2017 KTM 690 Enduro R Review

Big thanks to Ride On Moto of Winchester, VA for allowing me to review the 2017 KTM 690 Enduro R. If there's anything else you'd like to know be sure to ask me in the comments section. To see the bike in person please visit Ride on Moto.
Ride on Moto
540-722-7100
4110 Valley Pike
Winchester, VA 22602
www.rideonmoto.com
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Mario Orsini
PO Box 64
Bunker Hill, WV 25413

[@2WR]

Pick up a copy of my book Motorcyclist’s Guide To Travel and other great stuff in my Amazon store! www.amazon.com/shop/2wheeledriderWant a signed copy of my book? 2wheeledrider.com/motorcyclists-guide-to-travel/2 Wheeled Rider T-shirts and Swag teespring.com/stores/2-wheeled-rider

[@toddv9210]

Do you think you'll be able to get your hands on a 790 Adventure R for review? Really have my eye on one but no one around has any. Love your reviews, very comprehensive and on point by the way!

[@Stu650Zuk]

I bought one of these new in 2014 and it has been hands down my favorite enduro bike with a plate I have ever owned. I am 50yrs. old now and have been on two wheels for over 4 decades. I have owned many bikes over the years, but always come back to a bike that I can trail ride with and explore the country roads. The best thing about the 690r is while expensive, it comes with all the right stuff. I only had to do the normal suspension tuning for my weight and I have left this one oem stock. I've spent more on upgrades on previous dual sport/enduro bikes to get them close to this level,,but they still weren't. Still enjoying my KTM and plan to continue to do so...I've got over 25K miles on mine with nothing but valve checks and normal maintenance, and a lot of new rear tires....

[@toddbenfield6546]

What mileage are you doing the checks, and has it came out of spec?

[@timmy24540]

From an old guy. Going today and get my 2018. I have a Triumph Tiger, just don't want to take it too far off road. Been in a couple of tight spots and it was not much fun to get out. Had plenty of dirt bikes and I surely miss them. Great review, thank you.

[@carlanavlyt5696]

Bought mine in 2017 new and I absolutely love this bike! I live in wine country and she loves the hills just pure fun!!!

[@sarahdell4042]

One of the most in depth reviews! Solid

[@rossh985]

Best review I've seen for this bike !

[@2WR]

Thanks Ross! Really appreciate it.

[@ryanmascaro8234]

valves every 6k miles.... what about oil changes? And, does it wheelie with the slipper clutch? thanks!

[@2WR]

Ross H same as valve check, 6,200 miles and yes it wheelies very easily

[@ryanmascaro8234]

thanks. ive been wanting this as a second bike for a while

[@billcharlton1429]

Just bought a 2017 690 Enduro. Dealer is pretty honest man and he said that he just got of the phone with KTM about 2 weeks ago and they confirmed that the engine in the 2018 690 Enduro is NOT changing. It will be the same engine. You should be able to get a really good price on a 2017 right now. KTM has a rebate going on. I got a really good price on mine.

[@2WR]

Bill, I'm going to pin your comment so people will see it. Thanks for sharing!

[@robertleib7201]

Just ordered one for $8700.

[@jpuckett5580]

Sure wish the fuel tank was as big as the KLRs. I'd love a KTM, but even these videos can't talk me into jumping into one with half the fuel tank and no fairing. I can add a fairing, but then all the sexiness is gone.

[@billcharlton1429]

Safari tank. Check it out at Rocky mountain atvmc on line

[@marki61422]

@@jpuckett5580 Fucking idiot,, check out Safari tank,, doh.

[@Dormantee]

Ride on Moto is where I bought my '15 690 Enduro!

[@patrickhache9640]

Dude. i bought a 2016 ktm 690 enduro r. been looking review alot and yourse HANDS down is the best. You truly know and riden dirtbikes with experiences. so exited i have to go pick my bike when snow will melt a bit more. cant wait

[@2WR]

1st, congrats on the new bike! Second, sucks you have to wait but hopefully that snow will be gone soon. 3rd, thanks for the comments, really appreciate it. You'll have to let me know how you like your new bike.

