GASGAS ES700 Ultra-Light Adventure Motorcycle | Detailed Build-Out

[@BigRockMoto]

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[@Michael_Shay]

I am a 701 owner and I'm obsessed with my bike, I think if you can only have one bike to do everything, the 690 platform is the one. Especially when you consider that you can find used sumo rims for this bike for like $1k on marketplace. The 690 is the dualsport that makes the least amount of compromises on both sides. I just wanted to include some extra pieces of information I've picked up on having owned this bike. Through my research, the 690 platform is pretty solid in terms of reliability when you're looking at the modern ones. However, there are a couple notable things. Firstly, depending on your model year you may have to replace the clutch slave or the O-Ring within the clutch slave. I know this was fixed in 2021 on the 701s, I'm not sure when it was done for the 690 or if it was even an issue on the GasGas. Secondly, you should really consider either carrying the sidestand dongle from vanasche in your tool kit, or rewiring the sidestand switch for less than $5. KTM uses a magnet system on this bike and you cannot wire around it if it fails, and it will fail. The magnet for the sensor is bolted onto the sidestand and it will wiggle loose and leave you stranded. This bike is not like old bikes like the DR650, you can't just wire around it in the field. Personally, I just took a magnet and taped it/heatshrinked it to the sensor and rerouted it so it sits under the seat. I don't have a sidestand switch anymore but it was free so I don't really care. Additionally, there are some reports of weak subframe bolts in some of the older models, people running luggage offroad have said they've snapped the subframe bolts. I've heard people say this isn't an issue on the newer ones. It's hard to say. Perun Moto makes a kit with some stronger bolts that's pretty easy to install. The only other issue I have with the bike is the radiator. The radiator mounts are notoriously weak, and if you're taking this bike into harder offroad situations, it's something to be aware of. I like Outback Motortek and I think they make great products, but I still managed to split my radiator with their crashbars installed, and it wasn't even a hard crash, just an off-camber drop. Now, I could've just gotten unlucky, but I do think the OM bars sit a little low. Currently the only better solution imo is the Flatland Racing Radiator guard/reinforcement. It basically puts a metal frame around and across the radiator, it's served me pretty well and I've had a couple hard crashes with it. The only downside is that it is not compatible with the OM bars. I really wish it was because I'd 100% use both. I wish OM would make their own version like they do with the 500exc, because it does leave my plastics pretty vulnerable. But broken plastics won't leave you stranded. With that being said, I'm sure there are plenty of riders who haven't had this issue, it's just worth noting for anyone doing harder offroading. Also, you can find incredibly good deals on these bikes used, at least in my area. Yes they are expensive new, but I bought my 2019 701 with 2k miles on it for $7500. I got fairly lucky but I've seen others go for similar prices. If you're in the market for one, the 701 has had the twin counterbalanced motor since 2017. The 690 got the twin counterbalanced motor in 2019. Pre-2019 701s have 4CS forks, it's worth trying to get a 2019+ if you can in order to get the XPLORs. Not sure the MYs for the 690 when it comes to suspension. I agree with pretty much everything Ian said here, the gearing isn't amazing but it's definitely usable once you get used to it. The motor is incredibly smooth for a single at highway speeds. Ian, if you're reading this I appreciate the review. I'd like to see you look into/do a video on the Gobblers from Suspension101. It's like a easy install DIY fork revalve kit and they do make them for this bike. There's positive reviews on some forums but there's not really any video content about the product and they're priced pretty reasonably. I'm not affiliated with them but I am intending to put them in my bike when I can afford it and it'd be interesting to see a review on them from you. Also the key location only gets more annoying when you get the rade garage fuel tank. Between that and the stabilizer it's really frustrating.

[@miro_s]

@@Michael_Shay thanks for this. I find the motor (22 model) has a gap at low rpm (off idle precisely), do you? I’d say for me this is the only real defect of the bike. Looking into alternative air filters / airbox covers and possibly remap to fix that. Have you got any experience with that?

[@Michael_Shay]

@miro_s not something I've looked super into. Could just be the inherent minor delay from ride by wire + the engine making it's power in the mid + how they have to make the bike super lean on the low end to pass emissions. I'd imagine tuning would help but I can't say for certain.

[@PeterR0035]

Totally agree 👍 I have the 2020 701LR model, +500km fuel range! ❤❤❤

[@craighoffman6876]

@@miro_s Running the Rottweiler mapped PC6 and O2 sensor eliminator on my '23. Richening up the low end and part throttle fueling changes the bike completely. Low end goes from soft to XR650R gnarly. Off road, just above idle and rolling it on in 2nd gear is nuts - it rips hard. Running the Twin Air foam panel as it is washable and the paper stocker is prone to letting dust past the filter/airbox interface.

[@magaudion]

I had a Husqvarna 701 LR with the twin tanks . I fitted Mosko Moto Reckless 80 and there was already a hole for the rear tank access. Surprised the Reckless 40 doesn’t have the same !

[@kawabungah20]

I am in complete "awe" at this machine in its modified configuration, compliments of Big Rock Moto! This is a work of art, based on extreme, practical experience. What an inspiration are you, sir.

[@MrPavlyuchenko]

That "fake" rally tower is an amazing product. I've always liked wind protection, the look and the extra space for a nav system when it came to the towers, but spending 1500 bucks plus the time and effort to install it always threw me off. This is such a great alternative, that I would have never even known existed without you, Ian! Thank you and kudos for the great built!

