Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 vs. KTM 890 Duke R 2023

The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 and the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 is equipped with an in-line, 3-cylinder engine that delivers 119 HP of power and 93 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 features an in-line, 2-cylinder engine that produces slightly higher power and torque figures of 121 HP and 99 Nm, respectively. Both bikes have fuel injection systems and liquid cooling.

When it comes to suspension, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 is equipped with a Kayaba upside-down telescopic fork at the front and an Öhlins monoshock at the rear. The suspension on the MT-09 SP is adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 features WP suspension at the front and rear, with preload adjustment available. The suspension on the Duke R is also highly adjustable and offers a sporty riding experience.

In terms of chassis, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 features an aluminum frame with a twin-tube design, while the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. Both frames are lightweight and provide good stability and handling.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022

When it comes to braking, both bikes are equipped with double disc brakes at the front. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 has 298 mm diameter discs, while the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 has larger 320 mm diameter discs. Both bikes offer excellent braking performance.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes come with ABS, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 also includes a quickshifter, cruise control, and anti-wheelie system, while the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 offers riding modes and connectivity as additional features.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1482 mm compared to the 1430 mm wheelbase of the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022. The seat height of the Duke R is also slightly higher at 834 mm compared to the 825 mm seat height of the MT-09 SP. Both bikes have a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters and offer similar ranges of around 280-295 km. The combined fuel consumption of the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 is slightly lower at 4.74 l/100km compared to the 5 l/100km of the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022.

KTM 890 Duke R 2023

In terms of equipment, both bikes come with LED headlights and TFT displays. The KTM 890 Duke R 2023 also offers connectivity as an additional feature, allowing riders to connect their smartphones to the bike.

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 is praised for its lively, high-torque engine, extremely agile handling, top brakes, high-quality chassis, and pure driving pleasure. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 is praised for its powerful and rev-happy engine, finely controllable response, good quickshifter, sporty seating position for great front-wheel feel, high-quality adjustable suspension, powerful Brembo brakes, low vehicle weight, and extensive electronics.

In terms of weaknesses, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 is criticized for its poorly legible TFT display, rather hard seat, and less intuitive control of electronics. The KTM 890 Duke R 2023 is noted to have a more demanding sitting position compared to the basic model and a tight basic set-up that may not be to everyone's taste.

Overall, both the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 and the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 are high-performance naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. Riders looking for a bike with a lively engine, agile handling, and high-quality chassis may prefer the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022, while those seeking a bike with a powerful engine, sporty seating position, and extensive electronics may lean towards the KTM 890 Duke R 2023.