[@andriesvanrensburg7056]

I want one!!!! Damn these bikes are awesome!

[@julienmonney3372]

The switch under the seat does not change the fuel mapping but the responsiveness of the “ride by wire” throttle. In the sportiest setting it gives you an either “On” or “Off” throttle. Very enjoyable! Not more power but all power available at a touch of the throttle.

[@2WR]

While throttle responsiveness is part of what it changes, it does indeed change the mapping according to KTM. One of the setting is specifically provided for "bad fuel."

[@Tony__Tone]

This is a really nice no-nonsense review of this motorcycle. Better than some reviews you'll find on much bigger channels. Some of the much bigger channels would do well to have a review or like you to do their videos.

[@2WR]

Appreciate the feedback!

[@dansalmon2698]

hey dude, like many have already stated- amazing review! as an owner of a 2016 which I put 11,00kms already with zero issues besides rear brake pads and tires, I love the bike I ride it every day in insane weather, it never loses traction and the motor keeps on delivering. perfect for long distance

[@dansalmon2698]

I love the seat too btw lol

[@toddbenfield6546]

No clutch issues? My slave went out, and had to replace the clutch! Don’t know if the slave had something to do with it, or not

[@ruslansk44]

Nice rev! As per rear light, it's a US version of it. EU has a led triangle taillight.

[@Macbrowndog]

excellent review I used to own a 690 SuperMoto R ... I am going to purchase one of these to compliment my GS1200

[@2WR]

Nice!

[@46dude41]

i have one and i have to say the review is quite realistic and accurate. I can´t agree the seat is very confortable, not for me, maybe it´s but only for 60-90 miles. The bike is really fun, honest and lovely. I dont regret changing my sport bike for this. Its almost perfect for real adventure too.

[@daveyjones9604]

I've watched so many reviews, not just on this bike, and you have the perfect middle ground between facts and feel of the bike. Good job and keep them coming.

[@2WR]

Thanks Davey. I appreciate the feedback. Just finished filming a multiple-day review of the new Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled which should be up in a week or so.

[@DR-wj6pc]

I have a 2014 model and love it, things to watch for are the clutch tab washer breaking and the rocker arms rollers failing and it is worth updating with the updated rocker arms. This bike is awesome off road and on. Great review, well edited and a pleasure to watch, thank you. 😊

[@2WR]

Thanks, my friend and thanks for the additional info.

[@toddbenfield6546]

What about the 2018?

[@WADZUP]

I considered long and hard but decided on the 2017 FE501 and modified it a ton! The FMF 4.1 believe it or not added serious punch and wheelie in forth gear with ease. All the torque I need and has Enduristan luggage for adventure trips.

[@Kaegis]

I so want a Scrambler but this thing just sings to me like a mermaid in the deep

[@chadc301]

I come from a motocross back ground. As I get older I am more interested in bikes like this. I was curious about sag adjustment on the rear shock. I know I can love or hate my own bikes by not having my sag set properly. I was just curious if you played with that at all. Great review man! Thanks for taking the time to make this. Very very helpful!!

[@olderwiser2080]

I own a '16. Added a 1" drop link since I have a 30" inseam. Steering damper, SC seat, metal skid plate. I'm enjoying it a lot, especially on backroads. :)

[@2WR]

Backroads is where bikes like this really shine.

[@cwcadventures9987]

Just finding your channel. I live in inwood wv. I currently ride a crf300L it’s my first bike. Tough trying to find places to ride around here. Awesome content though!

[@Ryan-rn8gk]

Great review! The reason for the 100 MPH sticker is the Q speed rating on the tires. They put the same sticker on the 1190 ADV R models with off road tires.

[@2WR]

Thanks Ryan. I assumed that was probably the case tho I doubt many people are going to spend my time in the triple digits on this bike anyway.

[@alanporte8656]

Thanks for taking the time to do such an in depth review. This is just what I was looking for. One new subscriber!

[@2WR]

No problem. Appreciate the support!

