KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 vs. Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020

The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 and the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer powerful performance and a range of features.

In terms of engine and power, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 is equipped with a V-twin engine that delivers 175 HP and 141 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 features an inline-four engine that produces 142 HP and 111 Nm of torque. Both bikes have chain transmissions and four-stroke engines, but the KTM has a larger displacement of 1301cc compared to the Kawasaki's 1043cc.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks at the front. The KTM offers 125mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The Kawasaki provides 120mm of travel and also has adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. At the rear, the KTM has a single swingarm suspension with a monoshock that offers 156mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The Kawasaki features a swingarm suspension with a monoshock that provides 144mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020

In terms of chassis, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 has an aluminum frame. Both bikes are equipped with dual disc brakes at the front, but the KTM uses Brembo brakes, while the Kawasaki uses Tokyo brakes. Both bikes also have advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 190mm, with a 17-inch diameter for both. The KTM has a longer wheelbase of 1482mm compared to the Kawasaki's 1440mm. The seat height of the KTM is 835mm, slightly higher than the Kawasaki's 834.98mm. The KTM also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters, while the Kawasaki has a capacity of 19 liters.

In terms of equipment, both bikes offer adjustable windshields. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 features a 6.5-inch color TFT screen, luxurious standard equipment, a semi-active precise chassis, and a practical pannier system. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 features LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a color TFT screen, and a cruise control system.

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 is praised for its powerful and confident engine, exemplary agility, luxurious standard equipment, precise semi-active chassis, superb Quickshifter Plus, and practical pannier system. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 is praised for its refined and powerful engine, balanced behavior, comfortable chassis, sufficiently comfortable seating position, modern appearance, good brakes, LED lights, color TFT screen, and standard cruise control.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 is criticized for its relatively high fuel consumption and polarizing optics. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 is criticized for its windshield adjustment, which requires both hands and cannot be done without tools.

In conclusion, both the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 and the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 offer powerful performance and a range of features suitable for sport touring. The KTM has a more powerful engine and a larger fuel tank capacity, while the Kawasaki offers a refined engine and a comfortable chassis. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.