Overview
- The KTM 1290 Super Duke R and KTM 890 Duke R are two of the most formidable naked motorcycles on the market.
- While the 1290 Super Duke R has a significant advantage in terms of raw power, the 890 Duke R is surprisingly quick and agile.
- The 1290 Super Duke R features a trellis frame that provides unparalleled rigidity and stability, while the 890 Duke R utilizes a lightweight steel frame that contributes to its nimble and responsive nature.
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R and KTM 890 Duke R are two of the most formidable naked motorcycles on the market. Both bikes are known for their blistering performance, aggressive styling, and cutting-edge technology. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the KTM 1290 Super Duke R against the KTM 890 Duke R to determine which bike reigns supreme.
Performance
Under the hood, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R boasts a massive 1,301cc V-twin engine that cranks out a staggering 180 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. The KTM 890 Duke R, on the other hand, features a compact 889cc parallel-twin engine that produces a respectable 115 horsepower and 73 lb-ft of torque.
While the 1290 Super Duke R has a significant advantage in terms of raw power, the 890 Duke R is surprisingly quick and agile. Its lighter weight and more manageable power delivery make it a more accessible bike for riders of all skill levels.
Handling
Both the KTM 1290 Super Duke R and KTM 890 Duke R are renowned for their exceptional handling. The 1290 Super Duke R features a trellis frame that provides unparalleled rigidity and stability, while the 890 Duke R utilizes a lightweight steel frame that contributes to its nimble and responsive nature.
When it comes to cornering, the 1290 Super Duke R is a true beast. Its wide handlebars and aggressive ergonomics give the rider a commanding position, allowing for precise and effortless control. The 890 Duke R, however, is no slouch in the handling department. Its shorter wheelbase and more upright riding position make it a more agile and flickable machine.
Braking
Both the KTM 1290 Super Duke R and KTM 890 Duke R are equipped with top-of-the-line Brembo braking systems. The 1290 Super Duke R features dual 320mm discs up front with four-piston calipers, while the 890 Duke R has dual 300mm discs with two-piston calipers.
In terms of stopping power, both bikes perform admirably. The 1290 Super Duke R’s larger discs and more powerful calipers provide slightly better stopping distance, but the 890 Duke R’s brakes are more than adequate for most riding conditions.
Technology
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R and KTM 890 Duke R are both brimming with advanced technology. The 1290 Super Duke R features a full-color TFT display, a quickshifter, and a cornering ABS system. The 890 Duke R also has a TFT display, but it is slightly smaller and lacks some of the more advanced features of its bigger sibling.
However, the 890 Duke R makes up for its technological shortcomings with its innovative KTM My Ride system. This smartphone app allows riders to connect their phone to the bike, giving them access to a variety of features, including navigation, music control, and performance data.
Comfort
When it comes to comfort, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R and KTM 890 Duke R take different approaches. The 1290 Super Duke R has a more aggressive riding position with higher footpegs and a lower handlebar. This position is ideal for spirited riding, but it can be uncomfortable for longer distances.
The 890 Duke R, on the other hand, has a more upright riding position with lower footpegs and a higher handlebar. This position is more comfortable for everyday riding, but it may not provide the same level of control for aggressive riding.
Price
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a higher price tag than the KTM 890 Duke R. The 1290 Super Duke R starts at around $18,000, while the 890 Duke R starts at around $11,000. The price difference is significant, but it reflects the 1290 Super Duke R’s more powerful engine, advanced technology, and higher level of performance.
Recommendations: The Ultimate Choice
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R and KTM 890 Duke R are both exceptional naked motorcycles that offer a thrilling riding experience. The 1290 Super Duke R is the ultimate choice for riders who demand the most powerful and technologically advanced bike on the market. The 890 Duke R, on the other hand, is a more affordable and accessible option that still delivers an exhilarating ride.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a no-holds-barred beast that will dominate the streets and racetrack, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R is the bike for you. If you’re looking for a more versatile and affordable bike that’s still capable of delivering a thrilling ride, the KTM 890 Duke R is a great choice.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which bike is faster, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R or the KTM 890 Duke R?
A: The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is faster than the KTM 890 Duke R. The 1290 Super Duke R has a more powerful engine that produces 180 horsepower, while the 890 Duke R has an engine that produces 115 horsepower.
Q: Which bike handles better, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R or the KTM 890 Duke R?
A: Both the KTM 1290 Super Duke R and KTM 890 Duke R handle exceptionally well. The 1290 Super Duke R has a more aggressive riding position and stiffer suspension, which makes it ideal for spirited riding. The 890 Duke R has a more upright riding position and softer suspension, which makes it more comfortable for everyday riding.
Q: Which bike is more comfortable, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R or the KTM 890 Duke R?
A: The KTM 890 Duke R is more comfortable than the KTM 1290 Super Duke R. The 890 Duke R has a more upright riding position, lower footpegs, and a higher handlebar, which makes it more comfortable for longer distances.