[@hailwood900]

2020 690 Owner. Thanks for the review and ideas. One alternative for display: Berotec in Germany makes a cute little display that's plug and play. Gives gear position, revs, temp, can do Lambda. For me, the Rade Garage 1.5G tank is a must. I agree on needing wider ratios. Love the bike. Keep up this great channel.

[@thomasdoe6768]

Gotta love Ian :D He tells you why he sold a 690 enduro ultra light adventure bike and what he did not like about it and how he is tired of tall bikes and all you need is a standard 790 adv. Only to upload a video one year later, where he tells you how awesome a gasgas 700 adv ultra light bike is, which is the same bike as the one he sold before :D

[@BlindfoldedFox]

He sold the 690 two times. I can see some reasoning behind all wt he says, but you got to question it for sure.

[@csolivais1979]

People are fickle. I know a guy who sold his Harley, said he never own a cruiser again. Bought a naked. Had it for a year and half. Then went out and bought a new to him Harley. Though he did keep his other bike.

[@lazycalm2]

It's not the same bike though... the engine was updated. The one he had still had the vibey engine, and also had less HP

[@thomasdoe6768]

@@lazycalm2 hm, help me out on this one. How does a less vibey engine help with a tall motorcycle?

[@lazycalm2]

@@thomasdoe6768 it doesn't, as I didn't say that. I said the bikes differ in the engine, they're quite different Happy to help

[@SimonJackMTB]

Hat off to you, Ian! Big Rock Moto is now the first stop I go to for honest reviews of anything motorcycle-related. I've watched your channel grow since the early days, and now you're up there with the best. Keep up the great work.

[@ianross225]

Great video Ian. Good to see you back to the 690/700/701 platform. I did 4,200 miles on a 690 in the summer in the US over 23 days. It was excellent. It has a Nomad tower, Rade range extender and Seat Concepts seat among other mods. Our mix of TAT and BDR plus on road was done without pain or the fear of having to pick up a leviathan. The electronics were perfect for my inept riding especially the traction control. I had Reckless 40 luggage mounted further back than you which gave access to the fuel cap. Most astonishing of all was its range (not actually needed in the event) of in excess of 320 miles. The fuel economy is incredible. I liked it so much that I bought a 701 Husky back home in the UK and I’m selling my 890 Adventure, a great bike, but way too much for my needs. It now has a Nomad tower which gives great buffet free protection (more than the Rade) and pretty much half the price of the Aurora which also has a decent sized screen. A work in progress but a nice machine other than the stupid Euro 5 fuelling which actually worsens economy so more CO2 (one man’s poison, another man’s plant food). Looking forward to more on this great machine! Cheers, Ian

[@southeasternnomad]

Great Video . Thank you so much for making this Video. Today i put a deposit down on a 23 ,690 with ultra low miles. I plan to use it on my sprinter bumper hitch. Cheers. Keep our friends in the south in your prayers. Our best roads in Western North Caroling are no longer on the map.

[@RYwoodview]

Is the Trail of Tears ruined?

[@melt2992]

I’m 75 with a Dirt Bike background. My third 690 is a 2014, all bought used. I use the bike primarily for BDR type rides, which it can handle no problem. Longest I’ve ever ridden it on asphalt is 350 miles in a day. 30 inch inseam so I lowered the bike, still ok for me in the rocks that I see on the BDR’s. I agree on trans gearing, one tooth less on countershaft helps. Plus mine came with Rekluse which solves 1st gear starts. My next 690 will be the smother motor

[@beardannyboy]

Videos like this is when all the sponsorships begin to make sense. Impressive, and quite the demonstration of what's available on the aftermarket

[@mattsutube]

Thanks Ian. You're continually churning out the best and most non biased reviews. It's so much appreciated. Looking very much forward to your Colorado trip video. 👍

[@wanderlpnw]

You're reviewing my bikes. 😂 I have a 1290R and ES700. I love the 700! Gives me so much more confidence offroad than an adventure bike. About the rear tank, the new mosko moto reckless comes with a hole in it for the 690s. I'm surprised you didn't add the Rade aux tank. That's such a great upgrade for me. Gives me 5 gal total.

[@murlyn2]

That could be the ultimate light ADV for someone who only rides roads when they have to. However, they better understand with no weather / wind protection it will be uncomfortable on the road to after a few minutes. Not for me, but this make sense for the right people. Great video as always! You're living the dream.

[@BigRockMoto]

The little windscreen does a decent job of deflecting wind off your torso.

[@Michael_Shay]

It depends on level of tolerance. I've only spent some time on full size ADVs with big windscreens. But I've got a 701 that I've build out pretty well so far. I don't actually have any wind protection on it and I'm totally fine on 65/75mph. It's actually really not bad unless there's some crazy headwind. And I never haul my bike, I don't even have a truck or trailer. I recently rode 4 hours from my home city to do the Steens BDRX, it was a 2 day trip for me so my last day had probably 300ish miles of 75mph pavement, I didn't have a problem with it at all. But some people have told me I have a higher tolerance for discomfort when it comes to that stuff. I'll be putting a rade tower on my bike when I can afford to, mostly for looks and GPS placement but I'm sure the wind protection will be nice too.

[@murlyn2]

@@BigRockMotothx for the reply.

[@murlyn2]

⁠@@Michael_Shaythx for the reply.

