Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021

Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

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Overview - Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021 vs KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

The Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 are both powerful naked bikes with impressive specifications. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 takes the lead with 173 HP compared to the Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021's 152 HP. The KTM also has a higher torque of 144 Nm, while the Suzuki offers 106 Nm. Both bikes have four cylinders, but the KTM has a larger displacement of 1301 ccm compared to the Suzuki's 999 ccm.

When it comes to suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front. The chassis of the Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021 is made of aluminum and has a twin-tube frame, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design.

Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021

Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021

In terms of braking technology, both bikes feature radial, monoblock four-piston front brakes. The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 is praised for its bombastic braking system, while the Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021 offers a shift assistant with a blipper.

Both bikes come equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control. The Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021 also offers riding modes and ride by wire technology, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 only has ABS and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 has a slightly larger wheelbase of 1482 mm compared to the Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021's 1460 mm. The seat height of the KTM is also higher at 835 mm, while the Suzuki offers a seat height of 810 mm. The KTM is lighter with a kerb weight of 189 kg, while the Suzuki weighs 214 kg with ABS.

Both bikes have a front tyre width of 120 mm and a rear tyre width of 190 mm, with a diameter of 17 inches. The fuel tank capacity of the Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021 is slightly larger at 19 liters, compared to the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015's 18 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

In terms of strengths, the Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021 offers a powerful engine, smooth quickshifter, sporty handling, comfortable seating position, and an aggressive look. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 boasts a superb engine, agile handling, comfortable seating position, bombastic braking system, and a classy look.

However, the Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021 has a weakness in its difficult-to-read display, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 is criticized for its somewhat nervous handling on the racetrack and high price.

Overall, both bikes have their own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them would depend on individual preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021 compared to KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021
KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore73.4 mmBore108 mm
StrokeStroke59 mmStroke71 mm
Engine powerEngine power152 HPEngine power173 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power11,000 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,870 rpm
TorqueTorque106 NmTorque144 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque9,250 rpmRpm at Torque6,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.2 Compression Ratio13.2
DisplacementDisplacement999 ccmDisplacement1,301 ccm

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width190 mmRear tyre width190 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height50 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,460 mmWheelbase1,482 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height810 mmSeat Height835 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity19 lFuel Tank Capacity18 l

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021

Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021

The new GSX-S1000 is an old acquaintance in terms of basic design - the engine and chassis are still from the predecessor. However, the machine has been modernised in many areas and presents itself at an extremely high level, especially visually. Although the engine cannot compete in the league of the super-potent Hyper Nakeds, it functions very harmoniously and powerfully enough. The conventional chassis also strikes a successful compromise between sportiness and comfort. The hammer arguments are definitely the successful design, the standard quickshifter with blipper and, last but not least, the comparatively low price.

superior engine

excellent shift assistant including blipper

balanced handling

bold design

driving-friendly seating position

good price

Electronics package not very comprehensive

no 6-axis IMU, no cornering ABS

instruments on the handlebars somewhat antiquated

display not particularly easy to read

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

KTM knows no turning back and KTM knows no quarter. That's why the new 1290 Super Duke R is a little easier to handle than its predecessor, but also a little stronger and faster. Already at 2500 rpm, over 100 Nm are available, the maximum is 141, the top performance is stated at 177 hp. That may be too much, but it doesn't have to be. The electronics remain the lifeline in this category, where development continues to move forward strongly. KTM has started where it had difficulties and that was stability. Changes to the geometry and chassis have improved this significantly, making the ride on the beast not only faster, but also safer. The handling is no less radical for that, and the supermoto genes are more evident than on any other naked bike. There can only be one Super Duke.

Monstrous engine and torque

wide rev range

little vibration

strong brakes

extensive electronics

great extras

high-quality details

unrivalled aggressive looks.

Automatic gearshift a little too coarse

Price Comparison Average Market Price Suzuki GSX-S1000 vs KTM 1290 Super Duke R

There are a few key differences between a Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021 and a KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015. In terms of price, the actual average prices of both motorbikes are almost the same. Compared to KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 there are less Suzuki GSX-S1000 2021 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 16 compared to 17. It takes less time to sell a KTM 1290 Super Duke R with 70 days compared to 77 days for the Suzuki GSX-S1000. Since model year 2015 1000PS.de editors have written 36 reviews for the Suzuki GSX-S1000 and 65 reviews for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R since model year 2013. The first review for the Suzuki GSX-S1000 was published on 9/27/2014 and now has more than 17,100 views. This compares to more than 4,900 views for the first review on KTM 1290 Super Duke R published on 11/8/2012.

Price Suzuki GSX-S1000

Model year
Current average market prices

Price KTM 1290 Super Duke R

Model year
Current average market prices

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