890 Duke 2021

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes are equipped with ABS, riding modes, and traction control. The 890 Duke R does not have cornering ABS, launch control, ride by wire, and anti-wheelie features, which are present in the 890 Duke.

Both bikes have similar dimensions and weights. The front and rear tire widths are 120mm and 180mm respectively, with a diameter of 17 inches for both. The wheelbase of the 890 Duke is 1476mm, while the 890 Duke R has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1482mm. The seat height of the 890 Duke is 820mm, while the 890 Duke R has a higher seat height of 834mm. The dry weight of the 890 Duke with ABS is 169kg, while the 890 Duke R is slightly lighter at 166kg. Both bikes have a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters.

KTM 890 Duke R 2021

In terms of strengths, the 890 Duke is praised for its rev-happy engine, lively handling, buttery-smooth quickshifter, and comprehensive electronics package. It is also mentioned that the 890 Duke does not leave the rider desiring the R version on the country road. On the other hand, the 890 Duke R is praised for its high-revving and sporty engine, excellent quickshifter, great electronics package, great brakes, good chassis, and lightweight, which contributes to its driving-friendly handling.

As for weaknesses, the 890 Duke is mentioned to have a quickshifter at an extra cost, while the 890 Duke R is criticized for its cheap buttons and switches, such as the indicator switch, and slightly nervous geometry.

In summary, both the KTM 890 Duke 2021 and the KTM 890 Duke R 2021 have their strengths and weaknesses. The 890 Duke offers a great overall package with its rev-happy engine and smooth quickshifter, while the 890 Duke R provides a more sporty and performance-oriented experience with its higher engine power, better brakes, and lightweight.