KTM 690 Enduro R: The Bike That Does It All? Honest Review After 15 Years of Riding!

[@WiyakanPilgrim]

Sub’d and liked . Yes, please, to all: mods, gearing change, maintenance, etc.

[@FixRideExplore]

Thank you. I'll start making plans for some more 690 content.

[@MrEtnorb]

Quick summary.seat height is up to 929 mm depending on which year and where you look. Rear tank is a pain to fill. Sidestand is tricky, easy to take off with it down. ABS settings work very well,on map 2. Engine power is outstanding. Forks are OK, harsh on soft ground but need work. Of course it’s a compromise, anything between a 500 and road bike is. The complaints about the gearing are silly. You will need to carry more fuel. Pegs need replacing. There is nothing else on the market that goes this well and weighs so little for a wide range of riding.

[@FixRideExplore]

Totally agree. I've always found the gear boxes tall but also narrow. You can buy a wider range gearbox to fit. Something I've not done but Lyndon Poskit did. Fueling wise I've carried the fuel bladders from giant loop for longer stretches. They've been great. Thanks for the great message. I may add a few of those details in another video.

[@KellyWhitehouse]

I've been riding my 2015 690 R since 2020 and concur with everything you've said. The massive selection of aftermarket parts available for this platform makes it one of the most flexible bikes on the market. So far the reliability has been outstanding and I'm looking forward to being able to upgrade to the smoother motor in the future. My ultimate goal is to have a fully "dirt oriented" and a fully "adventure oriented" set of 690's.

[@FixRideExplore]

I'd love more than one 690 but sadly the money won't stretch that far. Thank you for the comment.

[@bradsanders6954]

@@FixRideExplore I have seen guys online , that have 3 690's. One will be a project bike, one will be a dirt oriented older 690, and one will be the 2019 and up modernized version. These bikes can be addicting.

[@FixRideExplore]

@@bradsanders6954 tell me about it. I want a second...

[@MrRplo]

Definitely would like to see videos of your mods, gearing choices, maintenance, tire choices etc. particularly considering your extensive experience with this platform. Agree with your review. This bike has become my favorite platform (701/690/700). Spent many years on larger adventure bikes and dabbling in enduro machines then on a whim took a 2023 701 on a 6,000 mile trip and that was that. I call it a light weight aggressive off road focused "adventure" bike. I also find it a blast on twisty roads -- guess that is why there is a supermoto version.

[@FixRideExplore]

Totally agree. I've loved this bike since 2010 and it has been my choice whenever possible.

[@JohnDoe-dk8zz]

I bought the 2024 690 enduro as my first bike. Took it directly offroad. While i had years of experience offroad with 4wheelers, i did not have any on motorcycle. I was able to tame the beast and i still learn everyday. I love this bike and it fit my needs. The only things that scares me a bit is reliability but i will make sure to maintain it like it should. Maybe you could do a video on how to maintain such a beast. Very nice video , unbiased and very informative. I would indeed like content on modification and what you did sprocket wise. You will find that there's actually not a whole lot of content on the 690 enduro on youtube so you will definitely have audience. cheers !

[@FixRideExplore]

Congrats on the new bike. I'll start making a plan to create more content for the 690.

[@rickc6726]

Great bike! Yes to gearing and mods video please! Good luck with the channel! 😁👍

[@FixRideExplore]

Hoping to film these this week. Thanks for your comment.

[@constantinosschinas4503]

I have a 2022 Gasgas SM700. Vibration is practically non existent. Only bike in my life that does not make my toes, hands or balls num after half hour. Not even after 3 hours. Whatever vibrations are of very low frequency and amplitude, hence the low impact on nerves. Knees never get in pain too. Motor is just amazing. Feels like a reving two cylinder with plenty of low end grunt and amazing brute torque. Dare i say it reminds me of a two stroke that hits limiter with ease. Seat is very hard but precise and at the end of the day does not make me num even after a couple of hours. It is very light but not featherweight. Lean sensitive electronics are out of this world in sport mode, a mediocre rider can be drifting while taking a curve at no time. Fuel consumption is really low, you can go full throttle and you will rarely go above 6lt/100km, go easy and close to 4lt is not impossible, giving an almost 300km range. ABS is excellent too, makes the tyre squeak and never engages without a real reason. Even when it does, it is in a perfect manner and you don't feel the lever pumping itself in panic. Just a nice brake assistance. Suspension does the job but lacks road feedback, i think! The only thing missing is a small fairing but that could be added, together with a couple of led lights, with a cheap rally tower for around 500€. Overall, a fantastic, rare bike that i can't fathom why japanese companies are not trying to reproduce.

