KTM 990 Duke vs Yamaha MT-09

Verdict

The KTM 990 Duke wins this comparison clearly, 61.5 points to 57.9.

The gap of 3.6 points is built mostly in practicality, where the 990 Duke takes 4 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 990 Duke is the quicker machine: 123 hp and 103 Nm moving 194 kg, against 119 hp and 93 Nm moving 193 kg for the MT-09. That is 0.63 hp per kilo playing 0.62.

The MT-09 costs €10,519, which leaves €2,480 in your pocket against the 990 Duke at €12,999. Service intervals run 10,000 km on the MT-09 and 15,000 km on the 990 Duke.

Frequently asked

Which is faster, the KTM 990 Duke or the Yamaha MT-09?

The KTM 990 Duke. It carries 0.63 hp per kilo (123 hp, 194 kg wet) against 0.62 hp per kilo for the Yamaha MT-09 (119 hp, 193 kg).

Is the KTM 990 Duke cheaper than the Yamaha MT-09?

The Yamaha MT-09 is cheaper at €10,519 list, €2,480 less than the KTM 990 Duke at €12,999.

Which is better for shorter riders?

Neither has an advantage on paper: both seats sit at 825 mm. Weight is the tiebreaker, and the Yamaha MT-09 is lighter.

Which has better technology, the 990 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 990 Duke counters with cornering ABS, a TFT dash, traction control 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 280 km for the Yamaha MT-09.

Which bike wins overall?

The KTM 990 Duke, scoring 61.5 of 100 against 57.9 on our within-class points system. The full breakdown and formula are public on the methodology page.