KTM 790 Duke vs Yamaha MT-09

Verdict

The KTM 790 Duke wins this comparison clearly, 62.3 points to 55.6.

The gap of 6.7 points is built mostly in engine and performance, where the 790 Duke takes 17.2 points out of the MT-09. Scores are computed within each bike's class from published spec data; the full formula is on the methodology page.

On the road the MT-09 is the quicker machine: 119 hp and 93 Nm moving 193 kg, against 95 hp and 87 Nm moving 184 kg for the 790 Duke. That is 0.62 hp per kilo playing 0.52.

The 790 Duke costs €8,999, which leaves €1,520 in your pocket against the MT-09 at €10,519. Service intervals run 15,000 km on the 790 Duke and 10,000 km on the MT-09.

Frequently asked

Which is faster, the KTM 790 Duke or the Yamaha MT-09?

The Yamaha MT-09. It carries 0.62 hp per kilo (119 hp, 193 kg wet) against 0.52 hp per kilo for the KTM 790 Duke (95 hp, 184 kg).

Is the KTM 790 Duke cheaper than the Yamaha MT-09?

The KTM 790 Duke is cheaper at €8,999 list, €1,520 less than the Yamaha MT-09 at €10,519.

Which is better for shorter riders?

Neither has an advantage on paper: both seats sit at 825 mm. Weight is the tiebreaker, and the KTM 790 Duke is lighter.

Which has better technology, the 790 Duke or the MT-09?

The Yamaha MT-09, which scores 10 of 10 tech points with cornering ABS, a TFT dash, traction control, a standard quickshifter, cruise control and phone connectivity. The KTM 790 Duke counters with cornering ABS, a TFT dash, traction control and phone connectivity.

Which goes further on a tank?

The KTM 790 Duke: 311 km from its 14 litre tank at the claimed consumption, against 280 km for the Yamaha MT-09.

Which bike wins overall?

The KTM 790 Duke, scoring 62.3 of 100 against 55.6 on our within-class points system. The full breakdown and formula are public on the methodology page.