Main points
- This makes the Super Duke R a more versatile bike for everyday riding, while the R1 is better suited for track days and high-speed riding.
- The KTM 1290 Super Duke R and the Yamaha R1 are two of the best motorcycles on the market today.
- The Super Duke R is a more versatile bike, while the R1 is a more purebred sport bike.
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R and the Yamaha R1 are two of the most iconic motorcycles on the market today. Both bikes are known for their incredible performance, but they have very different personalities and strengths. In this blog post, we’ll compare the KTM 1290 Super Duke R vs R1 and help you decide which bike is right for you.
Engine and Performance
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is powered by a 1,301cc V-twin engine that produces 177 horsepower and 106 lb-ft of torque. The Yamaha R1 is powered by a 998cc inline-four engine that produces 200 horsepower and 83 lb-ft of torque.
On paper, the R1 has a clear advantage in terms of horsepower. However, the Super Duke R’s V-twin engine delivers more torque, which gives it a better low-end punch. This makes the Super Duke R a more versatile bike for everyday riding, while the R1 is better suited for track days and high-speed riding.
Handling and Suspension
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is known for its agile handling and precise steering. The bike has a short wheelbase and a steep rake angle, which gives it a quick and responsive feel. The R1 is also a very capable handling bike, but it’s not quite as agile as the Super Duke R. The R1 has a longer wheelbase and a more relaxed rake angle, which makes it more stable at high speeds.
Both bikes have excellent suspension systems. The Super Duke R has a WP APEX semi-active suspension system that automatically adjusts to changing road conditions. The R1 has a fully adjustable KYB suspension system.
Brakes
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R has Brembo brakes with dual 320mm discs up front and a single 240mm disc in the rear. The Yamaha R1 has Brembo brakes with dual 320mm discs up front and a single 220mm disc in the rear.
Both bikes have excellent braking performance. The Super Duke R’s brakes are slightly more powerful, but the R1’s brakes are more progressive and easier to modulate.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is a very comfortable bike for everyday riding. The seat is well-padded and the riding position is upright and relaxed. The R1 is a more aggressive bike, with a lower seat height and a more forward-leaning riding position. This makes the R1 less comfortable for long rides, but it’s better suited for track days and high-speed riding.
Price
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R starts at $17,999. The Yamaha R1 starts at $17,999.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is a great choice for riders who want a versatile bike that can do it all. The Super Duke R is comfortable for everyday riding, but it’s also capable of handling track days and high-speed riding.
The Yamaha R1 is a great choice for riders who want a purebred sport bike. The R1 is not as comfortable as the Super Duke R, but it’s faster and more agile.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. This will give you a chance to experience the different personalities and strengths of each bike firsthand.
Wrapping Up
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R and the Yamaha R1 are two of the best motorcycles on the market today. Both bikes offer incredible performance, but they have very different personalities and strengths. The Super Duke R is a more versatile bike, while the R1 is a more purebred sport bike.
Which bike is right for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you want a bike that can do it all, the Super Duke R is a great choice. If you want a purebred sport bike, the R1 is a great choice.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which bike is faster, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R or the Yamaha R1?
A: The Yamaha R1 is faster than the KTM 1290 Super Duke R. The R1 has a more powerful engine and a better power-to-weight ratio.
Q: Which bike is more comfortable, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R or the Yamaha R1?
A: The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is more comfortable than the Yamaha R1. The Super Duke R has a more upright riding position and a more comfortable seat.
Q: Which bike is better for track days, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R or the Yamaha R1?
A: The Yamaha R1 is better for track days than the KTM 1290 Super Duke R. The R1 is faster, more agile, and has better brakes.