KTM 890 Duke R 2020 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021

The KTM 890 Duke R 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 are both powerful motorcycles with impressive features.

Starting with the KTM 890 Duke R 2020, it is equipped with a 121 HP in-line engine that delivers high performance. The fuel system is injection-based, ensuring efficient fuel delivery. The transmission is chain-driven, providing smooth power transfer to the wheels. With a displacement of 890cc, this bike offers a good balance between power and agility. The suspension system consists of an upside-down telescopic fork in the front and a swing arm with a monoshock in the rear, both provided by WP. The front suspension has a travel of 140mm, while the rear suspension has a travel of 150mm. The chassis is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular frame, ensuring strength and stability. The braking system includes double disk brakes with a diameter of 320mm and four pistons in the front, utilizing radial technology. Advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, and traction control are also present. The dimensions and weights of the bike include a front tire width of 120mm, a rear tire width of 180mm, a wheelbase of 1482mm, a seat height of 834mm, and a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters.

KTM 890 Duke R 2020

Moving on to the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021, it features a V-type engine with a higher power output of 175 HP. The fuel system and transmission are the same as the 890 Duke R. The suspension system consists of an upside-down telescopic fork in the front and a single swing arm with a monoshock in the rear, both provided by WP. The front suspension has a travel of 125mm, while the rear suspension has a travel of 156mm. The rear suspension offers adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound. The chassis and frame are similar to the 890 Duke R. The braking system includes double disk brakes with a diameter of 320mm and four pistons in the front, utilizing radial and monoblock technology. In addition to ABS, riding modes, and traction control, the 1290 Super Duke GT also features hill start assist, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and other advanced rider assistance systems. The dimensions and weights of the bike include a front tire width of 120mm, a rear tire width of 190mm, a wheelbase of 1482mm, a seat height of 835mm, and a significantly larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

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 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 boasts a very potent engine with massive power, an extremely precise chassis, agile handling, well-controlled brakes, good wind protection with an easily adjustable windshield, top ergonomics even for tall riders, a long range, and ample equipment as standard.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021

However, the KTM 890 Duke R 2020 does have a slight weakness in terms of slightly nervous tendencies that require a loose sitting position. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 has a few weaknesses such as a hard chassis and saddle, an engine that only accelerates smoothly from around 3500 revs, and being very loud with the Track Pack.

In conclusion, both the KTM 890 Duke R 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 are impressive motorcycles with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. The 890 Duke R offers a more nimble and playful experience, while the 1290 Super Duke GT provides a more powerful and comfortable sport touring experience.