Yamaha MT-125 vs KTM 125 Duke
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The Yamaha MT-125 and KTM 125 Duke are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. They land within touching distance on price, so this comes down to character and fit. On paper the Yamaha MT-125 leads on power with 15 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.
Yamaha
Yamaha MT-125
Our pickKTM
KTM 125 DukeThe verdict
The KTM 125 Duke edges it overall at 8.2/10, but the Yamaha MT-125 wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
Yamaha MT-125
A2-legal, 15 hp, forgiving to learn on.
Yamaha MT-125
15 hp and 0.11 hp/kg, the strongest here.
KTM 125 Duke
Our 8.2/10 at $5,499, the most bike per dollar.
Yamaha MT-125
142 kg with an 810 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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Yamaha MT-125 vs KTM 125 Duke: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Yamaha MT-125 or the KTM 125 Duke?
The Yamaha MT-125 makes the most power at 15 hp and 11.5 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the Yamaha MT-125 or the KTM 125 Duke?
The Yamaha MT-125 is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $5,299.
Which is lighter, the Yamaha MT-125 or the KTM 125 Duke?
The Yamaha MT-125 is the lightest at 142 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.
Which is better for a beginner, the Yamaha MT-125 or the KTM 125 Duke?
For a new rider we'd point to the Yamaha MT-125: A2-legal, 15 hp and 142 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
