8 Reasons Why the KTM 690 Enduro R is the Greatest Dualsport of All Time

I misspoke when talking about the clutch. I meant to say "Hydraulic" not "Pneumatic". You can stop commenting about it now.

[@jonathanpickup4657]

Rode my 690 all the way from Anchorage Alaska to Ushuaia Argentina with not one problem or issue. Rally Raid tank adaptor on the front and a stronger rear spring we’re the major alterations for the journey. Handled long tarmac roads and off road equally well. Easy to service on the road. One of the best bikes I’ve ever owned 👍

[@americandude3825]

That’s an AMAZING bucket list item I’m gonna have to research. But I’m in Virginia. So I’ll drive to Alaska from Virginia.

[@streetrat123]

It rides underwater?

[@JinKazama92]

@@streetrat123 I took my 2010 690 SMC in waist deep floods and it freaking did it with no dramas.

[@SubaruKtm]

Wich year was your

[@themattbear1]

I have a '21 690, absolutely love the thing. I found out about them when I was out riding trails a couple years ago on my 300 and we ran into a guy on a 690 who decided to tag along. I figured it would be like a typical 650ish dual sport, not able to keep up and crashing all the time, but he had 0 trouble. Last year I was thinking about getting a XR650r, but remembered the guy on the 690 so I tracked one down. It is the overall most capable bike I have ever ridden. Single track, enduro, MX, freeway, twisties, it will do it all, and do it decently. True it is not as good at anything as a bike that is purpose built for that specific style of riding, but it will do anything just fine. The only issues are unavoidable, it doesnt handle well in sand(rake), and gets buffeted pretty bad by oncoming semis on 2-lanes roads(weight). Finding tires that are as equally capable is not possible, so I settle on 75% dirt, 25% pavement DOT knobbies. They wear out fairly fast, but arent too bad. I actually want to try out pure desert tires at some point, something that can handle the weight and power in dirt. Where it really shines is on big hills, twisty pavement, or open dirt roads, nothing competes with that LC4. 75ish HP on a 330lb bike is just a blast. The only caveot is that you do not get this bike to learn the different riding styles on, it is the bike you get after you have learned to do it all.

[@yammienoob]

You'll be hearing from my lawyers. All jokes aside, quite funny to see my channel referenced in a video for a bike I'm looking to buy for myself! Nice upload.

[@johntractor9799]

Pneumatic = air or gas under pressure. Hydraulic = liquid under pressure.

[@doomermotorsports]

Yup, unfortunately I misspoke and didn't catch it before publishing.

[@davidbeauvais1364]

Even the Husqvarna tc85 or ktm85 have those hydraulic clutches I have a 2014 with it let alone my 2022 bikes. You explained it like it’s a cutting edge thing. Sigh you gotta be new to the brand or something

[@PhantomMark]

Just bought a new 690, can't wait to pick it up now :)

[@mikesauve5793]

I have a 690 for about 5 years and still my go to bike love it

[@paulyelle9485]

I had a 690 I bought it 2008, I put 62000 miles on it in SW. I road to work and back, every weekend I was off road. Average weekend ride would be approx 400 miles or more. Had no trouble with the bike ever, bullet proof but I did the maintenance religiously. I sold it and regretted it since. I now ride a 700 Tenera.

[@keithquinn5624]

Which do you prefer? Tenere700 or 690? Why? Thanks!

[@badgerbait8351]

No doubt, KTM makes some great bikes...but would not agree with your "greatest dualsport of all time" claim. I worked in a KTM/Yamaha service department for several years, thus have owned both in dirt trim. I was always intrigued by the 690s but was surprised to see a few of them rolling in with various electrical issues that left the owners stranded, and in one particular case, a destroyed engine! No such issues with the 450 and 500 KTMs. Nor did I ever see such issues with the Yamahas. Must add that the Japanese bikes had superior electronics. I've had the joy of owning numerous Kawasakis, Hondas and Yamahas, (2 and 4 strokes) and I now own a Yamaha WR250, Beta 300 Xtrainer and an XR650L, which is my second XR. Why I'd rather have the XR over the 690: - "They haven't been updated for a long time". XR has a fraction of the potential landmines: coolant system, mega-electronics/EGR that typically require a technician when they fail, etc. There isn't anything the common rider can't repair/maintain on the XR with the most basic tools! A true doomsday machine! The 690 is not the most user-friendly for maintenance, and the frame can be a real pain in the ars! - "Try to live with carburetors": This is something I embrace! I can work on a carb anytime, anywhere. And in almost every case, it will get me back home safely! Not the case with a failing electronic fuel injection setup. - Sure, the XR has about half the HP, but the torque curve is classic! And because of this, it builds far less heat, and can run on almost any fuel sold out of a remote Mexican gas pump! In addition, the 690 revs over 8000 rpm before max HP. XRs is 6000. Much like a diesel engine, the lower rpm grunt motors often last longer. - Price: Absolutely no comparison. And it remains this way throughout the accessorizing process. The XR also has a much larger support culture! - And lastly, I know which one I'd rather dump on a dirt road!

[@abhinavigates6925]

Excellent video mate! I just picked up a 2014 690 with 7000km so it's hardly broken in. Mostly has stock parts, so I'm looking to upgrade it to be more offroad capable and suited to me. I had an africa twin before this (which I luckily sold for a great price the day after getting the 690) and I used to offroad with it a lot. Since I'm using to whipping around the big weight of the AT, I am hoping to have tons of fun with my 690. This video has me excited for all the great things to come with this KTM! Thanks again

[@davidrockwell9776]

In true dual sport 50/50%street to dirt fashion, I’d say the 690 is a great choice. But me being a 10/90% street to dirt rider I’ll take a 500exc over the 690 any day. It really depends on where your individual riding preferences lie as to what bike makes sense to you. Thanks for the video it was entertaining 👍

[@Stylefront]

I only have 1 ding for the EXC500 - maintenance intervals. I would take 10 less horsepower for 3k mile maintenance intervals.

