2017 KTM 690 Duke Review
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- Опубліковано 4 жов 2024
- 2017 KTM 690 Duke Review - In this video I get to ride and review the fabulously lightweight, single cylinder naked funster that is the 2017 KTM 690 Duke....
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The power to weight ratio is great on this thing, not to mention the low end torque you'd get with a huge single piston going up and down.
Fantastic bike. So Light and agile and that single cylinder punch is addictive 👍🏻 Great review 😊
Cheers....
Hey Flyer! Glad you liked the little Duke. I've been riding the R for two year now; the most hilarious experience since watching Tommy Cooper. I know people with lawn mowers that weigh more. This bike exemplifies the old adage: Straights are for fast bikes, corners are for fast riders. Can't understand all the whining in the comments about how the headlight looks... You can't see the bloody headlight when you're actually RIDING the bike! What we need is this motor in a sports bike package so you can really rag it round the twisties... What's the point in having a load of horse power that you can't use without a hugely expensive package of electronic "rider aids"? Apart from pub talk, that is.
Agreed all round Buzz, really enjoyed the 690 - looking forward to trying the next iteration too. Good to hear from you again, it's been ages!
TheMissendenFlyer hello flyer can you tell me if this bike is suitable for a long trip i am looking to make some trips to britan ,france,austria i got a year off from work and was thinking to explore europ btw it will be a2 restricted
Fully agreed. I recently test drove a Tuono 1100 MY 2017 and ended up preferring the 690 Duke R. Way more fun and still superfast in the corners.
As long as the headlight does what it needs to, it's all good.
I want to thank you again! These reviews are awesome to help me decide which bike I want!
Glad to help!
Great reviews as usual. I like your sensible riding, with enough spirited bits. Your also articulate and have solid information.
Cheers from 🇨🇦
+Reg Fleming Thank you Reg - appreciated...
Great review. Wish they still made them. It would suit me fine going from my 390 Duke. I love KTM.
This bike has traction control and motor slip regulation. In some places its sold with the "track pack" which allows you to enable/disable driving modes, traction control, msr and abs.
He is ONLY reviewing the very BASE offering of this model so I assume he nailed it while you failed to pay attention?
@@nigelwolfe6150 No, the bike has TC and MSR as standard (base trim). The only options are the colour and the track pack. The track pack does not add TC and MSR, it simply allows you to disable them.
Beautiful bike
Another nice video sir, thank you. Oh and I just bought the 690 Duke R today.
Nice one Nate - congratulations and enjoy!
As always nice review. I sat on a 690 Duke at a motorcycle show and loved the seating position and overall ergonomics of the bike that are much better than the Japanese bikes in this size range. It just fits me perfectly. That alone is worth the extra money for me. It looks better too. I'm looking forward to riding one.
Cheers Brad....
Another tip top review Mr F ....glad you toke my advice and went through ashridge, and into Berkhampstead a lovely road in the sunshine😊
+Keith Holmes Yes thanks Keith - couldn't remember who'd suggested that, apologies - nice loop round as you said.....
We are really enjoying all your bike reviews, they are very balanced and thorough. Can't wait to see what you think of the GS Rallye as I think that looks a cracking bike from BMW (as always) . Thanks for all your effort in producing these vlogs. Ride safe. Regards Clare and Andy.
Great stuff Clare and Andy, glad you're finding my efforts of interest - all the best - TMF
Jason & the chaps down at The Ktm Center sorted me out my new 690R last week.Absolutely cracking bike & brilliant service 😉
Great stuff - and I agree, really nice set up they have there in Hemel and as you say, lovely chaps....
If the 690 single is this good then I can't wait to see what the new to come 790 Duke would be like. Would it be the next twin to replace my old SV 650 I wonder? Really looking forward to that one and I have a feeling it wouldn't disappoint. As for the 690 I was expecting it would be given the 2017 treatment as the 125 and 390 had. They look absolutely fabulous with that new headlight unit that resemble s their big brother the 1290.
+stephen spiteri Yes the new front end would look good on this bike, like you say now looking forward now to seeing and hopefully riding the new 790....
Went and bought an '17 R last night, and as I testrode it I thought EXACTLY that, it DOES feel like a twin! It does not behave like any other single I've ever ridden. From 2-3K rpm it's completely linear up to 6-7K and then BAM comes the power - very weird! It's below freezing here so didn't do a very long testrun but I was really impressed the short distance I went.
Hey congratulations on the new bike and glad we concur!
