Suzuki GSX-S1000 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018

The Suzuki GSX-S1000 model year 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R model year 2018 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced features.

In terms of power, the Suzuki GSX-S1000 has a motor with 152 HP and 106 Nm of torque, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke R boasts a more powerful engine with 177 HP and 144 Nm of torque. The Suzuki has a four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 999 ccm, while the KTM has a two-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1301 ccm.

Both bikes feature a telescopic inverted front suspension, providing excellent handling and stability. The Suzuki has an aluminum frame with a double tube design, while the KTM has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design.

Suzuki GSX-S1000 2023

In terms of braking, both bikes are equipped with four-piston radial monoblock front brakes, ensuring excellent stopping power.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes feature ABS and traction control. The Suzuki also offers additional features such as riding modes, ride-by-wire, and a blipper for smooth gear changes. The KTM offers practical electronic features that can be configured to suit the rider's preferences, and it also has a good gear shift assistant.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 190 mm, with a 17-inch diameter for both front and rear tires. The Suzuki has a wheelbase of 1460 mm and a seat height of 810 mm, while the KTM has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1482 mm and a higher seat height of 835 mm. Both bikes have a fuel tank capacity of around 18-19 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Suzuki GSX-S1000 2023 offers a superior engine, excellent gear shift assistance with a blipper, balanced handling, bold design, and an easy-to-ride seating position. It also comes at a good price. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 provides an exhilarating adrenaline rush, ample configuration options, fantastic ABS for cornering, practical electronic features, excellent seating position, and a very good gear shift assistant. The electronic features can be configured in a sporty manner or even deactivated.

In terms of weaknesses, the Suzuki GSX-S1000 2023 has a less comprehensive electronic package, lacking a 6-axis IMU and ABS for cornering. It also has somewhat outdated instrument panels and a not particularly easy-to-read display. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 has a precise suspension setup that may not always be easy to adjust, and it is considered one of the most dangerous bikes for a driving license due to its high performance.