KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 vs. Kawasaki Z900 2019

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021

Kawasaki Z900 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2019

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Overview - KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 vs Kawasaki Z900 2019

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 and the Kawasaki Z900 2019 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and agile handling. However, there are several key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 takes the lead with 180 HP, while the Kawasaki Z900 2019 falls behind with 125.4 HP. The KTM also boasts a higher torque of 140 Nm compared to the Kawasaki's 98.6 Nm. The KTM's engine is a twin-cylinder with a displacement of 1301 ccm, while the Kawasaki features a four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 948 ccm.

Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension, providing excellent stability and control. The KTM has a single swing arm for the rear suspension, while the Kawasaki features a swing arm. The KTM's frame is made of chromium-molybdenum, which offers greater strength and durability compared to the steel frame of the Kawasaki. The KTM also has a tubular frame type, which further enhances its rigidity.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021

In terms of braking, both bikes have double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 320 mm for the KTM and 300 mm for the Kawasaki. Both bikes also have four-piston calipers for optimal braking performance. However, the KTM's brakes use radial, monoblock technology, which provides superior stopping power and control.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 offers a more comprehensive package. It includes ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie systems. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 2019 only features ABS.

Both bikes have similar dimensions and weights, with a front tire width of 120 mm and a front tire diameter of 17 inches. The KTM has a wider rear tire at 200 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 180 mm. Both bikes have a wheelbase of around 1450-1497 mm and a seat height of around 795-835 mm.

Kawasaki Z900 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2019

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 stands out for its powerful engine, agile handling, comfortable seating position, decent braking power, stable chassis, and comprehensive electronics package. The Kawasaki Z900 2019 excels in light and natural handling, silky engine performance, high chassis transparency, and a comfortable seating position at a fair price.

However, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 does have a weakness in that the shift assistant with blipper is not standard. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 2019 has weaknesses in the form of a TFT display mounted too low, cumbersome menu operation, and rearview mirrors with modest visibility.

Overall, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 offers a more powerful and technologically advanced package compared to the Kawasaki Z900 2019. However, the Kawasaki provides a more affordable option with its strengths in handling and engine performance.

Technical Specifications KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 compared to Kawasaki Z900 2019

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021
Kawasaki Z900 2019

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore108 mmBore73.4 mm
StrokeStroke71 mmStroke56 mm
Engine powerEngine power180 HPEngine power125.4 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power9,500 rpmRpm at Max. Power9,500 rpm
TorqueTorque140 NmTorque98.6 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque8,000 rpmRpm at Torque7,700 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio13.5 Compression Ratio11.8
Clutch TypeClutch TypeAntihoppingClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders4
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
DisplacementDisplacement1,301 ccmDisplacement948 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork
DiameterDiameter48 mmDiameter41 mm
TravelTravel125 mmTravel120 mm

Suspension Rear

SuspensionSuspensionSingle swing armSuspensionSwing arm
TravelTravel140 mmTravel140 mm

Chassis

FrameFrameChromium-molybdenumFrameSteel
Frame typeFrame typeTubularFrame typeDouble cradle

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
DiameterDiameter320 mmDiameter300 mm
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
Shock mountShock mountFixed caliperShock mountFixed caliper
TechnologyTechnologyradial, MonoblockTechnologyPetal

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
DiameterDiameter240 mmDiameter250 mm
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonSingle piston

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Riding modes, Cornering ABS, Ride by Wire, Traction control, Anti-wheelieAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS

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 width200 mmRear tyre width180 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,497 mmWheelbase1,450 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height835 mmSeat Height795 mm
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021

The KTM Super Duke R has evolved perfectly over the generations: The engine is strong, has a huge amount of torque and in the current version also works excellently from low revs. However, the excellent interaction of all components is responsible for the overall wonderful performance of the big Duke. The active seating position is comfortable and unbelievably driving-friendly, the chassis is of a high standard, the brakes are powerful and the electronics are state of the art. Even the looks are now pleasing more and more critics. It's just a shame that you have to pay extra for the ingenious shift assistant with blipper.

wonderfully powerful engine with a lot of bang - especially from below and in the middle

super-agile and comfortable seating position

decent braking power

stable chassis, fully adjustable

comprehensive electronics package

acceptable consumption for the high power.

Shift assistant with blipper not standard

Kawasaki Z900 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2019

Fortunately, the new Kawasaki Z900 has lost none of its character through the use of electronics. It is and remains a playful mid-range naked bike, which at the same time masters the brisk pace on the country road magnificently. The riding pleasure and suitability for everyday use are high, the now installed riding aids offer a plus in safety. Your opponents will have a really hard time from now on.

Light and natural handling with high stability

Silky engine with full pull from mid revs

High chassis transparency, great feedback

Sitting position with feel-good factor

Fair price

TFT display mounted too low

Cumbersome menu operation

Rear view mirrors offer modest visibility

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price KTM 1290 Super Duke R vs Kawasaki Z900

There are a few key differences between a KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 and a Kawasaki Z900 2019. In terms of price, the actual average price of a KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 is about 75% higher. A KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 experiences a loss of 660 USD in one year of ownership. This is offset by a loss of 230 USD for a Kawasaki Z900 2019. Compared to Kawasaki Z900 2019 there are less KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 22 compared to 40. It takes less time to sell a KTM 1290 Super Duke R with 91 days compared to 116 days for a Kawasaki Z900. Since model year 2013 1000PS.de editors have written 65 reviews for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R and 46 reviews for the Kawasaki Z900 since model year 2017. The first review for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R was published on 11/8/2012 and now has more than 4,900 views. This compares to more than 93,200 views for the first review on Kawasaki Z900 published on 11/11/2016.

Price KTM 1290 Super Duke R

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Z900

Model year
Current average market prices

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