I have had 3 690's. a 2014, a 2015 and now a 2021. There is no comparison between the 2021 and earlier models in my book. Yes the instrument panel is crap but apart from that annoying fact the fundamentals are chalk and cheese. The engine is now sharper and turbine smooth, at least after it has run in a bit say 4,000 miles. The chassis is on another plane, the on-road and off-road handling is far more controlled and stable at high speed and the front forks and rear shock are now genuinely "Race Ready" competition standard. Anybody who doesn't realise that, is not an accomplished off-road rider. Period. They should stay on the road. The 2021 also picked up 6 more clicks of adjustment in the 48 Explor forks over the 2019 model too. The 2021 (at least over here in Europe) also gets ABS off at the rear and off-road ABS at the front as standard in position 2 without a dongle. The 2021 also gets a gear indicator on the dash which was always needed (also a completely useless rev counter function). It also has a noticeably plusher seat than the 2019 and so far 3 hour rides are fine although I will get a Seat Concepts at some point just for more surface area. I still have the 2015 seat that I did the 7,350 mile extended TAT on in 2015 and it is definitely harder than the 2021 when you press your thumbs into it, actually I don't know how they get such a thin seat to be as comfortable as it is on the 2021( to be fair I am talking about a UK/Europe spec bike here and I believe the seat we get over here is different to US spec so if this is not your experience of the seat that is why). It is still very far from perfect but actually, you know what? I sat on about 6 different new adventure bikes in a dealership yesterday, from Yamaha, Honda, Triumph etc, and frankly none of them had seats I would I keep for long distance work, and I would take the 690 over several of them if I had to choose to remain with a standard seat.
I would like to find the "gear indicator" on the dash of my 2021 690, as of yet I havent. As a long time rider of KTM 2 stroke and 4 stroke dirtbikes, I really like the simple dash, its hardly even a dash but its small with out any big flashing screen. I'm a luddite. Ive never been thrilled with the seat concepts seats Ive tried, but I dont see a lot of others on offer for the 690, the stock seat is more or less ok but I dont have a lot of miles on it yet. I also have an 890R and it goes down the hiway like a gold wing compared to the 690, but Ive put 50,000 miles on a DR 650 including major hiway time at speed, so it can be done on 690 also. @65 mph the 690 is doing nothing, barely thumping along....even at 75 its pretty relaxed.
Having owned a 2016 and now a 2019 i can tell the new one is a lot better for me , smoother engine , more power and way better suspension. and so long no problems with the bike after 40 k km's on the 2019, had the 2016 for 80 k km's but a lot of reliability problems. love the lc'4's and dont want to own a twin anymore.. just the joy of riding one i cant find in any other bike.
It's hard to say what the deal is when it comes to KTM reliability. My cousin has over 50k miles or 80k km on his 2015 and only replaced the clutch once due to burning it up in some deep sand. Everything else has been fine.
What I've noticed, reliability often depends on the quality of some specific parts which can mess up a lot of others. I drive a 2019 690 Supermoto (software reduced to 42 hp because of drivers license), and after 14k km and after regular oil changes at maxium 4k km each the top clutch plate (which is also thinner due to the anti hopping feature) shattered in 15+ small pieces, which messed up the oil pump, clutch basket, oil pump gears etc. In my perspective, it's kind of a coinflip because i know a lot of people that never had problems with this motor.
@@krazed0451 my clutch slave broke on a trip to scotland (commen issue). then my ignition burned up on a trip to norway and after that my injection broke wich made me sell the bike. my 2020 690 still no problems. so maybe i got a bad one dunno
worthless video. just click bait. have you actually ridden both bikes? no one who has ridden or owned a pre 2019 and 2019+ would for a moment say question which bike is superior. i won't be watching your click bait again.
I had a 690 from 2009-2014 and recently purchased a 2023 690. Loving the 2023. Much more refined than the 2009 I had. I have done a lot of mods but the basic bike is great. Stock seat was passable but went with a tall Seat Concepts to fit me better. Love the quick shifter, especially off road.
As a long time KTM lover I have had to break off my relationship with them. That's right. We have gotten a divorce. Well they look like they have made a good 300 this year after 3 years of garbage. But that has yet to be proven. ALL of there adventure type bikes are proving to be too expensive, too many issues of reliability and support of a country that are commies.
When I was riding the TAT I ran into a group of T7 riders who couldn't get routine service parts for their bikes anywhere in the PacNW (air filters)... I had 3 services (2 dealer and 1 independent) during my trip and they all had parts on hand for the 690, these days parts issues can hit ANY bike - even the Japanese bikes with their huge dealer networks.
You arent turning gay are you? Divorcing from KTM is heresy. Go buy a damned V-Strom and then see what happens. (I would only buy a carbed 300, they can be found)
„I own the older model and therefore talk bad about the new model with bro science and completely unreasonable guesses about bad intentions of the company“ Bro this video is trash and you see it because all comments are saying the exact opposite of you 😅
Better or worse is a matter of perspective. I have a 2010 690 R with the quite extreme 270 mm suspension travel and the ridiculous Bilux EXC head light. But I like it for the radical implementation. Now clocking 72,000 km and counting I had a 2013 690, pre-ABS, the normal 250 mm suspension travel. More refined, running smoother and a half way decent H4 headlight (the one you see on my profile picture on a Honduran back road), run some 46,000 km in Mexico and Central America, mostly with a Safari front tank. Re-imported as part of my re-location, now in the hands of a good friend and running fine. My son got a 2016 690 in Mexico (EU-spec) with ABS, running even smoother. Re-imported to Germany too, clocking some 18,000 km. Roughly 10,000 km were from a Mexico-DF to Panama round-trip in April 2017. None of them got reliability issues. My daughter rides a Vitpilen 701, that 690 engine is so smooth it is hard to belief. Two recalls, one for the tank (apparently changed to a sturdy version with increased wall thickness (and weight) and the clutch piston exchange. No issues occured so far, about 9,000 km and counting. The 690 enduros got much better on the engine, perhaps that matters to most clients and especially the SuMo-riders. Not to forget the EURO 3/4/5 increasingly challenging restrictions KTM had to address. The suspension was extreme at the 2010 and more tuned to the perceived customer taste. Overall I think they did a fantastic job in keeping the dual sport single cylinder alive and kicking. If you want a new bike, go for the latest model. If you are able to distinguish the run-to-the-ground from the well kept older versions, there is no reason to exclude them. It basically boils down to preference and budget. Today I saw that this year's Transanatolian Rally was won on a 690 in effectively stock condition. The 690 has been across all generations an enduro who's capabilities exceeded that of most riders.
I couldn't be happier with my 2019! Such a fun and capable do it all bike and would recommend one to anyone. They have great suspension (big upgrade from the previous gen) and was one of the reasons I wanted the 2019+. Engine is super smooth and silly powerful once you get the revs up and it handles damn well on and off road. I'll admit I was also sceptical about the quickshifter but I absolutely love it, we're always riding roads between trails here in the UK and it even gets used offroad. As for the dash it displays the 2 or occasionally 3 numbers I need to know, what else could I need? My bike did however need a fuel dongle (went with the "kevXTX" mod) as it was far too lean right off the bottom thanks to emissions and a wings exhaust. With the fueling sorted it really gives it more grunt and smoothness from idle up and now runs perfectly. I agree the seat isn't amazing but with several hours on the bike at a time it hasn't been a problem for me. I might consider changing it if I was doing hundreds of miles every day but it's not as uncomfortable as the ones on EXC's and other dirtbikes.
1:29 you won't notice the extra 7hp,ESPECIALLY off road? This is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard...everything you say after this statement is invalid automatically
I winced at this. I have a 2014 with a full system, Evo 2 kit (I think, I’ve had the bike from new and it was a long time ago now!) with race cam and intake mod, final drive geared down and a Nova Racing long range gearbox, the bike makes about 10 hp more over stock and you REALLY notice that! I could never go back to standard.
All I know is the 690/701 is better than ever and appeals to a wide range of widers from dual sport and adv with traction and cornering abs, quick shifter now. Real shame they dropped 701LR. I would love to see an RC and adv bike based on 701 platform since it outperforms most twin cylinder 700cc bikes already.
My 690 is a 2020 and much better than than the previous model. Haven ridden many enduros in my time I think the quick shifter a great asset for off road personally, don't understand the hate here? And im not looking at my clocks when I ride so I prefer a lighter cheaper unit myself. Not understanding this point of view at all 💁🏻♂️
I have a 2017 690 enduro r. It’s great fun on and off road. I use it to commute to work as much as possible and ride the trails whenever I can. It might not be the latest model but I like it a lot. I wouldn’t mind adding an SM model after seeing the gas gas version in this video. It looks pretty good in red 😳
I love it/them... Can't imagine having anything else in a one bike to do (almost) everything situation. It's got so much going for it. It's a manageable weight even if the newer model is 4.5kg heavier. With that weight seemingly comes reliability and longer service intervals compared to other dual sport/adventure bikes that weigh closer to 130kg. I could eat salad for a week or two to compensate for that.🥗 Suspension is great when sprung for ones dietary choices. The SM wheels fit the enduro so no need for 2 bikes. Big bore kits for those like me who do want more power on the tarmac. Awesome frame. Plastics can essentially come in any colour you want. Fuel range has a huge number of aftermarket options and a few less known OEM ones depending on the year. The list goes on and on... What I find strange is that our 2018 690 duke (now adventure) came with all the toys, traction control, loads of rider modes etc and a big ol TFT display like on the 790. So considering they did all the RnD for that same engine bike, why didn't the new SMC and Enduro bikes get all that too?? Why is there no long range option and TFT dash etc available through the configurator?? There's more to life than an exhaust upgrade and loads of anodised bling. Beyond highlighting how ludicrously expensive the 450 RFR is, why, if the 450 rally tanks borderline bolt on to the 690, are they not an option?? In this day and age where you can build your bike in the configurator before you order it.. They can't honestly think people wouldn't drop an extra bundle of cash to buy a brand new ultra long range big screen version of the 690 or conversely, create a lower spec bike for their needs? I do love how smooth the new engine is compared to the older models though. 🤔
Moto pessima. Ho comprato il modello 2023 dopo averne avute 2 vecchie stesso modello.. la odio. La moto va malissimo chisa ai bassi e l'intervento elettronico che ovvia al freno motore la rende inguidabile per uso sportivo. davvero un abominio. non compratela. P.s. anche modificandola con scarico aperto e rimozione catalizzatore non si risolve il buco in erogazione.
