Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020

The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020 are both powerful naked bikes that offer thrilling riding experiences. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021, it is equipped with a 180 HP engine that delivers 125 Nm of torque. The bike features a 3-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1160 ccm. The front suspension is an Upside-Down telescopic fork from Öhlins, while the rear suspension is a single swing arm, also from Öhlins. The frame is made of aluminum and has a Twin Tube design. The front brakes are double disk with a diameter of 320 mm and four pistons, utilizing Brembo technology. The bike comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. It has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 190 mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1445 mm, and the seat height is 830 mm. The fuel tank capacity is 15.5 liters.

The strengths of the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 lie in its versatility. It is easy to drive in city traffic but also offers impressive speed when needed. The engine is rev-happy and powerful, and the bike features a top quickshifter. It can be driven quietly when required and has a light and compact ride. The handling is stable, even in fast corners, and the brakes are strong. The bike also offers precise handling.

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021

However, there are some weaknesses to consider. The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 has load change reactions at low speeds, and the steering angle is slightly too low. The knee angle may be narrow for tall riders, and the mobile phone connectivity can be stubborn. The brakes may squeak, and the traction control can be too defensive, even in track mode. There may also be vibrations on the handlebars, and the suspension may not respond sensitively enough, as the basic set-up is too tight.

Moving on to the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020, it also boasts a powerful engine with 180 HP and 140 Nm of torque. However, it has a 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1301 ccm. The front suspension is an Upside-Down telescopic fork from WP, and the rear suspension is a single swing arm, also from WP. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design. The front brakes are double disk with a diameter of 320 mm and four pistons, utilizing Brembo technology. The bike comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, cornering ABS, and traction control. It has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 200 mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1497 mm, and the seat height is 835 mm. The fuel tank capacity is 16 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020

The strengths of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020 include its new frame and seating position, which offer improved riding dynamics. It also features a reverse linkage on the shock absorber and a better automatic gearshift. Despite meeting Euro 5 regulations, the bike still delivers a powerful engine. The electronics are sensitive and enhance the overall riding experience.

However, there are a few weaknesses to note. The plastic between the seat and tank on the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020 is easily scratched, and the brakes may squeak at walking speed.

In conclusion, both the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020 are impressive naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Triumph offers a versatile and easy-to-ride experience with a rev-happy engine and stable handling, while the KTM provides a new frame and seating position, along with improved automatic gearshift and powerful engine performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.