[@grege1441]

This is a very thorough review. Lots of detail. Thanks for putting it out there.

[@2WR]

Thanks Greg and you're very welcome.

[@motoemnk3839]

Got one of those too, love it, but gotta try that performance mode thingy under the seat

[@moritzhummel9747]

Nice review. There is no difference between 2016 and 2017 KTM 690 Enduro R while the 2017 Husqvarna 701 has the newer LC4 engine coming from the 2016 KTM Duke V with an additional balance shaft and a bit more power and torque at the price of a remarkable higher niveau of rpm, why many say that the "old" LC4 is the better choice for an enduro. Looking for a better looking tail light? Have a look at the European version ;-)

[@2WR]

I'll have to pull up the European model to check out this taillight everyone keeps telling me about. Thanks for the info

[@vinnieboy66]

Why would the "Old" or previous version of the LC4 engine be better when the new one has less vibration, more HP and higher RPM?

[@moritzhummel9747]

Because it has notably higher (!) torch at lower rpm? Because "higher rpm" is not requested on a dirt bike?

[@vinnieboy66]

Obama. Apparently the Husqvarna 701 which is very similar to the KTM 690 has the "new" LC4 engine. I am wondering if KTM will put the new motor in their 2018 690 or possibly stop making the 690 as I have heard internet rumors they may. Seems unlikely but I am wondering why they did not upgrade the 690 like the 701. If you know more do tell.

[@LyubomirLalovMulti]

Cheers for the video content! Excuse me for the intrusion, I am interested in your opinion. Have you considered - Bondalyn Enhanced Chopper (should be on google have a look)? It is a good one of a kind product for increasing the size of your penis without the headache. Ive heard some great things about it and my old buddy Taylor got amazing results with it.

[@dh-flies]

Great vid as usual...I love my 1290SA, and my 500 XC-W...I'd love a whole garage filled with KTM's this bike included!

[@2WR]

Thanks man. You and me both!

[@Mainrollman]

Great review!!! I have major major lust for the 690R. Maybe one day I can get me one.

[@2WR]

+Mainrollman thx man. They are great bikes

[@roman_moto_plus]

*Very nice review! Also bought this bike and will try to make video like this!* Thanks!

[@2WR]

Congrats on the bike!

[@roman_moto_plus]

Thank you!

[@Gonasta]

@@roman_moto_plus Do you still have the bike? How do you like it and how is the reliability?

[@orange70383]

Good review, even on my lc4 640 I found the seat height to be way too high, and I missed a gas gauge but the bike was rock solid.

[@WeNeedASaga]

Wow! I also review motorcycles and I appreciate how much effort would have gone into this review. Amazing work mate - thanks for sharing.

[@2WR]

Thanks!

[@wireedm1]

At around 8:25, the reason the sticker says to not exceed 100mph is because that's all the tires are rated for. Same thing on my 1290 Super Adventure R.

[@DarthBrianSoo]

Had this bike for a year and coming close to 40k kilometers ridden with it... Mine is a 2015 model and yes the vibration is a little overwhelming. By the way, the dial under the seat is ONLY a throttle response mapping... meaning responsiveness of how the throttle reacts! Best DO IT ALL bike...

[@2WR]

Damn dude! That's a lot of riding!

[@DarthBrianSoo]

Hahahahaha... i travel average 100km a day, it is my only means of transport.

[@hommebizzare]

Excellent in depth review. Usually KZbin reviews just catch my interest, and I go looking on the web for my info - not this time

[@2WR]

Thanks Martin. I poured a ton of time and effort into this video. I'm glad you found it informative.

[@hommebizzare]

I hope the rest of your videos are just half as good :) I subscribed, so I'm going to find out :)

[@2WR]

haha! Hope they don't disappoint.