I have had 3 690s -14 -15 -16 and 1 701 -18 and now a 701 2021. The best thing with the 21 is the quickshifter and suspension and the fuelling is fine after fixing it with a coober ecu. The quickshifter is really nice when you get used to it and i will probably never buy a bike without it again unless it is an exc. The earlier 690s and 701s had terrible fuelling as well unless you got it mapped. After riding the 690s for a few years the new chassis and suspension on the 701 was like "oh, this is how balanced it is supposed to feel." The 690s was horribly "rear heavy" or what to call it and the front was always a bit nervous, even though i tried to remedy the problem with different solutions.
That's a lot of bikes to go through. I honestly can't say I have much first hand experience with the new bikes, but this video is based on what I've learned from other riders I know and follow, as well as online research. Even so, I was not aware of the Coober ECU, which looks like a real bargain if it takes care of the fueling like that. As for suspension, I don't have much to complain about with my 2017. I'm just happy to have a bike that's sprung for my weight.
@@doomermotorsports Just a rottweiler fuel dongle takes care of the epa leanness below 4800 rpm or so. It basically bypasses the O2 sensor. You might want to ride a 2019 and newer before comparing them to older bikes, they REALLY run nice. Over 50mpg can be had, lots of power.
Is this video just someone with sour grapes that no one wants his old buzzy bike or trying to justify to themselves upgrades are not required? For those of us that have ridden both this video is silly.
I've been saying this since the first gen in 2008. They came close with the Husqvarna 701LR in 2020 but nothing else since . They clearly don't trust their engine to do big touring miles.
I have heard a rumor of a 2026 690 adventure that will look like the new 2025 390adv, but it is pretty much speculation at this point. I have 24,000km on my 2013 690 that was fully adventurized by the first owner. It had the rocker arm mod done on the motor and is still running strong. The other mods done to the bike would cost as much as the bike to do today.@nikos-giorgos
1. Heavy for a dual sport? which equivalent bike is lighter? 2. Seat/dash - quit nitpicking, I find the seat fine, firm sure, but comfier than a mx/enduro bike, stand up more and stop being lazy. Dash is fit for purpose, tacho sucks but really not a big deal.. 3. Expensive? every vehicle is significantly more expensive these days (2022). 4. Colour? Buy a graphics kit if it bothers you that much
Switched from 890 adv r 2021 to 690 enduro r 2022, and super happy about it. I also appreciate the quick shifter, off-road abs works like a charm, traction control is not invasive
@@jamietyler4099 Completely and totally different bikes. My 890R is very addicting and fast and comfortable on road and off, but never feels like a dirtbike to me, Ive always ridden dirtbikes that were quick and small and light. The 690 instantly feels like a big dirtbike, as soon as I got on it, it felt like I could haul ass on dirt/gravel. And it also does hiway very well for what it is. Amazing engine, I dont feel any need to hop it up with power commanders or much besides the fuel dingle to richen it slightly down low. 690 is one of a kind.
Anyway is still the best and only real 50/50 dualsport bike you can buy new on the market! Find another bike that has 70+hp weight -150kg handels as good on street as on dirt and has same confort on dirt and on road… but some wind protection, take of the vape system with 40€ dongle open a bit the exhaust and you have it! If they cut costs is to make it affordable… if you want better make it better with power parts or aftermarket… that’s it. Don’t forget is same when you buy a house, it os the base that counts… so on a bike is the engine, and suspension. So they are on top for that
Pretty much have to agree. If DR bro's want a replacement, this is it. Yes it's expensive and that can be a big obstacle for some, but that's just how much you have to pay for new tech these days. Take it or leave it.
I have a 2019 690 and, I love the smother engine, the analog electronics it's a plus for me, the wp Xplore suspension is very good and quick shifter is nice to have, I don't see any need to do any fuel remapping, the only adds on I have is a seat concept, and a wings exhaust, but I can not say anything negative about the previous models since I have no experience with them all I can say is that my 690 has excided my expectations
Well narrated as always! I want to go back to something I said in my 1000km review of the 701. I’d love a no-tech 701 for a lot less than what I gave. Cable throttle and clutch, no ride modes, no TC, no quickshifter. Just a great frame, excellent engine and good suspension (the one with longer travel from 2019).
I never understood why a bike that was located in the "travel” section of the website doesn’t have a dash equal to or better than a CRF300L… i was told that the 690 and 701 are returning for 2023 and that the GASGAS ES700 will be available for the USA in 2023 too.
I have a 2021 model....... It whales.. BIG TIME. very fast and smooth, handles great. The quick shifter isn't needed, but fun on road. The orange and grey looks great. Yeah, the dash is lame, but off-road riders aren't lookin at it. Most if the things that suck (pipe, handguards, skid plate) are likely stuff you're gunna replace anyway. Inflation and emissions are inevitable and effect every manufacture.
The 2019+ models feature a _secondary_ balancer shaft in the valve train, as well as a completely new valve train with new rocker arm followers, cam shaft, rollers etc. It's not just a "new" balancer shaft that cost the same as the old one. Far from it. As a result the usable rev band expands by roughly 1000 rpm generating the extra horse power and making the engine much smoother. As a manufacturer you DO want to cut cost, but also make your product appeal to more than two people. Therefore removing annoying vibrations from the engine and lowering the overall bike height is a sensible change. Also the new valve drive is more reliable, eliminating the problem the old 690s had: the rocker arms failing. I own a 2011 690 SMC with 94.000 km on the clock as well as a 2020 690 SMC R with just 5.000 km. The difference is like day and night. The new models vastly improves safety by introducing cornering-ABS and traction control. The quick shifter is quite gimmicky, I agree. However if you are riding fast, using it makes gear changes smoother and therefore reduces wobblying in corners. The speedo is definitely crap, but provides all the info required. You forget about it quite quickly. Have you owned a 2019+ model for a genuine comparison?
Unfortunately I have not owned or ridden a 2019+ model. I've based this video purely on research. I'd also looked into the newer models when I was initially looking to buy a 690 and came to the conclusion that a 2017 was a better value. As far as I could find, the rocker arm issues on the older models were resolved by 2015. Although KTM did not acknowledge fixing it, owners of 2015 and newer models don't appear to have problems with them. That being said, I do believe the newer engines are better thanks to their smoothness and power. I'd love to have a new engine in a last gen bike.
Companies don't save money for customer's mate instead by sourcing parts from different cheap places they actually save money for themselves which add to their profit margin .
Since i know someone who works at Kini Ktm in Austria (Where I'm from). I can tell you that the lc4 motor is definitely one oft the most reliable motors and i don't see any problems with the co2 regulations. And to be honest i think a lot more people in Europe buy these as Supermotos that's why the chages mostly make a better Supermoto out of it.
These are getting crazy expensive now, in my country they now cost 13 000 € which is insane for a single cylinder bike which has kind of a limited use of riding. KTM should do a bike just like the 690 Enduro / SMC with the 121hp Duke 890 R engine now , and make the bike as light as possible so it is not much heavier than the 690 Enduro. That would have been so cool and much faster than the 890 Adventure / SMT, would really be a hypermotardkiller :D I would 100% buy a bike like that. Especially if it looks as good as the 690 SMC and not like the ugly 890 SMT :(
I just got a 2021, there is NO way I would buy a pre 2019 690. I did my homework. The older ones have that vibration that will never go away, and the roller rocker arms have roller bearings that can and do fall out and destroy the entire engine. You basically need a new engine. New versions dont have this. Much smoother engine, neither footpegs or handlebars buzz on hiway. I rode a 2013 and it seemed like no top gear for hiway, I was in 5th gear on the onramp with no where to go. I owned a late 90's Lc4 and it was insane, the shaking and buzzing and vibrating only got worse with speed. Of all the negatives you mention about the newer 690's? Most everyone thinks they work great. Selling a pre 2019 is a real trick, they sit on craigslist. People know. Their price drops. You are the only guy saying older ones are best, but its youtube and anybody can say anything they want. Its funny how virtually everything KTM does is seen as a negative here.
I don't know, I think the current 690 Enduro is the absolute best DP bike available today, by a large margin. And after 7 new KTMs, I am not crazy about them as a brand. And personally, I LOVE a clutches shifting. After owning numerous DRs, WRs, EXCs, as well as a CRF450L, and riding XLs, it is the only DP made today that I would consider buying.
Just you mentioning "DP" I know that you have the experience. Thanks for the feedback! My last KTM was a 640, that I loved. I got rear-ended by some geek, and it got tweaked. So I sold it. I've been on the fence about these new one's lately. They're expensive! Now you have Husky, Gasgas and KTM. All pretty much the same bike, but different flavors. KTM would do well to offer some plastic color options, rather than the standard "Great Pumpkin" Color scheme.
The dash is fine other then it needs a 6th gear indicator. Running down highway speeds with all the noise and vibes with Motoz HT's sometimes its hard to know for sure if its in 6th.
i was thinking the same thing. i bought my 2016 690 smcr brand new and sold it last month. i have to say, a fun bike and i only spent money on gas, oil and regular services.. Bike looked after me well, no clutch issues either.. i thought about buying the 2022 model because the bike was so reliable but i didnt go that route because of the same reasons you pointed out here... i bought a 2023 Sherco 300 2 stroke and converted the wheels to supermoto wheels.
I don’t know why the 690 duke is no more available on pavement never try another bike feeling better and the new 690 super moto doesn’t have the same drive in corner at all they fuck up a bit there
Well, let's start with "you are a pessimist" you said it. The bike is getting better, modernizing, take it or leave it. You might not like the fact that the bike is way better than what you are used to but you can't say, no one asked for a quick shifter, you have no concrete data to affirm that.