[@FixRideExplore]

Totally agree with everything you said. I think the Kove 450 is snapping at its heals and the AJP PR7 is also close.

[@constantinosschinas4503]

@@FixRideExplore I recently drove the Kove 450 and was completely disappointed. Did not like anything about it other than the styling and ergonomics. Motor was stock without any of the power kit, maybe that had something to do with it. Extremely rattly, noisy engine almost ready to self disassemble and power curve all over the place. Geometry weird too, very dirt/drift oriented that makes it understeer heavily on the road. My dreaming of it was completly destroyed lol. The AJP has very good ergonomics and an excellent seat. Looks great too. Worry about it's engine reliability though and cannot officially carry a passenger, when needed, afaik. Another very interesting bike that felt close to perfect for what it is, was the Kove 800X Pro. I was pretty impressed. But yesterday i saw a video from Poland of it having the known camshaft issues and was completely put off.

[@FixRideExplore]

@@constantinosschinas4503 That's really interesting to hear. I was hoping to take a Kove out at some point this year. I'll let you know my thoughts once I have. I don't know much about them at the moment. Maybe I could try and do a video on it one day once the channel starts gaining more traction. Really appreciate the info and your comment. Any ideas on how I can make this channel rock id appreciated it. Also share if you know someone who'd be interested.

[@constantinosschinas4503]

@@FixRideExplore This 690 video was very good, especially for a small-ish channel. I subscribed and will check more of your work. Hope the best growth to your channel, but more than that, to keep your passion for riding intact! Greetings.

[@bradsanders6954]

@@constantinosschinas4503 If you weigh an AJP on a real scale, its a little ways over 400lbs. Guys that buy em, like most bike owners they will say they are fantastic bikes. Maybe they are? Like a Kove they are not good at resale time. Some have never heard of the things. The Kove is also very heavy, and meant be like a Rally bike. A small amount of people really need a bike that looks like a Rally bike.

[@stefanhenne7487]

Well done! Keep them coming....

[@FixRideExplore]

@@stefanhenne7487 Thank you. The mods video is also available. There's a link to the playlist in this videos description. Do subscribe and let me know what content you'd like next. Rob

[@ianminus60]

I still have my original 690 from 2010. I have flipped it and trashed it numerous times - it takes a lick'n but still keeps tick'n.

[@FixRideExplore]

They were crackers. Every time I see a good early model for sale I'm always so tempted to buy it. I've an addiction 🤣

[@michaelcorker7168]

I have had a 2014 for 3 years. Agree there are some compromises, but very versatile. Mods are widely available - would love a few videos on your mods, gearing, tyres, tower, etc.

[@FixRideExplore]

@@michaelcorker7168 I'm planning that video now. Please subscribe if you haven't already and it should notify you.

[@moritzschafer3141]

Yesss please do all the videos ! Just ordered one and would love to see more of your content. Such an amazing and calm way to describe things, one of the best bike reviews I have ever watched and trust me I watched hundreds. Thumbs up and subscribed!

[@FixRideExplore]

@@moritzschafer3141 Wow thank you so much. This is superb feedback. I'm editing the next video as I type....

[@sorin.n]

+1 for the mods and the gear videos! 🧡

[@FixRideExplore]

No problem.

[@dexrose8578]

Bought a ‘23 701 last year. Much more suited to me than my previous 790R which itself was a great bike but just too heavy. Would be interested to see vids on the mods you do. I have also fitted the Rade garage tower ( also did the auxiliary fuel tank ) Look forward to your vids 👍

[@FixRideExplore]

Thanks for the comment. The 790r is also a lovely bike. It hits a sweet spot. 701s look great with the rads tower. Make sure you're subscribed and it'll let you know when I upload the vid.

