KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022 vs. Triumph Speed Triple RS 2018

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022 and the Triumph Speed Triple RS 2018 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced features.

Starting with the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022, it is equipped with a V-twin engine that delivers 180 horsepower and 140 Nm of torque. The fuel system is injection-based, and it has a displacement of 1301cc. The bike features a liquid-cooled engine and a 2-cylinder configuration. The front suspension is a telescopic upside-down fork from WP, which can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension is a single swingarm with a monoshock, also from WP, and offers the same adjustability as the front suspension. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum, and the chassis is of the tubular type. The front brakes consist of dual discs with a diameter of 320mm and four-piston radial monobloc calipers from Brembo. The bike comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as riding modes, ABS for curves, cruise control, quickshifter, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It has a 120mm wide front tire and a 200mm wide rear tire, both with a 17-inch diameter. The wheelbase is 1497mm, and the seat height is 835mm. The dry weight, including ABS, is 189kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 16 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022

On the other hand, the Triumph Speed Triple RS 2018 is powered by an inline 3-cylinder engine that produces 150 horsepower and 117 Nm of torque. It also has an injection-based fuel system and a liquid-cooled engine. The displacement is 1050cc, and the bike features a telescopic upside-down fork front suspension from Öhlins, which can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension is a single swingarm with a monoshock, also from Öhlins, and offers the same adjustability as the front suspension. The frame is made of aluminum, and the chassis is of the double tube type. The front brakes consist of dual discs with a diameter of 320mm and four-piston radial monobloc calipers from Brembo. The bike comes with ABS, riding modes, cruise control, and traction control as advanced rider assistance systems. It has a 120mm wide front tire and a 190mm wide rear tire, both with a 17-inch diameter. The wheelbase is 1445mm, and the seat height is 825mm. The dry weight, including ABS, is 189kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 15.5 liters.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022 offers brutal performance, accessible handling, a fully adjustable and stable chassis, high-quality stock tires, a comfortable seating position, and acceptable fuel consumption. On the other hand, the Triumph Speed Triple RS 2018 boasts new technology, functional electronic aids, a more developed and proven engine, more power and speed, a high-quality chassis, many adjustment options, a comfortable seating position, and plenty of optional equipment choices.

Triumph Speed Triple RS 2018

However, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022 has a few weaknesses, including the need to pay for additional equipment and a complicated indicator operation. The Triumph Speed Triple RS 2018, on the other hand, lacks a windshield, has a higher weight, and limited ground clearance.

In summary, both bikes offer impressive performance and advanced features. The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2022 excels in terms of power and adjustability, while the Triumph Speed Triple RS 2018 stands out with its technology and customization options. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.