Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2022 vs. Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022

The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2022 and the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 are both naked bikes with similar engine types, in-line cylinders, and liquid cooling systems. However, there are several key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the Speed Triple 1200 RS takes the lead with 180 HP compared to the MT-09 SP's 119 HP. This gives the Triumph model a significant advantage in terms of acceleration and top speed. Additionally, the Speed Triple 1200 RS boasts a higher torque of 125 Nm compared to the MT-09 SP's 93 Nm, further enhancing its performance capabilities.

Both bikes feature advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, cornering ABS, and traction control. However, the Speed Triple 1200 RS also offers riding modes and ride-by-wire technology, providing a more customizable riding experience. The MT-09 SP, on the other hand, includes additional features like a quickshifter, cruise control, and anti-wheelie control, enhancing its overall versatility.

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2022

In terms of suspension, the Speed Triple 1200 RS is equipped with Öhlins suspension on both the front and rear, offering adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The MT-09 SP features a Kayaba front suspension and an Öhlins rear suspension with similar adjustment capabilities. Both bikes have aluminum frames with a twin-tube design, ensuring a lightweight yet sturdy chassis.

When it comes to braking performance, the Speed Triple 1200 RS has larger front discs with a diameter of 320 mm compared to the MT-09 SP's 298 mm discs. This, combined with the Triumph's stable handling, provides excellent stopping power and control. However, both bikes feature double disc brakes at the front, ensuring reliable braking performance.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Speed Triple 1200 RS has a slightly larger wheelbase of 1445 mm compared to the MT-09 SP's 1430 mm. The Triumph model also has a higher seat height of 830 mm compared to the Yamaha's 825 mm. However, the MT-09 SP has a lighter kerb weight of 189 kg compared to the Speed Triple 1200 RS's 198 kg, making it slightly more maneuverable.

Both bikes have similar front and rear tire dimensions, with the Speed Triple 1200 RS having a wider rear tire at 190 mm compared to the MT-09 SP's 180 mm. Additionally, the Triumph model has a larger fuel tank capacity of 15.5 liters compared to the Yamaha's 14 liters, resulting in a slightly longer range of 276 km compared to the MT-09 SP's 280 km. However, the Speed Triple 1200 RS has a slightly higher combined fuel consumption of 5.6 l/100km compared to the MT-09 SP's 5 l/100km.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022

In terms of strengths, the Speed Triple 1200 RS offers a versatile riding experience, excelling in both city traffic and high-speed riding. Its rev-happy and powerful engine, top quickshifter, and precise handling make it a joy to ride. The Yamaha MT-09 SP, on the other hand, is praised for its lively, high-torque engine, extremely agile handling, top brakes, and high-quality chassis, providing pure driving pleasure.

However, the Speed Triple 1200 RS does have a few weaknesses, including a quickshifter that is good but not perfect, a slightly intrusive sound, and vibrations in the handlebars. The MT-09 SP has its own weaknesses, such as a poorly legible TFT display, a rather hard seat, and controls for the electronics that could be more intuitive.

In conclusion, both the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2022 and the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 are impressive naked bikes with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Speed Triple 1200 RS offers a more powerful engine and a range of advanced features, while the MT-09 SP focuses on agile handling and pure driving pleasure. Ultimately, the choice between the two models depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.