[@wernerxldata]

I prefer the 450... Engine is the same as the 450SXF, just a swich of the camshaft and flash another map into the ECU (or replace with a GET) and you have way more power, especially if you add a decent exhaust system. Maintenance of the exc's sucks indeed if you ride a lot of miles, but for pure offroad it isn't that bad. It's not as bad as an sxf ;)

[@just-fun-stuff6753]

yeah, the exc500 is a sportenduro, no dual sport, the 690 is a dual sport/(standard) enduro. I love them both, but the 690 is a jack of all trades, it can ride 1000km through street/easy to probably medium offroad and after all that, you dont have to do a oil change and other maintanance stuff. Also in my country, EXCs are heavy restricted to ride legal, 690 arent.

[@brook_slider]

500 exc is better in the dirt however the 690 is more rounded. 690 is better suited for people who want one bike and the 500 is best as a second bike.

[@JohnHowerton137]

Here again a year later. Still a great video, wonderful bikes! Still a little disappointed you didn’t use any of my 690 thrashing clips 🤣

[@raypetrocelli595]

Great video & very true, I've been through the Yamaha wr 250 ,Suzuki DR 400, the Honda XR650L & then bought the KTM 2020 690R ENDURO & it's just amazing & totally worth the money, everyone ride safe.

[@mohba01]

cant beilive you had to downgrade to a ktm from a xr650l

[@raypetrocelli595]

@@mohba01 was a upgrade for me, no doubt that the Honda XR650L was a great motorcycle but for what I needed the KTM ENDURO 690R was terrific, if you can test drive one you'd see the amazing difference

[@mohba01]

@@raypetrocelli595 get this a lot from new owners. however i don't want to ride a bike thatt have to plug in every few months to keep running or needs a NASA qualified technician to diagnose; or spend ridiculous amounts of cash on parts etc if you actually put in serious miles. i'd stay with slow simple tech as i ride do a LOT and think usually smart, like long term.

[@raypetrocelli595]

@@mohba01 I had my Honda XR650L from 2007 & was a simple terrific motorcycle but seeing Honda put all efforts into the 450L & me being tired of the 650L & unexcited I researched choices & went with the KTM, it's really an amazing motorcycle, give it a try & you'll agree, I wish Honda updated the 650L I would've bought another one having such a great ownership of it. KTM is worth the money & easy maintenance

[@nevillebroadbent1601]

Just bought a new Husky 701. No local KTM dealer so made decision easy. Loving it , my new adventure bike . Handles road miles easily and perfect for the 100 of kms of gravel trails near home

[@rebeccac5760]

I've had a 2021 690 enduro for only about 6 months but I've put on 8000 miles, im happy I got it and researched so thoroughly because it does everything I want. Multi hours on the highway, after a better seat anyway, single track and jumps aggressive twistes i absolutely love it! But the stock tires while good wore out in only 3500 miles but I love it, its a little tall for my friends and family im the only one who can flat foot both feet

[@overkilldyl6841]

Finally someone who rides their bike. I’ve been seeing the ktm 500s with under a thousand miles on them for sale like why did you even buy it lol

[@oscarbear7498]

@@overkilldyl6841 fall off and got scared, bought something they could not afford + constant oil changes, or realized they only ride 4 days a month if lucky because work is so busy :(

[@jonbaker7370]

I have 22,000 miles on my 2016 KTM 690 and I will have to agree is is a great bike. It's no EXC. But it is the ideal BDR and Baja bike, especially if you are not carrying any camping gear. It is a great motorcycle for the job.

[@Phil4013]

Got mine! Love it! 2011. Had only 2k miles.

[@Blekk1989]

I fully agree,i own a 2015 690 Enduro R and i love it.

[@CrankyPants1115]

Just got my 2023 today!!

[@jerseyjeeper1575]

You’re correct, it’s a great bike. Just took mine on a 2000 mile round trip ride to main from jersey. Mostly woods and backroads.

[@richardclegg5853]

Sure love mine, first 4-stroke, first dual sport after 50 years riding nothing but 2-strokes in the woods... great video, watch out yummie!!!

[@timotoole27]

I love my 2021 690! great video

[@jay1st1st]

That is why i want to buy one ! DD bike, lots of power, not too heavy, trail capability, and a wheelie machine

[@campland2880]

Yer crazy homie. . . nothin' beats the KLR 650 for pure DS work. The king of bling. . .milk-cratin' and hatin', with over 30 years of pro-creatin'!! You say obsolete, I see easy and cheap! 5 speed grindin', 17-inch windin', over all terrains you'll find 'em, leadin' out the pack with a stack of 40's in the back. . . milk-cratin' baby, milk cratin'. . .packin' all the malt liquor with tha milk cratin'. Man, a 690 lookin' stoopid with a milk crate. KLR, it's all natural baby!! Get the girls goin' with da six-fiddy!

[@doomermotorsports]

It's time to let old things die. I can appreciate the classic KLR, but Kawasaki has ruined it since the 2008 remodel. And you'd think if they're going to redesign it they could at least fix the doohickey.

[@themattbear1]

Get the girls laughing you mean?

[@FanOWater]

I ride with a guy who sold his Honda AT and bought the 690. He loves it and put 15k miles on it the first year. He did break the rear subframe, but he packs too much stuff. Cheers

[@zetterberg]

Its a blast on the road. Proper hooligan bike. I could ride it a lot harder off-road if it had better suspension and wide gearbox. But i think you are correct, its a classic that a lot of people will always go back to, particularly if they sold one and regret it. Similar the mystique of the 990 and 950SE that will always re-sell

[@mikef3300]

I have a 2017 Ktm 690 enduro r that is a great city bike. I use it to commute to work as much as possible. It handles the rough city roads with ease and makes the trip to work a lot of fun.

