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Head to head

KTM 125 Duke vs Ducati Monster

Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.

The KTM 125 Duke and Ducati Monster are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The KTM 125 Duke undercuts the Ducati Monster by about $7,496, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Ducati Monster leads on power with 111 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.

KTM 125 Duke
Our pick
8.2

KTM

KTM 125 Duke
Ducati Monster
8.0

Ducati

Ducati Monster

The verdict

The KTM 125 Duke edges it overall at 8.2/10, but the Ducati Monster wins on most exciting, so let how you ride decide.

Best for new riders

KTM 125 Duke

A2-legal, 15 hp, forgiving to learn on.

Most exciting

Ducati Monster

111 hp and 0.59 hp/kg, the strongest here.

Best value

KTM 125 Duke

Our 8.2/10 at $5,499, the most bike per dollar.

Easiest to manage

KTM 125 Duke

159 kg with an 820 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.

Highest rated

KTM 125 Duke

Our top score in this matchup at 8.2/10.

Price & rating
Price$5,499$12,995
KickTheStand score8.2 / 108 / 10
Performance
Engine125cc single937cc twin
Power15 hp111 hp
Torque12 Nm93 Nm
Power-to-weight0.09 hp/kg0.59 hp/kg
Chassis & brakes
Front suspension43mm WP Apex USD fork43mm USD fork
Rear suspensionWP Apex monoshockMonoshock
Front brakesSingle 300mm disc, radial 4-pistonDual 320mm discs, Brembo M4.32
Rear brakesSingle 230mm discSingle 245mm disc
Dimensions & practicality
Weight159 kg188 kg
Seat height820 mm820 mm
Fuel capacity13.4 L14 L
Suitability
ClassNakedNaked
A2 licenceYesNo
Good for beginnersYesNo
Best forlearning, commuting, sportsport, commuting

Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.

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KTM 125 Duke vs Ducati Monster: your questions answered

Which is faster, the KTM 125 Duke or the Ducati Monster?

The Ducati Monster makes the most power at 111 hp and 93 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.

Which is cheaper, the KTM 125 Duke or the Ducati Monster?

The KTM 125 Duke is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $5,499.

Which is lighter, the KTM 125 Duke or the Ducati Monster?

The KTM 125 Duke is the lightest at 159 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.

Which is better for a beginner, the KTM 125 Duke or the Ducati Monster?

For a new rider we'd point to the KTM 125 Duke: A2-legal, 15 hp and 159 kg make it the most approachable of the group.

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