In the world of naked middleweight motorcycles, two machines consistently rise to the top of every enthusiast's list: the Austrian "Super Scalpel," the KTM 890 Duke, and the British "Hooligan in a Tuxedo," the Triumph Street Triple 765. Both offer exhilarating performance, sharp handling, and cutting-edge technology, yet they deliver their thrills in distinctly different ways. So, which one is the right choice for you? Let's break it down.
This is where the two bikes diverge the most.
The KTM 890 Duke is powered by the LC8c parallel-twin engine. This motor is all about explosive, immediate torque. From the moment you twist the throttle, the Duke delivers a visceral, punchy surge of power that makes it a master of city streets and tight, twisty roads. It loves to lift its front wheel and feels raw, aggressive, and incredibly playful. It's a bike that encourages you to be a little mischievous.
The Triumph Street Triple 765 (particularly in R and RS trims) uses a 765cc inline-three engine derived from their Moto2™ race program. The character here is one of refined, linear power. It’s smooth at low RPMs, builds power progressively through the mid-range, and culminates in a screaming, addictive top-end howl. This engine provides a sensation of endless acceleration, making it a formidable weapon on open roads and racetracks. It’s sophisticated, powerful, and sounds absolutely glorious.
In short: The KTM offers a sledgehammer punch; the Triumph provides a seamless, high-revving symphony.
Both bikes are renowned for their incredible handling, but again, their philosophies differ.
The KTM 890 Duke lives up to its "Super Scalpel" nickname. With its steel trellis frame and WP Apex suspension, it feels incredibly light, flickable, and eager to change direction. The riding position is more upright and supermoto-like, putting you in a commanding position to attack corners. It’s a point-and-shoot weapon, perfect for riders who value razor-sharp agility and instant response.
The Triumph Street Triple 765 feels more planted and precise. Its aluminum twin-spar frame, combined with high-quality Showa (on the R) or Öhlins (on the RS) suspension, provides immense feedback and stability. It inspires confidence when leaned over at high speed and feels more like a dedicated track machine. You feel more "in" the bike rather than "on" it, giving it a stable and composed character, even when pushed to the limit.
In short: The KTM is the agile streetfighter; the Triumph is the composed track-day specialist.
Both machines come loaded with a high-level electronics suite, including lean-sensitive traction control, cornering ABS, and multiple ride modes. Triumph’s TFT display is often praised for its premium look and intuitive interface, while KTM’s is clear, functional, and easy to read at a glance.
Stylistically, they are worlds apart. The KTM is all sharp angles, aggressive lines, and its signature orange frame. It looks like it’s moving at 100 mph even when standing still. It’s unapologetically modern and in-your-face.
The Triumph is a picture of modern British elegance. Its iconic "bug-eye" headlights have evolved into a more aggressive LED signature, but the bike retains a muscular, yet refined, silhouette. The fit, finish, and attention to detail feel a step above, giving it a more premium and mature aesthetic.
Choosing between these two incredible bikes comes down to what you prioritize in a ride.
You should choose the KTM 890 Duke if:
You should choose the Triumph Street Triple 765 if:
Ultimately, there is no wrong answer. Both the KTM 890 Duke and the Triumph Street Triple 765 are at the absolute pinnacle of the middleweight naked category. The best choice is the one that speaks to your soul and matches your riding style.
