KTM 690 Enduro R In-depth Review and Build out

[@VidanoFilms]

This is probably one of the best mod reviews I’ve watched. Thank you.

[@bfeadventures]

You’re welcome!

[@VidanoFilms]

@@bfeadventures As a follow up I wanted to ask you about the SCOTTS OFFROAD STEERING STABILIZER/DAMPER UNIT. You mentioned that this is the first bike your hands didn’t go numb. So I’m guessing you didn’t see the need to add this mod. Correct? Any more thoughts on this would be helpful. (I saw one review from a guy who has a 2019 and added it anyway. Seems odd considering the 2019 and newer have the new engine and balancing arm, etc.)

[@bfeadventures]

@@VidanoFilms the steering damper will not help with vibrations, actually. It will only help smooth out steering when hitting rough sections that cause a lot of misdirection in the front end. So, I may add it down the line. I will say though, the bike is SMOOTH for a thumper. Not as smooth as my T7, but dang good for a thumper.

[@VidanoFilms]

@@bfeadventures Good distinction. Would like to hear if you ever do add it.

[@breeno59]

Big Mosko fan (run a R80 on my 890R) but for the 690 I went with the Kriega base setup for the 690. Really like em! Clears the fuel cap and very quick on/off. I uncorked mine via the Rotty Airbox + PCV w/ dual maps (Fun Map & MPG Map) and *whoa* ... so much more fun to ride... 100% agree on the ABS dongle, must-have for me as well... Great vid!

[@mechcavandy986]

My GL Mohave bags don’t cover the fuel cap either. And I can carry all I need for an overnight trip on it. 👍🏻

[@szymonchalupka]

I am doing 80% on-road but for that 20% of-road I want the bike as capable as possible so I chose 701 enduro with TKC80 front and E07 rear tyres. Cannot be happier with it. Not to mention that I love to ride twisty mountain roads on that bike.

[@bfeadventures]

It’s a canyon carver for sure!

[@MattPerry]

what about reliability, clutch slave cylinder water pump...

[@bfeadventures]

@@MattPerry definitely areas to be aware of. I *knocks on wood* have not had those issues, but I do have a spare space cylinder just in case. Lol

[@mechcavandy986]

@@MattPerrymy clutch slave cylinder went out on mine.

[@marcochavanne]

​@@MattPerrywhen people talk about reliable dual sports they tend to think about bikes like the CRF250L, DRZ400, and KLR650. My DRZ400E had the bottom end let go at 45mph. Was just cruising down the loop and the rod ended up wiping the entire case, piston, jug, valves, head. Etc. My buddy has a 2024 KLR650 sitting at a dealership waiting on parts. Fuel pump failed at around 3,000 miles despite it not falling into the VIN range for the fuel pump recall. All bikes can have problems. I only get concerned when the failures are inconsistent so they are harder to remedy with preventative maintenance.

[@personperson290]

Traded for the 690 today, your breakdown of the bike greatly helped in my decision to go for it.

[@bfeadventures]

Awesome! Enjoy the ride!

[@owengeorge2760]

Could you by chance update your description with a parts list? Great video overall! Fixing to buy my first 690!

[@bfeadventures]

Yep! I’ll compile a list!

[@manu311]

Mapping 2 has Offroad ABS and less TC (and more aggressive throttle response) in EU. Got my 690R Rally build for 1 year now and absolutely love it!

[@bfeadventures]

Cheers! Loving mine as well!

[@Navillus2273]

Just picked up a new 690 enduro r. Had a 2014 way back always loved that bike and have missed it since I sold it. Traded my T7 for the 690. T7 was a great bike. Engine and gearing was spot on for off road and the BDR's. I simply wanted a lighter bike I can use on the BDR rides, so I circled back to the KTM. Great video BTW, I will be following along.

[@bfeadventures]

Thanks!!!! Enjoy the new 690!

[@ianbarriscale1632]

Good review of the bike. I have the same set up as yourself and its the perfect adventure bike for my needs where my priority is how it performs off road as against on road. Regarding the play in the rear brake pedal. Check the master cylinder hasn't slid back on the elongated bolt holes. Mine did exactly that after fitting the AXP skid plate as I found the bolt for the skid plate goes through the rear master cylinder but doesn't grip very well on the plastic skid plate. Ended up fitting a larger washer on there.