It is what it is . We can pick it apart as much as you like but there is still nothing out there that runs close to its performance weight or suspension in standard trim.
Well, there is the 500 EXC, which is about 100lbs lighter while making around 60hp. Of course it's $50 more than the 690, but a lot of folks are either switching to the 500 or stepping up to larger adventure bikes.
@@doomermotorsports 500 EXC is superb bike but needs regular oil changes and sucks on the highway. The 690 is a great allrounder and 50kg lighter than the Adventure bikes. Sits perfectly in the middle and has no competition.
@@doomermotorsports The 500 EXC in dirt spec might make high 50's on HP , the street legal euro 5 or 4 version doesnt do that at all. It is strangled thoroughly and guys spend a lot to get power out of them. Then theres the vibration that all mention. And the constant oil changes, and the hopefully 20,000 mile top end life if your lucky. 500 is bitchin, but is nothing like a 690 for a do it all bike.
Seat underrated: Having ridden a three week trip w/ tent and luggage through Armenia and Georgia I agree: stock seat is great for the non plus-size rider!
Sadly I am a plus sized rider. After a 3 day trip this spring I was starting to really feel it, but for commuting or single day trips it's perfectly fine for me.
always lol at people who want big and nice look display on enduro bike )) I can give you free advice how 2 deal with it - put a cross tape on the display and dont look at it ever - you will gain better enduro skills
loool, dude, this clip is hilariously dumb. First : the inflation goes for every brand, Second : Euro 5 regulation it goes to every new bike , Third : the colour it sucks?:)) its a matter of taste
Dude you forgot all about the suspension along with frame changes the difference between a post 19 model to a pre 16 are massive the electronics package is subtle but excellent in my opinion without the need to study a manual. With all this it doesn't weigh anymore than a Honda 300 CRF. As a dual sport apart from the 701 it has no rivals. The worst thing about the 690/701 and the GasGas 700 is the factory is about to pull the plug on production and it will pass into history, prices will soar in secondhand values. For me this bike is a keeper. Here in the UK and Europe with the TransEuroTrail these models are Lions at the top of the food chain capable of covering large distances and tackling tough terrain
I'm not all that knowledgeable about suspension, but so far I haven't found any faults with mine. The frame was touted as "all new" for the 2019+, but I can't tell what those changes are or did. Maybe they used thicker steel or maybe they just moved things around a little bit. As for the electronics, I just don't care. Why do I need or want cornering ABS on a dualsport? KTM even sells the dongle to keep all that stuff turned off, but I'd rather have a more affordable bike without all that stuff to begin with. As for KTM ending production on the 690, where did you hear that from? I haven't seen or heard any legit rumors. I was just surmising due to my gloomy outlook on the platform.
@@doomermotorsports I hear what your saying, I’m not sure if you’ve ridden the latest version “19 onwards” but in suspension there has been a big leap forward when it comes to the stock out of the crate standard. I’m also sure there’s always room for improvement. With the frames you would need to have the differences pointed out to you because to look at they both look like the same trellis frame couldn’t tell myself until it was shown to me. I will concede with the fact that “who needs cornering ABS on a dualsports, but most of this as come about with government regulations being imposed on manufacturing and safety in order to sell the motorcycle to the public so the whole thing comes in a package and I’m sure the 690’s electronics are paired down from there bigger siblings but still pretty impressive to have the tech onboard wether you choose to use it or not and as for the dongle, well maybe that KTM’s way of nodding to the purists. The LC4 engine is at its most powerful in fact it’s the most powerful single cylinder production engine ever made and with the advent of moving into a more environmentally friendly world seeking tighter and tighter emissions this fire breather’s days are numbered. Even now both the KTM and Husqvarna are difficult to find new and the Mattighofen’s last swing at the bat is to pass it down for the next couple of years hopefully to the Red Factory before it passes into history. Mark my words 🤷
@@gnarlybadger690 with how much everyone is praising the new suspension in the comments I'll have to track down a new one to try. For me, I have to put some decent tires on and make some adjustments to my suspension before I can really come up with a verdict. I'm on tkc80s for now and have the suspension set to "sport" or 10 clicks out front and back. Worked okay for Moab, but probably could have been better. It's too bad but kind of inevitable about all the emissions stuff though. "Environmentalists" will never be satisfied.
@@nikos-giorgoslithium battery cost 50 euro, pipe cost 300 euro max (unless you want Akra which second hand is available), Power commander 300, dyno tune 200, don't know where you are getting 2 grand from
If you're gonna do an exhaust upgrade, do it right. Put on a complete system which is probably more than 1k. Lithium battery costs more than 50€, add the rest with proper tuning and labour and you're close to 2k. If you can do it cheaper great!
"probably more than 1k" right next, what lithium even cost more than 100 euro? I've never seen one. So to bolt on a exhaust takes no time at all and is low difficulty, a Power commander can be easily plugged in, the tuning shop will do it with the unit for no more than 500 euro that's what I paid. Even with a nice arrow exhaust and the 100 dollar lithium I can't see it being more than a grand, just because you overpaid doesn't mean the rest of us will.
I've not owned a pre-19 690 but have ridden an 18 back to back with my 20 701... and the only noticeable differences (in a short ride) are all to the benefit of the newer bike (motor smoothness being the big one). On longer rides I think that motor smoothness will be even MORE important. I'm told by experts that the suspension is quite a bit better too but I was not really able to test that effectively. I DID wring out the TC/ABS system of the new bike offroad in the Rockies and I was faster and stopped quicker with TC/ABS in offroad mode than I was with it off... which was a surprise. So I'd say no... the bike definitely isn't getting worse. Some folks who are anti-tech will feel like the older bikes fit their "want's" better than the new ones and that's all good, but personal preference does not equal objectively better. Personally I'll never buy a new bike without an IMU if I plan to ride it on the road for any distance, and I rode the 701 for 7000 miles on the TAT this year (and have nearly 20,000 miles on it in 2 years), where the newer bike is definitely the better bike compared to the older ones (safer, smoother, more capable suspension). A more functional dashboard would be nice... but OTOH the minimalist version does the job and was easy to move to a rally tower... and the quickshifter is not great (though it does come in handy on occasion... it's very clunky). "Only 20 miles of range at best" - that's a lot when you're touring and the next fuel stop is 20 miles further than your current range.
Since the late 80's, Ive had over 15 KTM's, lots of them 2 strokes, I raced and trail rode them. Currently an 890R and a 690R enduro are here. Wretched excess? No wife here to tell me no. Let the games begin.
I must disagree the new model is improwed with better suspension,smoother and stronger engine,electronic package well calibrated you can set now on the fly no problem,rpm and gear indicator etc.For my also looks better it looks now more slik like Exc series.Good video anyway cheers.2021 Owner XD.
I sold my 690 and got the 901 because of the seat. My groin area would fall asleep within about 20 miles of road riding. I could take a pee and not really be sure who I was holding onto. As far as quick shift is concerned, why not? I wouldnt own a bike without it now.
I just don't want to pay for unnecessary things or stuff I'm never going to use. I'm not racing anybody, so why do I need a quickshifter if it's just going to drive up the cost of the machine? On another note, I would love to get a Norden, but it would probably end up as a road bike for me.
I added a Fisher custom seat to my 2020 690, and it is now the most comfortable ride I've ever owned. It's similar to but better than other Corbin seats I've owned and FAR better than Seat Concepts. I agree that the newer 690 is a big improvement over the older version.
@@Navaho66 I wish I had known about the different seat choices. I really loved how nimble the 690 is. I do love the 901 but I dropped it in an uphill washout last weekend after I stalled it and couldn't reach the ground due to the depth of the rut. Top of the bike was much lower than the bottom and I had my large Pelican case mounted on the back with about 40 pounds of camera gear in it. My fat 61 year old ass had it's limits tested to the full getting it back upright. Couldn't have done it without my Green Chile Adventure gear recovery system. Not an ad for them because it could have been much better with just a regular block and tackle. And I broke my front turn signal.
The seat is definitely more dualsport than ADV. the Seat Concepts seat helps (and they have a wide version that may be even better for those who are sensitive). I didn't have a problem with the stock seat but still got the seat concepts comfort seat (same profile but a bit thicker with more compliant materials) before I went on a longer tour with the bike.
Maybe this video was being sarcastic but no, it's not getting worse and seems like a crazy title. It's shockingly better than an older model. I've had it for two years and am always surprised at much better it is than my older one. I sold the older one because it just seemed useless compared to the 2021.
The fueling at low speed is bad, the first gear is too high , the 6 ghear is too low, the plastics are easy to damage, hard to protect the engine from impact, the rider position is on the front wheel.
Most KTM parts are shared with other models. This is the #1 reason I love KTM. I like that I can borrow a part from a 1999 300 to fix a 2017 690, it's freakin awesome.
People can change sprocket ratio on the old bike if they want it the same as the new 690. And idk if people know but you can install new suspension in old duke so there is no advantages to the new years IMO
as a 690 fan and 2020 smcr owner i gotta disagree here: -the seat, if you sit on it actually is quite comoftable, with the 180$ powerparts seat i now can ride easily for 200miles straight and the bike now feels more comfy than my ktm1090 adventure that i owned before. - the eu4 and 5 engine are way superior to the eu3: the eu3 engine had a LOT of problems. the output shaft could shear for no reason. the rocker arms were faulty a lot of the time. the camshaft did have run marks and failed with time, they are using way more oil and tend to dilute it to such a degree that the engine is not properly lubricated (as it is running too rich with the evo1 mapping that everyone tends to put on the damn things and thus on deceleration the unburnt fuel passes by the two piston rings and into the oil) . KTM specs the wrong kind of oil for the bike. the clutch slaves fail, the needle bearings tend to fail and on and on and on. The OG 690 has too many possible failure points from factory. The EU4 and EU5 do not. at least not anymore after the recall with the faulty clutch slave that leaked brake fluid into the oil and thus killed the bike due to faulty lubrication. I change the oil every 1500-2000 and use motul 15w-60 300v offroad and the oil consumption is nearly non existant. the valves at 6000 miles were right in the middle of the given range. The camshaft and rocker arms did not have any play nor any signs of wear on them. firthermore the engine apart from being way superior in terms of reliability, is way smoother and actually usable not like the vibrating,oil consuming, outputshaft and rockerarm eating piece of junk that the eu3 engine was. it does NOT get stuck in lower revs, it nearly does not vibrate and it has very decent power. and it is way more fun because it revs 500rpms higher.the chassis is stiffer and on the SMCR the lowered front ride height gives you a way better feel of the front wheel that needs to be paralleled by another bike in the industry. i have ridden all generations of 690/701 and have to say that the new ones are just a gem, esoeciaély in comparaison to the older ones. oh yeah and NEVER and i mean EVER by a 690 used. a mistreated 690 will die sooner or later. you really need to ride the. with the right oil, oil change intervals of 2k miles and take good care during break in. if done so they are solid and fun bikes.
