A family comparison of bikes from KTM, Ducati and Kawasaki

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A family comparison of bikes from KTM, Ducati and Kawasaki
Rossen Gargolov

motorcycles

A family comparison of bikes from KTM, Ducati and Kawasaki

Newcomers from KTM, Ducati and Kawasaki in a family comparison
Family duel

After individual, top or comparative tests, the newcomers of the season now have to compete within their own clan. How do the “little” 1090 Adventure, SuperSport S and Z 900 fight against their supposedly bigger siblings?

Roman Kirschbauer, Johannes Muller

08/17/2017

A lot helps a lot! ”Or“ Less is more! ”Two big statements of almost philosophical proportions. Not only, but especially in the world of motorized two-wheelers. But no matter which of the two theses one is inclined to agree with, one thing is clear: it is not just a large amount of displacement, performance, equipment and a correspondingly high purchase price that automatically turn a motorcycle into a good motorcycle. Sure, at the regulars’ table and in front of the ice cream parlor, it is precisely these pure numerical values ​​that ensure the next, sure trick, as with the motorcycle quartet.

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A family comparison of bikes from KTM, Ducati and Kawasaki

Newcomers from KTM, Ducati and Kawasaki in a family comparison
Family duel

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But the connoisseur knows: The size is not decisive. What counts is the overall package. Driveability, balance and, last but not least, a good price-performance ratio make motorcycles a guarantee of fun in the real world.

On the other hand, the fascination of motorcycling eludes such rational considerations. The sheer joy of displacement, enjoyment of performance, the acquisition of overtaking prestige can also be decisive factors when choosing the right bike.

In any case, the three pairings of this year’s edition of the family duel also take place in this area of ​​tension: Do you really need the enormous 140 Newton meters, a semi-active chassis and the sheer flood of equipment of a 1290 Super Adventure S? Or don’t their 109s and a conventional chassis like the 1090 Adventure offers?

Outclassed a thoroughbred 959 Panigale Her smaller SuperSport S sister, which is 40 hp weaker on paper, is driving dynamically complete? Or, the conceptual strengths of a good sports tourer may outweigh them?

Finally: Dig the one that has grown significantly in cubic capacity Z 900 with its real 948 cubic centimeters of the Z 1000 R Edition now the water? Two classic pairings, small versus large, in the case of the Ducatis, which are equipped with engines of similar size (937 versus 955 cubic), more of a conceptual one – super athletes versus sports tourers. One last note beforehand: be prepared for a few surprises.

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