[@DustyBiker]

Excellent video. This bike is a weapon!

[@pabloitare]

Really great video!

[@Jack-ud5oj]

That was a great review. Clear to the point. Good comparisons. Nicely done!...I subscribed...I ride a dirt modified MT 07 ..sort of a street oriented tenere 700 that does dirt and gravel trails too.

[@doomermotorsports]

Thanks! That MT-07 sounds cool. Is it anything like Jakethegardensnake's build?

[@AUBREYTHOMAS1979]

I love my 690. I totally agree with you on this bike.

[@santaon2wheels600]

I agree with every point -the greatest dual-sport out there. But the only issue is reliability.. my Honda riding mates are out there riding while I'm waiting for spare parts. Here's what's broken so far in 18,800km on my 2014 690 SMC-R. I would pick a Honda or Yamaha for touring the world instead! -8,000km rocker arms failed -10,000km front brake master cylinder failed -12,000km clutch started slipping, took 1 year to diagnose (scored push rod) -14,000km stator fried, flywheel scored -15,500km 6th gear disappeared, some ball bearings failed in the shifting mechanism

[@RomulusReemus]

Didn't the 2019 rebuild significantly change the quality equation?

[@santaon2wheels600]

I've seen some total lemons with the new models in some KTM groups, like every seal leaking oil @@RomulusReemus

[@Broxty]

Jesus christ. I'll be sticking with japanese.

[@pietersteyn5734]

Yes, AGREED!!!!! I bought my first 690 at age 55 👌👌👌👌👌

[@defylifeadventure]

I had BMW G650x - The KTM 690 Enduro was the one I really lusted after. Unfortunately the rocker arm issues at the time put me off for a 10,000 mile tour. Not the BMW was faultless. Shock snapped in half twice.

[@dtroughton]

I've been riding Dualsport motorcycles since 1987 (first was the 1983 Honda XL600) and I entirely agree with you. I currently have a 2017 Husqvarna 701 and it is the best DUALSPORT motorcycle I have ever owned. Second place is the KTM 640 Adventure. I think what surprised me the most about the 701 is how much fun it is on the pavement and that's because of the insane motor that is way more than I ever need on the dirt. But on the pavement! OMG! It also can be set up as a very capable midsize ADV bike for full on moto camping trips.

[@pedrocsantos8]

That's because you never ride a AJP PR7 2021

[@marklemist6928]

You never rode an pajaar 7000 cdc street shittar@@pedrocsantos8

[@chrisrobinson79]

Couldn’t agree more👍 great vid

[@TacomaJack09]

Had a ‘18 690 I bought brand new, loved the bike. It’s smack dab in the middle, a jack of all trades master of none. Too big and heavy for single track, too small for long road rides (front end was always buffeting at high speeds). I traded it for a KTM1090r and luckily had a DRZ-E. This covers everything for me. The DRZ does everything the 690 did. Not as well, but well enough. Great video btw!

[@doomermotorsports]

I've never gone on a really long trip with my 690, but I've never had any issue on the highway with it. My last bike was a 450L so the 690 feels like a dream on the street by comparison. As for on the trails, I bought it late season so I didn't get to do any real off-roading. I'd probably want better tires than the TKC80s it has now, but I know it won't be as nimble as the 450L. Still, I'm optimistic that it will handle whatever trails I dare to take. I know it's just anecdotal, but my cousin has a 690 which he rides all over the country with. This fall he took his to Moab, rode the trails there for a week, then went to Vegas before coming back to Wisconsin, where he started. Not saying everyone, including myself, would want to do the same trip, but it is definitely within the bike's capacity.

[@brucekendall52]

The latest incarnation with the new motor,quickshifter etc is hard to match.Love mine.Thanks

[@dropbear9526]

I have a 2016 SM and a 2021 E, believe it or not, they're chalk and cheese to ride.

[@wernerxldata]

I can tell you, the first LC4 engine was a lot different from the modern one. I worked at a KTM dealer back then as a mechanic, they were really shitty engines in means of reliability. When they ran they we're strong engines but super heavy. In those days I rode Honda's myself and swore I would never ever ride a KTM mx bike myself... Guess that was around 1990... Now 2022, think me and my son have had around 20 ktm's in the past years... Awesome bikes, great engines, motocross and road bikes.

[@zrig1]

Have a 2019 and love it.

[@waylonswaycraps]

For the money the swm would be my pick! Thanks for the video

[@JohannesDalen]

Bought a 701 two days ago - stoked! Cool video, great voice-over and footage, you have a talent for this!

[@doomermotorsports]

Thank you! Hope you enjoy your 701!

[@JohannesDalen]

@@doomermotorsports Can’t ride it in a couple of months because of the winter, but I have a few parts to install and get the bike ready 🙂

[@doomermotorsports]

@@JohannesDalen Ah yes, I'm done for the winter as well. Almost makes me wish I lived down south...almost.

[@JohannesDalen]

@@doomermotorsports Haha, I live in Norway, so I have to buckle up for a cold one 🥶

[@west_adv]

@@JohannesDalen my suggestion is - try it in the snow. It is not as bad as it seems. Short trails, close to home, gravel roads, not on tarmac

[@MotoWorld777]

thanks, on my dream bike list, but I already have two dream bikes! Maybe too many dreams!

[@CWhite-fp3eo]

2 weeks into my 2023 690 enduro R .... the dual balancers are definitely an improvement over my old SXC 625

[@TheSouthpawSharpshooter]

I have a klx300sm and the Ktm enduro 690 is my next bike

[@Farmer_1776]

Love my 08 690 enduro. Updated rocker assemblies, and love the crap out of it.

