/ Featured Article
KTM 790 Duke versus Triumph Street Triple RS - Head to head
Let’s see what two of the most popular European middleweight naked bikes have to offer in this spec-sheet showdown.
Here at MotoDeal.com.ph, we're enthusiastic supporters of naked bikes, especially middleweight ones. These motorcycles provide a remarkable level of versatility and are known for their ability to excel in various aspects, including style and performance. With their stripped-down design and powerful engines, middleweight naked bikes cover a wide range of needs and preferences, making them highly sought after in the market. Whether you're looking for a stylish and agile ride for city commuting or a thrilling machine for spirited weekend rides, these bikes offer the perfect balance between form and function.
On the sporty side of the spectrum, two bikes stand out as shining examples: the KTM 790 Duke and the Triumph Street Triple RS. These motorcycles boast similar performance figures, weight, and components, but their power delivery and handling characteristics set them apart. That being said, if you’re in the market for a European middleweight naked bike, chances are both these bikes are on your list, and you could find yourself scratching your head trying to come to a decision. Without further ado, let’s take a closer look at these bikes in this spec-sheet comparo.
Performance
Indeed, when it comes to sporty naked bikes, performance is a key consideration. While the KTM 790 Duke and Triumph Street Triple RS share similar displacements, their engine configurations play a significant role in determining their distinct riding dynamics. The Triumph Street Triple RS is known for its smooth and linear power delivery, providing precise control and a predictable riding experience. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Duke offers a sharper and more aggressive power delivery, giving riders a snappier and more exhilarating ride. These differences in engine characteristics contribute to the overall personality and feel of each bike, allowing riders to choose the one that aligns with their preferred riding style and preferences.
Taking a closer look at the Triumph Street Triple RS, it is equipped with a 765cc inline-three cylinder engine that’s been plucked straight out of the renowned Moto2 race bikes. With a peak power output of 128 horsepower achieved at 12,000 rpm and a torque of 80 Nm at 9,500 rpm, this bike delivers its power and torque higher up in the rev range. The Street Triple RS is known for its smooth power delivery, allowing riders to smoothly and progressively unleash the engine's potential. The throttle response is precise, enabling riders to have fine control over the power output. These characteristics make the Triumph Street Triple RS an exhilarating and thrilling machine, particularly for riders who enjoy pushing the limits and experiencing the thrill of high-revving performance.
Moving on to the KTM 790 Duke, it is equipped with a 799cc parallel-twin engine. Unlike the Triumph Street Triple RS, the KTM 790 Duke is known for its strong low-end torque. It produces 105 horsepower at 9,000 rpm and 91 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm. This configuration allows the KTM 790 Duke to excel in quick acceleration, making it fast off the line and providing an exciting riding experience. However, as you reach the upper reaches of the rev range, the power delivery tapers off. This characteristic gives the bike a unique personality, catering to riders who enjoy the snappy and wheelie-popping nature of the KTM 790 Duke. It's often regarded as a hooligan machine, offering energetic and thrilling performance that's sure to satisfy adrenaline-junkies.
Features
Indeed, when it comes to technology, both the Triumph Street Triple RS and the KTM 790 Duke offer cutting-edge features, making it a close draw in this aspect. Both bikes come equipped with multiple ride modes, allowing riders to customize the performance characteristics to suit their preferences and riding conditions. Additionally, they both feature advanced safety features such as cornering ABS and cornering traction control, enhancing stability and control during cornering maneuvers. Another shared technology is the full-color TFT display, providing riders with clear and vibrant information at a glance, including speed, gear position, and other essential data. Overall, these technological advancements enhance the riding experience and offer modern convenience to riders of both the Triumph Street Triple RS and the KTM 790 Duke.
The Triumph Street Triple RS indeed pulls ahead in terms of braking and suspension hardware. It is equipped with high-quality components that enhance its performance and handling capabilities. The rear suspension features an Öhlins shock absorber, known for its excellent damping characteristics and adjustability, allowing riders to fine-tune the suspension to their liking. On the front, the Street Triple RS boasts a fully adjustable Showa front fork, which provides precise control and responsiveness during cornering and various road conditions.
In terms of braking, the Triumph Street Triple RS utilizes Brembo Stylema monoblock calipers, renowned for their exceptional stopping power and heat dissipation. These calipers, coupled with a Brembo RCS master cylinder, offer precise and progressive braking performance, inspiring confidence and control to the rider. The combination of these high-performance braking and suspension components sets the Street Triple RS apart, providing riders with enhanced stability, handling, and braking capabilities, especially during aggressive riding or track sessions.
Price and verdict
When considering the price aspect, it is true that the Triumph Street Triple RS comes with high-end components and a race-derived engine, which contribute to its higher cost. The retail price for the Triumph Street Triple RS starts at P845,000, reflecting its premium features and performance.
On the other hand, the KTM 790 Duke emerges as the winner in terms of value for money. With a price of P599,000, it offers a more affordable option in its class while still delivering a thrilling riding experience. The KTM 790 Duke may have slightly lower power output and less-premium suspension and braking hardware compared to the Triumph Street Triple RS, but it compensates for these trade-offs with its competitive pricing and overall performance.
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