Yamaha MT-09 SP 2023 vs. KTM 890 Duke R 2023

The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2023 and the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 are both powerful naked bikes with impressive specifications. However, they have some differences that set them apart.

In terms of engine power, the Yamaha MT-09 SP features a 119 HP engine, while the KTM 890 Duke R boasts a slightly higher 121 HP engine. Both bikes have an in-line engine type and utilize fuel injection systems for efficient performance. The Yamaha MT-09 SP has a torque of 93 Nm, while the KTM 890 Duke R offers a slightly higher torque of 99 Nm.

When it comes to suspension, the Yamaha MT-09 SP is equipped with high-quality suspension elements from Kayaba and Öhlins. The front suspension features an upside-down telescopic fork with adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Duke R features suspension from WP, with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The front suspension offers preload adjustment, while the rear suspension offers preload adjustment as well.

In terms of chassis, the Yamaha MT-09 SP has an aluminum frame with a twin-tube design, providing stability and agility. The KTM 890 Duke R, on the other hand, features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design, which helps keep the vehicle weight low.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2023

Both bikes are equipped with double disk brakes at the front, with the Yamaha MT-09 SP having a diameter of 298 mm and the KTM 890 Duke R having a larger diameter of 320 mm. This ensures powerful and reliable braking performance.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes offer ABS and traction control. The Yamaha MT-09 SP goes a step further and includes cornering ABS, ride by wire, quickshifter, cruise control, and anti-wheelie. The KTM 890 Duke R also offers riding modes and connectivity as additional features.

When it comes to dimensions and weights, the Yamaha MT-09 SP has a wheelbase of 1430 mm and a seat height of 825 mm. It has a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters and a range of 280 km. The combined fuel consumption is 5 l/100km. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Duke R has a longer wheelbase of 1482 mm and a slightly higher seat height of 834 mm. It also has a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters, but offers a slightly longer range of 295 km. The combined fuel consumption is 4.74 l/100km.

KTM 890 Duke R 2023

In terms of equipment, both bikes feature LED headlights and TFT displays. The KTM 890 Duke R also offers connectivity as an additional feature.

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha MT-09 SP stands out for its extremely agile and powerful engine, comfortable riding position, high-quality suspension elements from KYB and Öhlins, good quickshifter with blipper, and distinctive look. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Duke R impresses with its powerful and rev-happy engine, finely controllable response, good (optional) quickshifter, sporty seating position for great front-wheel feel, high-quality adjustable suspension, powerful Brembo brakes, low vehicle weight, and extensive (partly optional) electronics.

However, the Yamaha MT-09 SP has some weaknesses, including a small TFT display, a horn that is half-heartedly installed at the front, and a wide turning circle. The KTM 890 Duke R, on the other hand, has a sitting position that may be more demanding than on the basic model and a tight basic set-up that may not be to everyone's taste.

Overall, both the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2023 and the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 are impressive naked bikes with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and riding style when choosing between the two.