Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019
Overview - Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 vs KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019
The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are several key differences between the two models.
In terms of engine power, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 takes the lead with a whopping 177 HP compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018's 115 HP. The KTM also boasts a higher torque of 144 Nm, while the Yamaha offers 87.5 Nm. The KTM has a larger displacement of 1301 ccm, while the Yamaha has a displacement of 847 ccm. The KTM's engine is a twin-cylinder, while the Yamaha's engine has three cylinders.
Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension, with the Yamaha equipped with Kayaba and the KTM with WP. The rear suspension on both bikes is also from WP. The Yamaha has an aluminum frame with a twin tube design, while the KTM has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018
In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes offer ABS and traction control. The Yamaha also features a quickshifter, allowing for seamless upshifting. The KTM offers cornering ABS, which provides enhanced braking performance while cornering. Both bikes have a front tire width of 120 mm and a diameter of 17 inches, but the KTM has a wider rear tire width of 190 mm compared to the Yamaha's 180 mm. The KTM also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 18 liters, while the Yamaha has a capacity of 14 liters.
In terms of dimensions and weights, the Yamaha has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1500 mm compared to the KTM's 1482 mm. The seat height on the Yamaha is 820 mm, while the KTM has a slightly higher seat height of 835 mm.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019
In terms of strengths, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 offers an incredibly powerful three-cylinder engine, good brakes, a sporty and comfortable seating position, ABS, traction control, and a shift assistant. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 provides a wonderful adrenaline rush, extensive configuration options, terrific brakes with cornering ABS, practical electronic features, a great seating position, and a very good shift assistant.
In terms of weaknesses, the Yamaha has a high saddle and the shift assistant is only available for upshifting. The instruments on the Yamaha also do not stand out strongly from the basic version. The KTM, on the other hand, has a precise stroke that is not always easy to hit and is considered one of the most dangerous motorcycles for the driving license on the market.
Overall, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 offers more power, advanced electronic features, and a larger fuel tank capacity compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018. However, the Yamaha still offers a strong performance, comfortable seating position, and advanced rider assistance systems. The choice between the two models ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.
Technical Specifications Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 compared to KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019
Pros and Cons in comparison
Pros and Cons in comparison
Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018

The Yamaha MT-09 SP is the refinement of an already very good mid-range naked bike. With better suspension components from Öhlins and Kayaba, a nicer paint job and a justifiably higher price, the SP version is clearly the sportiest choice within the Yamaha MT-09 range. The brute power of the engine does not allow the MT-09 SP to be ridden comfortably, but that is not necessary on the "Special" - the fun is clearly in the foreground! The Yamaha MT-09 EVO with Wilbers suspension is now available as an interesting alternative, because it has no "war paint" and is very discreet. But unfortunately only for Switzerland...
KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019

The epithet "Beast" is not completely out of the blue, the KTM is and remains a brutal naked bike - 177 hp from two pots with a combined displacement of 1301 cubic metres is nothing harmless. Nevertheless, it is surprisingly easy to control; the upright seating position combined with the good handling make it seem almost docile. Compared to its predecessor, it has been improved precisely at its weakest points. The engine now runs more smoothly, the shift assistant brings calmness in the acceleration phase and the chassis has been improved in quality. But it still loves the wild chase more than high speed in long curves.
Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Yamaha MT-09 SP vs KTM 1290 Super Duke R
There are a few key differences between a Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 and a KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019. In terms of price, the actual average price of a KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 is about 43% higher. A Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 experiences a loss of 770 USD in one year and 1,440 USD in two years of ownership. This is offset by a loss of 490 USD and 620 USD for a KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019. Compared to KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 there are less Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 5 compared to 11. It takes less time to sell a Yamaha MT-09 SP with 72 days compared to 83 days for a KTM 1290 Super Duke R. Since model year 2018 1000PS.de editors have written 29 reviews for the Yamaha MT-09 SP and 65 reviews for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R since model year 2013. The first review for the Yamaha MT-09 SP was published on 11/6/2017 and now has more than 49,000 views. This compares to more than 4,900 views for the first review on KTM 1290 Super Duke R published on 11/8/2012.