Yamaha XSR125 vs KTM 125 Duke: Spec Comparison

The growing demand for small-size neo-retro motorcycles made Yamaha expand its XSR line-up by launching its new 125cc version. Although it’s available only in the European market for now, the XSR brand is quite popular even in India. In terms of displacement and purpose, it is quite similar to the KTM 125 Duke available here. Now, for our curious readers, we compare both these motorcycles in terms of specifications and features. 

Design 

On the styling front, both motorcycles are poles apart. With a round headlamp, a single-pod console and a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, the XSR reminds you of the good old days. Whereas, the 125 Duke is as aggressive and modern as it can get. Typical of a KTM, its entire bodywork is dominated by sharp and edgy design lines that are further accentuated by sassy colour options. But it’s worth noting that even the XSR is available in bold colour options like yellow and red. 

Features

The XSR125 comes equipped with an LED headlamp and an LED tail lamp but the turn indicators are conventional. The instrument cluster is a round-shaped negative LCD unit that shows a decent amount of info. As for the 125 Duke, it’s a step ahead with even the turn indicators being LED, just like the headlamp and tail lamp. And its conventional LCD shows slightly more data. 

Engine 

Although the architecture and internals of their engines are very different, there isn’t much difference in their power figures. Propelled by a VVA-equipped, 124cc, liquid-cooled engine, the XSR churns out 14.7bhp at 10,000rpm and 11.5Nm of peak torque at 8,000rpm. As for the Duke, it produces 14.3bhp of power and 12Nm of torque. Both bikes get a six-speed transmission system. But where the XSR has an edge over the Duke is in the weight department. The former weighs 140kg (kerb) that makes it 19kg lighter than the latter.

Cycle Parts

Underpinning the 125 Duke is a split-type steel trellis frame that is the same as its bigger siblings up to the 390 Duke. Meanwhile, the XSR125 is based on the Deltabox frame borrowed from the MT125 and the R125. What’s common in both bikes are 17-inch wheels, upside-down forks, a monoshock, and a disc brake at both ends. However, the KTM 125 Duke gets a larger 13.5litre fuel tank that is 2.5litre bigger than the XSR’s.

Pricing 

Both bikes carry quite a steep price tag for a 125cc motorcycle. While the KTM 125 Duke costs Rs 1.60 lakh (ex-showroom), the Yamaha XSR125 has been priced at Euros 4,499 (approximately Rs 4.01 lakh).