Triumph Speed Twin 1200 2021 vs. KTM 890 Duke R 2021

The Triumph Speed Twin 1200 2021 and the KTM 890 Duke R 2021 are both naked bikes with similar engine configurations, as they both have inline twin-cylinder engines. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of power, the Triumph Speed Twin 1200 has a slightly lower horsepower rating of 100 HP compared to the KTM 890 Duke R's 121 HP. However, the Speed Twin 1200 has a higher torque rating of 112 Nm compared to the Duke R's 99 Nm. Both bikes have fuel injection systems and liquid cooling.

When it comes to suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swingarm suspension at the rear. The Speed Twin 1200 uses Marzocchi suspension, while the Duke R uses WP suspension. The Duke R also has a monoshock rear suspension compared to the twin shock absorbers on the Speed Twin 1200. Both bikes offer pre-load adjustment for the suspension.

Triumph Speed Twin 1200 2021

In terms of chassis, the Speed Twin 1200 has a steel frame with a central tube design, while the Duke R has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. Both bikes have dual disc brakes at the front with four-piston calipers and radial technology.

Both bikes come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Speed Twin 1200 has a narrower front tire width of 120 mm compared to the Duke R's 180 mm. The Duke R also has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1482 mm compared to the Speed Twin 1200's 1413 mm. The seat height is higher on the Duke R at 834 mm compared to the Speed Twin 1200's 809 mm. Both bikes have similar fuel tank capacities, with the Speed Twin 1200 at 14.5 liters and the Duke R at 14 liters.

In terms of performance, the Speed Twin 1200 has a range of 302 km and a combined fuel consumption of 5.1 l/100km. The Duke R has a slightly lower range of 295 km but a lower combined fuel consumption of 4.74 l/100km.

KTM 890 Duke R 2021

In terms of strengths, the Speed Twin 1200 is praised for its superb engine, quality finish, torque in all situations, playful handling, good chassis, and high-performance brakes. On the other hand, the Duke R is praised for its sporty and high-revving engine, excellent quick-shifting gearbox, excellent electronic package, excellent brakes, good chassis, and easy-to-ride handling with low perceived weight.

As for weaknesses, the Speed Twin 1200 is criticized for generating excessive heat under the rider, being slightly small for taller riders, and having a large turning circle. The Duke R is criticized for having cheap buttons and switches (e.g., indicator switch) and slightly nervous geometry.

Overall, both the Triumph Speed Twin 1200 2021 and the KTM 890 Duke R 2021 offer strong performance and features in the naked bike segment, but they have their own unique characteristics and strengths that cater to different rider preferences.