The grunt of that engine sounds amazing to me. Great review.
Thanks
Bought my '17 690 this past summer. It's an awesome ride. You know the saying, "right tool for the right job." I live in a city that getting around is mostly narrow, hilly, twisty roads, a place where a heavier bike would not be fun tooling around on. Plus, I don't see the sense in spending another 3-8k to ride around in 2nd gear all the time just to have a bigger displacement. Some freeway travel but not a necessity to get around. I spend most of my weekends heading out into the hills/mountains. I'd put this bike up with any in its class for canyon carving. Handles like it's on rails. Bottom line, it's a fit for me. I love this bike.
Thanks for watching and for stopping buy! All the best - TMF
Great review as usual TMF. I want one of these now ha ha.
Cheers TMF, thanks to you I am picking one up on Saturday!
Oooh nice, congratulations and enjoy!
as always a great review thanks keep it up
Thanks Jason, good to have you along once again - TMF
I've watched many of your motorcycle reviews from here in the US. Nice down-home single camera POV style of a true enthusiast! I've ridden many bikes over the years including the Duke 690, which is possibly the most fun of the lot. Not sure how to afford it, but it's obvious the KTM understands me.
Thanks John - appreciate your kind comments!
Not a bike I would have considered looking twice at until I watched this. Looks great fun.
The mirrors look like they are 'upside down' to me.
Completely get that, KTM's passed me by for a long time too, but I'm rapidly seeing the error of my ways!
With the nice weather I am enjoying riding my 2017 Kawasaki x300 Versys and my 2013 KTM Duke 690 Supermoto. Today I rode both of them back to back and delighted in discovering the attributes of each of these wonderful motorcycles. Here is my evaluation: My Kawasaki seems like a Rolls Royce compared to the KTM Duke. It's engine is much smoother and much more quiet. The clutch throw is much softer but has a longer pull. I like the gear shifting on the KTM best. It is a bit clunky but has a short positive throw and more precise clicking into gear. The clutch is fast and positive. The KTM has way more power and acceleration than my Kawasaki. But that is an unfair comparison considering that the Duke has more than twice the displacement. The guages and features are far nicer on the Kawasaki. I like the gear position indicator and the fuel gauge that Kawasaki offers. The KTM has a far more comfortable seat compared to the Kawasaki. However, the seating position of the Kawasaki is much nicer than the KTM. Both are fairly tall motorcycles. I recently lowered my Kawasaki 1-1/2" which I highly recommend if you are shorter than 6 feet tall. My Kawasaki feels better balanced than the KTM, but only slightly. The KTM has so much torgue, so less down shifting is required. Just twist the throttle and go in any gear. The Kawasaki has a very high revving engine. It takes 7,500 rpm to cruise 65 mph. The KTM rarely needs more than 4,000 rpm. The Kawasaki engine internals sound smooth as silk. The KTM sounds like it is grinding bolts internally. The KTM has a very jerkey low range, not very tractable. The Kawasaki is the opposite. Very smooth. Both motorcycles shine in the twisties and curves. Both motorcycles are very flickable. The KTM may have a slight edge in handling but overall I prefer the ride of the Kawasaki. My final impression is that both motorcycles are wonderful, the Duke for it's torque and power, the Kawasaki for it's dual sport smoothness. If I could own just one or the other I would keep the Kawasaki for it's Rolls Royce build quality, smoothness, handling and quietness.
Thanks for the comment Charles - appreciated!
This is definitely an interesting model, I want to ride a bike rather than drive a car, seems more fun. This definitely fits my taste in style.
+Hide Imagine Yeah it's a hoot!
Hello! I don't comment often on "vlogs," but I've been watching yours for some time, and subscribed after seeing, and hearing how good a job you do. I'm a bit of an addict for cycle videos, and truly enjoy riding with you. Great info, and excellent camera work. You make me jealous for all the bikes you ride! Thank-you!
I think I'd really like the KTM Duke 690, or something similar.
For me, I own:
1972 Honda CL350
1982 Suzuki GS1100 L
2008 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS
Keep up the great work!
Thank you Clarence, much appreciated! Don't be a stranger.....all the best - TMF
I wanna try out the single life, so far I’ve been bored with 4 cylinders, man do I miss my ol’ cm400
I thought you meant ditch the mrs!
Very nice review. I took a 2013 version for a test ride and it was great, seriously thinking of buying one for the daily commute and some weekend fun.