The XPLOR suspension on the new bikes is superior to even valved and set up APEX suspension on the older models, so that is part of the price increase. The balancer upgrade is night and day better vs. the older bikes too. I have a Husky 701 and it is amazing how vibe free it is. It thumps like the big single it is at idle, and then it turns into a twin as the revs rise. The new bike's CAT equipped muffler is heavy and hot AF, so the owner almost has to pull that boat anchor and install an exhaust of choice on it. A Rottweiler Dongle will eliminate the O2 sensor and richen up the stupidly lean part throttle settings. Change out the radiator fan thermo switch to a lower temp 80/85C unit while at it. KTMs are good machines, but they have always been roll your own fix or improve on the factory propositions. Nothing new on that front it seems, but it does hurt more than ever to have to spend even more cash after buying what is an already expensive machine.
EXC is not lower model, it's completely different category. I agree older dash was better but parts swapping is common in other brands as well. Older 690 has issues with fuel pumps and handling was worse, so no 690 is not getting worse, more expensive yes.
Thank you for youre thoughts and a fine video. But i think you compare apples with peers here.The 500 exc is a competition enduro machine,the 690 is an adventure bike.And the best 50/50 bike there is.
The innovative use of the rear fuel tank as the main structural element of the subframe keeps weight low and eliminates structural complexity, but I think it seriously weakens the rear part of the structure, which may crack, especially if carrying heavy luggage, unless I'm mistaken?
The sad fact is, as you’ve correctly surmised, that cost is king especially with high costs in Europe. I doubt Spain is much cheaper for assembly. Why a GasGas option? Same as a Husqvarna, brand diversity with low cost other than cosmetic. Same as VW group with Audi, Skoda and SEAT variants of the same platform. Volume reduces cost and (arguably) improves quality control. Euro 5 is ludicrous and actually worsens fuel economy for exhaust gas composition requirements. There are certainly ways to improve the running. The quickshifter on my 890 Adventure is very good and a great thing to have. Sure, a cheap add on but worth it. I’m doing some of the TAT next year on a 690 so I’ll revisit. Ride safe.
Clutch on the 690 was designed for Supermoto. It's crap off road. Not durable at all. I've been more 690/701 trailed home than any other bike or model here in New Zealand.
It's not the clutch it's the gearing... the gearbox is designed for sumo (close ratio) and so if lower the ratio with sprockets you end up wound out at the top end. If you stay with stock gearing you are too tall for offroad (and end up smoking your clutch if you're not skilled at clutch management). There's a wide ratio kit for the 690 that fixes the gearbox but it's damned expensive.
Well for the 50th time, one of these manufactures have to make an enduro 390 R or 490 R, weighing 310lbs or less. Everyone will buy. Mark it up, everyone will still buy. Parallel twin will not work, will weigh too much and who wants that on a trail. Thumpers only.
@@kuhndj67 i live in california and drive on freeways. We drive fast here, wouldnt be caught dead on a 300 single with 27hp. Or maybe i would - thats the point
@@kuhndj67 enduro 390 R is coming in a few months anyway, problem solved. Apparently Ktm is the only one smart enough to realize they can build a lightweight 400cc 37hp thumper which u can use on the freeway and also will likely be better than the crf300L offroad. They will own a huge market, that the japanese have just simply ignored.
You never even got to the blue 'KTMs' ...wonder when the Husaberg name will resurface? Looked at a red KTM today, cheaper pipe,master cylinders, but a better seat and a shock linkage...and the best looking of the bunch,IMO? Huge difference in price, about 1500 GBP between a list orange one and a red one on special (hard to punt I bet,to the uninitiated?).
@@williamrae9954 haha I don't blame you there. Get it as you never know if you'll find another clean one. Sounds like a good show. I need to go to shows like that but nothing ever close to me.
I've never loved the 690. I have a 500 EXC and an 890 ADV R... Every time I ride one, it feels wonky. I think they should throw it out and start over. I'd much prefer an 890-esque design, but scaled down for more off-road capability... On the other hand, a front-tank design like the 500 (and every other dirt bike in the world) with a beefier subframe and a less-vibey motor would be fine too. Honestly, all we all want is a modern age DR650... the 690 is a wierd mutant experiment gone wrong.
@@doomermotorsports Haha! Sorry dude, I can tell it's your baby. No offense, I know tons of awesome riders who love them. Just not my deal. I want the bike that should be in that spot SO bad. If only there were a design that fit the bill: i0.wp.com/www.bike-urious.com/wp-content/uploads/KTM-640-Adventure-Front-Right.jpg
Those old LC4's are cool too. Honestly though, when looking at the older bikes, I really dig the 950 Super Enduro. It's so absurd that it's cool. Also, the 500EXC is an absolute beast for offroad. If I had the means, I would probably have the same two bikes as you. Likely in the Husqvarna form.
Rode the San Juan Passes with 3 690/701's, an 890 ADV R, and a 500exc... the 890 struggled from the get go and midweek he gave up and went fishing for the rest of the trip. The 500 crushed the passes but was the main reason we trailered the bikes out instead of riding them. The 690/701 handled the passes fine (slower than the 500 tho) and we could have ridden them out... that's why it's a bike that DOES make sense. IMO they should sell it with a rally tower and call it the ultimate lightweight ADV bike... but it would destroy 890 sales so they never will.
Just upgraded from a DRZ400S to the 690, and honestly I love it! I will agree the quick shifter is unnecessary and kind of clunky. But my biggest gripe is the mirrors, how can the DRZ (a 20 year old bike and half the price) have better mirrors.
I prefer the 2015 to 2018 Enduro. The 2019 and up is definitely an upgrade in regards to the engine and apparently suspension, but I feel the cost no longer matches what you're getting. I put no value on the additional electronics and consider the dash, seat, and emissions as total negatives. As for the SMC, maybe the ride modes are more useful. It also has more a a street tuned suspension, but honestly they're really not my thing.
I have had 3 690's. a 2014, a 2015 and now a 2021. There is no comparison between the 2021 and earlier models in my book. Yes the instrument panel is crap but apart from that annoying fact the fundamentals are chalk and cheese. The engine is now sharper and turbine smooth, at least after it has run in a bit say 4,000 miles. The chassis is on another plane, the on-road and off-road handling is far more controlled and stable at high speed and the front forks and rear shock are now genuinely "Race Ready" competition standard. Anybody who doesn't realise that, is not an accomplished off-road rider. Period. They should stay on the road. The 2021 also picked up 6 more clicks of adjustment in the 48 Explor forks over the 2019 model too. The 2021 (at least over here in Europe) also gets ABS off at the rear and off-road ABS at the front as standard in position 2 without a dongle. The 2021 also gets a gear indicator on the dash which was always needed (also a completely useless rev counter function). It also has a noticeably plusher seat than the 2019 and so far 3 hour rides are fine although I will get a Seat Concepts at some point just for more surface area.
I still have the 2015 seat that I did the 7,350 mile extended TAT on in 2015 and it is definitely harder than the 2021 when you press your thumbs into it, actually I don't know how they get such a thin seat to be as comfortable as it is on the 2021( to be fair I am talking about a UK/Europe spec bike here and I believe the seat we get over here is different to US spec so if this is not your experience of the seat that is why). It is still very far from perfect but actually, you know what? I sat on about 6 different new adventure bikes in a dealership yesterday, from Yamaha, Honda, Triumph etc, and frankly none of them had seats I would I keep for long distance work, and I would take the 690 over several of them if I had to choose to remain with a standard seat.
Ya if they don't like it that much buy a Kawai KLR 650.
I would like to find the "gear indicator" on the dash of my 2021 690, as of yet I havent.
As a long time rider of KTM 2 stroke and 4 stroke dirtbikes, I really like the simple dash, its hardly even a dash but its small with out any big flashing screen. I'm a luddite.
Ive never been thrilled with the seat concepts seats Ive tried, but I dont see a lot of others on offer for the 690, the stock seat is more or less ok but I dont have a lot of miles on it yet.
I also have an 890R and it goes down the hiway like a gold wing compared to the 690, but Ive put 50,000 miles on a DR 650 including major hiway time at speed, so it can be done on 690 also. @65 mph the 690 is doing nothing, barely thumping along....even at 75 its pretty relaxed.
@@bradsanders6954 Cant find the gear indicator? Thats impossible if it is a genuine 2021 model. It is right there on the clock ?
Once you've had a quickshifter, you don't go back :) Newer models are awesome!
My 701 Enduro wheelie game has improved dramatically with the quickshifter 😆
Is the Quick shifter standard or an optional extra?
@@taffy2wheels577 standard
@GlennFrost321 Wow thats good . Thanks
I agree! 👍🏻🏍️
Having owned a 2016 and now a 2019 i can tell the new one is a lot better for me , smoother engine , more power and way better suspension. and so long no problems with the bike after 40 k km's on the 2019, had the 2016 for 80 k km's but a lot of reliability problems. love the lc'4's and dont want to own a twin anymore.. just the joy of riding one i cant find in any other bike.
