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 engines, advanced rider assistance systems, and adjustable suspensions. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine performance, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 is equipped with a V-twin engine that produces 175 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 features an inline-four engine that delivers 142 horsepower and 111 Nm of torque. Both bikes have a chain transmission and are 4-stroke engines.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front. However, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 has a front suspension travel of 125 mm, while the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 has a slightly shorter travel of 120 mm. Both bikes offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustment for the front suspension.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020

For the rear suspension, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 has a single swing arm with a monoshock, offering a travel of 156 mm. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020, on the other hand, has a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 144 mm. Both bikes also provide compression, preload, and rebound adjustment for the rear suspension.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles feature double disk brakes at the front. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 uses Brembo brakes with radial monoblock technology, while the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 uses Tokico brakes with radial monoblock and petal technology. Both bikes offer advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 190 mm, with a diameter of 17 inches for both. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 has a wheelbase of 1482 mm and a seat height of 835 mm, while the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1440 mm and a seat height of 834.98 mm. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters, compared to the 19 liters of the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer adjustable windscreens. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 also features LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020, on the other hand, offers a 6.5-inch color TFT display and a practical pannier system.

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 is praised for its powerful engine, exemplary agility, lavish standard equipment, and superbly functioning Quickshifter Plus. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020, on the other hand, is praised for its refined and powerful engine, balanced handling, comfortable chassis, and modern looks. It also offers cruise control as a standard feature.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 has a relatively high consumption and polarizing optics that may not appeal to everyone. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 has a windshield that can only be adjusted with both hands, which may be inconvenient for some riders.

Overall, both the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2020 and the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 offer strong performance, advanced features, and comfortable riding experiences. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on individual preferences and priorities.