[@bradsanders6954]

In 21,000 miles my 890R has been great, faultless....its never once felt like a dirtbike to me, not even a big dirtbike. I weigh 170 lbs, it weighs 470 lbs. It has the advantage. My 690 felt like a dirtbike the minute I got on it.

[@FixRideExplore]

The harder the riding the light the bike. I'd still like a 790 or 890 for longer distance comfort, but it does restrict the off road options. Thanks for your comments. Any idea how I can make the channel a success please let me know.

[@paulderbyshire1255]

love to see mods

[@FixRideExplore]

Currently planning a couple more episodes.

[@bobz1736]

Enjoyed this. More videos around the 10-15 min mark would be great... or even longer if it's all interesting 👍

[@FixRideExplore]

Great to hear. I'll keep this in mind.

[@Eds_PanAm]

Yup, i agree, let’s see what ya did lol i bought a leftover 23 701 last year to compliment my Pan America, every time i ride it, it puts a smile on my face🤘🏻 sláinte!

[@FixRideExplore]

Yes the 701 is a nice bike. Almost the same but kids and servicing will still be relevant. Thanks for the comment.

[@Eds_PanAm]

@ for sure, I knew that going in to buying the bike, that it was actually a high-performance motorcycle…little more maint but its worth it

[@FixRideExplore]

Lovely bike. I rode the 701 variant around Argentina. They look great as well.

[@___Tom]

Please tell more about the gearing. Thanks!

[@FixRideExplore]

I'll hopefully cover it in the next episode

[@blademan900]

Great Video, would like to more about your 690. I have a 450 exc and an 890 adventure R. I’m thinking of a 690 for some longer rides away from home on the dirt.

[@FixRideExplore]

@@blademan900 I'll be filming the next video soon. If you subscribe it hopefully will notify you. Thanks for the comment.

[@sritter]

same as me - actually I have 450 and 790R - the reliability concerns me with the 790 for long haul ADV. Hoping 690 is better reliability and of course lighter

[@mudaamoob]

I got same combo. Rade tower. Wings exhaust. Got +6L fuel air filter combo. Moved sidestand sensor under the seat and glued it together. Keep up the videos. Very well explained.

[@FixRideExplore]

@@mudaamoob Thanks for the comment. I'll keep em coming.

[@bradsanders6954]

I tried gluing the magnet to the sensor on my 2021 690 kickstand switch..............dang. The fancy ECU senses something is wrong and the bike wont run. A 100.00 dongle has to be bought from Slavens and that works great!

[@mulvahetpolemidasateed]

​​@@bradsanders6954 it needs to be perfectly placed. I tried half a hour different positions. Same angle as its in stock

[@dertom1000]

Just picked up a 2024 690, so yes to all: mods & gearings and maintenance vids please 😃

[@FixRideExplore]

Thanks for the comment. Planning the vids as I type..

[@mohammednawaz5363]

Excellent and precise video - great job. Few question: does the rally tower create any wind buffet/noise over/above stock? I noticed you have no grab handles - what contact points do you use to lift the bike? Do you recommend any crash/engine protection/casing? Many thanks

[@FixRideExplore]

I'll add these to the list of content for the next videos. Thanks for the comment.

[@bradsanders6954]

I had a late 90's Lc4 620. An animal of a bike, a plated dirtbike in my case. Vibration that was insane at every point of human contact. Fun! I rode a 2014 690, again the vibration was well beyond unpleasant. But I bought a 2021 690 Enduro, a civilized brute of a bike. Vibration is no issue what so ever. These bikes are polarizing, you either get it, or you dont. Ive had over 15 KTM's almost all 2 strokes.......now Ive got an 890R and the 690R. Ive done the minimum, sort of, to the 690. Scotts damper, SC seat, KTM windscreen with Puig extension, Wings muff, super bright Cyclops headlight insert, good pegs, etc. This 690 the faster you get moving on dirt the better it works. Guys do all sorts of things to these for "more power"..................74HP isnt enough on dirt? Your that good you just have to hop it up? A good 450 makes 60HP and very few people ever use it all. To me, my 890 is a gravel road/street bike, who really wants a near 500lb bike on dirt? 100HP is of no use on dirt, but great on road. By all means, more videos on 690 would be great!

