Honda CB1000 Hornet SP vs KTM 990 Duke

Verdict

The KTM 990 Duke wins this comparison narrowly, 59.8 points to 57.8.

The gap of 2 points is built mostly in engine and performance, where the 990 Duke takes 5.7 points out of the CB1000 Hornet SP. Scores are computed within each bike's class from published spec data; the full formula is on the methodology page.

On the road the CB1000 Hornet SP is the quicker machine: 157 hp and 107 Nm moving 212 kg, against 123 hp and 103 Nm moving 194 kg for the 990 Duke. That is 0.74 hp per kilo playing 0.63.

The 990 Duke costs €12,999, which leaves €991 in your pocket against the CB1000 Hornet SP at €13,990. Service intervals run 15,000 km on the 990 Duke and 12,000 km on the CB1000 Hornet SP.

Frequently asked

Which is faster, the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP or the KTM 990 Duke?

The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP. It carries 0.74 hp per kilo (157 hp, 212 kg wet) against 0.63 hp per kilo for the KTM 990 Duke (123 hp, 194 kg).

Is the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP cheaper than the KTM 990 Duke?

The KTM 990 Duke is cheaper at €12,999 list, €991 less than the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP at €13,990.

Which is better for shorter riders?

The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP. Its 809 mm seat is 16 mm lower than the KTM 990 Duke, and at 212 kg it is the easier bike to manage at a stop.

Which has better technology, the CB1000 Hornet SP or the 990 Duke?

The KTM 990 Duke, which scores 8.8 of 10 tech points with cornering ABS, a TFT dash, traction control and phone connectivity. The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP counters with a TFT dash, traction control, a standard quickshifter and phone connectivity.

Which goes further on a tank?

The KTM 990 Duke: 315 km from its 14.8 litre tank at the claimed consumption, against 288 km for the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP.

Which bike wins overall?

The KTM 990 Duke, scoring 59.8 of 100 against 57.8 on our within-class points system. The full breakdown and formula are public on the methodology page.