Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022

The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022 are both powerful naked bikes with impressive performance and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are some key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R takes the lead with 180 HP compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP's 119 HP. The KTM also boasts higher torque at 140 Nm, while the Yamaha offers 93 Nm. Both bikes feature fuel injection systems and liquid cooling.

The Yamaha MT-09 SP is equipped with a 3-cylinder engine, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R features a V-twin engine with 2 cylinders. The Yamaha has a displacement of 889ccm, while the KTM has a larger displacement of 1301ccm.

Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front suspension, with the Yamaha using Kayaba brand and the KTM using WP brand. Both suspensions offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustment. The rear suspension on both bikes is a monoshock, with the Yamaha using an Öhlins brand and the KTM using WP brand. Again, both rear suspensions offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustment.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022

In terms of chassis, the Yamaha MT-09 SP features an aluminum frame with a twin tube design, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. Both bikes have double disk brakes in the front, with the KTM having a larger diameter of 320mm compared to the Yamaha's 298mm.

When it comes to advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes offer ABS, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. Additionally, the Yamaha MT-09 SP includes a quickshifter, cruise control, and LED headlights, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R offers riding modes, a shift assistant with blipper, LED daytime running lights, and a TFT display.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a slightly larger wheelbase at 1497mm compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP's 1430mm. The seat height on the KTM is also slightly higher at 835mm compared to the Yamaha's 825mm. The KTM is slightly heavier with a kerb weight of 209kg, while the Yamaha weighs 189kg. Both bikes have fuel tank capacities of 14 liters for the Yamaha and 16 liters for the KTM.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022

In terms of fuel consumption, the Yamaha MT-09 SP has a combined fuel consumption of 5 l/100km, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a slightly higher consumption at 6.17 l/100km. The range of the Yamaha is 280km, while the KTM has a range of 259km.

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha MT-09 SP offers a lively, high-torque engine, extremely agile handling, top brakes, high-quality chassis, and pure driving pleasure. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R boasts brutal performance, accessible handling, a fully adjustable and stable chassis, high-quality standard tires, a comfortable seating position, and acceptable fuel consumption.

In terms of weaknesses, the Yamaha MT-09 SP has a poorly legible TFT display, a rather hard seat, and the control of electronics could be more intuitive. The KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a full equipment package that comes at an additional cost and fiddly indicator operation.

In conclusion, both the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022 are impressive naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Yamaha offers a lively and agile ride, while the KTM provides brutal performance and a comfortable seating position. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.