Yamaha MT-09 SP 2023 vs. KTM 890 Duke R 2021

The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2023 and the KTM 890 Duke R 2021 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced features.

In terms of the engine and drivetrain, both bikes have an inline engine with fuel injection. The Yamaha MT-09 SP has a 3-cylinder engine with a displacement of 889cc, producing 119 HP of power and 93 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Duke R has a 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 890cc, producing 121 HP of power and 99 Nm of torque. Both bikes have liquid cooling systems to ensure optimal engine temperature.

When it comes to suspension, the Yamaha MT-09 SP features a Kayaba telescopic fork at the front and an Öhlins monoshock with compression, preload, and rebound adjustments at the rear. The KTM 890 Duke R, on the other hand, is equipped with a WP telescopic fork at the front and a WP monoshock with preload adjustment at the rear. Both bikes offer excellent suspension performance, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2023

In terms of chassis, the Yamaha MT-09 SP has an aluminum frame with a double-tube design, providing a balance of rigidity and lightweight. The KTM 890 Duke R features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design, offering a lightweight and sturdy structure.

When it comes to braking, both bikes are equipped with dual disc brakes at the front. The Yamaha MT-09 SP has 298mm diameter discs, while the KTM 890 Duke R has larger 320mm diameter discs. Both bikes offer excellent braking performance, ensuring reliable stopping power.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes come with ABS, traction control, and various riding modes. Additionally, the Yamaha MT-09 SP offers cruise control, wheelie control, and quickshifter, while the KTM 890 Duke R offers a comprehensive electronic package.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have similar tire widths and diameters, with the Yamaha MT-09 SP having a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1430mm compared to the KTM 890 Duke R's 1482mm. The seat height of the Yamaha MT-09 SP is 825mm, while the KTM 890 Duke R has a slightly higher seat height of 834mm. Both bikes have a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters, with the KTM 890 Duke R offering a slightly longer range of 295km compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP's 280km. The Yamaha MT-09 SP has a combined fuel consumption of 5 l/100km, while the KTM 890 Duke R has a slightly lower combined fuel consumption of 4.74 l/100km.

KTM 890 Duke R 2021

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha MT-09 SP offers an extremely agile and powerful engine, comfortable riding position, high-quality suspension elements from KYB and Öhlins, a good gearbox with a blipper, and a distinctive appearance. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Duke R offers a sporty and high-revving engine, excellent quickshifter, excellent electronic package, excellent brakes, a good chassis, and easy handling.

In terms of weaknesses, the Yamaha MT-09 SP has a small TFT screen, a poorly placed horn at the front, and a wide turning circle. The KTM 890 Duke R has cheap buttons and switches, such as the indicator switch, and slightly nervous geometry.

Overall, both the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2023 and the KTM 890 Duke R 2021 are impressive naked bikes with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.