KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2019 vs. Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2019 and the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a combination of sporty performance and touring comfort.

In terms of engine specifications, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2019 is equipped with a V-twin engine that delivers 175 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 features an inline-four engine that produces 142 horsepower and 111 Nm of torque. Both bikes have a 4-stroke engine and a chain transmission.

When it comes to suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2019 has a front suspension travel of 125 mm, while the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 offers a front suspension travel of 120 mm. Both bikes also have adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings for the front suspension.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2019

In terms of rear suspension, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2019 has a single swing arm with a monoshock that offers a travel of 156 mm. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 has a swing arm with a monoshock that provides a travel of 144 mm. Similar to the front suspension, both bikes have adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings for the rear suspension.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2019 is equipped with Brembo brakes, while the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 features Tokico brakes. Both bikes have radial and monoblock technology for enhanced braking performance. Additionally, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 has petal brakes for improved heat dissipation.

Both motorcycles come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control. However, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 offers additional features like riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, quickshifter, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 190 mm. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2019 has a front tire diameter of 17 inches, while the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 has a front tire diameter of 17 inches. Both bikes have a wheelbase of around 1440-1482 mm. The seat height of the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2019 is 835 mm, while the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 has a seat height of 834.98 mm. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2019 has a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters, while the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 has a fuel tank capacity of 19 liters.

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with adjustable windshields. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2019 also features a 6.5-inch TFT display, while the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 offers additional features like LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2019 is praised for its improved engine smoothness, powerful engine, top-functioning automatic gearshift, and easy control even with the electronics switched off. It also has an adjustable footrest system and a clear and easy-to-read TFT display. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 is commended for its silky four-cylinder engine, comfortable yet sporty ergonomics, wind protection, standard electronics package, and stability thanks to its full fairing. It is also considered very accessible.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2019 is criticized for its design, which is still a matter of taste despite attempts to make it visually appealing. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 is noted for its engine needing revs, electronics that could be more user-friendly, and a windshield that can only be adjusted with two hands.