Superduke Vs Tuono.

I know these aren't the new hot shit, but I still get into pissing matches with Rotax Tuono guys. IMO Those non-v4 Tuonos are in no possible way better than an SD/SDR. Yes the Rotax engine is great, but it never out performs the LC8 through out the entire rev range () and it sure as hell didn't look better or sound better.

Obviously the we can just say it's 99% the rider which I agree with. I'm just comparing the two machines objectively.

Hmmm. I've owned an SDR with mods, a Mk 2 Tuono and a Mk 1, both with aftermarket pipes and mapped to match, so I reckon I've had fair experience.

The KTM is by far the baddest, craziest and maddest. It pulls the best wheelies and I reckon it's styling is the best - just. The arse end of the Mk 2 Tuono is very pretty - hard to beat.

As far as unmodded engine performance goes, the KTM in SDR form sucks balls. Lurchy, hair trigger throttle and really bad lowdown fuelling - even after recommended mods it was never as butter smooth as the Tuonos.

Sound wise they're both very raw and industrial sounding v twins - much busier and harsher than a Ducati, but that has its own charm. It's a toss up which one I'd prefer. Suspension and handling the SDR kills both of them, same with the brakes. I fanged mine around Phillip Island and while I lost to the big sports bikes on the straight, through the back of the circuit I was reeling them in at a great rate. It's an awesome track bike.

Honestly, I'd be happy with all three. I guess that right now the brutality of the SDR is what I find most appealing.

I still own my 2009 Tuono Mk2 and my 2006 SD Mk 1.
The SD Dyno'ed 131HP and the Tuono 126HP, both have air filters, Pipes and mapping.

Wish I could ride them back to back. (But one is in US and the other in EU )
SD is lighter and feels more lively.
Love the under seat on the SD way more sexy than the Tuono, But Tuono also sexy.

I just love V Twins.

Don't understand the previous comment about the SDR being rough at the low end throttle. Mine is smooth enough to think I'm riding an SV 650. Very tame in the town traffic, much better than my Brutale was.