[@bfeadventures]

Good to know! Thanks!

[@alexmoreno8156]

Fantastic overview! I’m considering selling my Tuareg for a 690/701. I realized I want something lighter, smaller, but with some guts for more aggressive riding that can hang on the highway.

[@bfeadventures]

@@alexmoreno8156 this fits the bill!

[@TommyT888]

Great video! Appreciate the time stamps (although I watched the whole thing through). I heard rumors of a redesign...so I'm waiting to see what they have in store before I pull the plug on a new one.

[@mechcavandy986]

That looks like the same carbon fiber dash I have. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@keyboarddancers7751]

690's a real gem of a bike. Yours looks the beans. (damping)

[@jasonlucas-x1h]

Great review! I have 2023 and have done very similar mods to yours. I am 200lbs and feel like I need to dial in the front suspension. You mentioned working with yours. Any advice on adjusting it? I feel it mainly in more technical riding especially if I get into softer ground. I feel like the front end dives on me too easily. I initially regretted buying this bike. It wasn't a great dirt bike and wasn't a great adventure bike. After riding it for a while and modifying it I have fallen in love with it. It can go BDRs my 350 can't and I have the confidence to solo more technical rides that my old T7 couldn't. Plus I have shit eating grin on my face everytime I ride it. I do wish the gears were not so tall. I am going to throw a 48 tooth on the rear this week and see how that feels.

[@mechcavandy986]

I’ve got a Mosko Gnome tank bag too. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@barrymurphy3554]

Thanks Brother love your work from a Aussi Cheers

[@bfeadventures]

Thank you!

[@krazed0451]

Word of advice for anyone considering Steg Pegz, if you're someone like me that likes to let the bike move around under you a lot, avoid them!

[@volkerrath8409]

Steg pegs don’t limit me at all but having them on a steep long rocky climb is gold

[@krazed0451]

​@@volkerrath8409 That's part of where I couldn't stand them, I'm happy they work for you though 😁

[@volkerrath8409]

⁠maybe it has something to do with my age 😂

[@Michalich100500]

Nice truth review! Fully agree with you. Thanks, man! Did you remove the SAS/canister? What kit did you use?

[@bfeadventures]

Sure did! Rottweiler

[@timsalabimbombassa]

It would be interesting to know what you did exactly to dial in the suspension. I know it’s personal, but it’s handy to have a starting point that gives a clue to where the problem lies. Otherwise very useful and complete review.

[@bfeadventures]

For me - I just had to turn up the rebound in the front and rear. I also increased compression on the front. If you want specifics. I can count the clocks tomorrow. I have long forgotten what they were.

[@timsalabimbombassa]

the hint is already useful to find a direction. thnx!@@bfeadventures

[@mechcavandy986]

I just went by the owner’s manual. However, I’d like to have a pro help me measure the sag and put the finishing touch to it.

[@HowToGetMoreMetal]

You slide the rear brake reservoir on the mount

[@bh.76]

Sick bike Alex

[@bfeadventures]

Thanks, Brad!

[@mechcavandy986]

I’d like to know more about the ABS dongle.

[@bfeadventures]

Rottweiler makes it - it’s the “bad fuel dongle” I believe

[@lincolnbachman5546]

Thanks for the good information. I’ve been thinking about getting one. Do you think the new 2019 motor with balancer is a big difference than the older version. Worth getting the new one?

[@bfeadventures]

If you have the budget - definitely. The older models are great, but this version is exemplary!

[@jimkelly4366]

What tires are you running ?

[@bfeadventures]

MT21 up front and a Tusk DSport on the rear. The MT21 is a great tire! The Dsport is better than expected. It's not exceptional, but for the price and the way the 690 eats tires, I'll keep using them!

[@PetterIvarsson]

Its the third time I watched this video now 😂. I am searching a lot about this motor and vibrations and it seems to be like this, please correct me if I am wrong: before 2008: horrible, 2008-2011:ok, 2012-2018: pretty much, 2019 and onwards: really smooth. Am I correct?

