Are you torn between the KTM 790 Duke and the Triumph Street Triple? You’re not alone. Both bikes have their own unique charm and performance, making it tough to pick the right one for your riding style.
Key Takeaways
- Engine Performance: The KTM 790 Duke features a 799cc twin-cylinder engine with 105 horsepower, while the Triumph Street Triple offers a 765cc inline-three engine producing 116 horsepower, providing distinct power delivery experiences.
- Weight and Handling: The 790 Duke is lighter at 366 pounds, enhancing maneuverability, particularly in urban settings. In contrast, the 414-pound Street Triple offers stability at high speeds, making it suitable for longer rides.
- Suspension and Ride Comfort: The KTM’s fully adjustable WP suspension excels in agility, perfect for aggressive riding, whereas the Triumph’s Showa suspension prioritizes comfort and stability for extended journeys.
- Braking Systems: The KTM 790 Duke features powerful twin 320mm front disc brakes with cornering ABS, while the Street Triple has twin 310mm front discs with advanced ABS, ensuring reliable stopping power.
- Design and Ergonomics: The Duke exhibits a sharp, aggressive design suited for spirited riding, whereas the Street Triple presents a sleek, classic look with a more relaxed seating position for comfort on longer rides.
- Technology Integration: Both bikes are equipped with high-quality TFT displays; the KTM offers smartphone connectivity while the Triumph features automatic brightness adjustment and Bluetooth options, enhancing the overall riding experience.
Overview of KTM 790 Duke and Street Triple
The KTM 790 Duke and Triumph Street Triple cater to riders seeking performance and agility. Both bikes offer unique features, making each option appealing.
KTM 790 Duke
- Engine: The KTM 790 Duke boasts a 799cc twin-cylinder engine, delivering 105 horsepower. This engine provides a lively riding experience.
- Weight: With a weight of 366 pounds, the 790 Duke remains nimble and easy to handle in various conditions.
- Features: The bike includes a TFT display, LED headlights, and multiple ride modes. These features enhance the riding experience, making it versatile for different terrains.
- Handling: Equipped with an adjustable suspension, the 790 Duke excels in cornering. Expect sharp responses and stability during rides.
Triumph Street Triple
- Engine: The Street Triple’s 765cc inline-three engine generates 116 horsepower. This engine produces smooth power delivery, boosting rider confidence.
- Weight: Weighing 414 pounds, the Street Triple feels planted on the road. Its design promotes comfort during longer rides.
- Features: It offers a high-quality TFT display, premium suspension, and advanced technology. Features like Quickshifter and traction control enhance performance.
- Handling: Known for its sharp handling, the Street Triple remains agile. Riders appreciate its feedback during cornering, contributing to an exhilarating experience.
- Engine Configuration: The KTM 790 Duke has a twin-cylinder engine, while the Triumph Street Triple utilizes an inline-three configuration. This difference influences power characteristics and rider feel.
- Weight: The 790 Duke is lighter, contributing to improved maneuverability in urban settings. The Street Triple’s weight enhances stability at higher speeds.
- Riding Experience: The KTM focuses on aggressive riding and cornering, whereas the Street Triple emphasizes comfort and versatility for everyday use.
Understanding these aspects helps you weigh the options more clearly. Each bike has strengths tailored to different riding preferences.
Performance Comparison
The performance of the KTM 790 Duke and the Triumph Street Triple showcases distinct traits tailored for different riding styles.
Engine Specifications
The KTM 790 Duke features an 799cc twin-cylinder engine that produces 105 horsepower. The engine is compact and lightweight, optimizing power-to-weight ratios. This design allows for quick throttle responses and aggressive acceleration.
In comparison, the Triumph Street Triple’s 765cc inline-three engine delivers 116 horsepower, offering a smooth and predictable power band. This engine configuration contributes to the bike’s comfortable ride, especially during longer journeys, while still supporting spirited riding.
Acceleration and Top Speed
KTM 790 Duke accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.5 seconds. Its lightweight design facilitates quick takeoffs and enhanced maneuverability, making it ideal for urban environments. The Duke’s top speed reaches around 130 mph, suitable for both spirited riding and casual cruising.
Triumph Street Triple, on the other hand, achieves 0 to 60 mph in about 3.3 seconds, demonstrating slightly quicker initial acceleration. Its top speed reaches approximately 140 mph, offering excellent performance on highways and winding roads.
Both bikes provide thrilling experiences on the road, but your preferences—such as urban agility or highway performance—will dictate which motorcycle aligns better with your riding style.
Handling and Ride Comfort
Understanding handling and ride comfort is crucial in deciding between the KTM 790 Duke and the Triumph Street Triple. Each bike features unique characteristics that cater to different riding styles and preferences.
Suspension Systems
KTM 790 Duke utilizes a fully adjustable WP suspension system, enabling you to fine-tune the setup for various riding conditions. This system enhances agility, allowing for quick turns and precise cornering. The Duke’s front and rear suspension absorbs bumps effectively, making it well-suited for aggressive riding in urban areas.
Triumph Street Triple comes with a Showa suspension featuring a fully adjustable front fork and a rear shock. This setup focuses on comfort, providing a plush ride over longer distances. The Street Triple excels in delivering stability during high-speed runs and curves, ensuring you feel confident and in control.
Braking Performance
KTM 790 Duke boasts a powerful braking system with twin 320mm front disc brakes and a single 240mm rear disc. Equipped with cornering ABS, it offers added safety during aggressive maneuvers and tight corners. The brakes provide outstanding feedback, instilling a sense of confidence while riding.
