KTM 990 Duke vs LiveWire S2 Del Mar
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The KTM 990 Duke and LiveWire S2 Del Mar are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The KTM 990 Duke undercuts the LiveWire S2 Del Mar by about $3,000, 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
LiveWire
LiveWire S2 Del MarThe verdict
The KTM 990 Duke edges it overall at 8.3/10, but the LiveWire S2 Del Mar wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
LiveWire S2 Del Mar
84 hp.
KTM 990 Duke
123 hp and 0.65 hp/kg, the strongest here.
KTM 990 Duke
Our 8.3/10 at $12,499, 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 LiveWire S2 Del Mar: your questions answered
Which is faster, the KTM 990 Duke or the LiveWire S2 Del Mar?
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 LiveWire S2 Del Mar?
The KTM 990 Duke is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $12,499.
Which is lighter, the KTM 990 Duke or the LiveWire S2 Del Mar?
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 LiveWire S2 Del Mar?
For a new rider we'd point to the LiveWire S2 Del Mar: 84 hp and 199 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