[@DanilErofeev]

I have an Africa Twin and before that I had a BMW G650X that's almost the same as this one. And the downside of wind protection in the changing climate is it's actually very hot to ride in warm weather since you are only getting some wind when you're staying. As well as travelling at higher speeds is more dangerous - wind prevents you from doing so for a long time)

[@craighoffman6876]

Super nice build! Interesting that Ian regrets selling that stellar 690 he had and he's back. The 690 platform is unique, and like a seriously beautiful girlfriend who has a few frustrating character flaws, we get over them and always come back... 100% with Ian on quality plastic skid plates, running an AXP on my '23 701. Aluminum would reflect engine noise and sound like a box of rocks with this engine. Running those same crash bars too. Also did the same with my rear fender, used an Enduro Engineering plastic plate mount and stuck it under the tailight, have not had any issues. Gonna have to look into that Veridian cruise system, that is sweet indeed! By all means check the valves at the initial service. Like other KTM products I've had, the valves on my 701 were all right at the tight end of the spec. I re-shimmed them myself, it was not hard to do, but stick a rag in the cam tunnel to prevent losing a shim down there and the potential tears that would lead to. I wager they will not move now that they have bed in. The exhaust side is EZ with the removable rocker arm, the intake has cool sliding clip thingies on the finger followers to allow access. I've been running a TuBliss on the front of my 701. I drop the pressure on the front tire when off road to around 14 PSI, the TuBliss allows the lower pressure than a tube would without fear of pinch flats, it protects the rim, and of course it has a rim lock. It did take quite a bit of static balancing via spoke weights to get it balanced. The aired down TKC works fine here in dry decomposed granite rocky Colorado but above 16 PSI ya might as well be riding on ice - the front tire needs to be able to deflect a little in the dirt. The TKC is great on the street, smooth and quite sticky in the canyons. The TuBliss is not DOT approved but I've had no issues. Running a Rallz on the rear with a heavy tube and rim lock, the Rallz works well everywhere and it is a lot tuffer and standing up to the weight and power of the bike far better than the TKC, but it is louder on the road than my Yosh can at cruise to moderately brisk acceleration, loud tires save lives 😆 Speaking of the Yosh can, running an R77, it has a spark arrestor but no DB killer. It is longer than the Wings can, sounds deep and smooth and generally great until ya pin it, then honestly it is loud AF. I kinda like it that way though, just my preference, as it is rare that I "pin it" and I like the smooth DB killer free sound it has with no "chuffiness" the rest of the time. Combined with the Rottweiler tuning via a PC6 and O2 eliminator, the power is much stronger, to the point I went up a tooth on the front sprocket to a 16. This makes for relaxed extended highway cruising at 70-75. 1st is taller of course, but the extra power handles it off road and it is actually better on road where the stock 1st feels really short. In other words, tuned and the taller 1st gear are still better off road than all stock. Bonus, the quickshifter works a lot smoother and just plain better with the taller gearing. The caveat here is the stock bike would not pull the +1 front sprocket easily, it has to be richened up via tuning to do it well. Tuning the 690 transforms it into the fire breathing thumper from Hell that it should be. Front forks are a lot better for me (210 in gear) with the .59 springs out and .65 springs in, with 7 weight Maxima oil. The firmer springs got laden sag in the 30% of total travel ballpark. Extended the forks to line #1 up by the caps also, as the bike always felt nose heavy in the dirt. The plus side of that is it is stable on the road at speed. I like the rear shock and it's .72 spring as delivered after setting clickers and sag. I suspect the unbalanced factory springs are due to the rear fuel tank and passenger pegs, potential for running luggage, but I do neither. A free mod any 690 platform owner should consider is removing the kickstand sensor and it's magnet, heat shrink wrapping it to stay together, and storing it all under the seat. The stock setup is mounted low and quite vulnerable. If a rock takes it out it will strand the bike with no trailside fix - splicing wires won't do it. Doing the same with the rear ABS sensor disables TC and ABS full time, which I prefer as front ABS is a disaster in the dirt and a PITA to turn off each time the bike is started, and TC gets in the way of doing wheelies on road and off, and sometimes ya gotta spin to win in the dirt!

[@sprintermaximus]

I know Cottonwood Pass well. Love that you came to my part of the country!

[@Porsche996driver]

Colorado is awesome!

[@sprintermaximus]

@@Porsche996driver I have a 996 as well. Drive over the pass a couple times a year. :D

[@jasgsxr2726]

Great stuff Ian, I like the cruise control. If it had tubeless tires and was Japanese it would be at the top of my list !

[@MrSaabEddy]

Ride mode 2 makes abs front on, back off and allows more slip. I agree on gear rations. A great vid again!

[@matage1010]

This is what I thought?

[@donreed1133]

I really enjoy the amount of detail you give in your motorcycle reviews. The closeup video in the opening is very helpful to anyone interested in the motorcycle. Thank you!

[@M5tworude]

My buddy and I each had a 23 model 690 and it just didn't suit our mission. We were always sweating having enough gas to get home after a typical ride. A couple of weeks ago we were deep in the mountains of Utah and finally made it back to the highway north of Mexican Hat. We had to ride them 45 miles to the hotel and that was the last straw as they are VERY uncomfortable at highway speeds. The next day we traded them off on two new KTM 1290R's. The next day I rode it 388 miles and it was an awesome ride to Lander Wyoming.

[@miro_s]

It all made sense until you mentioned the 1290R… if you can happily replace the 690 with the 1290, then the 690 wasn’t the bike you wanted in the first place and you should have thought more carefully before buying it…

[@ERUtheWINDRIDER]

Hello Ian, nice review, and I've said that as an ex owner of 690. Right now Rade is running a promotion, so if you buy a tower you get a free gas tank, this being another shortcoming of this platform, that you did not mention. Also you do not need a rack(especially when it bolts to the plastic tank/subframe), for a rackless luggage, on this bike especially, one can tie the back straps behind the back lite of the bike. (there is enough space between the light and the rear fender to sneak in 2 straps).