+Nate Nobrakes yes great fun bike....and thanks for the kind comments...TMF
Starting to pull my hair out now as I continue to find more and more bikes I really love because of your channel. Another great bike and another great video. Thank you good sir!!
+Charlie P What do you think happened to my hair!
Just bought one of these, a 2018 model. Brilliant bike! can't wait until the dryer weather! :)
You and me both - congratulations on the new bike....
@@TheMissendenFlyer you know my cousin Ian, I fly the Yak 52 out of eglm
If this was on sale now i would have gone for this over the 790. Yes the 790 is much more equipped but this thing is a bliss. 148 Kg for a 690 CC😕 power to weight ratio is ridiculous. Loads of torque and for me this looks better than the new design especially the headlamps which looks very minimal and cool compared to the over designed one of the 790
I get this thinking! I know how much the 690 costs but for ALL the variables I'll be considering the 790. I wont know till this weekend but fer sure going to the dealer so sit on it and price it! I have a feeling it will go up a couple grand and get out of reach on cost? the 790 brings a dual piston and less vibration. So fer sure worth the research....-
Thanks TMF for a great review.....enjoyable and informative.....
I test rode one yesterday and had huge fun....placed an order and will take possession this w/e
Singles above 250cc or so are a niche market, so this KTM fills a gap very competently. I found the vibes sub-3000rpm quite noticeable....maybe due to the demo bike being brand new....I'm assuming things will smooth out after some miles....
The KTM reminded me of a Buell M2 Cyclone from 15 yrs ago.....with some extra 'tractor factor' included...!!
Quality feel and a superb precise gear change......should be a keeper......
Congratulations! A fun weekend ahead....very exciting!
Had a 2015 690 Duke R for a couple of years when living in New Zealand. Awesome for the twisty hills up through the Southern Alps. Light weight, punchy engine. What's not to like?
Indeed!
Well that will be
1. Clutch - basically faulty design that ppl already made their business modifying.
2. Rear sub frame bolts - they brake. mostly 690 enduro problem
3. Faulty clutch Slave Cylinder (mostly gasket) - that's total engine failure if not done quick enough.
4. Brake leaver made out of chewing gum.
5. Faulty top of the engine -suppose to be fixed in newer models
6. Seat fabric and plastic core made out of Chineseum. Fabric disintegrates core brakes. Specially on 690 enduro
7. Baldly sealed electrical connections
8. Stock muffler getting hot to ridiculous levels.
9. Plastic cowl up front is mounded with screws to the radiator so when you fall radiator is punctured. That mostly is 690 enduro problem
The list is longer but im tired already.
Great review Mr Flyer, was delivering at White Waltham Airfield (anther 30t of liquid fertizer) today, new hanger going up by Carters Steam yard
+vince halls Yep, had an email from WLAC about it today "the new black hangar" it's called...
Hi matey 👍 thanks for the review on the KTM Duke and i really like the Duke alot and I'm really thinking of getting one myself as soon as possible. Please keep the KTM Duke reviews coming out please because I'm really interested in the KTM Duke reviews 👍👍 thanks from mark 👍👍 and I've subscribed to your UA-cam channel on motorcycle's oh i nearly forgot anymore reviews coming out on the KTM Duke 370 aswell please thanks 👍👍
Thanks for the subscription Mark and welcome along!
@@TheMissendenFlyer hi matey 👍 it's mark yes i really enjoyed watching your UA-cam videos on the KTM Duke 370 and the 690 KTM Duke motorcycles and I'm hoping to get one of them as soon as possible and i really love the look of the KTM Duke and the other KTM motorcycles aswell think that they are very good motorcycles to be totally honest with you. But I'll be watching your motorcycle reviews on all different motorcycles aswell keep up the great work on the UA-cam videos on KTM motorcycles and others thanks from mark 👍👍
awesome review 👍
cool bike
have a great weekend everyone 😉
Cheers Thomas....
TheMissendenFlyer
are you stealing my words 😂
Nice review; good info and presentation style. Give it the beans! ;-)
That vibration you mentioned got so bad at about 6 minutes into your review got noticeably worse the extent the tft display was unreadable....😉
+Gary Campbell Well spotted ;0)
Yeah, I noticed that too. You couldn't even see he was doing 59mph. :-)
Another great review, would love to hear your opinions on a husqvana 701, there's a dealer in Aylesbury 😉
Is there indeed? ...I didn't know that, might have to check 'em out.....
