KTM 990 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 990 Duke and Honda CB650R are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The Honda CB650R undercuts the KTM 990 Duke by about $3,100, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the KTM 990 Duke leads on power with 123 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 990 Duke
Honda
Honda CB650RThe verdict
The KTM 990 Duke edges it overall at 8.3/10, but the Honda CB650R wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
Honda CB650R
A2-legal, 94 hp, forgiving to learn on.
KTM 990 Duke
123 hp and 0.65 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Honda CB650R
Our 7.6/10 at $9,399, the most bike per dollar.
KTM 990 Duke
188 kg with an 825 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
KTM 990 Duke
Our top score in this matchup at 8.3/10.
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 990 Duke vs Honda CB650R: your questions answered
Which is faster, the KTM 990 Duke or the Honda CB650R?
The KTM 990 Duke makes the most power at 123 hp and 103 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the KTM 990 Duke or the Honda CB650R?
The Honda CB650R is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $9,399.
Which is lighter, the KTM 990 Duke or the Honda CB650R?
The KTM 990 Duke is the lightest at 188 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.
Which is better for a beginner, the KTM 990 Duke or the Honda CB650R?
For a new rider we'd point to the Honda CB650R: A2-legal, 94 hp and 203 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