[@ShadowVonChadwick]

Love the Red. Have always like the 690 platform & know there are issues, but there is something about that trellis frame that attracts me. Fuel under the seat & now the twin counter balancers. Not to even mention overall weight. That tower & gear is slick. 👍 Look forward to the trip vid. Cheers from Downunder.

[@dcxplant]

A lot of clever and common sense solutions in your kit. Great content, thanks. Can't wait to see the travel video.

[@kai-uweoch1159]

You speek my language! I gave up my 901 a year ago and got a slightly used 701, one year old, factory lowered (got short legs), HDPE skid plate and Remus exhaust. I added the same Adv Spec GPS mount / screen and their side guards which are very similars to yours. This week I swapped the Remus for the same Wings and with the extra quiet insert you can buy as an accessory and its not much louder than the original (means: horse friendly) but much less hot. Now I am waiting for a fuel dongle from Australia to get the AFR a bit richer, so the bike will run nicer. Means my bike is very similar to yours and I never regretted giving up the 901. 15.000km in one season of which 7000km on one single trip from Sweden to Croatia and Italy!

[@borissh9932]

Why didn’t you get the Boosterplug?

[@justsomedude445]

i debated building a 701 into an adv bike instead of the 901 few years back and i often wish i had

[@Eddie_Turbo]

Hey mate, do you have the clear screen? I heard at night it can be very glary ie reflect lots of light... did you have any dramas? cheers

[@fluffycat087]

What goes around comes around. Welcome back, this is the, THE unicorn bike in plain sight.

[@defecationzen]

i've watched your other 2 690 videos and it's funny how you keep coming back to the platform and also keep pointing out the same downsides. very much a love-hate relationship i guess. my 701 is getting homologated as i type so hopefully i get to see and ride it real soon. for the luggage weight concerns i ordered the side racks from adventurespec to go with a perun motor rear rack hopefully the support is much more robust.

[@AustenARW]

It's the same repetition he does with other bikes. He bought that 501 Husky earlier this year and basically said in the first and second videos how it was his "ultimate forever - dream - light ADV bike" and outfitted with farkles to the nines like this bike. Then, the next video of it he says he doesn't like it for all these different reasons and then sells it soon after. I've noticed the first couple of videos he does on most bikes, he talks about how much he loves them, maybe wants to keep them, and then a little later says all these things he doesn't like and sells. Another recent example is the 450RL. He claimed earlier that he liked the 450RL better than his 501 and praised the Honda up and down in a couple videos. His latest video of it was all negative.

[@martyn_g]

Perun make a subframe reinforcement kit.

[@dr.jayburness6522]

I was told the adventurespec side racks are not compatible with the perunmoto tail rack.

[@defecationzen]

@@dr.jayburness6522 I'm still waiting for the bike so i haven't tried. Isn't it just a matter of getting the right bushing size. If the ones that came with either product doesn't fit maybe can just cut some down to size?

[@dr.jayburness6522]

@@defecationzen I asked Perun Moto. They said it won’t fit but didn’t specify why. I had the same thought about different bushings but wasn’t willing to take the chance. I already have the Perun moto tail rack. Let us know how it goes.

[@Zt3v3]

The best mod I've found for the 690 platform is lowering the rear shock by an inch (with an 8mm internal shock spacer, $15 part). Not just for the seat height, it makes the steering much more stable without hurting turning. It will eliminate head shake at highway speed. Bonus, you can run 120/100-18 tires, or even 110/100-18 and you'll plenty of fork adjustment to get the rake/trail set. I've had 3 of this platform too, and they all had headshake. (a steering damper is not a great fix for this, although I do run a damper). My current 690 has 25,000 miles on it, never had the motor apart other than valve checks. (you don't have to lower the bike to achieve this result - you could extend the forks. My point is changing the rake/trail)

[@stiingya]

How big of a PITA is it to pull the shock apart and do the spacer mod? I was looking at the 3/4" lowering link to work on the headshake issue. (I did a raising link on my KLR before, and had done a lowering link on a KLR for someone else and it's not so bad swapping those out)

[@breeno59]

Big fan of this platform, it's my go-to for adv style riding - my 890AR mostly sits now.

[@davidh1314]

A friend of mine sold his 2016 Husky 701 after 84,000 miles..... They can be quite reliable, if maintained.

[@Chrusttee]

Hey man, really enjoying your vids lately. You're so much more comfortable in front of the camera now compared to a couple years ago. Keep it up!

[@RadDadisRad]

That is absolutely incredible. That is for me a 95% build.

[@kellieredmond4400]

Mate in Western Australia we have lots of pea gravel and clay and the tyres handled really good i let them down to 19 psi no problem the bike is a beast 140 km down single trail corrugations on main dirt roads it just soakes it up im very surprised so different from my sxf 450 no vibration awesome on the road and i got it $5000 grand off the price i highly recommended

[@alexmoreno8156]

Ian turn this into a long term build series. Where you build the bike and platform into a BDR slaying machine. Include a sub series about maintaining the bike; valve clearance checks, oil changes, etc.

