Ducati Monster 2023 vs. KTM 890 Duke R 2023

The Ducati Monster 2023 and the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced features.

Starting with the Ducati Monster 2023, it is equipped with a V-twin engine that delivers 111 horsepower and 93 Nm of torque. The engine is fuel-injected and has a displacement of 937cc. The bike features a liquid cooling system to ensure optimal performance. The suspension setup includes an upside-down telescopic fork from Marzocchi at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock and preload adjustment at the rear. The frame is made of aluminum and serves as a load-bearing engine. The braking system consists of double disc brakes with a diameter of 320mm and four-piston calipers. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as riding modes, cornering ABS, launch control, ride by wire, quickshifter, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 180mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1474mm and the seat height is 775mm. The dry weight of the bike with ABS is 166kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters. The Ducati Monster 2023 is equipped with LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

Ducati Monster 2023

On the other hand, the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 features an inline twin-cylinder engine that produces 121 horsepower and 99 Nm of torque. The engine is also fuel-injected and has a displacement of 890cc. It is cooled by a liquid cooling system. The front suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork from WP, while the rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and preload adjustment. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design. The braking system includes double disc brakes with a diameter of 320mm and four-piston calipers. The bike is equipped with ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control as advanced rider assistance systems. It has the same tire dimensions as the Ducati Monster 2023, with a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 180mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is slightly longer at 1482mm and the seat height is higher at 834mm. The dry weight of the bike with ABS is 166kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters. The KTM 890 Duke R 2023 features connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display as part of its equipment.

In terms of strengths, the Ducati Monster 2023 stands out for its charismatic powerplant, comfortable seating position, responsive braking system, agile handling, high-quality components, and comprehensive electronics package. It offers advanced features such as cornering ABS and lean angle-dependent traction control. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 excels in its powerful and rev-happy engine, finely controllable response, sporty seating position for great front-wheel feel, high-quality adjustable suspension, powerful Brembo brakes, low vehicle weight, and extensive electronics, some of which are optional.

KTM 890 Duke R 2023

However, the Ducati Monster 2023 does have some weaknesses. It experiences strong jerking at low revs and the front fork is tuned too softly. Additionally, some may argue that it no longer has the unmistakable Monster look due to the lack of a trellis frame. Similarly, the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 has a few weaknesses. Its sitting position is more demanding than on the basic model, and the tight basic set-up may not be to everyone's taste.

In conclusion, both the Ducati Monster 2023 and the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 offer impressive performance and advanced features. The Ducati Monster 2023 excels in its comfortable seating position and comprehensive electronics package, while the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 stands out for its powerful engine and sporty seating position. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and priorities.