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 with similar engine power of 180 HP. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine and drivetrain, the Speed Triple 1200 RS has a 3-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1160 ccm, while the Super Duke R has a 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1301 ccm. The Speed Triple has a torque of 125 Nm, while the Super Duke R has a higher torque of 140 Nm.

Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic front suspension, with the Speed Triple equipped with Öhlins suspension and the Super Duke R equipped with WP suspension. The rear suspension on both bikes is a single swingarm design, also with Öhlins suspension on the Speed Triple and WP suspension on the Super Duke R.

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021

In terms of chassis, the Speed Triple features an aluminum frame with a double tube design, while the Super Duke R features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design.

Both bikes have dual disc front brakes with a diameter of 320 mm and four-piston calipers, using radial, monoblock technology from Brembo.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes are equipped with ABS, ABS for curves, and traction control. However, the Speed Triple also includes additional features such as ride-by-wire and multiple riding modes.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Speed Triple has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 190 mm, with a wheel diameter of 17 inches for both tires. The Super Duke R has a slightly wider rear tire width of 200 mm. The Speed Triple has a shorter wheelbase of 1445 mm compared to the Super Duke R's 1497 mm. The seat height is slightly higher on the Super Duke R at 835 mm compared to the Speed Triple's 830 mm. The fuel tank capacity is also slightly larger on the Super Duke R at 16 liters compared to the Speed Triple's 15.5 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020

In terms of strengths, the Speed Triple is praised for its versatility, being easy to ride in city traffic but also capable of high-speed performance. It has a powerful and responsive engine, a top-notch gearbox, and precise handling. The Super Duke R is praised for its new chassis and seating position, as well as its powerful engine and sensitive electronics.

In terms of weaknesses, the Speed Triple is criticized for its low-speed load change reactions, slightly low steering angle, and narrow knee angle for taller riders. It also has some connectivity issues with mobile phones, squeaky brakes, and overly defensive traction control even in track mode. The suspension is also criticized for not being sensitive enough, with a basic setup that is too tight. The Super Duke R has some minor weaknesses such as easily scratched plastic between the seat and fuel tank and a noisy brake at low speeds.

Overall, both the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020 are powerful and capable naked bikes, with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.