It's hard to say what the deal is when it comes to KTM reliability. My cousin has over 50k miles or 80k km on his 2015 and only replaced the clutch once due to burning it up in some deep sand. Everything else has been fine.
What I've noticed, reliability often depends on the quality of some specific parts which can mess up a lot of others. I drive a 2019 690 Supermoto (software reduced to 42 hp because of drivers license), and after 14k km and after regular oil changes at maxium 4k km each the top clutch plate (which is also thinner due to the anti hopping feature) shattered in 15+ small pieces, which messed up the oil pump, clutch basket, oil pump gears etc. In my perspective, it's kind of a coinflip because i know a lot of people that never had problems with this motor.
What issues did you happen across on the older model, Jeff? Trying to decide if it's worth saving my coin or picking up a 2015.
@@krazed0451 my clutch slave broke on a trip to scotland (commen issue). then my ignition burned up on a trip to norway and after that my injection broke wich made me sell the bike. my 2020 690 still no problems. so maybe i got a bad one dunno
@@jeffvndeperre1262 Yeah, you got a Friday special by the sound of it lol.
worthless video. just click bait. have you actually ridden both bikes? no one who has ridden or owned a pre 2019 and 2019+ would for a moment say question which bike is superior. i won't be watching your click bait again.
You nailed it. It turns out the reviewer hasnt much ridden a 2019 and up 690.
In reality it is click bait and we both clicked.
I had a 690 from 2009-2014 and recently purchased a 2023 690. Loving the 2023. Much more refined than the 2009 I had. I have done a lot of mods but the basic bike is great. Stock seat was passable but went with a tall Seat Concepts to fit me better. Love the quick shifter, especially off road.
As a long time KTM lover I have had to break off my relationship with them. That's right. We have gotten a divorce. Well they look like they have made a good 300 this year after 3 years of garbage. But that has yet to be proven. ALL of there adventure type bikes are proving to be too expensive, too many issues of reliability and support of a country that are commies.
When I was riding the TAT I ran into a group of T7 riders who couldn't get routine service parts for their bikes anywhere in the PacNW (air filters)... I had 3 services (2 dealer and 1 independent) during my trip and they all had parts on hand for the 690, these days parts issues can hit ANY bike - even the Japanese bikes with their huge dealer networks.
You arent turning gay are you? Divorcing from KTM is heresy.
Go buy a damned V-Strom and then see what happens. (I would only buy a carbed 300, they can be found)
„I own the older model and therefore talk bad about the new model with bro science and completely unreasonable guesses about bad intentions of the company“ Bro this video is trash and you see it because all comments are saying the exact opposite of you 😅
Better or worse is a matter of perspective.
I have a 2010 690 R with the quite extreme 270 mm suspension travel and the ridiculous Bilux EXC head light. But I like it for the radical implementation. Now clocking 72,000 km and counting
I had a 2013 690, pre-ABS, the normal 250 mm suspension travel. More refined, running smoother and a half way decent H4 headlight (the one you see on my profile picture on a Honduran back road), run some 46,000 km in Mexico and Central America, mostly with a Safari front tank. Re-imported as part of my re-location, now in the hands of a good friend and running fine.
My son got a 2016 690 in Mexico (EU-spec) with ABS, running even smoother. Re-imported to Germany too, clocking some 18,000 km. Roughly 10,000 km were from a Mexico-DF to Panama round-trip in April 2017.
None of them got reliability issues.
My daughter rides a Vitpilen 701, that 690 engine is so smooth it is hard to belief. Two recalls, one for the tank (apparently changed to a sturdy version with increased wall thickness (and weight) and the clutch piston exchange. No issues occured so far, about 9,000 km and counting.
The 690 enduros got much better on the engine, perhaps that matters to most clients and especially the SuMo-riders. Not to forget the EURO 3/4/5 increasingly challenging restrictions KTM had to address.
The suspension was extreme at the 2010 and more tuned to the perceived customer taste.
Overall I think they did a fantastic job in keeping the dual sport single cylinder alive and kicking.
If you want a new bike, go for the latest model. If you are able to distinguish the run-to-the-ground from the well kept older versions, there is no reason to exclude them.
It basically boils down to preference and budget.
Today I saw that this year's Transanatolian Rally was won on a 690 in effectively stock condition.
The 690 has been across all generations an enduro who's capabilities exceeded that of most riders.
I couldn't be happier with my 2019! Such a fun and capable do it all bike and would recommend one to anyone. They have great suspension (big upgrade from the previous gen) and was one of the reasons I wanted the 2019+. Engine is super smooth and silly powerful once you get the revs up and it handles damn well on and off road. I'll admit I was also sceptical about the quickshifter but I absolutely love it, we're always riding roads between trails here in the UK and it even gets used offroad. As for the dash it displays the 2 or occasionally 3 numbers I need to know, what else could I need?
My bike did however need a fuel dongle (went with the "kevXTX" mod) as it was far too lean right off the bottom thanks to emissions and a wings exhaust. With the fueling sorted it really gives it more grunt and smoothness from idle up and now runs perfectly. I agree the seat isn't amazing but with several hours on the bike at a time it hasn't been a problem for me. I might consider changing it if I was doing hundreds of miles every day but it's not as uncomfortable as the ones on EXC's and other dirtbikes.
1:29 you won't notice the extra 7hp,ESPECIALLY off road? This is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard...everything you say after this statement is invalid automatically
I winced at this. I have a 2014 with a full system, Evo 2 kit (I think, I’ve had the bike from new and it was a long time ago now!) with race cam and intake mod, final drive geared down and a Nova Racing long range gearbox, the bike makes about 10 hp more over stock and you REALLY notice that! I could never go back to standard.
All I know is the 690/701 is better than ever and appeals to a wide range of widers from dual sport and adv with traction and cornering abs, quick shifter now. Real shame they dropped 701LR. I would love to see an RC and adv bike based on 701 platform since it outperforms most twin cylinder 700cc bikes already.
You can still fit the LR-Kit to the standard 701. It's available in the online configurator.
I got a huge discount for swapping to red plastic £7499 brand new 0 miles collect it 2nd week of February
My 690 is a 2020 and much better than than the previous model. Haven ridden many enduros in my time I think the quick shifter a great asset for off road personally, don't understand the hate here?
And im not looking at my clocks when I ride so I prefer a lighter cheaper unit myself.
Not understanding this point of view at all 💁🏻♂️
I have a 2017 690 enduro r. It’s great fun on and off road. I use it to commute to work as much as possible and ride the trails whenever I can. It might not be the latest model but I like it a lot. I wouldn’t mind adding an SM model after seeing the gas gas version in this video. It looks pretty good in red 😳
I love it/them... Can't imagine having anything else in a one bike to do (almost) everything situation. It's got so much going for it.
It's a manageable weight even if the newer model is 4.5kg heavier. With that weight seemingly comes reliability and longer service intervals compared to other dual sport/adventure bikes that weigh closer to 130kg. I could eat salad for a week or two to compensate for that.🥗 Suspension is great when sprung for ones dietary choices. The SM wheels fit the enduro so no need for 2 bikes. Big bore kits for those like me who do want more power on the tarmac. Awesome frame. Plastics can essentially come in any colour you want. Fuel range has a huge number of aftermarket options and a few less known OEM ones depending on the year. The list goes on and on...
What I find strange is that our 2018 690 duke (now adventure) came with all the toys, traction control, loads of rider modes etc and a big ol TFT display like on the 790. So considering they did all the RnD for that same engine bike, why didn't the new SMC and Enduro bikes get all that too?? Why is there no long range option and TFT dash etc available through the configurator?? There's more to life than an exhaust upgrade and loads of anodised bling. Beyond highlighting how ludicrously expensive the 450 RFR is, why, if the 450 rally tanks borderline bolt on to the 690, are they not an option??
In this day and age where you can build your bike in the configurator before you order it.. They can't honestly think people wouldn't drop an extra bundle of cash to buy a brand new ultra long range big screen version of the 690 or conversely, create a lower spec bike for their needs?
I do love how smooth the new engine is compared to the older models though. 🤔
You should eat salad every day.
Moto pessima. Ho comprato il modello 2023 dopo averne avute 2 vecchie stesso modello.. la odio. La moto va malissimo chisa ai bassi e l'intervento elettronico che ovvia al freno motore la rende inguidabile per uso sportivo. davvero un abominio. non compratela. P.s. anche modificandola con scarico aperto e rimozione catalizzatore non si risolve il buco in erogazione.
I have had 3 690s -14 -15 -16 and 1 701 -18 and now a 701 2021. The best thing with the 21 is the quickshifter and suspension and the fuelling is fine after fixing it with a coober ecu. The quickshifter is really nice when you get used to it and i will probably never buy a bike without it again unless it is an exc. The earlier 690s and 701s had terrible fuelling as well unless you got it mapped.
After riding the 690s for a few years the new chassis and suspension on the 701 was like "oh, this is how balanced it is supposed to feel." The 690s was horribly "rear heavy" or what to call it and the front was always a bit nervous, even though i tried to remedy the problem with different solutions.
That's a lot of bikes to go through. I honestly can't say I have much first hand experience with the new bikes, but this video is based on what I've learned from other riders I know and follow, as well as online research.
Even so, I was not aware of the Coober ECU, which looks like a real bargain if it takes care of the fueling like that.
As for suspension, I don't have much to complain about with my 2017. I'm just happy to have a bike that's sprung for my weight.
Can you tell me more about that Coober ECU? How much is it? Where can I get it? I hate how the euro 5 tunning works on my 2021 701
@@doomermotorsports Just a rottweiler fuel dongle takes care of the epa leanness below 4800 rpm or so. It basically bypasses the O2 sensor.
You might want to ride a 2019 and newer before comparing them to older bikes, they REALLY run nice. Over 50mpg can be had, lots of power.
more weight is bad. I carry an armadillo bag when I need an extra gallon. my 701 has no electronics, even disabled the abs. It's a fucken dirt bike.
Is this video just someone with sour grapes that no one wants his old buzzy bike or trying to justify to themselves upgrades are not required?
For those of us that have ridden both this video is silly.
