KTM 890 Duke R 2020 vs. Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019

The KTM 890 Duke R 2020 and the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 are both naked bikes with similar engine types, fuel systems, and cooling systems. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the KTM 890 Duke R has a slight advantage with 121 HP compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP's 115 HP. The KTM also has a larger displacement at 890ccm, while the Yamaha has a displacement of 847ccm. This means that the KTM may offer slightly better acceleration and top speed.

Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front suspension, but the KTM uses WP suspension while the Yamaha uses Kayaba suspension. In the rear suspension, the KTM has a swing arm with a monoshock absorber from WP, while the Yamaha has a swing arm with a monoshock absorber from Öhlins. The Yamaha offers more adjustability with compression, preload, and rebound adjustments on the rear shock absorber.

KTM 890 Duke R 2020

In terms of chassis, the KTM has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the Yamaha has an aluminum frame. Both frames are of high quality and offer good stability and handling.

Both bikes have double disk brakes in the front, but the KTM has larger diameter disks at 320mm compared to the Yamaha's 298mm. This may result in slightly better braking performance for the KTM.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes offer ABS and traction control. The KTM also offers riding modes, which allow the rider to adjust the bike's performance characteristics to suit different riding conditions. The Yamaha has the additional feature of a quickshifter, which allows for seamless upshifting without using the clutch.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have the same front and rear tire widths and diameters. The KTM has a slightly shorter wheelbase at 1482mm compared to the Yamaha's 1500mm. The seat height is higher on the KTM at 834mm compared to the Yamaha's 820mm. Both bikes have a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019

In terms of strengths, the KTM 890 Duke R has a great electronics package, high-quality brakes, an extensively adjustable chassis, a high-revving engine, and playful handling. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-09 SP has an incredibly powerful three-cylinder engine, good brakes, a sporty and comfortable seating position, ABS, traction control, and a shift assistant.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 890 Duke R has slightly nervous tendencies and may require a loose sitting position. The Yamaha MT-09 SP has a high saddle, a shift assistant that is only for upshifting, and instruments that do not stand out strongly from the basic version.

Overall, both the KTM 890 Duke R 2020 and the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 are high-performance naked bikes with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.