[@bfeadventures]

That is correct. Haha

[@tizzin8r]

Angle your shifter lever down a little 👌

[@jeffreyrstapler]

How would the 2024 KTM 890 Adventure R Rally compare to your bike?

[@bfeadventures]

Without riding the new rally yet, I can only compare on stats and my experience with the ‘21 890 ADVR. The 690 is much lighter, more nimble, and will naturally be better in technical stuff. The 890 is a much better road bike in every way. For sub 2 hour rides and woods, I’d take the 690 every time. For anything farther or with lots of pavement, I’d choose the 890.

[@lexintexan]

I am looking to get into more adventure type riding. I am an ex motocross / enduro guy, who wants to do mostly Colorado jeep trails and roads, and dirt roads with a tiny bit of mellow singletrack. Would you suggest the africa twin or the 690?

[@bfeadventures]

Based on your description, it sounds like you will be about 80% off-road? If that is the case, definitely 690. I loved my Africa twin, but I have ridden Colorado and would prefer the 690 in any part of Colorado besides the southern portion that is long and flat. Lol

[@InTransit8911]

How do you feel this compares to a crf450L/RL with the intention of building it out into something for camping and BDRs, while still using for daily commuting?

[@bfeadventures]

The power is more broad, definitely heavier when standing still, gearbox is better, longer legs, better daily, longer service intervals, not "Honda reliability" but pretty good.

[@customjrod]

I had the 2016 version of this bike and it vibrated badly. Is this ballanced engine any better.

[@krazed0451]

It's better, but it's still a big single.

[@bfeadventures]

Definitely better. It does t seem to bother me at all. My old 625 would shake your fillings out. It is smoother than my XR650L

[@flipped68]

Ok cool, I sadly sold my XR650L for a CRF450L and make a light adventure bike. Being a hefty fella a slight more beefy machine with more leg room and a bike that can handle some on road legs. I’ll keep this bike in mind.

[@johnbaker5263]

Can you tell me what settings you have on your front forks after your suspension buddy adjusted them? I’ve got a Gas Gas ES700, which is essentially the same bike, and I find the forks over sprung and crude in action. Fitted a lighter spring on the rear and that has let the rear end actually work as it should.

[@bfeadventures]

I honestly don't know off the top of my head, but I'll check next time I'm in the garage. I know I turned the rebound up in the rear significantly and it really help settle it down.

[@johnbaker5263]

@@bfeadventures cheers for the reply

[@EricBanner571]

Gas Gas 700 is sprung differently to the KTM. If you weigh under 75 KG, you will need lighter springs. I'm 85 KG and it's a little stiff for me. I've also tuned the valving to the comfort setting which is listed on the underside of your seat.

[@briannn7751]

Hi Alex - I have an identical 690 build. I originally switched to Motoz Desert HT 90/100 front, and I'm not in love with the offroad cornering. It seems that tire doesn't have a great lug on the outside to hook up when the bike is leaned over. Maybe its the weight of the bike compared to my 500, but I would like to improve it. I'd love a great tire that will do aggressive tech and fast rocky dirt, and I could careless about street ability (I'll suffer and be careful) or tire wear. Could you please recommend a tire and size for me to try??? Thanks!!!

[@bfeadventures]

Hey! I really do like the MT21 on the front on mine - but once it loses its leading edge, it will still drift in cornering more than you'd like. I think it may be due to both the weight and the rake of the 690

[@briannn7751]

@@bfeadventures Thanks - I've never tried the MT21, but I think I will. Do you run the 90/90? Thank you again.

[@bfeadventures]

@@briannn7751 yep! 90/90

[@StansE250]

Do you have an opinion on why DS riders ‘always’ opt for pod-style dampers (e.g. Scotts), when deciding to add one, as opposed to the linear style frequently OE on sportbikes ? T Y

[@bfeadventures]

I would say mainly due to the space saving. Also, the linear style can catch on things when crashing off-road.

[@chesterpophamproductions2879]

When you are discussing parts like the stake pegs you cut away to riding so we did not see what you were even talking about? You did that a few times. It would be nice to know what you were pointing to and discussing. We know you love riding the 699, but when discussing add-ons please remember when you cut away to riding we have no idea what you were talking about. Thank you,

[@bfeadventures]

Thanks for the feedback! I'll work on moving the footage around.