[@JohnHowerton137]

I’m aggressive enough off-road that many days I wish she was a 500EXC, but man when you get back on the street… she really is no compromise there. The 690 has been my main mode of transportation since 2019. Many days I want to buy a pipe, Power Commander, and send off the suspension to make her feel the way I want, but at the end of the day the quiet pipe doesn’t piss off my neighbors, it’s fast enough to land me in prison, and I really shouldn’t be riding it hard enough to need to do the suspension 🤣 It’s a little too rocky where I live to really adventure hard with her and have her live to tell about it, but at the end of the day I need to remember I have other bikes to beat the chit out of that will accept it with a smile. A little secret… I really want to make a video where I go Full Send MX riding on her, but I’m a little nervous I’ll break her in half. Still need to get to work with her on Mondays! 😆

[@doomermotorsports]

My cousin has 42k miles on his 2015 690 and he doesn't hold back on or off road. The things are absolute beasts. I, on the other hand, tend to take it easy. Partly because I'm new to offroading, but also out of concern for my own well being. It's basically fatty-fall-down-phobia.

[@JohnHowerton137]

@@doomermotorsports is he still on the same top end?

[@doomermotorsports]

@@JohnHowerton137 yep. So far he's only replaced the clutch

[@JohnHowerton137]

@@doomermotorsports pretty impressive. Valve adjusts? Mine starts, runs and sounds like the day it was new. 16k and I haven’t touched them yet. Kind of makes me nervous. When it goes in for the Slave recall, I’m thinking about having them checked, as I basically never have time to do it myself.

[@doomermotorsports]

@@JohnHowerton137 I don't think he's ever had to adjust them. Mine hasn't reached its first interval yet. The valve issues were apparently fixed in 2015 so there shouldn't be a lot to worry about.

[@searchingfor6thgear44]

Love my 690. Fixed the clutch with a $0.40 O-ring, still I can't believe it made your rationale for why it's the best dual sport. Yes, it's great. Yes, it's a known failure point... But, as a former KLR guy, spending the time to do a $0.40 mod is nothing.

[@M_case]

Hey nice vid. Got a 2014 690 enduro R. Going on my 3 year now, lm happy with it. My pro arguments for buying it was, modern bike(abs,fuel injection, ride by wire), bulletproof engine (the LC4) and long service intervalls. But after living with it for sometime I have some cons. It's a very tall bike, easy to tip over on the trails if you are not 6 feet tall. Had some trouble with the trottlebody because of faulty powersupply to the ecu. i've learned that major electronics need to be coded for the bike to work. Aka You need an dealership to fix it and it eats rubber tires like mad. (1000-1500 miles on anakeen wild) It's the most hardcore thumper out there and I love it.

[@dropbear9526]

The new models faults can be diagnosed on your phone. I think 17 and up for the Husky, and 19 and up for the KTM.

[@glossblack1098]

Great video, I just got a new 690 after 3 years on a WR250R. Wow what an upgrade. High on the list for me is the suspension. Plush on the road but solid enough that you can take some big hits on the trails. Cheers

[@nyedavis922]

I went the other way, had a wr, sold it and purchased a 690, quickly found issues and niggles that the WR just doesn't have and ended up back on the little 250

[@MandM745]

@@nyedavis922 Another example of rider preference. I currently have a CRF300l and am reaching the limitations of the motor and suspension. The first thing I researched on the 701 Husky was the service intervals. Many other bikes I like are tuned like motocross bikes. I am really intrigued by this bike for the technology, suspension and I want that power on the road. However I am concerned about the weight and seat height.

[@b.c.h4120]

I love my 2020 690 on dirt roads and on twisty pavement. The motor is amazing. Smooth. Powerful. Responsive. Very linear. It's a great bike for exploring new roads with it's long range but it is horrible on the trails. It does not act much like a dirtbike. That's ok since I have two smaller dual sports. If I could afford only one bike, I would stick with a 450/500 and live with its shortcomings on the highway. The 450's and 500's are true do-it-all dual sports if you spend anytime on tight trails. I agree with the others on the 6th gear. First thing I did was swap the 46t for a 44t rear sprocket, and it works great.

[@Stylefront]

if only they would give us slightly longer maintenance intervals they would be the perfect bike. 3k miles or something would be perfect.

[@RomulusReemus]

This vid may have just saved me from buying the "wrong" bike - the trade offs with the DRZ400, CRF300L, CRF450L are all slightly bumming me out. KTM690 to the rescue???

[@scrappinfam6]

Love mine. I lost my clutch 15 miles into my last off-road ride. Turns out it’s part of the recall!

[@Romoto131]

The 690 is great in supermoto configuration, but for me the xr650 is the undisputed champion of adventure bikes

[@FoxtrotYanky]

R definitely not L

[@canedewey756]

The KLX is fine at 70mph, which is the speed limit on our interstates, but I always take the back roads and rarely go over 60. Maybe one day we'll see a KLX650 with ABS. The KLR is a proven bike but it's a small adventure bike, we want big dual sports.

[@rc51bigdaddy]

Had a 2009 690r and really enjoyed it but traded for a 500EXC then sold the 500 for a 1290 Adventure R then sold the 1290 for a 790r Adventure then sold that for a Husky FE501s. I have a problem I think:) I was after an 890r Rally for 2022 but no Rally bike in the lineup this year so am still considering a 690r or 701. I think in the end I will just keep my FE501s and not worry about putting road miles on it. Just ride. I geared my 501 slightly higher and that works fine for short highway use. A slightly bigger tank gives over 200 mile range. I would be much happier if the 690r was designed more like the 500EXC or FE501. I never liked that under seat tank much. That 690r engine is a monster though and would be the one thing that might make me sell my 501. Edit 11/17/2023. For the last year and a half I have been riding an awesome but heavy KTM 890r Adventure, but lately have gotten tired of the weight and of those gut busting moments when I have to lift it off road. Traded it for a 2023 690r yesterday. Good move for my riding habits. Guess I had to go through the process with the 890r to realize the 690r was the best fit.