[@FixRideExplore]

@@bradsanders6954 Great comment and agree with everything you said. I never got to ride the 620 but a friend told me all about feeling numb when he got off it. Thankfully the vibrations have been designed out these days.

[@ronanrogers4127]

My 2011 654 is a cracking adventure bike that’s still very capable in single lane, I just carry less fuel. I fixed the common earlier problems (updated rocker arms, quantum fuel pump etc), added a PC6 with 3 degree ignition advance and 1.7 richer AFR, and fitted a proper rally kit with low slung exhaust + Akra , rally tower, and 2 additional slimline tanks (total 30l). I fill 10-12l for proper off-road, and up to 30l for long adventure rides that are both on and off-road. It might stall once or twice a day, sometimes not at all, and it’s been very reliable. As a high performance rally style bike you have to ride it though, you need to concentrate and be on your game, it’s not like a DRZ with a big tank.

[@FixRideExplore]

It sounds like a beast. Love it.

[@frank_jk]

Great video and concur with others: let’s see the mods and maintenance! Cheers!

[@FixRideExplore]

It's in the planning. Thanks for the comment

[@seneca-jl7lt]

Excellent video. I have a T7 at the moment BUT it is just a bit heavy for off road. This video has persuaded me to swap. Yes, more videos please.

[@FixRideExplore]

The T7 is a great bike. I'd like one.

[@seneca-jl7lt]

@FixRideExplore I don't think you went so far as to commit to one, "do all" bike but if you could only have one would the 690 be it, or at least amongst the contenders?

[@FixRideExplore]

@seneca-jl7lt It's such a tough questions. The T7 is an amazing bike but heavier. If this is an issue off road, the 690 is a great option. If you're only doing very short distances you could go even lighter with an enduro bike until your confidence builds. With each step lighter you lose refinement on the road. Try to weigh it all up. Maybe even the T7 for road and light off road and a light enduro for all off road. It all depends what, where and how you ride. A great bike is the CRF450L. Is not a huge thumper like the 690 but it's an incredible machine once unrestricted (I think EU bike are restricted). When you ride a bike that's heavy in an environment you are still gaining confidence in it can slow the process down or scare the confidence out of you. What ever bike you choose, pick your routes and terrain wisely. Don't take risks, ride at your pace. Hope you find the prefect bike or combo for yourself. Go take some test rides. It's the best way to find your fit.

[@seneca-jl7lt]

@FixRideExplore I rode trials and enduro for years, then got a R1150GS. It was great for road mile munching but not much else, hence the move to the T7. It is a great bike but just a little too heavy for more technical stuff. What I should have asked was, if you could only have one bike for reasonably technical off road, TET, touring on mainly A and B roads in the UK and the Continent plus some motorway, would the 690 do well enough?

[@FixRideExplore]

I rode 6500kms around Argentina. Everything from dunes, high altitude deserts, rocky riverbeds and lots of road miles getting across the country. I did this on the 2016 701 enduro and it ate all the miles up. Factory spec, off road it's great but it did lack on road refinement. It took me a while to get used to the high revving single for long distances at motorway speeds. Wind protection was lacking and lighting wasn't great. My main goal was remote exploration so the sacrifice was refined road riding. But, it did it all and I'd choose the bike again for that trip.

[@bushybill7189]

Long term enduro rider here. I want one of these because while I want to start doing more ADV stuff I'll always be a dirt rider first and anything beyond the weight of one of these is too much for the sort of riding I want to do. I'll still keep my enduro bikes of course for the serious stuff. I'm currently waiting for runout deals to be available here in Australia on either a 690/700/701 then I'll be pulling the trigger on a bike then the mods.

[@FixRideExplore]

@@bushybill7189 I think this is the ideal bike for you. The AJP PR7 is another good choice if they're available. With your enduro background they might be worth a test ride.