I actually like the pug nose on it but prefer the orange and black version. Could do with a few bits, tail tidy, cat delete pipe. I don’t get the rubber boots on the mirror stalks at all, weird. Also there seems to be something wrong with the speedo on yours, gets a bit blurry at times. Been fascinated by this massive single for a while now and hope to come across one some day.
You test rode the exact same bike as me. Good review.
...I think it's the same one RJ had too...
Be interesting if they fit this engine into the enduro R, I think they have fixed the rocker arm problem with this new engine.
They really need to build a mid capacity adventure bike around this engine, that would be cool, but getting it to meet Euro 4 could be an issue, where do you hide that great big pong box that hides under the bike ?
Great vid again Mr flyer.
+annie white Thank you Annie - and yes a mid size adventure bike to compete with the Africa Twin/Triumph Tiger 800's would be great to see from KTM. Thanks for watching and for stopping by once again, all the best - TMF
I think they have let themselves down with the front end on this bike, it's just flat and doesn't fit the angles of the bike. A slightly more aggressive look similar to the new 1290 duke would have finished it off nicely.
...not to mention the new light :0)
That was what I loved about the old Duke 690. It was a very polarizing look, but the craziness of the look was something I loved about it. Something that should be rectified with the 790, looks awesome!
Us oldies will have to downsize when hitting 90 or so .... Great review ...
:0) Thanks Graham....
Nice ride along - interesting riding pants - thanks so much!
+LookattheBiggerPic How do you know what pants I was/wasn't wearing??
...they can be seen just for a moment when u looked down, kind of a brown camo that I had never seen anywhere before!
Just been to the KTM Center to have a look at a new bike as I'm bored of my Speed Triple. I quite fancy giving this a go.
Did you mention my name?
TheMissendenFlyer No mate, I watched this video after I went. I will when I go for the test ride as I trust your judgement on bikes.
Do send 'em my regards!
thank you for the review of the bike.
Thanks for watching and for stopping by...
Let’s hope it’s better than the old one. Mine broke down every 21 miles. Ktm uk had for six weeks and wouldn’t admit to a fuel pump issue. Picked it up yep broke down after 21 miles. I’d never buy a Ktm again after the two year frustration. Great video though unreliable Ktm’s are though. Good whilst they run - 21 miles that is 😤
Oh dear, sorry to hear that.....
Stable Slayers strange that you were so unlucky with yours i covered almost 30,000 miles with no issues at all.
I prefer the looks of this over the 790 but considering what you get with the 790 (quickf/blipper, ABS pro, ride modes etc) can't imagine ever picking it over the 790
Thats what im looking at now! Dual piston motor plus all the electronic advantages> Whats the cost? Dont know yet? Its monday but saturday or sooner Ill be at the dealer finding out? If I can get there weekwise Im gonna learn the cost?
@@J5X7 I found a used one for I think 6K But didn't purchase it.
I've really come to appreciate your outlook on these different bikes...just really easy to follow and you don't leave out information. I know you did a longer-term living with the Suzuki SV650...how would you compare that bike to the 690 Duke? Specifically, for living with longer-term...commuting, 2-up riding and solo fun. Thank you!
I personally prefer the SV650 - but I may be in a minority for that. Not ideal 2 up is my guess but not bad either - great bike...
@@TheMissendenFlyer thanks for the response. Have you had the opportunity to ride a Kawasaki Z400? I know it's smaller displacement but it's also lighter. I wouldn't 2-up ride on it, just solo. Trying to figure out what to get as a replacement for our current 2-wheeled options...a 2005 BMW F650GS and a 2011 Suzuki Burgman 400.
Honda 650 fmx remains my favorite, I love KTM 10.50 but Honda wins my heart.
Great review as always TMF. It was a close run thing for me choosing between my Street Triple R or the KTM 690 Duke R - their respective dealers were both offering them at about the same price and offered me a similar trade-in for mine. The KTM dealers didn't have a demonstrator though, which would have meant taking a bit of a gamble. It felt nice to sit on (like you say, very light and narrow) but that's not the same as being on the move. Perhaps if my commute had involved a bit more traffic I would have been even more tempted but I was a bit worried that 50km of open road would have been a bit tiring / tiresome on the KTM. It will be interesting to see what the 790 update will be like, and perhaps to compare with the 765 Triple? So many bikes, so little time!!
+Andrew Tunnicliffe Hi Andy, I don't think a 50k commute would be any issue on this bike but I'm with you, I'd never buy a bike without riding it first. Looking forward to hopefully riding the new 790 at some stage too, will indeed be a good comparison with the Triumph....
