Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023

The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer powerful performance and advanced features.

Starting with the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2023, it is equipped with a smooth inline four-cylinder engine that delivers 142 horsepower and 111 Nm of torque. The transmission is chain-driven, and it has a displacement of 1043cc. The front suspension features a telescopic fork with 120mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The rear suspension consists of a swingarm with a monoshock and offers 144mm of travel. The frame is made of aluminum, providing a lightweight yet sturdy structure. The front brakes are dual discs with a diameter of 300mm and utilize radial, monoblock, and petal technology. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2023 also comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, cruise control, quick shifter, and traction control. It has a 19-liter fuel tank capacity and features LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 boasts a powerful V-twin engine that produces 175 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque. Like the Kawasaki, it also has a chain-driven transmission and a four-stroke engine with a displacement of 1301cc. The front suspension consists of a telescopic fork with 125mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The rear suspension features a single swingarm with a monoshock and offers 156mm of travel. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum, providing strength and durability. The front brakes are dual discs with a larger diameter of 320mm and utilize radial and monoblock technology from Brembo. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, launch control, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie control. It has a larger 23-liter fuel tank capacity and features connectivity, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2023

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2023 stands out for its smooth four-cylinder engine, comfortable yet sporty ergonomics, wind protection, standard electronic package, and overall stability thanks to its full fairing design. Additionally, it is considered very affordable in comparison to its competitors.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 excels in its powerful engine, agile handling, 7-inch display, comfortable seating position, overall comfort, and adjustable height windscreen.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023

However, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2023 has some weaknesses, including the need for higher revs from the engine, a potentially complicated electronic system, and the requirement of using both hands to adjust the windscreen.

Similarly, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 has a few weaknesses, such as a slight vibration below 2,500 rpm, an unconventional appearance, and the additional cost for the gear shift assistant.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 offer impressive performance and advanced features. The Kawasaki excels in its smooth engine and affordability, while the KTM stands out for its powerful engine and agile handling. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.