I have had 28 bikes and I have kept my 2019 since new. So far been super reliable yes spent a bit on upgrades is in my opinion my perfect bike
My 701 is awesome. 690 same bike also awesome. Stop shiting on a great product.
It would definitely be great to see KTM offer an Adventure version of this bike.
I've been saying this since the first gen in 2008.
They came close with the Husqvarna 701LR in 2020 but nothing else since .
They clearly don't trust their engine to do big touring miles.
I have heard a rumor of a 2026 690 adventure that will look like the new 2025 390adv, but it is pretty much speculation at this point.
I have 24,000km on my 2013 690 that was fully adventurized by the first owner. It had the rocker arm mod done on the motor and is still running strong.
The other mods done to the bike would cost as much as the bike to do today.@nikos-giorgos
Rumours are around since 2008, i won't believe anything until i see a big tank and a decent fairing.
1. Heavy for a dual sport? which equivalent bike is lighter?
2. Seat/dash - quit nitpicking, I find the seat fine, firm sure, but comfier than a mx/enduro bike, stand up more and stop being lazy. Dash is fit for purpose, tacho sucks but really not a big deal..
3. Expensive? every vehicle is significantly more expensive these days (2022).
4. Colour? Buy a graphics kit if it bothers you that much
Switched from 890 adv r 2021 to 690 enduro r 2022, and super happy about it. I also appreciate the quick shifter, off-road abs works like a charm, traction control is not invasive
How do you compare the 890 vs 690. I’m planning on getting one but struggling to decide witch one to get
@@jamietyler4099 Completely and totally different bikes. My 890R is very addicting and fast and comfortable on road and off, but never feels like a dirtbike to me, Ive always ridden dirtbikes that were quick and small and light.
The 690 instantly feels like a big dirtbike, as soon as I got on it, it felt like I could haul ass on dirt/gravel. And it also does hiway very well for what it is. Amazing engine, I dont feel any need to hop it up with power commanders or much besides the fuel dingle to richen it slightly down low. 690 is one of a kind.
the new 2019 engine is way more reliable with the new rocker arm setup. I would never consider owning the older version.
Anyway is still the best and only real 50/50 dualsport bike you can buy new on the market! Find another bike that has 70+hp weight -150kg handels as good on street as on dirt and has same confort on dirt and on road… but some wind protection, take of the vape system with 40€ dongle open a bit the exhaust and you have it! If they cut costs is to make it affordable… if you want better make it better with power parts or aftermarket… that’s it. Don’t forget is same when you buy a house, it os the base that counts… so on a bike is the engine, and suspension. So they are on top for that
Pretty much have to agree. If DR bro's want a replacement, this is it. Yes it's expensive and that can be a big obstacle for some, but that's just how much you have to pay for new tech these days. Take it or leave it.
I have a 2019 690 and, I love the smother engine, the analog electronics it's a plus for me, the wp Xplore suspension is very good and quick shifter is nice to have, I don't see any need to do any fuel remapping, the only adds on I have is a seat concept, and a wings exhaust, but I can not say anything negative about the previous models since I have no experience with them all I can say is that my 690 has excided my expectations
Well narrated as always!
I want to go back to something I said in my 1000km review of the 701. I’d love a no-tech 701 for a lot less than what I gave. Cable throttle and clutch, no ride modes, no TC, no quickshifter. Just a great frame, excellent engine and good suspension (the one with longer travel from 2019).
Thanks! As for me I'd love to put the newer engine in my 2017 and then I think it'd be perfect.
ride modes are pretty useful for easy pace, and snow/rain
dude the 2019+ got a much smoother engine
I never understood why a bike that was located in the "travel” section of the website doesn’t have a dash equal to or better than a CRF300L…
i was told that the 690 and 701 are returning for 2023 and that the GASGAS ES700 will be available for the USA in 2023 too.
I have a 2021 model....... It whales.. BIG TIME. very fast and smooth, handles great. The quick shifter isn't needed, but fun on road. The orange and grey looks great. Yeah, the dash is lame, but off-road riders aren't lookin at it. Most if the things that suck (pipe, handguards, skid plate) are likely stuff you're gunna replace anyway. Inflation and emissions are inevitable and effect every manufacture.
The 2019+ models feature a _secondary_ balancer shaft in the valve train, as well as a completely new valve train with new rocker arm followers, cam shaft, rollers etc. It's not just a "new" balancer shaft that cost the same as the old one. Far from it. As a result the usable rev band expands by roughly 1000 rpm generating the extra horse power and making the engine much smoother. As a manufacturer you DO want to cut cost, but also make your product appeal to more than two people. Therefore removing annoying vibrations from the engine and lowering the overall bike height is a sensible change. Also the new valve drive is more reliable, eliminating the problem the old 690s had: the rocker arms failing.
I own a 2011 690 SMC with 94.000 km on the clock as well as a 2020 690 SMC R with just 5.000 km. The difference is like day and night. The new models vastly improves safety by introducing cornering-ABS and traction control. The quick shifter is quite gimmicky, I agree. However if you are riding fast, using it makes gear changes smoother and therefore reduces wobblying in corners.
The speedo is definitely crap, but provides all the info required. You forget about it quite quickly.
Have you owned a 2019+ model for a genuine comparison?
Unfortunately I have not owned or ridden a 2019+ model. I've based this video purely on research. I'd also looked into the newer models when I was initially looking to buy a 690 and came to the conclusion that a 2017 was a better value.
As far as I could find, the rocker arm issues on the older models were resolved by 2015. Although KTM did not acknowledge fixing it, owners of 2015 and newer models don't appear to have problems with them.
That being said, I do believe the newer engines are better thanks to their smoothness and power. I'd love to have a new engine in a last gen bike.
you no need the dash, just feel the fbike
I bet you’re fun at a party 😂
Companies don't save money for customer's mate instead by sourcing parts from different cheap places they actually save money for themselves which add to their profit margin .
Since i know someone who works at Kini Ktm in Austria (Where I'm from). I can tell you that the lc4 motor is definitely one oft the most reliable motors and i don't see any problems with the co2 regulations.
And to be honest i think a lot more people in Europe buy these as Supermotos that's why the chages mostly make a better Supermoto out of it.
These are getting crazy expensive now, in my country they now cost 13 000 € which is insane for a single cylinder bike which has kind of a limited use of riding.
KTM should do a bike just like the 690 Enduro / SMC with the 121hp Duke 890 R engine now , and make the bike as light as possible so it is not much heavier than the 690 Enduro. That would have been so cool and much faster than the 890 Adventure / SMT, would really be a hypermotardkiller :D
I would 100% buy a bike like that. Especially if it looks as good as the 690 SMC and not like the ugly 890 SMT :(
I just got a 2021, there is NO way I would buy a pre 2019 690. I did my homework.
The older ones have that vibration that will never go away, and the roller rocker arms have roller bearings that can and do fall out and destroy the entire engine. You basically need a new engine.
New versions dont have this. Much smoother engine, neither footpegs or handlebars buzz on hiway.
I rode a 2013 and it seemed like no top gear for hiway, I was in 5th gear on the onramp with no where to go. I owned a late 90's Lc4 and it was insane, the shaking and buzzing and vibrating only got worse with speed.
Of all the negatives you mention about the newer 690's? Most everyone thinks they work great.
Selling a pre 2019 is a real trick, they sit on craigslist. People know. Their price drops.
You are the only guy saying older ones are best, but its youtube and anybody can say anything they want.
Its funny how virtually everything KTM does is seen as a negative here.
I don't know, I think the current 690 Enduro is the absolute best DP bike available today, by a large margin. And after 7 new KTMs, I am not crazy about them as a brand. And personally, I LOVE a clutches shifting. After owning numerous DRs, WRs, EXCs, as well as a CRF450L, and riding XLs, it is the only DP made today that I would consider buying.
Just you mentioning "DP" I know that you have the experience. Thanks for the feedback! My last KTM was a 640, that I loved. I got rear-ended by some geek, and it got tweaked. So I sold it. I've been on the fence about these new one's lately. They're expensive! Now you have Husky, Gasgas and KTM. All pretty much the same bike, but different flavors. KTM would do well to offer some plastic color options, rather than the standard "Great Pumpkin" Color scheme.
I had the 2018 model. Was awesome. Now have the ktm 690 smrc motard. I miss the 2018 690R. But it was a bit tall for me. Tip toeing.
The dash is fine other then it needs a 6th gear indicator. Running down highway speeds with all the noise and vibes with Motoz HT's sometimes its hard to know for sure if its in 6th.
i was thinking the same thing. i bought my 2016 690 smcr brand new and sold it last month. i have to say, a fun bike and i only spent money on gas, oil and regular services.. Bike looked after me well, no clutch issues either.. i thought about buying the 2022 model because the bike was so reliable but i didnt go that route because of the same reasons you pointed out here... i bought a 2023 Sherco 300 2 stroke and converted the wheels to supermoto wheels.
waiting to buy my 2023 690 SMCR, can't wait.....I'm a supermoto bro all day, lol. great vid anyway.......
I don’t know why the 690 duke is no more available on pavement never try another bike feeling better and the new 690 super moto doesn’t have the same drive in corner at all they fuck up a bit there
Well, let's start with "you are a pessimist" you said it. The bike is getting better, modernizing, take it or leave it. You might not like the fact that the bike is way better than what you are used to but you can't say, no one asked for a quick shifter, you have no concrete data to affirm that.
It is what it is . We can pick it apart as much as you like but there is still nothing out there that runs close to its performance weight or suspension in standard trim.
Well, there is the 500 EXC, which is about 100lbs lighter while making around 60hp. Of course it's $50 more than the 690, but a lot of folks are either switching to the 500 or stepping up to larger adventure bikes.
@@doomermotorsports 500 EXC is superb bike but needs regular oil changes and sucks on the highway. The 690 is a great allrounder and 50kg lighter than the Adventure bikes. Sits perfectly in the middle and has no competition.
@Tim Brandt ua-cam.com/video/N0T-RezulIw/v-deo.html.