[@Alquilaplat]

Este modo de 2017 es toda una pasada, respecto a polivalencia total ya que lo mismo haces enduro puro y duro que ruedas por todo tipo de carreteras sin problema aunque su punto ideal son las carreteras de montaña donde sacas todo su potencial, con 12l haces unos 200km aprox. si le das caña 180km, es muy recomendable cambiar el asiento por uno blando y más bajo si vas a hacer rutas largas, yo he montado el de touratech y aún siendo muy caro 428€ meréce la pena totalmente gastarse el dinero ya que va ser nuestro punto de apoyo mientras tengamos esta maquina. Las ruedas de origen que lleva la moto son unas SAHARA 3 que son muy buenas en carretera y bien en caminos duros aunque peligrosos con arena o barro ya que pierdes el tacto y caes de lado. No puedo decir nada malo, es ligera y rápida, ideal para hacer todo tipo de condución, eso sí es muy alta la moto.

[@2WR]

Me alegra que te guste la moto

[@Alquilaplat]

soy propietario de una 2017 Ready to Race!!

[@basewarrior]

Great Video, I have just picked up a KTM 690 SMCR. Its amazing!!

[@2WR]

Major Chaos congrats

[@MALBACHinc]

finally, a review with pillion. Great job man!

[@MALBACHinc]

subbed

[@2WR]

much appreciated!

[@MALBACHinc]

​@@2WR I finally owned the bike, been almost a year and a half now. mine got clicking sound, unlike yours sounded clean. If you care to watch my videos for a sec at 00:33 kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZpuYYpxnmc6se9U and tell me what you think. The bike running well, reach the speed limiter easily any time at 183kmh. Light ,nimble and torqish and going to install touratech side box very soon. Riding as pillion for hours (bpth weight around 180lbs) , quite comfy, not as bad as expected. Burns oil quite a lot, 150ml refill at every 1000km, still bearable but if you can enlighten me some technical care for the bike. I love the bike though, thanks to your video.

[@GrantLackey]

One thing I would have liked to see is the bikes weight, and what it compares to other dual sports. such as a DRZ400S.

[@footworkorange2097]

the speed limit sticker is for these tires btw :)

[@SineOccasu]

Wow very nice in-depth review there!

[@2WR]

thx

[@zbeowulfz]

Great review! I'll be sure to keep an eye on your next ones

[@2WR]

Thanks, my friend! The next one posts tomorrow.

[@rckr951]

Nice review Mario, I hadn't seen this before. Thinking of getting rid of my 1190R for one of these or the 701.

[@2WR]

Thanks Rick, the thumper has a little more vibration, definitely ride one first. Great bike; just different.

[@shawns7175]

You talked about adjusting the steering Damper adjustment when trying to make the front end feel little better. What exactly are you adjusting since it doesn't come with an after market steering Damper????

[@SR71BBFLYER]

At least you can get the balls of your feet down. I remember test riding a KTM Supermoto many years ago and at only 5’6” I had to perform a pole vault just to get ON the thing! 😄😄 It WAS very fun to ride even tho it rained!

[@hallerbakk]

I'm also 5'6". Wish I was a little bit taller, wish I was a baller...

[@timmysingh8062]

Does it have traction control? Like can i wheelie it?? I hope its only abs

[@grishfish]

Since there's no frame component to protect the engine case, I don't see this as an enduro bike. The skid plate (whether plastic or metal) is attached directly to the engine so any shock loads the skid plate might take are transmitted right into the engine case. I sold my 690 and eventually got a exc 500 (a no BS real enduro bike).

[@2WR]

500 is also quite a bit lighter. Recently trail road with a guy on a 525, that thing had gobs of torque.

[@grishfish]

Yes, it's 75lbs lighter. Don't get me wrong, I loved my 690, it just wasn't the right bike for me.

[@2WR]

Glad it all worked out!

[@thumpertalk]

Actually, the skid plate does not bolt directly to the engine. In the rear, it attaches to the frame and in the front, it bolts to beefy brackets that are bolted to the frame. However, said brackets do also serve as the front engine mounts. But, again, the skid plate does NOT bolt directly to the engine. thumpertalk.com/uploads/monthly_2017_10/59d515750667f_20171003_1207051.jpg.d9ee30761413cf46221204c9bb7817f9.jpg

[@jamesfairmind2247]

Had to laugh when you said not really designed to ride 2 up very far. I am 6ft 2' and 180 lbs and my girlfriend and I rode from New York to Miami on my 690 ER in 2014 in complete comfort with full luggage too. Admittedly she was sitting on a folded air-mattress but it all worked out fine!

