Are you torn between the KTM 990 and the Africa Twin for your next adventure? You’re not alone. Many riders find themselves weighing the performance and features of these two popular bikes, each offering a unique blend of power and versatility.
Key Takeaways
- Performance & Handling: The KTM 990 offers a lightweight, agile design ideal for off-road adventures, while the Africa Twin provides smooth power delivery and stability, making it perfect for long tours.
- Engine Specifications: Both bikes boast around 100 horsepower, but the KTM 990 features a 999 cc V-twin engine for responsive acceleration, whereas the Africa Twin has a 1,084 cc parallel-twin engine for smooth rides.
- Comfort vs. Agility: The KTM 990, with a higher seat height, is geared towards experienced riders seeking technical performance, while the Africa Twin emphasizes comfort and versatility, accommodating a wider range of rider heights.
- Safety Features: Both models come equipped with advanced safety technologies, including traction control and lean-sensitive ABS, enhancing rider confidence across various terrains.
- Pricing & Value: The KTM 990 is generally more affordable ($12,000 – $14,000) compared to the Africa Twin ($14,000 – $16,000), with both offering unique value based on rider preferences and intended use.
- Resale Value: Both motorcycles maintain good resale values, appealing to different rider demographics: the KTM 990 attracts off-road enthusiasts, while the Africa Twin appeals to touring riders.
Overview Of KTM 990 And Africa Twin
The KTM 990 and Africa Twin stand as two of the most capable adventure motorcycles on the market. Each model brings its own strengths and features, designed for different riding styles and preferences.
KTM 990
The KTM 990 is known for its agile performance and lightweight construction. It features a 999 cc V-twin engine, producing approximately 100 horsepower, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road adventures. Its adjustable suspension and aggressive tires enhance its capability on rugged trails.
- Weight: The KTM 990 typically weighs around 450 lbs (204 kg) fully fueled.
- Fuel Capacity: It has a fuel tank capacity of 4.5 gallons (17.0 liters).
- Seat Height: The seat height is approximately 33.5 inches (850 mm), catering to riders with longer inseams.
The KTM 990 excels in technical terrains, with nimble handling and direct feedback that appeals to experienced riders.
Africa Twin
The Africa Twin, on the other hand, emphasizes comfort and versatility. Powered by a 1,084 cc parallel-twin engine, it offers around 100 horsepower, along with smooth torque delivery suitable for extended rides. Its long suspension travel and upright riding position make it ideal for long-distance touring and exploring unpaved roads.
- Weight: The Africa Twin weighs about 505 lbs (229 kg) when fully fueled.
- Fuel Capacity: It features a larger fuel tank with a capacity of 5.0 gallons (19.8 liters).
- Seat Height: The seat height typically ranges from 32.3 inches (820 mm) to 33.1 inches (840 mm), accommodating a variety of rider heights.
The Africa Twin shines in comfort and stability, appealing to riders who prioritize long journeys and off-road exploration.
Comparison Summary
Both bikes offer unique qualities. The KTM 990 attracts riders seeking agility and ruggedness, while the Africa Twin suits those wanting comfort and versatility for longer trips. Choosing between the two depends on your riding goals and preferences.
Performance Comparison
The performance comparison of the KTM 990 and the Africa Twin highlights the strengths of each bike and how they cater to different riding styles.
Engine Specifications
The KTM 990 features a 999 cc V-twin engine, delivering approximately 100 horsepower. This engine provides incredible torque, enhancing acceleration and responsiveness, especially during off-road situations. The bike’s fuel injection system ensures consistent performance in varying conditions. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, is powered by a 1,084 cc parallel-twin engine, also offering around 100 horsepower. Its engine is finely tuned for smooth power delivery, making it ideal for long distances and highway rides. Both engines yield impressive performance but cater to distinct preferences in power delivery and riding feel.
Handling And Ride Quality
The KTM 990 excels in handling due to its lightweight construction of around 450 lbs. Its agile frame offers excellent cornering capabilities, making it well-suited for technical trails and off-road adventures. The 33.5-inch seat height gives you a commanding position, enhancing confidence during challenging maneuvers. Conversely, the Africa Twin’s weight of about 505 lbs contributes to its stability on the road. With a seat height ranging from 32.3 to 33.1 inches, it provides comfort for longer rides while still maintaining excellent off-road capabilities. The Africa Twin’s suspension system absorbs bumps effectively, ensuring a smooth ride over rough terrain.
Both bikes deliver distinct riding experiences, allowing you to choose based on your preferences for agility versus comfort in various conditions.
Design And Comfort
Both the KTM 990 and the Africa Twin provide unique designs that cater to various rider preferences, focusing on comfort and usability during rides.
Ergonomics And Riding Position
The KTM 990 features a higher seat height of about 33.5 inches, promoting an aggressive riding stance favored by off-road enthusiasts. The narrower seat enhances leg room, which benefits maneuverability in technical terrains. The handlebars provide a comfortable reach, allowing for a spirited ride.
In contrast, the Africa Twin offers a more relaxed riding position with a seat height ranging from 32.3 to 33.1 inches. This flexibility accommodates a broader range of riders, making it more accessible. It includes wider handlebars, promoting an upright posture that minimizes fatigue during long journeys. Footpeg positioning also supports comfort on extended trips, reducing strain on the rider.
Aesthetics And Build Quality
The KTM 990 showcases a distinct, aggressive design with sharp lines and a striking orange and black color scheme. Its lightweight frame and premium components contribute to an aesthetically appealing, sporty look that stands out on trails and streets.
