KTM 390 Duke 2021 vs. BMW S 1000 R 2023

KTM 390 Duke 2021

BMW S 1000 R 2023
Overview - KTM 390 Duke 2021 vs BMW S 1000 R 2023

KTM 390 Duke 2021

BMW S 1000 R 2023
Technical Specifications KTM 390 Duke 2021 compared to BMW S 1000 R 2023
Pros and Cons in comparison
Pros and Cons in comparison
KTM 390 Duke 2021

The KTM 390 Duke is a "real" Duke. The trademark: Extremely agile handling that makes for powerful riding fun. The flyweight 390 can be precisely controlled with its narrow waist and wide handlebars and feels most at home in tight corners. Especially with the Supermoto mode, it is a fun machine without equal. Unfortunately, only the brakes and suspension of the 390 cannot maintain the same, very high performance level as on the 125 Duke or 890 Duke. They feel a bit spongy and not optimally tuned, especially when the rider weighs in a bit more. The equipment is otherwise tip-top, especially when you consider the price of the 390 Duke. In terms of riding pleasure/euros, it outperforms most, including its Duke sisters.
BMW S 1000 R 2023

The seating position is sporty, but by no means uncomfortable, the brakes are powerful and the engine of the S 1000 R is at its best - perhaps even a little too homogeneous. There is also nothing to complain about on the riding side. Based on the pure performance data and the installed electronic features, the BMW probably has what it takes for the fastest lap time. And that on any kind of surface, because with the semi-active suspension you can eat up kilometre after kilometre on bad roads littered with potholes. Unfortunately, this feeling of superiority never really spilled over to the driver. Probably the downside of too much balance in all areas - at least in my Italophile eyes. The BMW lacked that certain something, the charisma, which is difficult to explain but arouses genuine emotions.