Triumph Street Triple features twin 310mm front disc brakes and a 220mm rear disc. This braking system, paired with advanced ABS, ensures smooth deceleration and reliable stopping power. The street-oriented design ensures effective braking performance during everyday rides and spirited outings, making you feel secure in all conditions.
Design and Aesthetics
The design and aesthetics of the KTM 790 Duke and Triumph Street Triple play significant roles in how these motorcycles appeal to their riders. Both bikes showcase unique styling that reflects their identities.
Body Styling
The KTM 790 Duke features a sharp, aggressive design with angular lines and a bold stance. Its exposed trellis frame adds a sense of lightweight agility, while the signature KTM orange accents give it a standout look. The bike’s minimalist fairing and LED headlights contribute to its modern aesthetic.
The Triumph Street Triple boasts a more refined, classic appearance. Its muscular tank and sleek tail section present a blend of sophistication and sportiness. The dual round headlights and sculpted bodywork maintain Triumph’s trademark charm, making it visually appealing without sacrificing performance.
Ergonomics
The KTM 790 Duke emphasizes a more aggressive riding posture. It features slightly higher foot pegs and a low-set handlebar, promoting an engaging riding position ideal for spirited cornering. The seat height of 32.7 inches allows for comfortable ground reach, enhancing confidence in urban environments.
The Triumph Street Triple, in contrast, offers a more relaxed riding stance. Its slightly lower foot pegs and higher handlebars create a comfortable, upright position, suitable for longer rides. The plush seat design enhances comfort, making it versatile for both daily commuting and weekend adventures.
Choosing between these two motorcycles involves understanding their distinct designs and ergonomic features that directly impact your riding experience.
Technology and Features
Both the KTM 790 Duke and Triumph Street Triple come equipped with advanced technological features that enhance the riding experience.
Instrumentation and Connectivity
The KTM 790 Duke utilizes a high-resolution TFT display that provides vital information at a glance. This display shows speed, gear position, fuel level, and ride modes. The Duke also offers smartphone connectivity through the KTM MY RIDE app, allowing you to access navigation and music controls directly from the display.
The Triumph Street Triple features a premium TFT display as well, which adjusts brightness automatically for better visibility in varying light conditions. It includes a comprehensive digital system that displays key metrics such as revs, speed, fuel consumption, and ride modes. With Bluetooth connectivity options, you can connect your phone to the bike, providing access to calls and music.
Safety Features
The KTM 790 Duke prioritizes safety with cornering ABS, ensuring stable and controlled braking during aggressive riding, especially in corners. Additionally, it includes traction control settings that adjust to various riding conditions, enhancing stability on different road surfaces.
The Triumph Street Triple also features advanced ABS and optional traction control systems, which enhance safety and confidence during rides. Its standard riding modes allow you to choose between configurations, enabling optimized power delivery and traction in diverse conditions.
Both motorcycles incorporate robust braking systems with dual front disc brakes to ensure effective stopping power, enhancing rider safety. By understanding these technology and safety features, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your riding style and safety preferences.
Conclusion
Choosing between the KTM 790 Duke and the Triumph Street Triple ultimately comes down to your personal riding style and preferences. If you crave agility and a sporty edge the Duke might just be your perfect match. Its nimble handling and aggressive stance cater to urban riders who love to carve through corners.
On the other hand if comfort and versatility are more your speed the Street Triple offers a smooth ride with a touch of classic charm. It’s designed for those who enjoy longer journeys without sacrificing performance.
Both bikes have their unique strengths so take your time to consider what features matter most to you. Whichever you choose you’re in for an exhilarating ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which motorcycle is better for urban riding, the KTM 790 Duke or the Triumph Street Triple?
The KTM 790 Duke is often favored for urban riding due to its agile handling and lightweight build, making it nimble in traffic. Its adjustable suspension also enhances cornering capability, providing sharp responses for aggressive riding.
How do the engine performances compare between the KTM 790 Duke and the Triumph Street Triple?
The KTM 790 Duke features a 799cc engine with 105 horsepower, while the Triumph Street Triple has a 765cc engine with 116 horsepower. Both engines deliver strong performance, but the Street Triple emphasizes smooth power delivery, whereas the Duke focuses on aggressive acceleration.
What are the main differences in ride comfort between the two motorcycles?
The KTM 790 Duke promotes a more aggressive riding posture with higher foot pegs and a low handlebar, ideal for sporty riding. In contrast, the Triumph Street Triple offers a more relaxed riding position with lower foot pegs, making it better suited for longer journeys.
How does the braking performance compare for these bikes?
The KTM 790 Duke has twin 320mm front disc brakes paired with cornering ABS, enhancing safety during aggressive riding. Meanwhile, the Triumph Street Triple features twin 310mm front disc brakes with advanced ABS, ensuring reliable stopping power for everyday use.
What design elements differentiate the KTM 790 Duke from the Triumph Street Triple?
The KTM 790 Duke showcases a sharp, aggressive design with angular lines and an exposed trellis frame, giving it a bold stance. In contrast, the Triumph Street Triple presents a refined, classic look with a muscular tank and sleek tail section, reflecting Triumph’s signature style.
Are there significant technological differences between the KTM 790 Duke and Triumph Street Triple?
Yes, both bikes feature advanced technology. The KTM 790 Duke offers a high-resolution TFT display with smartphone connectivity, while the Triumph Street Triple has a premium TFT display with automatic brightness adjustment and Bluetooth connectivity for calls and music.
Which motorcycle offers better safety features?
Both motorcycles prioritize safety with robust braking systems. The KTM 790 Duke includes cornering ABS and traction control, enhancing stability during aggressive rides. The Triumph Street Triple also boasts advanced ABS and optional traction control, catering to everyday and spirited outings.
