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Head to head

KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO vs Suzuki GSX-8S

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

The KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO and Suzuki GSX-8S are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The Suzuki GSX-8S undercuts the KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO by about $12,500, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO leads on power with 190 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 1390 Super Duke R EVO
Our pick
9.0

KTM

KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO
Suzuki GSX-8S
8.5

Suzuki

Suzuki GSX-8S

The verdict

The KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO edges it overall at 9/10, but the Suzuki GSX-8S wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.

Best for new riders

Suzuki GSX-8S

81 hp.

Most exciting

KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO

190 hp and 0.89 hp/kg, the strongest here.

Best value

Suzuki GSX-8S

Our 8.5/10 at $8,999, the most bike per dollar.

Easiest to manage

Suzuki GSX-8S

202 kg with an 810 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.

Highest rated

KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO

Our top score in this matchup at 9/10.

Price & rating
Price$21,499$8,999
KickTheStand score9 / 108.5 / 10
Performance
Engine1350cc twin776cc twin
Power190 hp81 hp
Torque145 Nm78 Nm
Power-to-weight0.89 hp/kg0.40 hp/kg
Chassis & brakes
Front suspension48mm WP Apex semi-active USD fork41mm KYB USD fork
Rear suspensionWP Apex semi-active monoshockMonoshock
Front brakesDual 320mm discs, Brembo StylemaDual 310mm discs, Nissin 4-piston
Rear brakesSingle 240mm discSingle 240mm disc
Dimensions & practicality
Weight213 kg202 kg
Seat height834 mm810 mm
Fuel capacity17.5 L14 L
Suitability
ClassNakedNaked
A2 licenceNoNo
Good for beginnersNoNo
Best forsport, track, commutingsport, 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 1390 Super Duke R EVO vs Suzuki GSX-8S: your questions answered

Which is faster, the KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO or the Suzuki GSX-8S?

The KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO makes the most power at 190 hp and 145 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.

Which is cheaper, the KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO or the Suzuki GSX-8S?

The Suzuki GSX-8S is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $8,999.

Which is lighter, the KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO or the Suzuki GSX-8S?

The Suzuki GSX-8S is the lightest at 202 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.

Which is better for a beginner, the KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO or the Suzuki GSX-8S?

For a new rider we'd point to the Suzuki GSX-8S: 81 hp and 202 kg make it the most approachable of the group.

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