[@jordesign]

You sound like me.... I can't settle on one bike. The AJP PR7 looks like the perfect bike, but not sure I can trust the brand just yet.

[@TraveladvRajanSRai]

two bikes v strom gs, atk or ktm etc dr

[@DeadOnTrail]

Love my husky 701, good video

[@SteelHorseman]

Great video

[@craighoffman6876]

Nice video! As a '23 701 owner I heartily agree with all points. These bikes are true 50/50 dual sports. Most riders don't want a true 50/50 bike, they typically want something more trail biased like a 500 EXC, or street biased like a T7. Both of those bikes are better than the 690 when playing to their strengths, but the 690 handlily spanks the 500 EXC on the road and the T7 off road. The 690's versatility is what I wanted as I live in Colorado and have endless paved and unpaved canyon roads to strafe, 4x4 and even single track off road trails to explore. I am surprised how good the suspension is out of the box with just sag and clicker setting. The bike is heavy, but the suspension is sprung and valved for the weight. It is not "foofy" and soft like all the Japanese bikes are. I feel no need to do anything further with the suspension, which is remarkable as I ride it at a good clip while off road. I have a 300 XC, the 701, and a Super T so I figure my motorcycling needs are pretty well covered. The 701 is my favorite as it can do it all, plus it is just plain naughty after some Rottweiler Performance love breathing out a Yosh exhaust can. The big potent thumper that sounds bad ass has a lot of personality, and it makes me wanna explore and look for places like empty business parks and housing developments under construction to fool around in, and it is hard not to turn the TC off and ride it like an idiot on the street. 😆 Really the only things I would change are the seat as it is pretty darn stiff, and it would be nice if the transmission had a lower 1st and taller 6th gear. The stock 15/45 gearing is a decent compromise, but the bike is so good it can slam into obstacles and handle some fairly gnarly slow stuff, and a lower 1st would help with that, and it has plenty of power to cruise at 70 with with a 500 RPM (or more) drop in engine speed.

[@Mycatz]

Nice I get good at off roading on my klx300 I plan to upgrade to the 690 KTM

[@brook_slider]

Agree. It's the best dual sport ever made, however from 2019 onwards the changes and reliability take it to another level. I can't sell it because there is nothing to replace it with. It's a unicorn...

[@MattPerry]

are there any complaints about mechanical issues in this late models

[@brook_slider]

@@MattPerry I've had no issues apart from the slave clutch which was replaced under warranty. No rocker arm, fuel pump etc like the older models. The bike has been a joy since owning more than 2 years.

[@RobBrownSTS]

I love my 690. My only real gripe with it is the gearing is a little too close. 1st too fast 6th too slow. But otherwise what a beast!

[@campland2880]

Bruh, just gear down one on the counter.

[@adamniswonger8015]

@@campland2880 then it screams even more at 60+ mph.

[@Ritalie]

Hi Rob. Regarding your comment about the gear ratios. OMG. My life mission is to get people to WAKE UP and realize that modern motorcycles have a massive gear ratio problem. The real problem is that 6th gear is almost identical to 5th gear. There is no reason for 6th gear to exist (NONE). It's ALL MOTORCYCLES, including the new ones. Motorcycles NEED AN OVERDRIVE 6TH GEAR. The real question is, why are people giving "GOOD" reviews to motorcycles without an overdrive? People are RETARDED. No offense.

[@Ritalie]

On my Camry with a high revving, shorter stroke V6 engine, with 4 valves per cylinder, it turns 1,750 rpms at 60mph. On my motorcycle with a 1300cc engine, it turns 3,450 rpms at 60mph. Most new bikes turn somewhere around 4,500 rpms to 4,800 rpms at 60mph, which should be illegal. It's not wonder they have to spend so much time making larger catalytic converters. You might as well be riding around in 2nd gear. If they put the correct (SUPER HIGH) gear ratios on a motorcycle, and got the cruising RPM's down around 2,700 rpms at 75mph instead of 5,200 rpms, that would be: -More than 50% reduction in engine wear, cylinder wear, valve guide wear, timing chain wear. -The oil would last twice as long. -The spark plugs would last twice as long. -The ride would be much less tiring -There would be much less high frequency sound and buzzing. -65 mpg instead of 45 mpg. -Much less emissions. -Smaller cooling system needed, less friction, less heat, less wasted energy. If you look at this list, it's clear that they have a financial incentive to make sure the engine is "stuck in low gear" down the highway. This is something that consumers need to stop tolerating. It's costing consumers huge amounts of money in unnecessary engine wear.

[@JohnHowerton137]

@@Ritalie pretty much. 10mph per gear. Can we get at least 15 out of that 6th! 🤣 Maybe 5 off of 1st?

[@KTMsteve]

100% spot on

[@nomadhabit]

Skills and rubber choice is an important one, also wanted to note that there is NO contender for KTM/Huskies out there...good review

[@BhaveshPatel-ci5pj]

I also found it's a unicorn platform. I take the same bike around town, to the beach, to group hooligan rides, SoCal canyon runs, and can still ride up the dirt road to the top of a mountain. I can do 200 miles of 2-track dirt roads around Pahrump and from LA-Barstow to Vegas. It just won't do long distance touring very well nor hard enduro very well...but that's the point: it's as close as you can get with one bike; aside from that you need 2 separate bikes. My gripes, however, are the KTM reliability: at 6k miles an in-tank fuel filter failed, and the dealer diagnosed it as a top end. $2,300 later the top end was done and it still ran like shit. replaced the in-tank fuel filter with a fuel pump rebuild and it finally ran smooth. 2 rides later it kept stalling on the road. back to the dealer. it kept stalling again, so back to the dealer a 2nd time. They said it was a loose TBI connector, loose terminals, and fouled spark plugs. It runs now, but stranded 3 times makes me nervous about when it'll die again. A rack bolt insert is spinning in the gas tank and a replacement tank would be $1,800.