[@jwdutchadventureseeker]

Nice review, on the 701 number 2 is front abs on rear abs of and it let's you slide the rear on the dirt and the tarmac😊 other then that the bike is overall the same although i have to say that in my expirience the 701 is the most sufisticated one and the most offroad focust one with a better abs and traction control settings and slighter wider foodpegs. And i upgraded mine with the Rade Garage navigation tower, extra fuel tank and rear rack. And i'm very pleased with it. Going on long trips with mutiple days in the mountains riding it from TET tracks to mountain path's from country to country for about 6500km's now and had no issues what so ever and with a motorcross back ground i'm not gentle with it but she takes me every where😁 Love you're tech on the bike and will look for some of you're upgraded to install on mine in the future👍

[@georgeferguson9779]

I just finished a 1,400 mile trip last week on my 2018 KTM 690. Part pavement (including interstate) and part dirt. Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles and New Mexico. I see no reason to use any other bike. Worked beautifully!

[@cloud9847]

thanks for all your reviews. They've taught me a ton and I'm sure you've saved me money in the long run. I'm putting a down payment on a Himalayan 450 next week to have one when they hit my area. I'm going with the Tubeless. I am very confident it will be the perfect first Adventure bike for me and your review and a few others, thank you Dork, really showed me the bike. I appreciate the shit out of ya, bud.

[@arepollo]

Oh hey! I was there! Fun trip! The hail during the dinner bell was a bit rough though

[@edgarsmiluns9896]

Excellent bike and mods. Small comment regarding ABS - ABS has two operating modes: the Street and Offroad ABS modes. In the Street ABS mode, the ABS controls both wheels. In ABS mode Offroad, the ABS only controls the front wheel. There is no ABS control on the rear wheel. The ABS warning lamp 3 flashes slowly to remind you that the Offroad ABS mode is enabled.

[@Juku9000]

I can’t wait for the adventure travel film on the Gasgas. I own a 701 and love it, here in the UK it just hits that 50/50 roads and trails perfectly. If you don’t want to trailer a bike to the trails, it’s almost perfect

[@alexmoreno8156]

Great overview! The 690/701/700 seems to be a great platform as a dual sport that can be built up to be a light ADV'er. The LC4 engine has been around for a while and as long as you keep up with the service intervals, especially the valve clearance checks, the motor is pretty reliable.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I really enjoy my 701. Certainly doesn't feel like a real "adventure", but in kind of the best way possible. Sure it's not near as comfy as something like a Tenere on the road, but the fact that it has near sport bike power for the road, and can still rip insane single track is something very few other bikes can come close too.

[@toddsorel-pg4hr]

I have a 690 Duke (with the smooth engine). What people fail to realize is, yes it has similar power to the T7 and whatnot, but because of the low weight it has the performance of a much more powerful engine. I can compare mine directly with a 990. I have had no real issues in 25,000 miles and I have considered adapting more off road suitable wheels and tires on it as it is way more comfortable on the highway than a enduro/701.

[@silverado5325]

I have been critical of this channel in the past but this review is pretty good. I have a 701 that is really built and have had it for years and many miles. Its very reliable. Yes the close ratio tranny sucks, and getting to the gas cap is a problem but its a brilliant BDR slayer. Its a unicorn. Its good enough on the street and good enough on the dirt and you can pick it up solo. Hence the lack of YT videos of guys trapped or needing a crew to pick up the supertankers with all the crap on them.

[@UltralightMotorcycleCamping]

I'm not converting an ES700 to an ADV bike but I love these videos. Hopefully soon we'll have good factory options for lightweight off road oriented ADV bikes and won't need to convert dual sport bikes. I carry a waterproof duffel on the rear rack and pillion so the rear fuel tank is a non-starter for me. I'm not taking off my luggage and reinstalling it every time I need fuel. If anyone would like an open source Android based GPS solution, I'm running OSMand on a 9 inch Samsung tablet, but it would also run on a smaller tablet or your previous model cell phone after you upgrade. I have OSMand on my cell phone as well as a backup navigation solution. Both devices have all of the maps and overlays for North America. I intentionally mounted my GPS tablet low so it's not in my visual scan to prevent me from fixating on it, so my attention is on riding the bike. I'm installing a display with a rear camera view from a front/back digital video recorder on a rally tower to provide an unobstructed view behind me for 360 degree situational awareness. Motorcycle mirrors suck. With all of the safety innovations, I'm amazed that we still don't have rear view displays as a standard factory feature on new bikes.

[@stiingya]

All of the rear racks are behind the fuel cap, so you'd have to be purposefully and intentionally covering up the fuel cap with your duffel. So generally speaking that isn't an issue. (obviously with this full panier system it was an issue, but any new one is made for this) And your pillion is going to want to get off and stretch their legs when you stop and get gas anyway. So those really aren't much for reason not to get one. BUT for sure I'd pick something different if your wanting to ride 2 up regularly. (maybe if your pillion was petite?)

[@UltralightMotorcycleCamping]

@@stiingya - I never have a passenger. It's not the usual setup, but I carry a waterproof 66 liter duffel on top of the rear rack and pillion instead of panniers, although I am looking at 10 liters per side to carry the heavy items such as tools and water, low and forward. I don't like panniers hanging off the sides of the bike to cause aerodynamic drag on the road, and to snag on rocks and trees off road. It may work fine for others, but a fuel cap in the rear doesn't work for me... at all. A side fill such as the older G650GS would be OK.

[@stiingya]

@@UltralightMotorcycleCamping But the rack that you would be putting your duffel on is behind the fuel cap? I mean buy what you want, but what your describing is a non issue.

[@stiingya]

I guess what your saying is you want the duffel long ways over the rear seat and all the way back on the rack and so the duffel is over the fuel cap? OK then. But any number of ways you could set up a big duffel that was easy to unclip and scoot to fill up the same way tank bags do. OR, I guess you could buy a LR, or at least the LR front tanks and make it so the rear tank didn't get used?? OR wait until somebody else builds a 690 platform style of bike without a rear tank?? It blows my mind with three companies making these that one of them didn't made a factory adventure ready version when so many of them are built up that way?? And why make a LR without a better faring anyway?? Weird... But if you want this kind of Unicorn it's the only game in town??

