KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 vs. Kawasaki Z900 2025

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2025

Overview - KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 vs Kawasaki Z900 2025

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2025

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Technical Specifications KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019 compared to Kawasaki Z900 2025

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2025

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2025

Engine and Drive Train

Bore	Bore	108 mm	Bore	73.4 mm
Stroke	Stroke	71 mm	Stroke	56 mm
Engine power	Engine power	177 HP	Engine power	124 HP
Rpm at Max. Power	Rpm at Max. Power	8,870 rpm	Rpm at Max. Power	9,500 rpm
Torque	Torque	144 Nm	Torque	97.4 Nm
Rpm at Torque	Rpm at Torque	6,500 rpm	Rpm at Torque	7,700 rpm
Compression Ratio	Compression Ratio	13.2	Compression Ratio	11.8
Clutch Type	Clutch Type	Antihopping	Clutch Type	Multiplate in oil-bath
Transmission	Transmission	Chain	Transmission	Chain
Cylinders	Cylinders	2	Cylinders	4
Strokes	Strokes	4-Stroke	Strokes	4-Stroke
Displacement	Displacement	1,301 ccm	Displacement	948 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspension	Front suspension	Upside-Down telescopic fork	Front suspension	Upside-Down telescopic fork

Chassis

Frame	Frame	Chromium-molybdenum	Frame	Steel
Frame type	Frame type	Tubular	Frame type	Double cradle

Brakes Front

Piston	Piston	Four pistons	Piston	Four pistons
Shock mount	Shock mount	Fixed caliper	Shock mount	Fixed caliper
Technology	Technology	radial, Monoblock	Technology	Petal

Brakes Rear

Type	Type	Disc	Type	Disc
Piston	Piston	Double piston	Piston	Single piston

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance Systems	Advanced Rider Assistance Systems	ABS, Traction control	Advanced Rider Assistance Systems	ABS, Riding modes, Cornering ABS, Ride by Wire, Shift assistant with blipper, Cruise control, Traction control

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre width	Front tyre width	120 mm	Front tyre width	120 mm
Front tyre height	Front tyre height	70 %	Front tyre height	70 %
Front tyre diameter	Front tyre diameter	17 inch	Front tyre diameter	17 inch
Rear tyre width	Rear tyre width	190 mm	Rear tyre width	180 mm
Rear tyre height	Rear tyre height	55 %	Rear tyre height	55 %
Rear tyre diameter	Rear tyre diameter	17 inch	Rear tyre diameter	17 inch
Wheelbase	Wheelbase	1,482 mm	Wheelbase	1,450 mm
Seat Height	Seat Height	835 mm	Seat Height	830 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity	Fuel Tank Capacity	18 l	Fuel Tank Capacity	17 l
License compliancy	License compliancy	A	License compliancy	A

Pros and Cons in comparison

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.

Provides a wonderful adrenaline rush

extensive configuration options

terrific brakes with cornering ABS

practical electronic features

great seating position

electronic features can be set very sporty and also deactivated

very good shift assistant

Precise stroke not always easy to hit

one of the most dangerous motorbikes for the driving licence on the market

Kawasaki Z900 2025

The new Z900 masters the balancing act between modernisation and proven virtues remarkably well. The 6-axle IMU, the precise quickshifter and the new electronics package make it technically absolutely up-to-date, while the characterful four-cylinder engine loses none of its fascination despite Euro 5+. The harmonious setup of all components is particularly impressive: whether suspension, engine or ergonomics - the overall package is just right.

Harmonious engine with impressive acceleration in the mid-range

very well functioning quickshifter with precise responsiveness

mature riding performance with a good compromise between stability and nimble handling

sensitive 6-axle IMU with harmonious control

superbly tuned seating position

excellent engine reponsiveness

confident cornering behaviour with transparent feedback from the front

harmonious electronics that do not restrict riding pleasure

smooth transmission with perfectly tuned ratios

first-class stop-and-go behaviour in city traffic

intuitive bike for beginners and experienced riders

slim waist despite four-cylinder layout