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

The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 are both powerful naked bikes with impressive specifications.

Starting with the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021, it boasts a 180 HP engine with a torque of 125 Nm. It features a 3-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1160 ccm. The front suspension is equipped with an Öhlins telescopic fork, while the rear suspension has a single swingarm, also from Öhlins. The frame is made of aluminum and has a double tube design. The front brakes consist of dual discs with a diameter of 320 mm and four-piston radial monoblock calipers from Brembo. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, curve ABS, ride-by-wire, and traction control. It has a tire width of 120 mm at the front and 190 mm at the rear, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The bike has a wheelbase of 1445 mm and a seat height of 830 mm. It offers a range of 276 km and has a combined fuel consumption of 5.6 l/100km.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 also features a 180 HP engine, but with a higher torque of 140 Nm. It has a 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1301 ccm. The front suspension is equipped with a WP telescopic fork, while the rear suspension has a single swingarm, also from WP. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design. The front brakes consist of dual discs with a diameter of 320 mm and four-piston radial monoblock calipers from Brembo. In addition to the advanced rider assistance systems found on the Triumph, the KTM also has anti-wheelie control. It has a tire width of 120 mm at the front and 200 mm at the rear, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The bike has a wheelbase of 1497 mm and a seat height of 835 mm. It offers a range of 259 km and has a combined fuel consumption of 6.17 l/100km.

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021

In terms of strengths, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 is incredibly versatile, being easy to ride in city traffic but also extremely fast when needed. It has a powerful and rev-happy engine, a top-notch gearbox, and can be ridden quietly when necessary. The bike offers a light and compact riding experience with stable handling even in fast corners. The brakes are strong, and the bike exhibits precise behavior.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 has a wonderfully powerful engine with a lot of low and mid-range impact. It offers a super agile and comfortable seating position, decent braking power, and a stable, fully adjustable chassis. The bike also comes with a comprehensive electronic package and has an acceptable fuel consumption considering its high power output.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 has some load change reactions at low speeds, a slightly low steering angle, and a narrow knee angle for taller riders. It also has connectivity issues with mobile phones, squeaky brakes, overly defensive traction control even in track mode, handlebar vibrations, and suspension that lacks sensitivity with a basic setup that is too tight.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 does not come with the direction change assistant with blipper as standard.

Overall, both the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 are powerful and capable naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.