[@Navillus2273]

Just look them up and then you will know.

[@jeffreyrstapler]

How much better is this model over a 2017 ?

[@bfeadventures]

Depends what you are looking to achieve. The motor is smoother and more powerful on the newer bike. The ride modes and traction control are nice, but not necessary. If you have no budget, I’d get the newer gen. If you are budget minded, the previous gen is still a great bike with MOST of the same characteristics. I can’t put my finger on it (could just be in my head), but I like the ergos more on this bike. They could be the same, but they sure feel different. Lol

[@constantinosschinas4503]

Sorry to be that guy, but how does this compares to SMC R (if you have tested it) on tarmac roads? I am in between the two (99% public road racer) but i do like the freedom of having fun off road or just riding carelessly over damaged roads etc. My two concerns are: A. Are there any really sticky tyres for 21", prefferably radial, safe enough to ride aggresively on tarmac B. Is SMC R too stiff so if you don't ride it race style it becomes sluggish when turning? Main playground is very tight mountain roads with super sharp, low speed hairpins with varying tarmac (from ultra grip to slippery, some small dirt patches). I ride pretty agressively but not always 100% front trail braking, so a very nimble bike is of importance. I ride a KLX 250S which i laughed upon but proved an exciting toy in these roads but, while it is fun drifting both wheels concurrently going 70 km/h, i would prefer better tyres than the ie. Metzeler Tourance i wear. They are mediocre on road and pretty nothing off road too. Long comment!

[@bfeadventures]

@@constantinosschinas4503 that is a great question! This is my personal stance based on my riding ability - I would buy an Enduro and then buy an extra set of SM wheels for it. This suspension on the Enduro is tunable enough to run street as hard as I could ever want to ride. However, the suspension is so much better off road than the SM. The SMC R well obviously be a little better on the road, but it is substantially worse off-road. I have already dragged the peg on the Enduro without feeling unsettled on the tarmac. If you want to play in dirt at all, I would steer towards the Enduro. If you were going to be exclusively street, then I would shoot for the SMC.

[@constantinosschinas4503]

@@bfeadventures I don't know who was braver, the peg or you, guess it was on knobbies too... We are on the same track, yet meanwhile i rode the SMC R 2021 and found it a bit dull, no twisties it was on a busy highway, it felt planted yet sluggish, easy rolling endos. Would not want anything less of those brakes though and suspension was not that stiff. These bikes are quite cheap on the suspension and peripheral side and should be around 9-10K, not 13K+. The new LC4 Motor is a wonder even in stock. Almost no vibrations now. And pulls the same everywhere but the lean lows.. Thanks for the input!

[@donkeizluv]

@@constantinosschinas4503 I dont think their suspension is bad. They perform well when riding hard and jumping, the adjustments work well at min max extremes. Thats the indicator of a good suspension system

[@StansE250]

If it could use more ground clearance, and travel, how would that best be accomplished ?

[@bfeadventures]

It honestly wouldn’t be realistic. The bike is already REALLY tall.

[@panagiotisterpandrouzachar7754]

What about the seat?

[@bfeadventures]

Seat Concepts - love it!

[@JohnDoe-dk8zz]

Hi, I weight about 250lbs , 5'10 ( altho im trying to lose weight ) , should i be ok to ride the 690 ? I would probably ask my dealer to tune the suspension for an heavy rider. Let me know your opinion on that.

[@bfeadventures]

The motor will EASILY run you around. It has middleweight ADV bike power. You will definitely feel it in the suspension. That's an easy fix though!

[@mechcavandy986]

Your dash is carbon fiber, a lot like mine. But I think mine is older.

[@josemartinez5432]

why don't you show close ups of the areas your talking about.

[@bfeadventures]

Because I’m a terrible videographer. 😂 Someday, I’ll get an updated video with closeups.

[@Navaho66]

I get 55-62 mpg riding under 50 mph on dirt roads and pavement

[@kaytme5915]

You say see! But you don't show what you are talking about! So what is a foot puck?

[@bfeadventures]

Sorry about that! The pucks right behind your lower legs (steg pegs) allow you to lock your boots against them when riding uphill

[@billslicer3203]

Wow, my 23 701 gets 60 mph