Yamaha R7 2021 vs. KTM 690 Duke 2016

Yamaha R7 2021

KTM 690 Duke 2016
Overview - Yamaha R7 2021 vs KTM 690 Duke 2016

Yamaha R7 2021

KTM 690 Duke 2016
Technical Specifications Yamaha R7 2021 compared to KTM 690 Duke 2016
Pros and Cons in comparison
Pros and Cons in comparison
Yamaha R7 2021

Despite the rather idiosyncratic combination of the sensible 73.4 hp mid-range power unit and the extremely aggressive, sporty look, the R7 is by no means a sheep in wolf's clothing. The performance, which is somewhere between the R3 and the R6, turned out to be much stronger in practice than the pure values on paper would suggest, and in terms of geometry, chassis, brakes and tyres, Yamaha's engineers have really done their homework. On top of that, the Yamaha R7 has all the qualities to have a lot of fun out-of-the-box on a compact race track like the Pannoniaring, for example, even without a big investment. But of course it feels better on the country road, and that's where it belongs in the first place, in our opinion. In view of the overall package, the purchase price is more than fairly priced - so it's not a problem that the quickshifter is not included and has to be purchased as an option.
KTM 690 Duke 2016

It is unbelievable how cultivated KTM has developed the single-cylinder without sacrificing performance. It can be considered a stroke of genius that, within the framework of the EURO4 standard, the engine's running culture was raised while at the same time increasing power. The flat torque curve is responsible for the smooth, powerful propulsion. From 4000 revs, the Duke pushes hard and revs up to 8500 revs. Even at low revs, the engine does not stutter or swallow, which is an advantage in the city. The Duke's greatest strength, apart from its rideability, is its manoeuvrability, which is why it can confidently be called a toy. It's only when you're on the racetrack and attacking hard that you wish you had the "R" under your bum.