@@doomermotorsports The 500 EXC in dirt spec might make high 50's on HP , the street legal euro 5 or 4 version doesnt do that at all. It is strangled thoroughly and guys spend a lot to get power out of them. Then theres the vibration that all mention.
And the constant oil changes, and the hopefully 20,000 mile top end life if your lucky.
500 is bitchin, but is nothing like a 690 for a do it all bike.
So much money for a two-wheeled motorcycle. Seriously, a frame, engine, two wheels. So difficult and costly to manufacture?
Seat underrated: Having ridden a three week trip w/ tent and luggage through Armenia and Georgia I agree: stock seat is great for the non plus-size rider!
Sadly I am a plus sized rider. After a 3 day trip this spring I was starting to really feel it, but for commuting or single day trips it's perfectly fine for me.
always lol at people who want big and nice look display on enduro bike )) I can give you free advice how 2 deal with it - put a cross tape on the display and dont look at it ever - you will gain better enduro skills
loool, dude, this clip is hilariously dumb. First : the inflation goes for every brand, Second : Euro 5 regulation it goes to every new bike , Third : the colour it sucks?:)) its a matter of taste
Dude you forgot all about the suspension along with frame changes the difference between a post 19 model to a pre 16 are massive the electronics package is subtle but excellent in my opinion without the need to study a manual. With all this it doesn't weigh anymore than a Honda 300 CRF. As a dual sport apart from the 701 it has no rivals. The worst thing about the 690/701 and the GasGas 700 is the factory is about to pull the plug on production and it will pass into history, prices will soar in secondhand values. For me this bike is a keeper. Here in the UK and Europe with the TransEuroTrail these models are Lions at the top of the food chain capable of covering large distances and tackling tough terrain
I'm not all that knowledgeable about suspension, but so far I haven't found any faults with mine.
The frame was touted as "all new" for the 2019+, but I can't tell what those changes are or did. Maybe they used thicker steel or maybe they just moved things around a little bit.
As for the electronics, I just don't care. Why do I need or want cornering ABS on a dualsport? KTM even sells the dongle to keep all that stuff turned off, but I'd rather have a more affordable bike without all that stuff to begin with.
As for KTM ending production on the 690, where did you hear that from? I haven't seen or heard any legit rumors. I was just surmising due to my gloomy outlook on the platform.
@@doomermotorsports I hear what your saying, I’m not sure if you’ve ridden the latest version “19 onwards” but in suspension there has been a big leap forward when it comes to the stock out of the crate standard. I’m also sure there’s always room for improvement.
With the frames you would need to have the differences pointed out to you because to look at they both look like the same trellis frame couldn’t tell myself until it was shown to me.
I will concede with the fact that “who needs cornering ABS on a dualsports, but most of this as come about with government regulations being imposed on manufacturing and safety in order to sell the motorcycle to the public so the whole thing comes in a package and I’m sure the 690’s electronics are paired down from there bigger siblings but still pretty impressive to have the tech onboard wether you choose to use it or not and as for the dongle, well maybe that KTM’s way of nodding to the purists.
The LC4 engine is at its most powerful in fact it’s the most powerful single cylinder production engine ever made and with the advent of moving into a more environmentally friendly world seeking tighter and tighter emissions this fire breather’s days are numbered. Even now both the KTM and Husqvarna are difficult to find new and the Mattighofen’s last swing at the bat is to pass it down for the next couple of years hopefully to the Red Factory before it passes into history. Mark my words 🤷
@@gnarlybadger690 with how much everyone is praising the new suspension in the comments I'll have to track down a new one to try. For me, I have to put some decent tires on and make some adjustments to my suspension before I can really come up with a verdict. I'm on tkc80s for now and have the suspension set to "sport" or 10 clicks out front and back. Worked okay for Moab, but probably could have been better.
It's too bad but kind of inevitable about all the emissions stuff though. "Environmentalists" will never be satisfied.
Not sure where that "not making them" rumor came from but I heard it too... it's not true.
Quick shifter is gold when braking into corners and it prevents rear wheel from locking up.
I’ve owned the ‘16, a ‘19 husky and a ‘21 690, the difference is pretty night and day.
Definitely a great beginner bike especially if you have some dirt bike experience
My understanding is the small p2 engine is shelved for now. At the very least it’s not a 2023 model from what I’ve heard in the industry
Put a lithium battery in it saves 7 pounds, put a power commander and a straight pipe on it and Dyno tune it, problem solved
Yeah, that 2000€ upgrade is a no brainer.
@@nikos-giorgoslithium battery cost 50 euro, pipe cost 300 euro max (unless you want Akra which second hand is available), Power commander 300, dyno tune 200, don't know where you are getting 2 grand from
If you're gonna do an exhaust upgrade, do it right.
Put on a complete system which is probably more than 1k.
Lithium battery costs more than 50€, add the rest with proper tuning and labour and you're close to 2k.
If you can do it cheaper great!
"probably more than 1k" right next, what lithium even cost more than 100 euro? I've never seen one. So to bolt on a exhaust takes no time at all and is low difficulty, a Power commander can be easily plugged in, the tuning shop will do it with the unit for no more than 500 euro that's what I paid. Even with a nice arrow exhaust and the 100 dollar lithium I can't see it being more than a grand, just because you overpaid doesn't mean the rest of us will.
FYI I've seen the full arrow kit for less than 600 euro
I've not owned a pre-19 690 but have ridden an 18 back to back with my 20 701... and the only noticeable differences (in a short ride) are all to the benefit of the newer bike (motor smoothness being the big one). On longer rides I think that motor smoothness will be even MORE important. I'm told by experts that the suspension is quite a bit better too but I was not really able to test that effectively.
I DID wring out the TC/ABS system of the new bike offroad in the Rockies and I was faster and stopped quicker with TC/ABS in offroad mode than I was with it off... which was a surprise.
So I'd say no... the bike definitely isn't getting worse. Some folks who are anti-tech will feel like the older bikes fit their "want's" better than the new ones and that's all good, but personal preference does not equal objectively better. Personally I'll never buy a new bike without an IMU if I plan to ride it on the road for any distance, and I rode the 701 for 7000 miles on the TAT this year (and have nearly 20,000 miles on it in 2 years), where the newer bike is definitely the better bike compared to the older ones (safer, smoother, more capable suspension).
A more functional dashboard would be nice... but OTOH the minimalist version does the job and was easy to move to a rally tower... and the quickshifter is not great (though it does come in handy on occasion... it's very clunky).
"Only 20 miles of range at best" - that's a lot when you're touring and the next fuel stop is 20 miles further than your current range.
pretty sure the seat a big cost reduction unless foam rubber has gone up
Sounds like Ben Affleck is doing the talking in this vid.
I own a 690 enduro r, a 300 xcw, and 500 exc/f six days, love my KTM ‘s
My dream
Since the late 80's, Ive had over 15 KTM's, lots of them 2 strokes, I raced and trail rode them.
Currently an 890R and a 690R enduro are here. Wretched excess? No wife here to tell me no.
Let the games begin.
You got something against supermoto bros? 😄
Perhaps...and perhaps I'll do a video about it sometime. All in good fun of course.
@@doomermotorsports lol alright stinker then I guess I'm subbed in leu of that video 😂
LOL, not going to notice 7 hp LOL cmon dude...
electric bikes, heaven forbid!
I must disagree the new model is improwed with better suspension,smoother and stronger engine,electronic package well calibrated you can set now on the fly no problem,rpm and gear indicator etc.For my also looks better it looks now more slik like Exc series.Good video anyway cheers.2021 Owner XD.
We'll just have to agree to disagree I guess. The only thing I find to be a useful upgrade over the last gen is the engine.
The point is new one is better haha
This guy is a curmudgeon.
I sold my 690 and got the 901 because of the seat. My groin area would fall asleep within about 20 miles of road riding. I could take a pee and not really be sure who I was holding onto. As far as quick shift is concerned, why not? I wouldnt own a bike without it now.
I just don't want to pay for unnecessary things or stuff I'm never going to use. I'm not racing anybody, so why do I need a quickshifter if it's just going to drive up the cost of the machine?
On another note, I would love to get a Norden, but it would probably end up as a road bike for me.
I added a Fisher custom seat to my 2020 690, and it is now the most comfortable ride I've ever owned. It's similar to but better than other Corbin seats I've owned and FAR better than Seat Concepts.
I agree that the newer 690 is a big improvement over the older version.
@@Navaho66 I wish I had known about the different seat choices. I really loved how nimble the 690 is. I do love the 901 but I dropped it in an uphill washout last weekend after I stalled it and couldn't reach the ground due to the depth of the rut. Top of the bike was much lower than the bottom and I had my large Pelican case mounted on the back with about 40 pounds of camera gear in it. My fat 61 year old ass had it's limits tested to the full getting it back upright. Couldn't have done it without my Green Chile Adventure gear recovery system. Not an ad for them because it could have been much better with just a regular block and tackle. And I broke my front turn signal.
The seat is definitely more dualsport than ADV. the Seat Concepts seat helps (and they have a wide version that may be even better for those who are sensitive). I didn't have a problem with the stock seat but still got the seat concepts comfort seat (same profile but a bit thicker with more compliant materials) before I went on a longer tour with the bike.
euro 5 is not on US models.
Maybe this video was being sarcastic but no, it's not getting worse and seems like a crazy title. It's shockingly better than an older model. I've had it for two years and am always surprised at much better it is than my older one. I sold the older one because it just seemed useless compared to the 2021.
The fueling at low speed is bad, the first gear is too high , the 6 ghear is too low, the plastics are easy to damage, hard to protect the engine from impact, the rider position is on the front wheel.
I own a -08 690 with zero fueling issues but I hate the gearing, especially the tall first gear.
All personal opinion
I have a 2009 model and I don’t like the new smoother versions they don’t feel as punchy and mines still pretty analog so no abs and all that crap
KTM 690 ADVENTURE R !!!!! More fuel, proper dash display, rally fairing proper seat, luggage options and cruise control baby 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Buy Honda !
I have the 2020 model. And i can tell you the quick shifter is a dream in offroad. I never wanne go back.