[@UltralightMotorcycleCamping]

@@stiingya - The rack isn't the issue. My 66 liter duffel covers the entire pillion and rear rack. The entire area behind my butt is covered by that large piece of luggage that's securely attached to the bike, so if the fuel cap is anywhere back there, I'd need to remove the duffel with all of my camping equipment every time I added fuel, and I'm not going to do that. The rear fuel cap is OK for a rally or enduro bike, but not an adventure bike, IMO. That's the biggest problem with adapting a Kove 450 to be a lightweight adventure bike, but I believe it has a front tank as well as the rear tank. It would be great if a bike had a front and rear tank for more fuel capacity and better balance, but have them connected so they are both filled from the front.

[@chiptaxfree]

Nice review. Can't wait for the film.

[@davelarocque3319]

Ian, for the ABS you need the dongle and then add a switch to the 12V wire on in. In off-road mode (dongle on) you can have just the rear ABS working on the rear and when you transition to the street just turn the dongle off with the switch for full ABS "Road mode" - Look up dirt bike Jesus for the mod. Also, I was told yesterday that the new Mosko Reckless 40 will have the cut out for the 690/700/701 fuel cap.

[@ridemfast7625]

It depends on the year if a dongle is required to disable rear abs. Also, the bike has to be turned off each time the dongle is switched on or off. Unlike the Map switch that can be changed while bike is running. My 2020 701 requires the dongle. A year or two later they changed that and the rear abs can be turned off without the dongle.

[@salib3k]

Now that's a dream build. Looking forward to seeing it on & off the road.

[@advredbikes]

Thanks for this awesome review on this gas gas, thank you for educating me that KTM is the builder of this bike plus I was at my local dealer today looking for something different and I saw this bike. The new version in the dealership is very cool. I probably wouldn’t hold it unless I had a pile of money, but it’s pretty cool. Thanks for educating. Looking forward to next video.

[@paddy3088]

It’s a top bike, the Adv Spec fairing is good with the wind. Just did 2 weeks Cape York Australia it didn’t miss a beat.

[@Eddie_Turbo]

Hey mate, do you have the clear screen? I heard at night it can be very glary ie reflect lots of light... did you have any dramas? cheers

[@paddy3088]

@ sorry haven’t ridden at night with it.

[@rudiruessel]

Hey Ian, once again a great video. You are by far the best motorcycle reviewer on KZbin. Independent, precise, and with broad experience. Funny enough, a friend of mine just bought an ES700 two days ago and wants to use it as an adventure bike. I bought a Tuareg a week before your video about the Tuareg 660 came out. For the next bike, I’ll reach out to you beforehand. But it seems our instincts haven’t been wrong so far. If you ever come to Europe, feel free to reach out, and I’ll show you some spectacular routes on the TransEuroTrail (TET). Keep up the great work. Awesome content.

[@CheradenineZakalwe]

im running 1,5BAR on my 690 for 30k and no rimlocks needed. As for Plate lightning. There is actually a white light inside there and its used on 790/890 platform. Just rewire the OEM plate light wire into that and voilaa. As for reliability. the 55kw LC4 is very solid except the early models clutch master cylinder. Mine got fixed on recall and from 2021 models they changed design. I have 30k with no other issues and friend has 50k km. Both abused alot. most important thing, what can leave you stranded is a Sidestand switch.. GET DONGLE or Rewire it under the seat, If it gets damaged, your need a tow truck. No easy way to short circuit, aff resistor etc on it. It has some smart sensor talking to ECU. Check oil level and make sure air filter doesnt let dust in(grease edges/get Rade Foam one)

[@RYwoodview]

Fun & creative build, Ian. Yet, especially for road use as well, the KTM 390 Adv is nearly as light and more generally capable depending on tire choice. Much less expensive too. 43 hp is less than 70, but it will easily run at 60-70 mph too.

[@WetFeet4]

I had the 390, great little motor, but I don’t think they’re even in the same league. This platform is extremely capable, robust and the torque is addicting.

[@TourmeisterTWT]

@@WetFeet4 I have a 2020 and 2022 390 Adv and I have spent a good bit of seat time on a 690. I'd have to agree, apples and oranges. The 390s are great bikes for their price and if you ride them with their limitations in mind, they are fantastic for general adventure touring. However, they are not real crash worthy, even for mild low speed get offs. The rear brake lever in particular is a serious weak point. an aftermarket steel lever would be nice. The OEM lever is cast aluminum and prone to snapping off or bending and then snapping if you try to bend it back. Also, I have never had bikes shed bolts like the 390s do!! That even includes my old 02 KLR 650 with its crappy low grade bolts. I have spent a small fortune replacing bolts on these bikes (not enough to make up the cost diff between the 390 and 690 though :-P ). If you plan to ride anything more technical than basic dirt/gravel roads, the 390 will do it, but it will take a toll on you and the bike unless you go pretty slow. My 18 year old son is wanting to move up to the 690 because he is out riding the capabilities of the 390 for the kind of riding he likes to do. We did an 8200 mile 50 day trip last year all up and down the Rocky mountains, him on the 2020, my daughter on the 2022, and me on my 17 1200 GS Rallye. Their bikes were great for that trip and handled the weight of the luggage well, even on the slightly rougher dirt/gravel. We slightly geared them down, but they could still run 80 mph, but that was about it. They got really good gas mileage, usually 45-55 mpg unless we were running into high winds or doing long 75-8 0mph runs and then they dropped to the high 30s low 40s. IF you want to ride many of the passes in SW Colorado, the 690 would be a FAR better choice!