[@NativeOfTheLand97]

What year is it? I just hit 5k of relatively hard riding and it's been fine knock on wood. And I beat the absolute snot out of my 250sxf to the point the honing was completely gone on the cylinder and it ran fine without burning oil

[@damytzeus]

totally agree and thus, I've got two 690s: 2014 supermoto (conversion) and 2021 enduro with 300mm suspension. both are badass and super fun.

[@chasingtrail]

Thanks for the video. I'm mostly happy with my CRF450L but I've looked hard at the 690 Enduro R. I did have to get a stiffer shock spring, and even with a Seat Concepts seat it's still pretty uncomfortable. I'm one of those people who lives close enough to the trails that it works for me, but I wouldn't want to ride it much further than the 10 or so miles I do on the street to get to the trails. It's not fun on the highway. If I had the opportunity to trade straight up for a 690 I'd probably do it.

[@doomermotorsports]

The farthest I ever rode on my 450L to get to a trail was 60 miles. The trails were at least fun, but then there was the ride back afterwards as well. It made for a very long day and that's when I decided that I needed to upgrade.

[@raypetrocelli595]

The KTM 690R is in a league of it's own only the Husqvarna is it's brother, my feelings are their worth the money because their great Dual sport motorcycles, I did a few upgrades & completed it to be more usable & comfortable, wings exhaust, rally pegs,and a seat concepts low edition seat, but a amazing motorcycle for sure, spend the money you won't regret it

[@ebhkkc1]

I love KTM but my Honda 2022 450 RL with a tuner, pipe and throttle tuner is money !!!! Honda durability all day long.

[@raypetrocelli595]

@@ebhkkc1 no doubt about the Honda reliability, I had a 2007 XR650L & only changed one battery & two sets of tires in 13 years of ownership, of course oil changes but Honda didn't put any effort into refreshing the 650L & didn't like the 450L so I chose the KTM ENDURO 690R 2020 & though expensive, you get what you pay for & reliability has been excellent knock on wood lol.

[@MALBACHinc]

Great video!. Rode mine side by side with the big GS. I can keep up but the RPM stays on 7000-8000. The limiter kicks in at 183kmh without having to wait long which quite a regret since i watched some top speed test at 200kmh. Smaller rear sprocket would fix this dreams I hope and it burns oil some time way to much and sometime not at all. My setup now is purely for 80% highway use, with aluminum sideboxes,. The size and power is the main reason why i choose this bike. Its as nimble as smaller moped and still rocks on the freeway and I travel daily riding in the heavy traffic. The engine sounds louder than the exhaust which quite worrying. This is my main bike for now and tend to ride it for as long as I could or would before getting a bigger ADV as I have a smaller KLX250 for dirt riding. Now preparing my buttocks for 2000km west malaysia rally (with the harleys) because after a shorter 400km ride last weekend, I cant barely sit straight after 2 hours riding. Check out my ride kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZpuYYpxnmc6se9U

[@doomermotorsports]

With a stock exhaust the engine will sound loud by comparison. Watching your video, I don't think anything is wrong. As for highway riding, here in the US I don't have much need to go faster than 75mph (120kmh) which keeps the RPMs down to 5000 or so. Also, most highway speed limits here are around 70 to 75mph anyways. Good luck on your next rally trip!

[@MALBACHinc]

@@doomermotorsports thank you mate, safe ride too

[@farfromfamous6928]

Great review. It is the best bike. I don't know why there's not more praise for this monster.

[@doomermotorsports]

It does seem a bit neglected, not just by people in general, but even by KTM itself. They barely have any media or promotional material for it. As for riders it might just boil down to price. Maybe KTM boys come off as snobbish? They hate us cuz they ain't us.

[@doped304]

Coming from a drz 400 to a 690 the biggest thing for me was to be able to cruise 70 when I had to. To build a drz to pull of that feat it would be built to the ragged edge of reliability. I was a big ktm hater until I got a 690 with ever even having sat on one. Absolutely no regrets, except my clutch slave cylinder went out the second ride….but yeah…no regurts.

[@chungs_74]

I saw the footage of the guy riding the 2012 Enduro R so i looked up his channel... His name is Sullivan Van Way and he died in a plane crash not long ago. RIP

[@davidc1961utube]

For the tall person with room for only one bike, and the budget, you are totally correct about the upsides. The opposing argument that I followed is that I got a new WR250R with a suspension tuned to my limited skills and inseam, and a 4 year old Tracer 900 for about the same price as a 690. The other realistic competitor to the 690 is the 500 EXC class of bikes. Realistically, the dual sport riders of the world are totally spoiled for choice, and it has never been a better time to be a motorcycle buyer! Cheers!

[@doomermotorsports]

That's quite the deal you got on those bikes. Not sure I'd call the 500 a close competitor to the 690 though. It's extremely dirt biased and has very short maintenance intervals (500 miles per oil change). I had a 450L before the 690 and I traded it in for those same reasons. I didn't want a dualsport that only does one thing well, and that's pretty much why I think the 690 is the best you can get in a single bike.

[@davidc1961utube]

@@doomermotorsports As long as your inseam allows, I think you are right. And yeah, I got a great deal on the Tracer. Paid sticker for the WR.

[@empirecycleman355]

Still riding a Yamaha XT500.