The Africa Twin, in contrast, opts for a more classic adventure bike appearance, combining bold colors with a rugged build. Its bodywork emphasizes durability, designed to withstand tough conditions. The quality of materials used ensures a polished, refined look, appealing to long-distance touring enthusiasts who appreciate robust craftsmanship.
Both bikes reflect their intended purposes: the KTM 990 thrives in agility and off-road capability, while the Africa Twin emphasizes all-day comfort and durability for diverse riding experiences.
Technology And Features
Both the KTM 990 and Africa Twin include advanced technology and features that enhance the riding experience, catering to various rider preferences and needs.
Instrumentation And Connectivity
The KTM 990 features a full-color TFT display that provides essential information at a glance. Critical data such as speed, RPM, and fuel level is clearly visible. The interface is intuitive, allowing easy navigation between modes. Additionally, optional Bluetooth connectivity lets you link your smartphone for call and music control directly from the display.
The Africa Twin offers a similarly impressive instrument cluster with a digital LCD screen. This display includes features like a trip computer, fuel range, and gear position indicator. While it lacks standard Bluetooth, the bike supports optional connectivity kits that enable smartphone integration, allowing access to navigation and music, enhancing your riding experience.
Safety Features
KTM equips the 990 with several safety features, including a cornering ABS system. This advanced braking system adjusts braking force during lean angles, improving control during high-speed maneuvers. The bike also includes traction control, allowing you to tackle different terrains confidently.
Africa Twin prioritizes safety with its advanced riding modes and adjustable traction control. This system customizes performance based on conditions, enhancing rider confidence on various surfaces. The Africa Twin also includes a lean-sensitive ABS that allows for controlled braking on inclines or rough terrain, further enhancing safety.
Understanding these technological aspects can assist you in making an informed decision between the KTM 990 and Africa Twin, ensuring you choose a bike tailored to your adventure needs.
Pricing And Value
When comparing the KTM 990 and Africa Twin, pricing plays a significant role in determining the overall value each bike offers.
KTM 990 Pricing
The KTM 990 typically retails between $12,000 and $14,000. This price reflects its premium features, agile engineering, and off-road capability. The cost may vary based on additional options like upgraded suspension systems or special paint jobs.
Africa Twin Pricing
The Africa Twin’s price ranges from $14,000 to $16,000, depending on the model and features included. The base model provides a solid value with essential touring elements. The higher-end models come with advanced technology and safety features designed for long-distance travel.
Value Considerations
Both bikes offer unique value propositions, so consider your riding style and preferences when evaluating price:
- Performance and Handling: The KTM 990’s lightweight design and powerful engine deliver thrilling performance, especially on off-road trails.
- Comfort and Versatility: The Africa Twin excels in comfort, making it ideal for long rides. Its adjustable seat height accommodates a range of riders.
Resale Value
Both motorcycles maintain decent resale value within the adventure bike segment. The KTM 990’s reputation for nimbleness can attract off-road enthusiasts, while the Africa Twin’s comfort appeals to tourers.
Assessing the pricing and value helps in making an informed decision. Consider how often you plan to ride, the type of terrain you’ll encounter, and the overall budget. This analysis ensures you choose the bike that aligns with your adventure needs.
Conclusion
Deciding between the KTM 990 and the Africa Twin ultimately comes down to what you value most in your riding experience. If you’re after agility and a sporty feel on rugged trails the KTM 990 might be your best bet. Its lightweight design and responsive handling are perfect for those who thrive on off-road adventures.
On the other hand if comfort and versatility are high on your list the Africa Twin shines with its smooth power delivery and stable ride. It’s designed for those long journeys where comfort matters just as much as performance.
No matter which bike you choose both offer exciting possibilities for your next adventure. Trust your instincts and pick the one that resonates with your riding style. Happy trails!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the KTM 990 and the Africa Twin?
The main differences lie in performance and comfort. The KTM 990 is lightweight and agile, ideal for technical off-road riding, while the Africa Twin focuses on comfort and stability, making it better for long-distance touring and varied terrains.
What is the engine size and horsepower for each bike?
The KTM 990 has a 999 cc V-twin engine that produces around 100 horsepower, whereas the Africa Twin is powered by a 1,084 cc parallel-twin engine, also providing approximately 100 horsepower.
Which bike is better for off-road adventures?
The KTM 990 excels in off-road conditions due to its lightweight construction and nimble handling, making it suitable for technical terrains.
How does comfort differ between the two bikes?
The Africa Twin emphasizes a relaxed riding position with an adjustable seat height, catering to comfort during long rides, while the KTM 990 promotes a more aggressive stance, better suited for off-road enthusiasts.
What safety features are included with each bike?
The KTM 990 features cornering ABS and traction control, enhancing control on various terrains. The Africa Twin includes advanced riding modes, adjustable traction control, and lean-sensitive ABS for improved braking in diverse conditions.
What are the price ranges for the KTM 990 and Africa Twin?
The KTM 990 typically retails between $12,000 and $14,000, while the Africa Twin ranges from $14,000 to $16,000, with features reflecting their respective purposes.
What technology features do these bikes offer?
The KTM 990 includes a full-color TFT display with optional Bluetooth connectivity, while the Africa Twin has a digital LCD screen with a trip computer and optional connectivity kits for navigation and music.
Which bike has better resale value?
Both bikes maintain decent resale value, with the KTM 990 appealing to off-road enthusiasts and the Africa Twin attracting touring riders due to its comfort and features.
How do I choose between the KTM 990 and Africa Twin?
Choosing depends on your riding goals. If you prioritize agility and off-road capability, the KTM 990 is ideal. For comfort and versatility on long rides, the Africa Twin is the better option.