[@RYwoodview]

@@TourmeisterTWT & @timbrandt7211 Great points about the differences. The 690 sure ought to run rings around the 390 off road (with better clearance). Yet until one is an advanced offroader, the 390 with proper knobbies can take you anywhere, albeit not at 60 mph through gullies. As Tourmeister did with his kids (what a wonderful time you must have had!). Probably depends most on how comfortable you care to be on road versus how wild you want to get off road. Besides knobbies, the other parts can be switched out. I got folding pegs & rear brake pedal (my non-folding one popped off on a tipover). And Barkbusters and a strong bash plate. With a 14 tooth sprocket up front the low end is good now, with plenty in reserve for cruising at 70 mph anyway in 6th (I haven't gone faster yet). You're so right about the bolts; I stripped a couple heads and got one stuck in place, until I got very careful; haven't again but have also replaced some as needed.

[@adventuremulemoto]

Love it. Great video! I am most likely moving the same direction away from my "adventurized" 501. Can't wait for the trip video.

[@mikeisland7382]

Nice build. Another positive for this bike is that there are passenger pegs available even though there's not much passenger room. I'd love to see a refresh with 890 tanks and this seat stock. It would be interesting to have a shoot out between this, the 450L, PR7 and the Kove 450.

[@alastairtheduke]

Bike looks sick

[@StephenFull-xb9gn]

Oh great, another platform to consider for a next bike! :) Great review!

[@leifiseland1218]

Hmm.. You should probably try to get to try out the AJP PR7..🤔

[@davidsonneman1121]

Ride with a regular group of guys. 2 690’s and a 701. They have been very reliable. Seam to be a great bike. However, they are 50 lbs heavier than my WR250R. You would think they would leave my little 250 in the dust. I guess if riding were drag racing then that would be the case. I hang right in there with them. Take the lead when the going gets tough.

[@shawnelliott5311]

Another great video, love my 690, and I agree with your review. You can see in the Video, but I did not see you discussing the GoPro mounting and controls. My ankles hurt and the longer foot pegs are essential.

[@laurentexcoffier4617]

Great video on a great bike platform. I have 2019 690 with 47000 km. Not a single glitch despite quite a few challenging trails over Europe.. it is more reliable than my 1200 GS. Just a comment on the ABS dongle. I connected it to a switch so that I can have ABS on both wheel, the front wheel only or no ABS at all.

[@marceliszp4803]

I'm waiting for the Ducati 698 Enduro, I hope for a better gradation of gears in the gearbox, a better solution for the fuel tank (ease of enlargement). Add to this a more comfortable seat and longer suspension travels and...KMT has a problem.

[@west_adv]

Thanks Ian, not many people admits, but I fully agree with you about importance of ABS and I wish is some lighter bikes would have one. E.g. 450L with ABS would be very interesting. For now I'm staying with my Tuareg + 300L. Ps. I damaged my knee 2y ago on bmw 650 dakar due to lack of front abs

[@ManBikeSwag]

Man, you have to stop buying bikes! You are sending me broke trying to keep up. My last 5 bike were, Ducati Enduro 1200, T7, 890 Adv r, KTM 690 enduro and now I just paid a deposit for a ES700! Seriously, man, you're killing me.

[@kiwiadventurer]

Cheers from Nz for a comprehensively thorough video. You have reiterated some worries I had and the height was the main complaint for me. I also run and Africa Twin so am used to height however as a duel sport the gasgas is its height. Thanks and enjoy your next event.

[@mikef3300]

I’m still riding my 2017 Ktm 690. It’s been a great bike and very reliable with just routine maintenance. I’ve never ridden a newer one with the dual balancing. Like to see what all the fuss is about

[@teatowel11]

I like this a lot. I do some long rides interstate and like the option of buzzing along the highway if needed. I have a Tenere for those reasons but i think this is an awesone option if you have another vehicle for long travel.

[@MotNodgir]

+1 on the veridian! I have it installed on my 2015 690.

[@ksb24dan]

Missing important items, Rottweiler: Kick stand dongle, Canister removal kit, Fuel mixture dongle (smooths out low end with more power) , air intake filter canister kit (stock KTM filter junk; you will ruin your engine), At least get the auzzy yellow Uni filter, Personally like panniers with Mosko Moto bags. Oxford heated grips. I'm on my 3rd Husky 701. Rear fuel keeps CG back with low front platform.

[@dr.x4050]

Thanks for the review. I'm a litle surprised you bought the ES700 instead of the CRF450RL.

[@hergaster4443]

Service intervals

[@dr.x4050]

@@hergaster4443 I expected Ian to replace his FE501 with the CRF450RL, and I believe he's not intimidated by service intervals. I now guess the ES700 is not a FE501 replacement but something else entirely. I'm waiting for a 40hp < 400# bike with 10" travel, cruise control, tubeless wheels, etc. But I may need to wait a long time.

[@hergaster4443]

@@dr.x4050 Yes I'm with you. But yeah that to me is the big difference between the two for touring.

[@Trailfocused]

@@dr.x4050 New kove 800 has 95hp, less than 400 pounds and has 10 inches of travel and is 12k MSRP

[@THX5000]

There will always be tradeoffs with motorcycles. These bikes (KTM 690 platform) are not perfect but they are quite fun with plenty of power, and if you drop one they are not too heavy to pick up.