[@louisdriscoll2580]

I have one and your exactly right

[@AigarsZeiza]

Hi! I'm also 690 2020 owner. I totally agree with you, just wan't to add few words about minuses. Once you buy it, it's not 'ready to race' out of the box. First things, which should be done as soon as possible: 1. paper air filter should be changed to normal foam, 2. muffler - cuz it's hot as hell, 3. minor modification in gearbox - unfortunately gearbox has a false neutrals between 3-4 and 5-6 (in my case)

[@doomermotorsports]

I know "Ready to Race" is KTM's motto, but with emission standards it's impossible to sell a true ready to race bike that's also street legal. As for the gearbox I've experienced false neutral between 5-6 twice so far, but I was wearing pretty flimsy shoes both times. I feel like proper riding boots would have solved this, but I have heard this issue affects a lot of the 690's.

[@GlennFrost321]

@@doomermotorsports Theres a "Factory Pro Shift Kit" that fixes the problem with a stronger spring. P.S. I traded my 1200GS for a 2021 701 and didn't look back. Awesome bike.

[@dropbear9526]

Make positive shifts and It's no problem, be lazy, and you'll get false neutrals every time.

[@davidh1314]

Agreed. I've had a fair amount of dual sports and this is the best.....by far

[@manoliswec5674]

if dual sport means no trails then yeah it might be one of the best ever but it cant compete with drz or xr 650 on tighter trails cause 690 has a road geometry that doesnt gives you many feedback in dirt b4 losing the front among others. its not exactly a road version dirt bike, it doesnt look like one, it doesnt have the frame of one or the gas tank (cant believe you made low mileage an advantage), its made for street roads or dakar type wide full throttle dirt. ofcourse you see people drive it in dirt like an 125, weve seen the same with tarres and tenere, bottom line is dual sport means different to everyone, so im glad you found the perfect bike for you!

[@pilotrpi8634]

Have a DRZ, and want something better after a year of trails. Was thinking a KTM 500 for the trails, and turning my DRZ into an adventure bike. If money were no object, I'd love a 350/500 EXCF and a 690R combo.

[@doomermotorsports]

Just keep in mind that the 500exc is a maintenance queen. KTM wants you to change the oil every 500 miles or thereabouts, and check the valves every 1000. Another reason I chose a 690 is because of the much lower service intervals. But if that doesn't bother you then I'm sure either a 350 or 500 would be incredible as a dedicated trail bike.

[@doomermotorsports]

Just keep in mind that the 500exc is a maintenance queen. KTM wants you to change the oil every 500 miles or thereabouts, and check the valves every 1000. Another reason I chose a 690 is because of the much lower service intervals. But if that doesn't bother you then I'm sure either a 350 or 500 would be incredible as a dedicated trail bike.

[@matthewhayes7765]

I know this sounds trivial. But I hate the new dash board! The one from a few years ago, with a proper rev clock, gave it so much more character. It was meatier and made it feel more Dakar like. Like a proper bike, not a toy. Which is good considering they've advertised it under the 'adventure' category with long service intervals etc etc. I hate the new, tiny, hardcore enduro clock on it. It's boring and doesn't suit the character of the bike. It just makes it feel like you're buzzing down the road on a 250 enduro. Not a 690.

[@StonedSpoon]

I’ve had my 690 for 2 years and I LOVE it!! But, I do have a few gripes. Mainly, the floating engine. With nothing under it to protect it, it’s easy to damage your engine case. Even with a skid plate, you’re still putting a lot of pressure on the engine case if you’re doing hard enduro riding on it. Also, the rear gas tank is a plus and a minus. The rear gas tank makes the bike very controllable in the twisties. But, the rear gas tank also makes the wheelie balance point a bit harder. Over all though, I LOVE my 690.

[@GGLiEx]

love my smcr too. As an engineering student I've thought about why the balance point is so difficult to decypher. The reason is the near perfect 50/50 weight distribution and the main bulk of the bike being so low to the ground. This creates the nimbleness we all love but results in a very low rotatonal inertia about the "wheelie" axis resulting in the same feeling wether you are at a 10 o'clock wheelie or 12 o'clock. I have very skilled friends that can wheelee anything all day long that struggle with the 690 for this very reason.

[@keyboarddancers7751]

@@GGLiEx Wheelie geometry; love it!

[@seeratlasdtyria4584]

how's the service intervals AND price going for you?

[@johannvisser1303]

Well said

[@nochilljay6369]

Just want to point out that that's a hydraulic clutch, not pneumatic. Pneumatic is air, hydraulic is liquid. Besides that though, I'd love a 690, my only worry is the exposed plastic tank hitting the ground (and being right on top of the exhaust). Other than that I'm glad you enjoy yours

[@doomermotorsports]

Yeah, I misspoke and didn't catch my mistake before uploading. The rear tank/subframe is actually pretty strong. Typically people might have issues when they mount luggage racks to it. They can crack at the mounting points if they get overloaded or crash.

[@Broadus45]

RADE make a 6L tank that slots in where the airbox is to add some more fuel while keeping it slim.

[@BigEightiesNewWave]

Pictures or it didn't happen !

[@louisdoucet1498]

A very excellent bike to consider no doubt Beta 390 long stroke extremely light, pulls like a tractor.

[@giusext]

Oh man! Has there ever been a youtube video as reassuring as this one for someone who happened to buy this very same bike a couple of days ago? ahahahahah!!! Good job!

[@bengreenwood9202]

I own a 2019 , love it ! ideal trail or every day local hooligan bike I’m no mx rider but love a day on the trails and the power and quick shifter always make me smile. Weight makes tyre choice more important knobbles r a must here in the UK Difficult Warranty claim has ruined it for me , ktm suck as a company but the bikes great.

[@doomermotorsports]

Sorry to hear about your warranty issue. Would it by chance be the clutch slave cylinder? I heard KTM needed to recall them due to bad gaskets.