I’m actually moving blind to a used Ktm duke 690 after a street triple 675. I just can’t make the most out of the street triple on UK roads and I’m not a track rider in terms of ability so I thought this is super light and lots of grunt which I actually preferred to insane speed
Nice review man 👍
+JafnhaarPall Thanks...
I like it. Appreciate the review!
+Scott Peterson Thanks for watching as ever Scott...
My only grip is they didn't make it look more the the superduke with the cool headlight when they have with the smaller Duke models.£7,799 is the official price from KTM UK. Would be nice to see you review the smaller 125/390 model for those on 'L' Plates or A2 license.
Yeah I'll see what I can do on that front....
Agreed it's over priced. Does it really need Brembo brakes? The 790 which is going to replace the 690 looks the real deal as long as the price doesn't jump to much.
There is no bike on earth with so much quality, performance and little weight fuel economy. What do you expect?
Hello old friend! We've commented back and forth a bit and this one may be too dated for you to be notified...however... I'm in the market for another bike. Was thinking Supermoto but have been second-guessing that after speaking with some dealers (even those who sell them). I stumbled into one of these today. 3000 miles on the clock, 2017 year model, very clean of course, and all that. Anyway, it feels pretty good to sit on, I'm 6'1" 220 and it's held my attention. It was raining so weather permitting, I'll drive it tomorrow. It's priced right and I was curious if you think this might be the canyon cruising twisties muncher I'm being led to believe?
Yes 100%
yet another great bike. Cool review yet again, love watching your vids, you got it nailed. Tried pip yet?
pip???
picture in picture
Ah got you....not really had the need for it other than stills...
Pretty sure this is the same bike that’s stolen my heart today, even my daughter thinks this is the one to buy.
Also new subscriber, thought the review was knowledgable and fair. Also if I can get on the road for the spring would you want to meet up so we can ride some nice roads, all I know is the 414 and a10.
Im in Western Washington. I'll ride with you! Would that work?
Jeff Killey bit out my way but one day lol
Bike prices have all jumped up around £1k this year . Shame the seat hight is 830mm .
There is a little publicised factory lowering kit that drops it about 30mm. Cost about £400 and got it fitted free as part of the deal.
Right ) does it upset the ride and handling tho . I went to the tour tech event in mid Wales tried a tigger 800 that had a lowering kit on made it awful .scrapping pegs . I know the ktm higher to begin with
It seems OK though I am not an aggressive rider so not explored the limits. As its considerably narrowere than the Tiger I guess it should have more clearance. I Had 800 XC before with lowering wishbones but for me it was too heavy with high center of gravity. This was fine when moving but a pig to manouver round a car park etc. While the KTM is still tallish its so light that you can move it around with ease and the handling is fantastic.
Defo worth a test ride if needed to be lowered then sounds like it won't upset the bike setup to much thanks )
The Stormtrooper-bike! This one was on my list when I looked for a new bike. (I bought an MT07 though)
I found the 390 better for city-commuting. Even more nimble, beleive it or not! :-)
Must give a 390 a go...thanks for watching! - TMF
You do that. It's fun! I thank you for making these well-done films. :-)
Very kind of you to say so John...thanks.
@@TheMissendenFlyer And now I'm here again looking at the 690 Duke! The MT-07 long gone and forgotten. And you were quite right about the TFT screens!
And I bought one! Same colourscheme as the one you tried. I love it! Mine is fitted with ridingmodes which makes a difference.
Looks like a nice practical, no-nonsense machine. Wonder how easy they are to work on yourself. Nice to hear it is smooth for a big single. Lumpy big singles can ruin the ride enjoyment. How does it compare to the G650GS?
+Lorne Scott-Wilson I've not ridden the G650GS so can't really comment on that.
great review as always - i thought the standard does have a few ride modes to play with - also i read yesterday the 2017 690 is half a kilo lighter than the 390 duke with about +30hp so the question is do i get a brand new 390 at around 6k euros or a 2 yr old 690 for the same dosh?? decisions ...you've reviewed both- what would be your choice?
690 all day
Good review thanks.
Cheers Nick...
Bought a ktm 690 duke on the 23rd and its such fun,sold my tracer as i was fed up with all the weight! one criticism you certainly cant level at the duke .. Its a pushbike with a motor as regarding how it feels to me .. my point is that your review got me looking at the 690 and damn im glad ive got the orange beast .. Dave
Hi Dave, did you also consider the 790? I'm asking because I have the 790 Adventure and looking to buy either a 790 duke or the 690 Duke but I can't make up my mind.
