Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016

The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities.

In terms of the engine and drivetrain, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 has an inline 3-cylinder engine with a displacement of 890cc, producing 119 horsepower and 93 Nm of torque. It has a chain transmission and a 4-stroke engine. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 has a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1301cc, producing a higher 173 horsepower and 144 Nm of torque. It also has a chain transmission and a 4-stroke engine.

Both motorcycles have similar front suspension setups, with telescopic upside-down forks. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 uses Kayaba suspension with 130mm of travel, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 uses WP suspension with 125mm of travel. Both motorcycles have adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings.

For the rear suspension, both motorcycles have a monoshock setup. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 has 137mm of travel and adjustable preload, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 has 156mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings.

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021

In terms of the chassis, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 has an aluminum frame with a double tube design, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design.

Both motorcycles have dual disc front brakes. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 has advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, cornering ABS, ride-by-wire, quick shifter, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 also has ABS and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 180mm. It has a wheelbase of 1500mm and a seat height of 810mm. It also has a fuel tank capacity of 19 liters. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 190mm. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1482mm and a higher seat height of 835mm. It also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016

In terms of equipment, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 comes with heated grips, cruise control, cornering lights, LED headlights, TFT display, and adjustable windscreen. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 only has an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 offers a variant with excellent standard equipment, a powerful and well-tuned engine, easy handling, stable riding, comprehensive electronic package, excellent e-chassis, good wind protection, great passenger comfort, and long range. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 offers extensive standard equipment, a sensational engine, unique design, and a straightforward saddlebag system.

In terms of weaknesses, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 has a less legible and illogical TFT display, high noise levels at idle (>95 dB), somewhat rough clutch, and moderate responsiveness. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 has weak wind protection, manual windscreen adjustment, and high fuel consumption.

Overall, both motorcycles have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 offers a more well-rounded package with a focus on comfort and technology, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 offers a more aggressive and performance-oriented experience.