Highlights
- This potent powerplant delivers a visceral and exhilarating riding experience, with a linear power delivery that makes it a joy to ride in both urban and open road environments.
- In terms of ergonomics, the Super Duke offers a more upright and comfortable riding position, with higher handlebars and a taller seat.
- Its 1,050cc triple-cylinder engine delivers a smooth and responsive power delivery, while its agile handling and comfortable ergonomics make it a joy to ride on both the street and track.
When it comes to naked motorcycles, two titans stand head and shoulders above the rest: the KTM 990 Super Duke and the Kawasaki Z1000. Both machines offer a potent blend of raw power, agile handling, and aggressive styling, making them the ultimate choice for riders seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve deep into the strengths and weaknesses of the KTM 990 Super Duke and Kawasaki Z1000, helping you decide which beast is right for your tarmac-taming escapades.
Engine and Performance
The KTM 990 Super Duke boasts a thunderous 999cc V-twin engine that churns out a formidable 118 horsepower and 92 lb-ft of torque. This potent powerplant delivers a visceral and exhilarating riding experience, with a linear power delivery that makes it a joy to ride in both urban and open road environments.
The Kawasaki Z1000, on the other hand, is equipped with a slightly smaller 1,043cc inline-four engine that produces a comparable 142 horsepower and 82 lb-ft of torque. While the Z1000 offers a slightly higher peak horsepower figure, the Super Duke‘s V-twin configuration provides a more satisfying low-end grunt and torquey feel.
Handling and Suspension
The KTM 990 Super Duke is renowned for its exceptional handling, thanks to its lightweight chassis and agile geometry. The WP suspension components are fully adjustable, allowing riders to fine-tune the bike’s handling characteristics to suit their riding style and road conditions.
The Kawasaki Z1000 also offers impressive handling, but it feels slightly heavier and less nimble than the Super Duke. The suspension system is less sophisticated than the WP components found on the KTM, but it provides a comfortable and composed ride nonetheless.
Braking and Safety
Both the KTM 990 Super Duke and Kawasaki Z1000 are equipped with high-performance braking systems. The Super Duke features Brembo brakes with dual 320mm discs up front and a single 240mm disc at the rear, providing excellent stopping power and feel.
The Z1000 uses Nissin brakes with dual 300mm discs up front and a single 250mm disc at the rear. While the Z1000’s brakes are slightly less powerful than the Super Duke‘s, they still offer ample stopping force and modulation.
Styling and Ergonomics
The KTM 990 Super Duke and Kawasaki Z1000 adopt contrasting styling approaches. The Super Duke exudes an aggressive and purposeful stance, with its angular bodywork and exposed trellis frame. The Z1000, on the other hand, has a more refined and understated appearance, with its smooth lines and sleek fairing.
In terms of ergonomics, the Super Duke offers a more upright and comfortable riding position, with higher handlebars and a taller seat. The Z1000 has a slightly more aggressive riding position, with lower handlebars and a lower seat.
Features and Technology
The KTM 990 Super Duke comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of features, including a ride-by-wire throttle, traction control, and multiple riding modes. The Z1000 also offers a range of features, such as a slipper clutch, traction control, and a power mode selector.
However, the Super Duke‘s ride-by-wire throttle and advanced traction control system give it a slight edge in terms of rider aids and electronic sophistication.
Price and Value
The KTM 990 Super Duke and Kawasaki Z1000 are both competitively priced in their respective categories. The Super Duke typically retails for around $13,000, while the Z1000 can be purchased for around $12,000.
Ultimately, the choice between these two naked behemoths comes down to personal preference and riding style. If you prioritize raw power, aggressive styling, and exceptional handling, the KTM 990 Super Duke is the undisputed choice. However, if you prefer a slightly more refined and feature-rich machine, the Kawasaki Z1000 offers an equally thrilling and rewarding ride.
Beyond the Battle: KTM 990 Super Duke vs Kawasaki Z1000
While the KTM 990 Super Duke and Kawasaki Z1000 are formidable rivals, there are other contenders in the naked motorcycle arena that deserve consideration.
Triumph Speed Triple 1050
The Triumph Speed Triple 1050 is a legendary naked bike that combines thrilling performance with classic British style. Its 1,050cc triple-cylinder engine delivers a smooth and responsive power delivery, while its agile handling and comfortable ergonomics make it a joy to ride on both the street and track.
Ducati Monster 1200
The Ducati Monster 1200 is an iconic naked bike that exudes Italian passion and performance. Its 1,198cc V-twin engine provides ample power and torque, while its sharp handling and Brembo brakes offer exceptional control and stopping power.
BMW S1000R
The BMW S1000R is a technological marvel that combines the performance of a superbike with the versatility of a naked bike. Its 999cc inline-four engine delivers blistering acceleration, while its advanced electronics and sophisticated suspension ensure a thrilling and confidence-inspiring ride.
In a nutshell: Choosing the Naked Beast for You
Whether you choose the KTM 990 Super Duke, Kawasaki Z1000, or another worthy contender, one thing is for certain: you’re in for an exhilarating and unforgettable ride. These naked motorcycles represent the pinnacle of performance, handling, and style, offering a visceral and adrenaline-pumping experience that will leave you craving for more.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Which bike has more horsepower?
The Kawasaki Z1000 produces slightly more horsepower than the KTM 990 Super Duke, with 142 horsepower compared to 118 horsepower.
Which bike is lighter?
The KTM 990 Super Duke is slightly lighter than the Kawasaki Z1000, with a dry weight of 390 pounds compared to 435 pounds.
Which bike has better handling?
The KTM 990 Super Duke is widely regarded as having better handling than the Kawasaki Z1000, thanks to its lightweight chassis, agile geometry, and fully adjustable WP suspension components.
Which bike is more comfortable?
The Kawasaki Z1000 offers a slightly more comfortable riding position than the KTM 990 Super Duke, with lower handlebars and a lower seat.
Which bike is more affordable?
The Kawasaki Z1000 is typically more affordable than the KTM 990 Super Duke, with a lower retail price.