[@2WR]

😂😂

[@marki61422]

@@2WR your girlfriend must be fat

[@kubotamaniac]

I own a KTM 690, and I LOVE my bike!!!!!! I agree with your review 100%!!!!!

[@2WR]

Glad you're enjoying it.

[@pushyslayer4561]

my 690 dont have a "no over 100 mph" sticker.. i broke that rule 15 mins in to my first ride and every one since.. did have bar slapper few times when first got the bike but i dont anymore.. think it was just me whisky throttling as you do on SM's

[@fredericpoisson1825]

Thanks for the review and the scenery. Greetings from France.

[@2WR]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@SwabianBiker]

thank you for the great Video, seems to be much fun on it! keep on riding and sharing.

[@2WR]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!

[@HeddleTown]

*Great review dude just picked up a 2016 with 800k on it looking forward to trying it out!* 🇨🇦😀

[@2WR]

Thanks man! Congrats on the bike!

[@p0weraid]

I use to own a drz400e and was wondering how this would compare off-road? I understand this is a little lighter just overall looks bigger I'm sure it's better on road tho!

[@2WR]

Having ridden both, there's no comparison. The 690 is far better off road and on but...it comes with a much higher price tag.

[@Beertjebas81]

Hi there. Nice review. I have a question about the instruments cluster. Left side of the speedometer it shows stripes with a Min/Max indication. What's that for, if not for feul range?

[@2WR]

Spirit meant to mention that. It's the coolant temp gauge.

[@rrmahalle]

Great Review Buddy...!

[@mbergeron4965]

Great bike, but no fuel gauge. That is just asinine for a bike well over 10K.

[@thumpertalk]

Agreed! But, at least it has a low fuel light.

[@jkabee]

Yeah... stupid oversight/miss on KTM. That was my largest complaint on my DRZ as well. How much extra would it have been to have a fuel gauge? Really!!!

[@sleddingfarmer8692]

Is a fuel gauge really even necessary? On our snowmobiles and some motorcycles we either don't have fuel gauges or they are horrible inaccurate/failing. After owning and using for a while you figure out fuel range and we use the trip exclusively. Even my Harley has a gauge but we pretty much just use the trip. I'd rather not have a gauge... Less weight! ;)

[@GdaySport]

JayBird the tank is plastic moulded low down in the rear of the frame. You couldn't get a gauge to work in it. Just use trip switch like in the old days. More reliable than a gauge anytime...

[@Legaceybeats]

No fuel gauge? That’s so bad.

[@dandersonjr]

HaHa valve check at 6200 RPM. Go for a ride check the valves, go for a ride check the valves. But seriously again a great review. Oddly enough I was torn between this bike and the 1290 super adventure r. Deciding factor was riding with a passenger although my wife hasn't ridden on the back of the SAR yet because of weather so I guess we'll see.

[@88Heckenlively]

I could be wrong but I think your cables don't belong in that position. If you loft the front wheel or wheelie etc. those cables will get hung up and cause an accident or brake at the banjo bolt.

[@2WR]

Are you talking about the brake line going to the front caliper?

[@88Heckenlively]

It looks like the front break line and sensor cable are routed wrong. Anyway, sweet bike. Thanks for the review. I had a husky 701 SM that was stolen April 1st. I was devastated. So, as soon as the insurance company pays me off I'm on the fence on whether I want another SM or Enduro.

[@emfl4437]

Since you had a drz400 and just rode the KTM 690, which would you prefer for your own money? I am trying to decide myself between the 2. Curently own an 1190R, but she is a beast off-road. So looking to add an dual-sport to the garage

[@2WR]

I'd buy a gently used 690 (or leftover) over a DRZ. The DRZ was a fun bike but the added power and better suspension of the 690 makes it light years ahead of the Suzuki.