Thx, +1 💯
Most KTM parts are shared with other models. This is the #1 reason I love KTM. I like that I can borrow a part from a 1999 300 to fix a 2017 690, it's freakin awesome.
People can change sprocket ratio on the old bike if they want it the same as the new 690. And idk if people know but you can install new suspension in old duke so there is no advantages to the new years IMO
as a 690 fan and 2020 smcr owner i gotta disagree here:
-the seat, if you sit on it actually is quite comoftable, with the 180$ powerparts seat i now can ride easily for 200miles straight and the bike now feels more comfy than my ktm1090 adventure that i owned before.
- the eu4 and 5 engine are way superior to the eu3: the eu3 engine had a LOT of problems. the output shaft could shear for no reason. the rocker arms were faulty a lot of the time. the camshaft did have run marks and failed with time, they are using way more oil and tend to dilute it to such a degree that the engine is not properly lubricated (as it is running too rich with the evo1 mapping that everyone tends to put on the damn things and thus on deceleration the unburnt fuel passes by the two piston rings and into the oil) . KTM specs the wrong kind of oil for the bike. the clutch slaves fail, the needle bearings tend to fail and on and on and on. The OG 690 has too many possible failure points from factory.
The EU4 and EU5 do not. at least not anymore after the recall with the faulty clutch slave that leaked brake fluid into the oil and thus killed the bike due to faulty lubrication. I change the oil every 1500-2000 and use motul 15w-60 300v offroad and the oil consumption is nearly non existant. the valves at 6000 miles were right in the middle of the given range. The camshaft and rocker arms did not have any play nor any signs of wear on them.
firthermore the engine apart from being way superior in terms of reliability, is way smoother and actually usable not like the vibrating,oil consuming, outputshaft and rockerarm eating piece of junk that the eu3 engine was. it does NOT get stuck in lower revs, it nearly does not vibrate and it has very decent power. and it is way more fun because it revs 500rpms higher.the chassis is stiffer and on the SMCR the lowered front ride height gives you a way better feel of the front wheel that needs to be paralleled by another bike in the industry.
i have ridden all generations of 690/701 and have to say that the new ones are just a gem, esoeciaély in comparaison to the older ones.
oh yeah and NEVER and i mean EVER by a 690 used. a mistreated 690 will die sooner or later. you really need to ride the. with the right oil, oil change intervals of 2k miles and take good care during break in. if done so they are solid and fun bikes.
The XPLOR suspension on the new bikes is superior to even valved and set up APEX suspension on the older models, so that is part of the price increase. The balancer upgrade is night and day better vs. the older bikes too. I have a Husky 701 and it is amazing how vibe free it is. It thumps like the big single it is at idle, and then it turns into a twin as the revs rise.
The new bike's CAT equipped muffler is heavy and hot AF, so the owner almost has to pull that boat anchor and install an exhaust of choice on it. A Rottweiler Dongle will eliminate the O2 sensor and richen up the stupidly lean part throttle settings. Change out the radiator fan thermo switch to a lower temp 80/85C unit while at it.
KTMs are good machines, but they have always been roll your own fix or improve on the factory propositions. Nothing new on that front it seems, but it does hurt more than ever to have to spend even more cash after buying what is an already expensive machine.
EXC is not lower model, it's completely different category. I agree older dash was better but parts swapping is common in other brands as well. Older 690 has issues with fuel pumps and handling was worse, so no 690 is not getting worse, more expensive yes.
Thank you for youre thoughts and a fine video. But i think you compare apples with peers here.The 500 exc is a competition enduro machine,the 690 is an adventure bike.And the best 50/50 bike there is.
It's a kinda lengthy rant on a new bike you have never ridden, LOL.
Time to revive KTM 950 Super Enduro R 😈
I was looking hard at those back in 2015!
The extra power and balancer shaft are the only notable upgrades? Missing a pretty big one huh?
The innovative use of the rear fuel tank as the main structural element of the subframe keeps weight low and eliminates structural complexity, but I think it seriously weakens the rear part of the structure, which may crack, especially if carrying heavy luggage, unless I'm mistaken?
Dont hang heavy luggage on a gas tank/frame. Lighter minimal is fine.
Or put that big ass exterior rack on the back. I dont want that.
The sad fact is, as you’ve correctly surmised, that cost is king especially with high costs in Europe. I doubt Spain is much cheaper for assembly. Why a GasGas option? Same as a Husqvarna, brand diversity with low cost other than cosmetic. Same as VW group with Audi, Skoda and SEAT variants of the same platform. Volume reduces cost and (arguably) improves quality control. Euro 5 is ludicrous and actually worsens fuel economy for exhaust gas composition requirements. There are certainly ways to improve the running. The quickshifter on my 890 Adventure is very good and a great thing to have. Sure, a cheap add on but worth it. I’m doing some of the TAT next year on a 690 so I’ll revisit. Ride safe.
"Volume reduces cost"...yet it keeps rising.
Just go back to the Husky 610 put a start button on it call it done.
Clutch on the 690 was designed for Supermoto. It's crap off road. Not durable at all. I've been more 690/701 trailed home than any other bike or model here in New Zealand.
It's not the clutch it's the gearing... the gearbox is designed for sumo (close ratio) and so if lower the ratio with sprockets you end up wound out at the top end. If you stay with stock gearing you are too tall for offroad (and end up smoking your clutch if you're not skilled at clutch management). There's a wide ratio kit for the 690 that fixes the gearbox but it's damned expensive.
grey/orange look very nice together
i totally agree about the dashboard
The last big thumper...hard to believe how it came to this :(
Well for the 50th time, one of these manufactures have to make an enduro 390 R or 490 R, weighing 310lbs or less. Everyone will buy. Mark it up, everyone will still buy. Parallel twin will not work, will weigh too much and who wants that on a trail. Thumpers only.
Just get the CRF300L Rally... it's exactly the bike you're describing (and a bike I recommend over the 690 to light/small riders).
@@kuhndj67 i live in california and drive on freeways. We drive fast here, wouldnt be caught dead on a 300 single with 27hp. Or maybe i would - thats the point
@@kuhndj67 enduro 390 R is coming in a few months anyway, problem solved. Apparently Ktm is the only one smart enough to realize they can build a lightweight 400cc 37hp thumper which u can use on the freeway and also will likely be better than the crf300L offroad. They will own a huge market, that the japanese have just simply ignored.
Good stuff! Gr8 post!
You never even got to the blue 'KTMs' ...wonder when the Husaberg name will resurface? Looked at a red KTM today, cheaper pipe,master cylinders, but a better seat and a shock linkage...and the best looking of the bunch,IMO? Huge difference in price, about 1500 GBP between a list orange one and a red one on special (hard to punt I bet,to the uninitiated?).
I own a 11 450 fe berg I converted. Love that bike for sure.
@@parkersgarage4216 At the classic dirt bike show today, getting distracted... 'Berg might have to go, looking at hallway ornaments :)
@@williamrae9954 lol gotta do what u gotta do. Hallway ornaments are cool for sure. I’m looking into a husqvarna 701.
@@parkersgarage4216 SWM RS 125 GS there today, T'reg 1979 model,immaculate... want :)
@@williamrae9954 haha I don't blame you there. Get it as you never know if you'll find another clean one. Sounds like a good show. I need to go to shows like that but nothing ever close to me.
I had a 2021 euro5, hated it, sold it and bought a 2020 690 euro4
I've never loved the 690. I have a 500 EXC and an 890 ADV R...
Every time I ride one, it feels wonky. I think they should throw it out and start over. I'd much prefer an 890-esque design, but scaled down for more off-road capability...
On the other hand, a front-tank design like the 500 (and every other dirt bike in the world) with a beefier subframe and a less-vibey motor would be fine too.
Honestly, all we all want is a modern age DR650... the 690 is a wierd mutant experiment gone wrong.
Boo...boo this man
@@doomermotorsports Haha! Sorry dude, I can tell it's your baby. No offense, I know tons of awesome riders who love them. Just not my deal.
I want the bike that should be in that spot SO bad.
If only there were a design that fit the bill: i0.wp.com/www.bike-urious.com/wp-content/uploads/KTM-640-Adventure-Front-Right.jpg
Those old LC4's are cool too. Honestly though, when looking at the older bikes, I really dig the 950 Super Enduro. It's so absurd that it's cool.
Also, the 500EXC is an absolute beast for offroad. If I had the means, I would probably have the same two bikes as you. Likely in the Husqvarna form.
Rode the San Juan Passes with 3 690/701's, an 890 ADV R, and a 500exc... the 890 struggled from the get go and midweek he gave up and went fishing for the rest of the trip. The 500 crushed the passes but was the main reason we trailered the bikes out instead of riding them. The 690/701 handled the passes fine (slower than the 500 tho) and we could have ridden them out... that's why it's a bike that DOES make sense. IMO they should sell it with a rally tower and call it the ultimate lightweight ADV bike... but it would destroy 890 sales so they never will.
Nice video! And i agree 100% with your accessment :)
Thanks for mentioning me / giving me credit for the footage ;)
I never understood the 690. Ktm didn’t replaced the 640 adventure. The 690 is just a very overweight enduro with mediocre suspension.
Just upgraded from a DRZ400S to the 690, and honestly I love it!
I will agree the quick shifter is unnecessary and kind of clunky.
But my biggest gripe is the mirrors, how can the DRZ (a 20 year old bike and half the price) have better mirrors.
Good points about the evolution of the 690. Which is the best model year regarding upgrades etcetera? In your opinion? I’m more into the 701sm though.
I prefer the 2015 to 2018 Enduro. The 2019 and up is definitely an upgrade in regards to the engine and apparently suspension, but I feel the cost no longer matches what you're getting. I put no value on the additional electronics and consider the dash, seat, and emissions as total negatives. As for the SMC, maybe the ride modes are more useful. It also has more a a street tuned suspension, but honestly they're really not my thing.
@@doomermotorsports thanks for uour response. The 701 got the updated engine in 2017 so it should be a good buy from that year and onwards. 👍
Agreed on all points.