@@fabrycs hi there sorry ibut I just went for a light bike with good spec n looks at a good price,I will say the Duke isn't perfectly fuelled at slow speeds or maybe it's just my bike dunno ! It pulls like mad n awesome sound on the over run it's just a bike that makes me smile lietim 18 again not 55 .. dave
@@davesharratt Thanks Dave, I think I'll go for the 690 then :)
Having ridden the same bike just 2 days ago, I've realised just how different people's interpretations of a bike can be. The handling & instant direction changes made for great fun but the motor was slightly underwhelming - nowhere near as grunty as the MT07. The riding position was a little cramped & rear brake pedal almost inaccessible. I also found that the front brake needed a hefty squeeze to get any real power. As for the comfort - the seat felt like solid (hard) plastic and the rear suspension was firm, not compliant, although I didn't attempt to adjust it. The mirrors were two thirds filled with elbows & I kept accidentally knocking the headlight switch on to full beam. Definitely a hoot on roundabouts etc, but as a day to day ride, far too many niggles for it's price. Please take your own test rides people, someone else's review may contrast your own experiences to a surprising degree!
+ricklehurst Thanks for posting ricklehurst, these things are indeed all subjective...I do agree with you on the brake lever and hard seat (without rewatching the video I think I mentioned those), the other points you mentioned I didn't find an issue. Out of interest how tall/big are you?
I'm 5'11" & moderately lardy (16.5st), so I didn't really expect to find it roomy. I'd be interested to ride the 390 as I get the impression it would offer a similar experience for a lot less money.
Disappointed that it's the only duke without the awesome new headlight. I love the duke (serious contender for my next bike) but i can't help but feel it look's like a cheap knockoff without that new sexual headlight
The 790 Duke is coming out soon, so it looks like KTM want to kill off the 690
Ah that's good to know then. I remember watching 44teeth's video at the (what i assume) London MC show, showing off 2017's and near future hot new bikes and seeing the new duke. Guess i forgot all about it.
Though I think it'd be a shame to lose the big single. Might just be used in the new Huskys in future when that 790 twin is out..
I do agree that the new light would look great on the front...thanks for watching - TMF
It's a tail-end model, even the 390 Duke has a better dash and the LED headlight now.
Can you nab a 390 for a spin next? :)
It looks like I might finally see my SAS in 2 to 3 weeks (first to order, last to receive it seems).
Looks a good deal of fun.Good city bike to have,tx.
Yes it would be a brilliant City funster....
Once the novelty wore off I'd be bored out of my head. It's why so many naked bikes have so many owners on the V5's.
Latest news (according to Ride magazine), in the UK naked sales 4 times that of sports bikes.
I have a Bonneville 865 and was thinking of selling as i want something a bit more lightweight and manouverable for the tiny little backroads and twisties around my area, i was considering a Duke 690 until i read the dreadful reviews in regards to reliability, unfixable oil leaks, constant gearbox problems with the false neutrals, poor customer service from KTM, naaaah, As much as i love the looks and ideas behind the bike i just cant take the risk with one of these, not at the price they sell at. Now the Honda CRF 250 in your other reviews mmmm that might just be worth considering, also like the look of the new Rallye version, thanks for the great reviews, suprised you didn't get any false neutrals in this one though 😃
+Rhiannon studios Thanks for watching, good luck in your your search for the right bike...all the best - TMF
I know what you mean but it wont be a disapointment to me as i like small bikes, Rally is too expensive and the standard CRF has gone up in price as well so will probably be buying second hand, will take the reliable Honda slug over the KTM "when it's not off the road being fixed" hooligan tool anytime 😃 👍
Handsome bike.. Thanks
Agreed...
Hello Missenden Flyer, Massive fan here! Really enjoying your videos, i’ve been watching for quite some months now but this is my first time commenting. I’m particularly fond of your long term reviews and honestly think there the best i’ve seen!...I do however wish you could have done one for the 690. Currently i think thats definitely going to be the bike i’m getting and therefore wanted to ask how do you think it would be longterm?
Also seeing that you got to keep the duke 390 (which has had amazing reviews!) for a while how would you compare it with the 690? Is it just more of the same but with more power or are there significant differences apart from price that would make you look at one more than the other?
Looking forward to your response
Ian
Well I actually preferred the 390 due it's light weight and higher tech fit out - the new 790 is the one I'm looking forward too...stay tuned!
