KTM 890 Duke R 2020 vs. BMW S 1000 R 2021

The KTM 890 Duke R 2020 and the BMW S 1000 R 2021 are both naked bikes with powerful engines and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are several key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the BMW S 1000 R 2021 takes the lead with 165 HP compared to the KTM 890 Duke R 2020's 121 HP. This makes the BMW more suitable for riders looking for a high-performance bike. Both bikes have fuel injection systems and liquid cooling, ensuring optimal engine performance.

Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension and swing arms with monoshock absorbers for the rear suspension. The KTM 890 Duke R 2020 offers preload adjustment for the rear suspension, while the BMW S 1000 R 2021 goes a step further with compression, preload, and rebound adjustments. This gives riders more options for fine-tuning their suspension setup.

KTM 890 Duke R 2020

In terms of chassis, the KTM 890 Duke R 2020 features a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the BMW S 1000 R 2021 has an aluminum frame. Both frames are designed to provide strength and stability, but the choice of material may affect the overall weight and handling characteristics of the bikes.

Both bikes have double disc brakes with four-piston calipers at the front, providing excellent stopping power. The brake technology is radial, ensuring precise and responsive braking. The brake diameters are the same at 320 mm for both models.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes offer ABS, riding modes, and traction control. However, the BMW S 1000 R 2021 goes a step further with additional features such as hill start assist, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and anti-wheelie control. These additional features enhance the overall safety and performance of the bike.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire width of 120 mm and a front tire diameter of 17 inches. However, the BMW S 1000 R 2021 has a wider rear tire at 190 mm compared to the KTM 890 Duke R 2020's 180 mm. The wheelbase of the KTM is slightly longer at 1482 mm compared to the BMW's 1450 mm. The seat height is also slightly higher on the KTM at 834 mm compared to the BMW's 830 mm. The BMW S 1000 R 2021 has a larger fuel tank capacity at 16.5 liters compared to the KTM's 14 liters.

BMW S 1000 R 2021

In terms of strengths, the KTM 890 Duke R 2020 offers a great electronics package, high-quality brakes, an extensively adjustable chassis, a high-revving engine, and playful handling. On the other hand, the BMW S 1000 R 2021 boasts a powerful engine, good brakes, comfortable ergonomics, high-priced but high-performance optional extras, simple operation, and great all-rounder capabilities.

However, the KTM 890 Duke R 2020 does have a slight weakness in its slightly nervous tendencies, which may require a loose sitting position for optimal control. The BMW S 1000 R 2021 also has a couple of weaknesses, including a quickshifter that is good but not perfect, and some vibrations in the handlebars.

In conclusion, both the KTM 890 Duke R 2020 and the BMW S 1000 R 2021 are impressive naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities, whether it be raw power, advanced features, or overall comfort and versatility.