[@bengreenwood9202]

Yes I’m sure I’m one of many angry customers I bought it brand new and had done less then 2000 miles , they refused to cover it as I missed my 2nd service date (my bad) , I had to reluctantly pay for it , then month later got the recall letter from KTM for clutch slave cylinder , I asked for a refund , they refused same as before. I wouldn’t drop it after several complaints , long phone calls and threats of trading standards they refunded me , very disappointed all over £200 I will not put money in ktm’s pocket again

[@doomermotorsports]

@@bengreenwood9202 that really sucks. They make great bikes, but it's a shame they don't want to take responsibility for their own mistakes. I'm honestly a little nervous about where the company is headed, especially with their plans to build some models in China.

[@barneyprince9257]

Great video I think the number one thing they need to work on with this bike is the gear spacing to make it perfect. I have a 2016 Ktm 690 and I find the 6th gear is not spaced out enough . What are your thoughts?

[@doomermotorsports]

I'm coming from a Honda 450L, so the 690 is a dream by comparison. Personally I don't have a problem with the gearing, but as I venture further from home and put on more highway miles it might change how I feel.

[@jareddelarosa9557]

also owning a 2016 690 I agree, 1st gear is too tall and 6th gear is too short. 1st gear isn't slow enough for a majority of tight technical sections, which is already where the bike struggles due to its size, and 6th gear puts it needlessly high in the rev range doing freeway speeds. the motor has plenty of power, so I have no idea why they didn't space out 6th more for longer highway rides

[@dropbear9526]

I have the 2016 701 SM and the 2021 E. 6th does feel a bit short on the E, but the SM is really good, as long as you're riding it hard. There has to be a sweet spot for the E.

[@KIPMoto]

I have had a 701 since 2016 and I totally agree with your assessment but the biggest down fall of the 690/701 on trails is the steering lock. My R1200gsa can turn full lock almost twice as sharp as my 701.

[@bradsanders6954]

Try an 890R,not only can I not reach the ground @6' tall,there is hardly any steering lock,and it weighs 470lbs. The slightest mis cue and it is going down.

[@humzilla707]

The new 690s have a tighter turning radius

[@dropbear9526]

My 2016 701SM can do a full lock turn using one lane. I have a 2021 701E as well, It's not that much better on gravel roads than the SM, the SM is actually quite fun on gravel, assuming you have the right tires. Stoked with both bikes.

[@levanshukakidze5007]

I own drz400s and looking for exc500 and convert it for traveling/adventure, I was thinking about 690 also but on soft Enduro 500 is better option

[@Darkman79]

Well said! Agreed

[@arlanwade3268]

Nailed it! The only negative is its looks; if only it looked as good as the Ducati Multistrada V2 it really would be the perfect Enduro.

[@davidh1314]

Agreed! Amazing bike. Best I've ever had for sure. BRRRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@ripmax333]

if it was not for that tall seat height I would love to own one.

[@garrett08322]

The ktm exc-f 500 is pretty dam awesome

[@burddog0792]

I wish KTM would make one with the LC4c motor (399cc), like just stick that engine in the chassis, no fluff unlike the 390 ADV or whatever.

[@HeikosGarage]

You mean hydraulic clutch, right? Good video.

[@vittoriocostantini4137]

I AGREE. THE K.T.M 690 ENDURO R MOTORCYCLE IS THE BEST "DUAL SPORT" MOTORCYCLE AVAILABLE. I AM ON MY 2ND K.T.M 690 ENDURO MOTORCYCLE. A DISTANT SECOND PLACE WOULD BE THE SUZUKI DRZ 400 /650, OR HONDA XR650L. THERE'S JUST NOTHING ELSE AVAILABLE UNLESS YOU WANT TO CHANGE THE OIL EVERY WEEK.

[@armored-clown]

I’m curious to see if any of you who have the 690 ride 2 up or pack camping gear on it frequently? I’m very conflicted if I should just move up to the 890 or go with the 690.

[@doomermotorsports]

Riding two up with the 690 should only be done on short trips or if you have no other choice. As for camping gear it will hold up fine with a simple tail rack and some saddlebags.

[@shorew3]

1000%… i feel like the market needs a mid sized bike. Kinda a rally bike. The anticipation for the husky norden is awesome but the rest of the brands or more road or more dirt theres nothing that ticks both well! Im looking for this market now! Either buy a road legal 450 and spend 5000$ to make it more road friendly

[@Ritalie]

I've never ridden the LC4 KTM 690, or any KTM. The only downside to a single is that they are not as finely balanced as a parallel twin, and they don't sound good. The new parallel twins sound absolutely beautiful. But 73 horsepower out of a single cylinder engine is just insane, and so I guess I need to add the KTM to my bucket list, just to see what it's like.

[@dropbear9526]

2017 and up Husky 701, and the 2019 and up 690, have a twin counter balancer on the crank, they're very smooth. Put a Wings pipe/silencer on it and they sound like a dirt bike, a real dirt bike shouldn't sound like a road bike. I own a 2016 701SM and a 2021 701E. Luv them both. I was going to sell the 701SM, but can't bring myself to do it. She's a keeper.

[@xtman693]

Great review. But I just completely disagree. The XR650L is a time tested, field repairable low tech machine. Exactly what a guy wants way out in the middle of no where. On board computer, throttle by wire, numerous sensors, no thanks! While the performance of the 690 is light years ahead of the XR, the high tech aspect of the bike will be your enemy 10 to 12 years down the road. The vibration, dust, water and elements will take their toll on the electronics. My XR650 is a 2002, still runs awesome and is as reliable as an anvil. I carry a spare throttle cable, clutch cable and a CDI box on long rides. Also a spare clutch lever. My only complaint,ain’t is the lack of a kick starter on them. But replacing the battery every three years seems to be the ticket to always starting. I’d like to see a modern fuel injected bike in 20 years and see if I’m wrong.