[@bushybill7189]

@@FixRideExplore I looked hard at the AJP. I spoke to a representative of AJP Australia about the bikes and without going into too many details their attitude towards me as a potential customer was somewhat less than what I was expecting. So a KTM it is.

[@FixRideExplore]

@bushybill7189 you have to buy with confidence. Such a shame they missed out on a potential customer.

[@bushybill7189]

@@FixRideExplore the guy all but called me another idiot on the Internet because I had questions about the bike. Business must be good for them. Such is life. I'm looking forward to getting on a 690.

[@ronanrogers4127]

I looked at them in Oz too…quite a few are sold again because people get sick of waiting for spares, unfortunately there’s no real distribution in Australia

[@stevebs06]

Hi, would like the video on the gear change. Thanks

[@FixRideExplore]

I'm planning the next few videos this week. Gearing is one of them. Please subscribe and like as it really helps the channel.

[@constantinosschinas4503]

5:50 There are lowering links available, around 50€. I would not lower it, but there is an option.

[@FixRideExplore]

@@constantinosschinas4503 Yes there are. It's best to get used to the designed ride height if possible rather than risk changing the bike dynamics. However some people can find it too difficult to ride at standard height so have to do what they can.

[@constantinosschinas4503]

@@FixRideExplore Yes i don't like the idea of lowering either. But there are people out there which have done it and are very happy with it.

[@bradsanders6954]

@@constantinosschinas4503 The rear shock damping needs to be turned up stiffer, and pre load added to the shock spring to run a lowering link. I think no matter what for my 175 lb weight a 1 range stiffer shock spring is needed It works well but just seems soft. Ive added pre load but only so much can be added and be right. 690 suspension is worlds better than my 890R suspension. 890 rides like a buck board in stock form, no matter what reviewers say it needs serious work.

[@danielgagne84]

Great review of an awesome bike! I used to own a 2018 KTM 690 Enduro R. Loved it, had to trade for an 890 but now I'm tempted to go back. I'm curious to see if there will be a 2025 690 model despite the challenges KTM is going through. Fingers crossed!

[@FixRideExplore]

@@danielgagne84 The 890 is a superb bike. Like the 690, I think the 790 and 890 have also hit a sweet spot. It would be on my list of considerations for a long distance adventure bike.

[@williamrae9954]

790 is under £7k these days

[@FixRideExplore]

I know. I'd buy one if I had some spare cash.

[@williamrae9954]

@FixRideExplore I'm injured...sell you this one, lol

[@bradsanders6954]

KTM is showing pictures of a 2025 690 ADV bike, which guys have been asking for. It seems like the 2019 and up 690's have sold pretty well.

[@danijelcar5184]

Great bike😎👍

[@FixRideExplore]

I totally agree. Make sure you watch the mods video as well. Also please sub and like if you enjoy the vids. It helps me make more. Cheers Rob

[@dandersonjr]

I'd be interested in hearing your thoughts on the tower. I have a 701 and haven't decided between a simple windscreen, a light kit or the full tower. Thanks.

[@FixRideExplore]

@@dandersonjr hopefully filming the mods video tomorrow. I love mine.

[@adaptableadventurerider]

Subscribed what an absolutely brilliant video :) I’ve just sold my 1150 gsa an looking for a lighter option to do some road book stuff with, had a 300 rally an t7 in the past thanks for sharing, been browsing at these an the ajp have you ever tried any of the smaller cc Ktm’s? 450 an husky 501 etc?

[@FixRideExplore]

Thank you so much for the great feedback. The bike depends on what you want to do. I have the legendary KTM 400 EXC. It's an older bike now but the carb fueling and the detuned 450 engine makes it a joy and pleasure to ride. This has taken me on many trips around the Spanish trails but mostly loops, all of which I can do on the 690 (albeit 45kg heavier). You can use lighter enduro bikes for long distance but the short service intervals work against you unless you spend some big bucks countering this with oil coolers and larger tanks etc. Many people have done this and would imagine getting great results. AJP PR7 is a great option alongside the 690. Very much a rally bike feel with an older but proven engine. Worth a test ride for sure.

