What To Know
- The Speed Triple 1200 RS has a more traditional chassis with a steel frame and aluminum swingarm, while the Super Duke R has a more radical chassis with a trellis frame and single-sided swingarm.
- The Speed Triple 1200 RS is more agile and better value for money, while the Super Duke R is more powerful and has more features.
When it comes to naked sportbikes, two motorcycles stand head and shoulders above the rest: the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS and the KTM Super Duke R. Both bikes offer a thrilling blend of power, agility, and style, but which one is the better choice for you?
Power and Performance
The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is powered by a 1,160cc inline-triple engine that produces 180 horsepower and 95 lb-ft of torque. The KTM Super Duke R, on the other hand, is powered by a 1,301cc V-twin engine that produces 189 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque.
On paper, the Super Duke R has the edge in both horsepower and torque. However, the Speed Triple 1200 RS is actually the lighter bike, weighing in at 454 pounds compared to the Super Duke R’s 488 pounds. This gives the Speed Triple 1200 RS a slightly better power-to-weight ratio, which translates into better acceleration and top speed.
Handling
Both the Speed Triple 1200 RS and the Super Duke R are known for their excellent handling. The Speed Triple 1200 RS has a more traditional chassis with a steel frame and aluminum swingarm, while the Super Duke R has a more radical chassis with a trellis frame and single-sided swingarm.
The Speed Triple 1200 RS is more agile and easier to flick through corners, while the Super Duke R is more stable at high speeds. Ultimately, the best handling bike for you will depend on your riding style.
Features
Both the Speed Triple 1200 RS and the Super Duke R come with a wide range of features, including:
- Ride-by-wire throttle
- Traction control
- ABS
- Quick-shifter
- Adjustable suspension
- TFT display
The Super Duke R has a few more features than the Speed Triple 1200 RS, including:
- Launch control
- Anti-wheelie control
- Hill hold control
- Cruise control
Price
The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS starts at $16,500, while the KTM Super Duke R starts at $17,999. The Super Duke R is the more expensive bike, but it also comes with more features.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS and the KTM Super Duke R are both excellent naked sportbikes. The Speed Triple 1200 RS is more agile and better value for money, while the Super Duke R is more powerful and has more features.
Ultimately, the best bike for you will depend on your riding style and budget. If you’re looking for a bike that’s fun to ride and won’t break the bank, the Speed Triple 1200 RS is a great choice. If you’re looking for a bike that’s more powerful and has all the latest features, the Super Duke R is the better option.
Final Verdict
The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS and the KTM Super Duke R are both excellent naked sportbikes. The Speed Triple 1200 RS is more agile and better value for money, while the Super Duke R is more powerful and has more features. Ultimately, the best bike for you will depend on your riding style and budget.
Popular Questions
Q: Which bike is faster?
A: The KTM Super Duke R is faster than the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS.
Q: Which bike is better for track riding?
A: The KTM Super Duke R is better for track riding than the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS.
Q: Which bike is more comfortable for long rides?
A: The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is more comfortable for long rides than the KTM Super Duke R.
Q: Which bike is better for commuting?
A: The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is better for commuting than the KTM Super Duke R.
Q: Which bike is better for beginners?
A: The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is better for beginners than the KTM Super Duke R.