Yup, definitely looking forward to that review!!
Wow, now I really fancy one of those! Mind you 8k is a little salty for a big single.
+fazer john Yes when you consider its approaching Street Triple territory on price it does seem expensive I agree....
@@TheMissendenFlyer Well its taken the best part of a year, but after watching your review for the umpteenth time I have finally bought a new 690 Duke for £6999. Get it next week and can't wait! I have to say your reviews are starting to really cost me money.
Thanks! I enjoyed that. I like yourself have a 12 street triple r and have often thought about selling it for a ktm 690 r. I just really enjoy light weight motorcycles... what would you say if you had to swap your triple for the ktm 690?
Go for it. The 2016/17 Duke 690R is much lighter than the STR (almost 30kg), has more torque, more immediate accelerations (especially w/ one tooth less on the front sprocket), superb chassis and brakes, and offers great fuel mileage.
Well the 690 is a bundle of fun but personally I like the looks and sound of the Triumph more...so to answer your question James, I'd say "bother"....but that's not to denigrate the little KTM in anyway which is a brilliant thumper....
Hi TMF - I often turn to your reviews as they are not full of journo hyperbole unlike many others.....
I had a 690 for about a year & loved it - the simplicity, the fact it wasn't too powerful for UK roads, the looks (it wasn't the R but had an akra pipe & a few powerparts) - I only sold it because the engine started to make a strange hissing noise when warm & I panicked about something major going bang (I don't think it did as it found it's way back onto autotrader a couple of years later)! I'm now seriously thinking of getting another one - & I have never had the same bike twice. However on the basis that life is too short I ought to try something else. Although there are no dealers anywhere near me I'm thinking of a 790 as the pricing is all over the place....£7k for a 790 less than a year old or £6k for a 690R that's 5 years old! What would you do?
(p.s. i'm also thinking of going totally left field & buying an old TDR 250 but then i'll possibly never want to ride more than 20 miles from home......). Happy new year & keep the vids coming.
I'd go for the 790 personally but it has to be your choice! Happy new Year - TMF
Laguna motorcycles are now selling the duke 690 for £5999
Good review. Its a shame its so expensive, looks fun.. By all accounts isnt that about as much as a new MT09?
Yes you're probably right there...
Funny how so many riders blur out their speedo's when going over the speed limit. I get it, but did you know that they, (authorities), can calculate your speed by timing the lane markings? They are spaced evenly at a standard distance apart. Count how many over a given time & voila, they know your speed.
Of course they can.....but do they have the time/can they be bothered/do they have better things to do?
No, they don't really. I have seen much worse from vloggers, more so from the US that do far, *FAR* more crazy stunts on the road. Thanks for the quality vids and risking it for your viewers. Your reviews are some of the best, most informed. Cheers.
I am considering this as a second bike for B road blasts during winter months. Did u get to ride in the wet?
Where can I buy those pants/trousers you're wearing?
Thanks for the great review. How do you think it compares to the triumph speed twin? Odd comparison I know but they're similar prices and both in my next bike shortlist.
Speed Triple you mean....as you say, completely different bike. New Speed Triple has great grunt but is a lot heavier in feel but also has a lot more electrickery....both worth a ride, will be interesting to hear how you rate them both....enjoy! (both great bikes by the way, either would make you very happy!)...
TheMissendenFlyer apologies I meant the bonnie street twin 900. They're the same price, pretty much, list that is. Thought you'd be a good one to ask given you've tried lots of the new triumph bonnevilles
there is a used duke 690R are my shop for $7k and that is canadian. its a 2014 model and only has 6k klicks
I think I'd take the whole KTM stable, from the 125 up. I haven't seen one I don't like or that's had a bad review. As Jay B said though, a bit on the pricey side. Are these all made in China?
Was that Hemel's famous "Magic Roundabout"?
It was indeed...
Would you prefer this to a Triumph Street Triple R? Is there any scenario in which this bike is the better choice? The really light weight and torque are pretty intriguing.
No - I’d have the Street Triple any day...
@@TheMissendenFlyer Thanks for your honesty, from San Francisco. I'm in the final stages of buying a new bike after being away from it for 30 years...things have changed.
I do wish that you was a bit more critical in your reviews.Why do you never mention the cost of maintaning the bike? How much can the owner do.Valve clearances? Miles between services ?.Not all uf us can get ones bike serviced at the dealer.Thank you.
