KTM 890 Duke 2021 vs. Kawasaki Z1000 R 2017

In terms of engine and drive train, both the KTM 890 Duke 2021 and the Kawasaki Z1000 R 2017 have inline engines with fuel injection and liquid cooling. However, there are some differences in their specifications. The KTM 890 Duke has a 2-cylinder engine with a power output of 115 HP and torque of 92 Nm, while the Kawasaki Z1000 R has a 4-cylinder engine with a higher power output of 142 HP and torque of 111 Nm. The KTM 890 Duke has a displacement of 889 ccm, while the Kawasaki Z1000 R has a larger displacement of 1043 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The KTM 890 Duke has a WP shock absorber with preload adjustment, while the Kawasaki Z1000 R has an Öhlins shock absorber with compression, preload, and rebound adjustment. Both bikes have aluminum rear suspension components.

In terms of chassis, the KTM 890 Duke has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the Kawasaki Z1000 R has an aluminum frame. The frame type of the KTM 890 Duke is tubular, while the Kawasaki Z1000 R has a double cradle frame.

KTM 890 Duke 2021

Both bikes have double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 300 mm for the KTM 890 Duke and 310 mm for the Kawasaki Z1000 R. Both bikes also have four-piston front brake calipers with radial technology. The Kawasaki Z1000 R has the additional features of monoblock and petal technology for the front brakes.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 890 Duke has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 180 mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1476 mm and the seat height is 820 mm. The fuel tank capacity is 14 liters. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z1000 R has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 190 mm, also with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is slightly shorter at 1435 mm and the seat height is 815 mm. The fuel tank capacity is larger at 17 liters.

Kawasaki Z1000 R 2017

In terms of strengths, the KTM 890 Duke 2021 is praised for its rev-happy engine, lively handling, buttery-smooth quickshifter, and electronics package. It is also noted that the base model does not leave riders desiring the R version on country roads. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z1000 R 2017 is commended for its powerful and pure power naked bike engine, high-quality and superior chassis, and the ability to provide a real naked bike feeling without the supersport hecticness.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 890 Duke 2021 is criticized for its quickshifter being an additional cost. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z1000 R 2017 is noted to have a little steering angle and a missing shift assistant.

Overall, both the KTM 890 Duke 2021 and the Kawasaki Z1000 R 2017 have their own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.