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The race of the superbikes: KTM vs Yamaha vs Honda

Last updated on: December 13, 2011 14:09 IST

Here are three superbikes that will jostle for your attention in the coming days.

The KTM Duke 200 is just a few weeks away from being officially announced. Now we covered all the specs of the bike some time back, but the most important thing is yet to be officially announced. According to a few sources, the KTM Duke 200 could be priced at Rs 1.25 lakh (ex-showroom, Pune).

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Also Read: Get Ahead Biking and Motoring

The race of the superbikes: KTM vs Yamaha vs Honda

Last updated on: December 13, 2011 14:09 IST

Factoring in the costs such as insurance and road tax, we can expect the Duke 200 to cost around Rs 1.40 lakh. At this price, the Duke 200 slots right in between the Yamaha R15 Version 2.0 and the Honda CBR250R, but how does the Duke fair against these two superbikes?

It is time we do a quick comparison to find out.

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Also Read: Get Ahead Biking and Motoring

The race of the superbikes: KTM vs Yamaha vs Honda

Last updated on: December 13, 2011 14:09 IST

Duke 200 vs R15

The Duke 200 weighs almost the same as the R15 which means the Duke 200 will undoubtedly be the faster machine. The R15 produces 17 PS of power, but the Duke produces all of 8 PS more. Even the torque of the Duke is more and this means the Duke can out run the R15 in a drag race. Coming to the features, both bikes have very advanced chassis and wide tyres.

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Also Read: Get Ahead Biking and Motoring

The race of the superbikes: KTM vs Yamaha vs Honda

Last updated on: December 13, 2011 14:09 IST

However the R15's delta box frame gives it such amazing handling that the R15 can literally run circles around the Duke 200. Choosing between the two won't be difficult because the R15 is a racers dream come true while the Duke 200 is the ideal machine to cruise around town without feeling stressed out.

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Also Read: Get Ahead Biking and Motoring

The race of the superbikes: KTM vs Yamaha vs Honda

Last updated on: December 13, 2011 14:09 IST

Duke 200 vs CBR250R

A more sensible comparo would be between both these bikes. The Duke 200 has slightly more power then the CBR250R, producing 26 hp at a rather high 10000 RPM. The CBR250R on the other hand is not a very high revving machine (surprising since its a Honda). However the CBR will happily cruise at three digit speeds thanks to the power delivery lower down the revv range.

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Also Read: Get Ahead Biking and Motoring

The race of the superbikes: KTM vs Yamaha vs Honda

Last updated on: December 13, 2011 14:09 IST

Overall, the CBR is a out and out tourer, which is very relaxed motorcycle and more like a cruiser. The Duke 200 on the other hand is a naked machine, which too can do cruising duties without a hiccup. Choosing between them is tough but thanks to the splendid looks of the Duke, we know which bike is the one to choose.

Also Read: Get Ahead Biking and Motoring