[@emfl4437]

@@2WR Thank You! This is what I was leaning towards, appreciate your insight

[@MrOakhall]

Great review! Nice touch putting a passenger on the back....Now hurry up and do a 2017 Husky 701 Enduro review so I can choose....

[@2WR]

HAHA...if only I had access to a 701

[@rlo5547]

I've seen where the Suzuki's , if memory serves, suspension can be lowered about 1.5" for shorter stature riders... I am 5'10"... ish... (spine issues, shrunk a little of the years) with a 30" inseam. I am very interested KTM 690 Enduro, is there a way to reduce suspension height to make it a little more ride-able for us non 6' types? I don't on doing any severe off-road, just trails and hunting/scouting trips, mild manor adventure riding so the 11" ground clearance might be a tad bit more then I need.

[@2WR]

The seat/ride height can easily be lowered. Ride On Moto has lowered a few for customers.

[@sandbiker]

Really well done video. Thanks for all the information.

[@2WR]

Thanks and no problem. Glad you found it informative.

[@snkneo-geo933]

You should buy a FMF complete exhaust system for it to give it some life and noise!

[@robinmossing1062]

Had a nice 2015 Ducati Hypermotard 800 SP....loved it, yet, I think this 690 R will do a great replacement

[@2WR]

Two different beasts but both a ton of fun.

[@TexRider]

looks like a fun machine . Well done on the review

[@2WR]

Was a lot of fun for sure. Thanks Tex Rider!

[@Not_Sure-2020]

Video was ok but I'm not sure I'd call what he did around @16:00 "dirt riding" When I was a kid I'd ride an old 10 speed street bicycle on rougher terrain than that. My '07 DR650 (which hasn't changed in 20-30 years) is about 25 lbs heavier and even with mods, probably 20 less hp and I can take that through really tough stuff so I'm guessing this one would easily be better.

[@Hammond-bi6vh]

A really nice and detailed review!

[@2WR]

+Hammond 1911 thx!

[@ogyedanjuma7413]

Hi Mario! I have a 2018 KTM SAS with just over 8k miles on the dash. I’ve noticed that it looses power at just over 5-6k rpm. It jerks and won’t accelerate any further. Basically, it struggles to gain speed at high RPMs At times, it jerks a lot when cold and won’t gain speed. Any ideas on what the problem may be? ….and any possible solutions too. Thanks in anticipation 🙏🏽

[@2WR]

I'd start by changing your fuel filters. A clogged fuel filter can cause that.

[@filipporaggi7893]

Thanks for the informative review! I have another KTM related question. I have a KTM 990 Adventure (2011 model) and would like to change the front and rear suspensions to suit my height. Can in replace the regular front forks with the KTM 990 Adventure R and do the same with the rear suspension? This would make my seat height and bike height much more suitable for my 6' 4" frame. Is this physically possible?

[@2WR]

It is possible...sorta. You don't need to do a complete swap as some components can be reused. Check out SuperPlushSuspension.com. They have that exact service available. They also have a parts list on their site of what it will require to accomplish it.

[@FredericPhotography]

Really nice detailed review. Thanks!

[@2WR]

Thank you.

[@fredtello]

I just bought the 2016 ktm 1290 super duke r...if it had a little more ground clearance and some knobbies it would be a crazy adventure bike.. can stand straight up while riding it

[@2WR]

Yeah, I'm sure that would make it a "Super Adventure" bike... :)

[@chriscozine]

Great all around review.

[@pgirard26]

Great review 2WR. I was curious if you could compare the vibes to the DRZ you used to own. I've heard 690's can be bad at 65-75mph. Is it better/worse than your old DRZ? Thanks.

[@2WR]

+pgirard26 the 690 definitely has some vibration at that speed but in comparison the DRZ felt like it was going to vibrate apart.

[@pgirard26]

Cool. Thanks for the quick get back.

