KTM 890 Duke R 2020 vs. Triumph Speed Triple RS 2018

The KTM 890 Duke R 2020 and the Triumph Speed Triple RS 2018 are both naked bikes with powerful engines and advanced technology.

In terms of the engine and drivetrain, both bikes have an inline engine with fuel injection and liquid cooling. However, there are some differences in the specifications. The KTM 890 Duke R has a 121 HP engine with a displacement of 890cc, while the Triumph Speed Triple RS has a more powerful 150 HP engine with a displacement of 1050cc. This gives the Triumph a higher top speed and quicker acceleration compared to the KTM.

When it comes to suspension, both bikes feature a telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear. However, the KTM 890 Duke R uses WP suspension components, while the Triumph Speed Triple RS uses Öhlins components. Both suspensions offer adjustment options, but the Triumph has additional settings for compression, preload, and rebound.

KTM 890 Duke R 2020

In terms of the chassis, the KTM 890 Duke R has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the Triumph Speed Triple RS has an aluminum frame. Both frames are tubular in design, but the Triumph's frame is a double tube design.

When it comes to braking, both bikes have dual disc brakes at the front with four-piston calipers. The KTM uses radial technology for its brakes, while the Triumph uses radial and monobloc technology. This means that the Triumph's brakes offer better performance and feel compared to the KTM.

In terms of advanced rider aids, both bikes come with ABS, riding modes, and traction control. However, the Triumph Speed Triple RS also features ride-by-wire technology, which provides smoother throttle response and more precise control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 890 Duke R has a narrower front tire (120mm) compared to the Triumph Speed Triple RS (190mm). The KTM also has a longer wheelbase (1482mm) compared to the Triumph (1445mm). However, the Triumph has a lower seat height (825mm) compared to the KTM (834mm). The dry weight of the KTM is 166kg with ABS, while the Triumph weighs 189kg with ABS.

Triumph Speed Triple RS 2018

In terms of strengths, the KTM 890 Duke R offers an excellent electronic package, high-quality brakes, adjustable chassis, high-revving engine, and fun handling. On the other hand, the Triumph Speed Triple RS offers new technology, functional electronic aids, a more developed and powerful engine, high-quality chassis, comfortable seating position, and many optional equipment choices.

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The KTM 890 Duke R can be slightly nervous and requires a loose sitting position, while the Triumph Speed Triple RS lacks a windshield, has a higher weight, and limited ground clearance.

Overall, both the KTM 890 Duke R 2020 and the Triumph Speed Triple RS 2018 are high-performance naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.