Thanks for the feedback Lars - there's only so much time and effort I can put into these and I'm not sure where I would get that data when in most cases I only get to ride the bike for a short time. I do attempt to give more information in my "living with" reviews which I do when I have longer term loan bikes from Triumph and KTM. Don't forget I am just a biker the same as you, I'm not a "pro" and I do this for fun. Thanks for watching anyway - TMF
could you have a go on the 125 version of this? seems to be the best equipped learner bike out there
Would love to! Will see what I can do for you....stay tuned!
nice one, cheers!
I was set on buying the 2017 so I went ahead and bought some parts & accessories for it. The day I went to finish my payments (layaway) I find out KTM sends out a recall on all 2017 models. Gas leaking from the tank cap. F*ck me running I have bad luck!!!
+ShowGun 78 A bit of a pain but let’s face it, things could be worse!!
TheMissendenFlyer, yeah like burning in a fiery bike wreck from the tank cap leaking!
Cheers MF, great vid as always. I recently tried a 1 minute, walk-round vid with my iPhone 6 and it's nowhere near the same quality as yours.. Is there something in settings I'm missing or do you tidy it up during editing? Any help muchly appreciated.
+Jamie Cox No I don't do anything special, I use an IPhone 6s Plus, I think the image stabilisation is brilliant, do you have that on the standard 6? Might be that the camera spec is slightly better on the later phone??
Would you take a KTM 690 Duke or a Husqvarna 701?
Husky for me I think...
@@TheMissendenFlyer fair. that's how I'm leaning. On what basis for you?
Looking at replacing my old blade with something fun but not prison speed! I love the look of the MT-07 but this is really tempting me. How do you think they compare? Could this cruise up the motorway at 80 for a couple of hours?
It could but it wouldn't be as refined as the MT-07 - a bit thumpy...the Duke 790 is a better proposition if you can stretch to one of those?
@@TheMissendenFlyer bit pricey! but was coming to the same conclusion
@@richmcnab8925 i have the MT 07 it's very smooth and sure it can do motorway for a few hours but your arse will know about it lol
SCREN DISPLAY IS VERY FLAT POSICION ...
could you also do a review of the new 390 if that's possible?
Yep - stay tuned!
alright haha, subbed :D
wheelies ----- riding with Tom.
Yeah, he's the man...if I tried I'd just trash my bike....
Any ideas on comparing with new sv 650 as done the ktm and yahama 07 but here sv 650 is the best of the lot be interest on your thoughts
+Chris Olive I'll see what I can do Chris....
What is tcs
Hey TMF You've had such a different experience to me on this bike. I tested this recently as a possible first bike after passing my test and was left so disappointed it actually made me wonder if motorcycling was for me. The TFT screen and the brakes are the only positives I could take away, I found the quality really poor and the mirrors were terrible, the indicator switch is so long you have to reach too far back to switch it. I hated the engine so much! I constantly felt I had to be in a gear lower than I wanted to and even at 20mph in second if I wanted it to accelerate without it sounding like it was doing a big smelly fart out the back I had to change down, which brings me to the gearbox which was a clunky mess of a thing unless you were bang on with the revs. The ride was utter crap it didn't feel planted through the corners even on shallow bends as for junctions I found it always wanting to lean forward in the turn which moved me on the seat. All in all I learnt to ride on a 15-20 year old Yamaha xjs 600 and that was better than this KTM. Fortunately I went on some other bikes and have put my money down on a spiffy new bike for next march.
Wonder if it's because you're used to a four cylinder bike, and this single therefore seems super-lumpy to you?? What did you go for in the end??
can you flat foot the bike?
I do t recall - sorry!
How does the seat height compare to your 899 as i have a 959 and almost tiptoe as im only 5ft 6 lol
This is higher!
TMF - how tall are you? I'm Interested in a 690 or 790, however the seat height on the former is concerning. I'm 170cm tall and owned a 08 Street Triple (it's seat height suited me).
Hia i am interested to get either 390 or 690 witch bike you found more fun to ride
390 oddly enough!
@@TheMissendenFlyer even power wise ??
This or Ducati scrambler? I don't want to kill myself and I want to chopped it up as a retro Cafe racer 👍
Easy KTM for me no contest....
scrambler is amazing too, ive driven both
its not the bigest 1 cylinder engine, the suzuki dr 800 is bigger i mean :)
+Zoli Kocsi OK you got me there! Cheers - TMG
Why do you blur out the speedometer?
Well I'm not sure that would happen but why take the risk!...