[@fnq-8890]

Thats very good mail, I think the V twins are the way to go with Kato's they're reliable with tree stump pulling power, I've seen the Kiwi KTM hire Vids and that trip looks amazing, some of those roads & trails are just brilliant and the Kiwis know how to put on a show , I'd love do it myself but I can't stand the cold which is why living & riding in Cairns & Port Douglas North Queensland is probably the best place in Oz for bikes because its warm year round with high mountain ranges for motarding & sportbikes and cane fields, Rain Forrest trails & creek crossings for trail riding & enduro plus Daintree & Cape Tribulation is not that far for cruising on Harley's, it's more like Asia than Australia up here and once you go full tropical you never go back.

[@2WR]

I'm jealous just hearing about the places you have to ride.

[@jeffreyrstapler]

I am thinking about buying the KTM 690R. I can set flat footed on it. I am 55 but rode dirt bikes all my life when I was younger but not the last 20 years. My last bike was a XR 600R. I test rode the 690 a few days ago but did not get a chance to ride any single track trail. I am worried it is a little heavy or has a tip over feeling. I set on the KTM 500 EXC dual sport and it felt like it had a lot better suspension and holding it over, it felt a lot lighter. I like the 690 on the road and the way it is geared but probably drop one tooth on the front. I will ride some back roads, fire roads, and some single track. It's the single track that I'm worried about. Do you think the 690 or 500 is going to be better suited for me? Is 2017 the last year they will make the 690? Would the replacement be better and what would it be? I live in north Alabama. What are my best options?

[@2WR]

Way to put me on the spot! Let me start by saying I'm going to be filming a series with Ride On Moto all about the new 500 because they're going to be doing a build on the new 18 model. I haven't ridden the 500 EXC yet (soon) but the guys that did on Sunday RAVED about it. Luke (an A rider and ISDE gold medalist) took the 500 (which is about 50 lbs lighter than the 690) on some single track and liked it so much he's considering racing it in an enduro or HS. Said the power was very easy to track and for a despite being a 500cc bike was super nimble. I passed the owner of Ride On Moto on the 500 on the trails and he yelled "this thing is a hoot to ride." Most everyone else that road it had similar things to say about it. So...either would be better than the XR600R but which one is better suited for you? My opinion would be IF you are planning to more off-road than on, get the 500. If you think you'll do more on-road than off, get the 690. As of now 2017 is the "final year of the 690" though it may come back out slightly changed for 2019...we'll see. I hope that helps some.

[@faithbiker8262]

Fantastic review! Best to you!

[@2WR]

Thanks Faith Biker!

[@iancurtis5397]

Hey, thinking about getting one. How does it handle at high speeds? What's realistic top speed can you expect from a bike like this? Thanks

[@2WR]

The stock tires are only rated to 93mph or 150kmph. I don't know the actual top speed but it will go over 100mph. It'd handle highway speeds all day but that's not where it's most at home. With limited wind protection and it being a thumper, it'll start to wear on you during long interstate hauls. High speed handling is decent but still somewhat limited due to the knobbies. You'll get a bit of a "squishy" feeling at more extreme lean angles. All of the would be fixed by a more street-oriented tire. Hope that helps!

[@antonioflores425]

Hi, nice video, could you tellme how much does it weight?

[@2WR]

309lb (140kg) dry weight

[@ChrisB-rw6jy]

Thanks I had been decided on the ktm until I saw ridingwithtoms experience so I looked it up but its mixed reviews

[@j.devereaux]

What's with the cables blocking view of the speedo??

[@ChrisB-rw6jy]

Is the engine upgrade to make it more reliable? I want one but I saw a bunch of guys with blown motors. My next option is the wr250r. So if this is reliable then I would prefer the KTM thanx

[@2WR]

Let me touch base with the mechanic at my shop to see if they've seen any issues with the 690r. They've sold 6 or 7 2017 models already.

[@2WR]

So in speaking with my local shop who have sold quite a few 690, they've only seen one blown motor (pre 17). In that instance it was caused by rider error (I don't have specifics).

[@Durangedkitten]

WR250r also has like half the general maintenance like Oil and Valve checks i do believe. And cheaper parts.

