KTM 125 Duke vs Honda CB650R
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The KTM 125 Duke and Honda CB650R are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The KTM 125 Duke undercuts the Honda CB650R by about $3,900, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Honda CB650R leads on power with 94 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.
Our pickKTM
KTM 125 Duke
Honda
Honda CB650RThe verdict
The KTM 125 Duke edges it overall at 8.2/10, but the Honda CB650R wins on most exciting, so let how you ride decide.
KTM 125 Duke
A2-legal, 15 hp, forgiving to learn on.
Honda CB650R
94 hp and 0.46 hp/kg, the strongest here.
KTM 125 Duke
Our 8.2/10 at $5,499, the most bike per dollar.
KTM 125 Duke
159 kg with an 820 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
KTM 125 Duke
Our top score in this matchup at 8.2/10.
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 Honda CB650R: your questions answered
Which is faster, the KTM 125 Duke or the Honda CB650R?
The Honda CB650R makes the most power at 94 hp and 63 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the KTM 125 Duke or the Honda CB650R?
The KTM 125 Duke is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $5,499.
Which is lighter, the KTM 125 Duke or the Honda CB650R?
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 Honda CB650R?
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.
