Ktm Duke 690 Vs Triumph Street Triple: Battle Of The Beastly Bikes

When it comes to the world of naked motorcycles, two titans stand out: the KTM Duke 690 and the Triumph Street Triple. These bikes offer a thrilling blend of power, agility, and style, making them the ideal choice for riders seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of the KTM Duke 690 vs Triumph Street Triple, examining their key features, performance, and overall value to determine which one reigns supreme.

Performance: KTM Duke 690 vs Triumph Street Triple

Engine:

• KTM Duke 690: 693cc single-cylinder engine, producing 73 horsepower and 53.8 pound-feet of torque
• Triumph Street Triple R: 765cc inline three-cylinder engine, producing 118 horsepower and 59 pound-feet of torque

The Triumph Street Triple boasts a significant power advantage, thanks to its higher displacement and three-cylinder configuration. However, the KTM Duke 690’s single-cylinder engine offers a unique and thrilling riding experience, with its characteristic thump and linear power delivery.

Acceleration:

• KTM Duke 690: 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds
• Triumph Street Triple R: 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds

The Triumph Street Triple takes the lead in acceleration, reaching 60 mph slightly faster than the KTM Duke 690. Its higher power output and smoother powerband contribute to its quicker off-the-line performance.

Top Speed:

• KTM Duke 690: 140 mph
• Triumph Street Triple R: 145 mph

Both bikes are capable of reaching impressive top speeds, with the Triumph Street Triple having a slight edge. However, these figures are more theoretical than practical, as most riders will not be pushing their bikes to such limits on public roads.

Handling: KTM Duke 690 vs Triumph Street Triple

Suspension:

• KTM Duke 690: WP Apex adjustable suspension front and rear
• Triumph Street Triple R: Showa adjustable suspension front and rear

Both bikes feature adjustable suspension systems, allowing riders to tailor the handling to their preferences. The KTM Duke 690’s WP Apex suspension is renowned for its precise feedback and confidence-inspiring stability.

Brakes:

• KTM Duke 690: Brembo radial-mount calipers and 320mm discs front and rear
• Triumph Street Triple R: Brembo M4.32 radial-mount calipers and 310mm discs front and rear

The KTM Duke 690 and Triumph Street Triple are equipped with high-performance Brembo brakes, providing excellent stopping power and feel. The Duke 690’s larger front discs offer slightly better initial bite, but both bikes offer exceptional braking capabilities.

Agility:

• KTM Duke 690: 373 pounds wet weight
• Triumph Street Triple R: 417 pounds wet weight

The KTM Duke 690 holds a significant weight advantage over the Triumph Street Triple, making it more agile and nimble. Its lightweight construction enables it to change direction quickly and easily, making it ideal for urban commuting and spirited riding.

Features: KTM Duke 690 vs Triumph Street Triple

Electronics:

• KTM Duke 690: Ride-by-wire throttle, traction control, cornering ABS
• Triumph Street Triple R: Ride-by-wire throttle, traction control, cornering ABS, quickshifter

The Triumph Street Triple R offers a more comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids, including a quickshifter for seamless gear changes. However, the KTM Duke 690’s traction control and cornering ABS systems provide ample assistance for most riders.

Display:

• KTM Duke 690: TFT color display
• Triumph Street Triple R: TFT color display

Both bikes feature full-color TFT displays that provide clear and concise information to the rider. The Triumph Street Triple R’s display offers slightly more customization options, including the ability to display a lap timer and track data.

Comfort:

• KTM Duke 690: Upright riding position, adjustable handlebars
• Triumph Street Triple R: Slightly more aggressive riding position, fixed handlebars

The KTM Duke 690 offers a more upright and comfortable riding position, making it suitable for longer rides. The Triumph Street Triple R’s slightly more aggressive riding position is better suited for spirited riding and track days.

Value: KTM Duke 690 vs Triumph Street Triple

Price:

• KTM Duke 690: Starting at $8,999
• Triumph Street Triple R: Starting at $11,995

The KTM Duke 690 is priced significantly lower than the Triumph Street Triple R, making it a more affordable option for riders on a budget. However, the Street Triple R offers a wider range of features and a more refined riding experience, justifying its higher price point.

Resale Value:

• KTM Duke 690: Maintains its value well over time
• Triumph Street Triple R: Also holds its value well, but slightly less than the Duke 690

Both the KTM Duke 690 and Triumph Street Triple are known for their strong resale values. The Duke 690 tends to hold its value slightly better due to its lower initial cost and high demand.

Takeaways: KTM Duke 690 vs Triumph Street Triple

The KTM Duke 690 and Triumph Street Triple are both exceptional naked motorcycles that offer a unique and exhilarating riding experience. The Duke 690 is an ideal choice for riders seeking a lightweight, agile, and affordable bike. Its single-cylinder engine provides a thrilling and engaging ride, while its compact size makes it perfect for urban environments.

The Triumph Street Triple R, on the other hand, is a more refined and powerful motorcycle. Its inline three-cylinder engine delivers impressive performance and a smooth powerband. Its comprehensive electronics package and aggressive riding position make it well-suited for spirited riding and track days.

Ultimately, the choice between the KTM Duke 690 and Triumph Street Triple depends on the individual rider‘s preferences and budget. If you prioritize affordability, agility, and a unique riding experience, the KTM Duke 690 is an excellent option. If you are seeking a more powerful, feature-rich, and refined motorcycle, the Triumph Street Triple R is the bike for you.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Which bike is more powerful?
A: The Triumph Street Triple R is more powerful, with 118 horsepower compared to the KTM Duke 690’s 73 horsepower.

Q: Which bike is lighter?
A: The KTM Duke 690 is lighter, with a wet weight of 373 pounds compared to the Triumph Street Triple R’s 417 pounds.

Q: Which bike has better electronics?
A: The Triumph Street Triple R has a more comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids, including a quickshifter, compared to the KTM Duke 690.

Q: Which bike is more comfortable for long rides?
A: The KTM Duke 690 has a more upright and comfortable riding position, making it more suitable for longer rides compared to the Triumph Street Triple R.

Q: Which bike is more affordable?
A: The KTM Duke 690 is more affordable, with a starting price of $8,999 compared to the Triumph Street Triple R’s starting price of $11,995.