[@johnnste1]

I sold my WR250R to get a 2014 690 Enduro R and never looked back. The KTM is not even comparable to the WR, it is so far superior. There are KZbin videos of guys riding KTM 690's around the world, they are reliable.

[@Durangedkitten]

I mean its just a larger more powerful bike. But i have heard some youtubers talk about how the KTM's are know to break down a decent amount or something. Anyway i do know the WR is bullet proof but yeah its not going to be as fast.

[@mattbenson2497]

Cool bike wish I could buy one!

[@onewheelisbetterthan2]

I own a 2018....best bike that ive ever owned

[@Zach_Routhier]

Nice detailed review man! Since you have the 1290, if you could only pick one of these bikes to have, which would you take?

[@2WR]

With all the 2-up riding we do, the 1290 is the one that works best for me.

[@Zach_Routhier]

if you didn't have a wife would you prefer the 690?

[@2WR]

No. While it's an apples to oranges comparison, I would not buy the 690 over the 1290SA.I like doing long distance touring mostly on pavement so that's why I went with the 1290. I wouldn't mind owning a 690 but for the type of riding I do there's no way it could ever be my only or primary bike. With valve check/adjustment intervals at 6,200 miles, I wouldn't have been able to complete my last trip (7,300 miles) without popping the valve cover. So for me, I like having the 1290SA as my street/touring bike and the KTM 250 XC-F as my off-road bike. The decision really comes down to how are YOU going to ride the bike?

[@Zach_Routhier]

No doubt, Thanks for the help.

[@rolauk]

Very nice review. Love those bikes, had a Duke 2 earlier. Subscribed. :)

[@2WR]

Thanks! Looks for some more KTM ride/reviews soon.

[@elrincondelgamer8671]

congrats fot the video very complete review. does it have disconectable ABS?

[@2WR]

Torques & Motores only with the additional dongle

[@cmmoto]

Great review that bike is a beast

[@2WR]

Thanks man. It was a lot of fun

[@701Ranger]

subbed, Great reviews. Can I make a request for reviews on the husqvarna 701, Honda Africa twin and the Ducati scrambler?

[@2WR]

You may request all of those but the only one I can promise at the moment is the Scrambler, more specifically the Desert Sled. I just finished shooting the video this morning and hope to have it edited and posted within the next week or two.

[@701Ranger]

2 Wheeled Rider awesome i love you

[@2WR]

Love you too, Babs

[@thomaskall1421]

Why don’t you let the camera work while you are doing the work? Instead of cutting the video?

[@motorscythe786]

Great review! I would love to see your thoughts on the 2017 701.

[@2WR]

Unfortunately, I don't have any Husky dealers nearby.

[@JIMHusky]

Wow nice review, I got the 701almost the same thing

[@ThrillaPark]

Nice review. Can you switch off the abs?

[@2WR]

It can be turned off on the rear wheel.

[@simonchant761]

Same question i had. Picking mine up Friday

[@bryant3470]

Awesome video man

[@thepassionofthegoose5472]

I've been a subscriber for a while, but never watched this video. The opening line was pure comedy.

[@2WR]

LOL, yeah that was back before I started riding dirt bikes more often.

[@thepassionofthegoose5472]

@@2WR Yeah, they can be a handful. As an aside, your excellent 1290 information helped make the decision to buy my 1290 SAR easier. Two months and 14,000-miles later I regret nothing. Cheers.

[@2WR]

Glad to hear you're enjoying it!

[@Kaegis]

How would it compare to a Husaberg FE570? Husaberg around 30kg lighter and still a lot of torque.

[@2WR]

I don't think they are very comparable. A more direct comparison would be between the Husaberg and the KTM 500 EXC-F IMO.

[@lancelance9224]

Great review 👍👍

[@2WR]

Thanks buddy.

[@patrickprice6215]

Very nice bike...saving begins now.

[@EchocraftsGaming]

Love Ride On Moto! See you on roads I'm always taking. 😂

[@2WR]

Sweet man!