Yamaha MT-09 vs KTM 990 Duke
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The Yamaha MT-09 and KTM 990 Duke are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The Yamaha MT-09 undercuts the KTM 990 Duke by about $1,900, 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 pickYamaha
Yamaha MT-09
KTM
KTM 990 DukeThe verdict
The Yamaha MT-09 edges it overall at 8.6/10, but the KTM 990 Duke wins on most exciting, so let how you ride decide.
Yamaha MT-09
119 hp.
KTM 990 Duke
123 hp and 0.65 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Yamaha MT-09
Our 8.6/10 at $10,599, the most bike per dollar.
KTM 990 Duke
188 kg with an 825 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
Yamaha MT-09
Our top score in this matchup at 8.6/10.
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-09 vs KTM 990 Duke: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Yamaha MT-09 or the KTM 990 Duke?
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 Yamaha MT-09 or the KTM 990 Duke?
The Yamaha MT-09 is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $10,599.
Which is lighter, the Yamaha MT-09 or the KTM 990 Duke?
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 Yamaha MT-09 or the KTM 990 Duke?
For a new rider we'd point to the Yamaha MT-09: 119 hp and 193 kg make it the most approachable of the group.