[@ogasi1798]

that is a beautiful graphics kit - my 2013 450 sxf has silver wheels, i love it - looks different from other ktm

[@glennboy66]

You can go out and buy one its called an AJP PR7 building another adv bike from a dual sport like the ES700 was my other option. To build that ES700 here in Oz you would be looking at 30,000 plus AUD for instance the led blinkers are $400. AJP has the wide ratio box, more fuel, a tower, more travel suspension etc etc Standard.

[@juliusjacob1416]

KTM/Husqi could so easily make an absolute unicorn adventure bike from the factory. Use the 690/701 platform, add some fairings/wind protection and luggage options, call it the 690 Rally and there it is… It really isn’t that hard.

[@Frakaphoto]

sold my 701 enduro for a CRF300 rally as at the end you are 45 km/h on rock and 110 on road max. more versatility, lower , better gear ratio, and far more confortable , usable and affordable if you brake something. these 690/ 701 are excellent bike up to the point they are too much in all sens. like a sharp knife you will cut yourself on daily use.

[@mikeschlup5279]

I am glad you mentioned that the 2017 had vibration issues..i rode a 2015 and hated it ...jarred my the fillings out of my teeth...

[@jnagano9409]

Nice build and always a professional review

[@theshibsox44]

Cool build out Ian! Great video, I am looking at the same bike, this video helped me big time in making a decision!!

[@46MOOKS]

Cheers Ian, another great video. Any chance you’ll do a review on the AJP PR7 at some point?

[@gzahnd]

Hey Ian, ride mode 2 allows you to have front ABS on, and rear ABS off. Great video!

[@traviscarter9300]

Yeah... Now we're talking. 🔥

[@russperry3000]

I agree on the gearing - way too high in 1st, and too low in 6th. And with how quickly the clutch plates give out (with almost no warning), you could find yourself in trouble if riding solo.

[@gl2856]

Love the bike Ian and once again a great review, looking forward to to the review on the sat nav , still not sure what make it is though. Thanks Ian great channel , Graham 🇬🇧

[@GrahamWalker-ki7qf]

Hi, the nav tablet is from Thork Racing, the device is T865, there is now an upgraded tablet T865X

[@notgamingwithmax]

I own this bike and agree with almost all of your points. If you could have only one bike, the 690 platform is not horrible but for me I'm not happy with this model. I can't seem to get the ergos comfortable for me. I wish I never bought it. The bars are far too low and are limited by the wires with how far you can raise them. I've been tinkering with it since I bought it trying to get it comfortable. My next change will be lowering pegs and if that doesn't do it for me I'm selling it.

[@RealHooksy]

More light than ultralight but a cool ride nonetheless 👍

[@victorsturdivant4731]

A thumper with cruise?? Sign me up coach.

[@UncleWally3]

As a confirmation, been riding for over fifty years. Last week ABS kept my Africa Twin from smashing through an apologetic cager’s windshield. Full stop . . .

[@HinspectorGournal]

I'm so glad your channel has more than quadrupled since I've found you. keep up the good work and don't sell out to the over produced and over budget KZbin way!

[@keithquinn5624]

Dr650 wins for actual proper light adventure bike, this is good for short range local trails and getting to them.

[@WetFeet4]

I had the Suzuki for years, it was great after fixing and upgrading, but it really doesn’t hold a candle to this bike as far as brakes, motor and suspension go. The Suzuki being a less stressed motor among other simplicities probably makes it more reliable, though I haven’t had a single break down in 48000km with a 690. Still, if I were going around the world, I’d probably pick the 650 if between these two, but it would be a difficult decision.

[@drseanlewis3173]

Professional sincere reviews...top I. The industry Ian.

[@donkeizluv]

690 platform is hard to escape. On the reliability side its pretty damn reliable and a lot of people rode them across continent but you kinda have to be your own mechanic and do all the preventative maintenance and replacements

[@rshawiii]

can't wait to see your SW colorado video. Hope you got to come to lake city.

[@ianmoone6562]

It's really good but I think I'd get the Ajp pr7 because it's 99% this from factory already. Idk this end price but I'd probably guess comes close to the pr7 gold edition that has 300mm ohlins.

[@Zerotys_ADV]

I own a 22 in 🍊. Love the bike overall. The downsides mentioned in the video are accurate. Reliability has been good for me so far(7000 miles). I like the things you’ve done to it but that DMD2 or whatever it’s called just looks out of place because of the size. I appreciate the video as it gives me some ideas about lighting and I’m looking forward to the movie; however, I’m surprised Ian bought this bike given he had a couple prior models and some of the things he mentioned previously as it pertains to the model.

[@atticushexcel9567]

Excellent Ian.

[@lastWouldBeFirst]

For the rear plate, you can hot the plastic and bend it, slowly, it's ok and gives more legal angle. Rear light has the little light for the plate. Big rear connector has 4 wires, 1 not used. This is the one to the little light inside rear lights

[@trroland1248]

Love it! 😀 Where is it produced?

[@SpaceCowboy5555]

NOVA gearbox upgrade? Pricey, but everyone who does it loves it

[@mikeisland7382]

It seems like a great opportunity for them for testing/review here.

[@Alan-bj9nb]

Great videos! Thanks!

[@THX5000]

If you are going to put a lot of gear on the back of these bikes to go camping, a stiffer rear shock spring (if needed for your weight) and an X-trig preload adjuster (to make adjustments easy) will make the bike handle much better than stock, especially at high speeds. Both available at Slavens racing.

[@ienasescuruben7326]

Great job!