[@adaptableadventurerider]

@ thanks so much for the detailed reply :) super appreciated 👌🙌and a huge help.

[@FixRideExplore]

No problem. Just checked out your channel as well. Very nice.

[@adaptableadventurerider]

@ thanks!

[@stevebs06]

Hi, I have another question, I saw your footrests that are not original, where can I buy them? Thanks

[@FixRideExplore]

Hi there. Thanks for the comment. Please subscribe and like if you haven't already. It really helps. If you check out this mods video I go through all the mods and have linked to them in the description. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l2LZY4V6oqetp8U The pegs are KIT690. They are the rally pegs and would highly recommend them. There other products are also fantastic.

[@zlatanadvanture7187]

thx

[@FixRideExplore]

No problem. Please subscribe if you haven't already. I'm planning more vids.

[@izom]

its ok you like it- for me the 640s were always the better bikes- seatcomfort - tank in front- E- AND kickstart and so on....;-)

[@FixRideExplore]

@@izom I've never ridden a 640. My friends have had them in the past and they also have great memories of them.

[@jasonarchambault4589]

Mods ✊️

[@FixRideExplore]

Planning the video this week. Hopefully uploaded at the weekend.

[@jasonarchambault4589]

@FixRideExplore cool

[@williamrae9954]

Fuel pumps...going anywhere overland with lower quality fuel,pump will fail...take at least one spare!

[@FixRideExplore]

Correct. Fit the new one. Carry the known working one as the spare. Also the injector.

[@williamrae9954]

@FixRideExplore Been through the same with my Husaberg FE390...fuel pumps, and boiling fuel

[@FixRideExplore]

OMG exactly same here. We've clearly got the same great taste in bikes. I loved my 390. Foil tape under the tank, injectors, fuel pumps. Still, the bike was awesome.

[@williamrae9954]

@FixRideExplore yup...done it all,Samco hoses,BMW 5 Series temp sender,bigger radiators, etc etc

[@bradsanders6954]

Ive heard that, Ive also seen guys go over 40K miles with stock fuel pump. I wonder what is SO different about a 690 fuel pump, as opposed to an 890R fuel pump? Guys put all kinds of filters on 690's to keep fuel clean going to and from fuel pump. Ive only got 5K miles on my 690 so a little new at 690 ownership.

[@racewayman1]

Yo I don’t care how much grab they talk about ktm 690 smc r that mother will get down.stock 😊

[@FixRideExplore]

@@racewayman1 I've only ridden the SMC once and was still smiling and hour later.

[@182mcg1]

All OK but my question ktm on Dakar version use bottom way exhaust system on this motorcycle exhaust and Fuel close together is wrong things explain wrong over wheele catastrophic ready bike burn... On KZbin plenty videos with supermoto ktm /husky... This bike looking ugly on rear ass not simetric... That's my opinion...

[@FixRideExplore]

I don't think the Dakar bikes are 690s these days. My bike is symmetrical but was leaning on the stand and has a wonky fuel sticker. Thanks for your comment though.

[@bradsanders6954]

Not once have I seen a problem with exhausts/gas tank on 690. Its not really about "looks". Its about what works. These arent sportbikes.

[@whatmusicisit9354]

KTM is an expensive myth... Why can't they offer these bikes for a reasonable price around the world? The Chinese already do!

[@FixRideExplore]

There's some great Chinese bikes out there now. That's a whole other video I think.

[@bradsanders6954]

Chinese have nothing what so ever like a 690 Enduro. If you have noticed even a good mt bike can run 6K these days. EVERYTHING is expensive. If you want cheap buy a DRZ400. Dont bitch about what you dont want just because your online. Buy a 2004 KLR 650 and be happy, its cheap!

[@FixRideExplore]

@@bradsanders6954 Everything is very expensive these days. Inflation has caused bikes to skyrocket in price. The 690 is a premium bike and I think worth the money (or I wouldn't own one). Good call on the DRZ, it's always been a solid bike, hopefully the new model carrys the flag well. I am intrigued by some of the Chinese bikes, some do look good for the money.

[@dandersonjr]

Then buy the Chinese bike and be happy.