I rode 100,000 km on my KTM 690 SMC - Did it break?

[@RichardHinks-c1h]

Thanks for taking the time to do this in english phil

[@PhilTonic]

You're welcome.

[@aperfect42]

I'm sorry for your loss with your friend.

[@PhilTonic]

Lol he is fine. I met him at work the next day.

[@hkk210]

@@PhilTonic HAHA i was thinking the same and had to check the comments 🤣

[@benzinschnueffler187]

​@@PhilTonicdude you really had us there...

[@Mcfc2Rich]

"oh you poor thing!" "No he's at next set of traffic lights" 🤣

[@707LAKE]

right on! my drz400 had 97,000 MILES (156,000km) before it seized up.

[@PhilTonic]

Very impressive!

[@cardososm2035]

mine seized up at 16,000 km xD

[@cameronmale83]

Love German diligence to details! So helpful.

[@emperorkhan9941]

This is the exactly kind of review i have been waiting for. A long term use of the 690. Sins a child I've always been a fan of SM's.And I've been wanting this bike for a very-very long time, but haven't been sure of the reliability? I own a 2006 KTM 525 EXC-F that's converted to a streets legal SM, I've had it for a couple of years now, and i love it. The fun i have on that machine is like nothing else. (So far). That's why my thoughts are going more towards the/a 690. This upload blew my mind, 100.000 Km, and been though all of those countries... Am amazed! Now i have full confidence in buying a 690 for sure. Now i only need to get that money. Thank you for sharing this wonderful story with us.

[@PhilTonic]

Thank you. You're welcome.

[@philiplaurell1163]

If you wanted it since you where a kid: come on man, you are letting anxiety control your life. Just get it and get it over with. Enjoy!

[@John-Dukemaster]

Thank you! Yes, I had a 2017 690 Duke for 2 years, did 57000km on that. Best bike! Why I didn't keep it? My daughter in law wanted it, so I had to buy a new bike. A 790 Duke. With a motard style handlebar it feels almost as good as the 690! But the engine on the 690 is sublime. It's a rock'n'roll engine, not for people who's annoyed by vibrations/pulse/life. So easy to maintain and always gets me home. Bond with it through self maintenance and you get a friend.

[@PhilTonic]

"690 you're my best friend" 😄

[@lassivaatamoinen5468]

In 2019 the 690 engine got major improvements, especially on the vibrations. I've heard of several people going newer only because of that.

[@fredddy_1466]

Thank you for sharing you experience with the 690. It is my dream bike since 2016 and one month ago I was able to buy one of exactly that year. Greeting from Italy!

[@simosmaximos3642]

3:52 man this windshield looks like a cosmetic upgrade, must be like the first good looking windshield

[@marcinkmiecik3058]

Mam 690 smc z 2016r przebieg 5.900km. Prawie jak nowy. Jezdzi świętnie. Zobaczymy ile wytrzyma😊

[@Knakkerman-]

Your lost friend will always be in our hearts.

[@PhilTonic]

Haha :-D

[@Dukeplhffd]

I have my duke 690, 2008 , 1.owner, belive or not with 150.000km in 8years... 42 rear tyears,24 front... 6X new chain kit... i change oil every 2-3k my self... i have akrapovic...bike run perfect always... i change just klutch...i burn it because burnouts and hard driving in hill.😊 In 2016 i broke gearbox and duky is now sleeping... i have new 890duke now...😊 I love ktms... for me best bikes...cheap,realible and easy to maintance...

[@MarineEnfield09]

100000 km mit ner KTM 690. Eine stolze Leistung, aber zeigt was möglich ist bei (Deiner) fachgerechten Pflege. Das man was verstemmen muss oder die Nockenwelle das geht gar nicht. Fahre ne XF650 mit annähernd der gleichen Km Leistung aber ausser Wartung ist bis jetzt nichts gewesen . Hab dafür aber auch ca +- 20 Ps weniger

[@billyandriam]

Thank you very much for this! one of the view people who encourages people to do the maintenance on their own and pushes people to outdo themselves and learn more about their bikes. Thanks Phil!

[@PhilTonic]

Thank you! You're welcome.

[@rc51bigdaddy]

Great video! I have a 2023 690r Enduro and it is nice to know how reliable the bike is. I hope the rocker issue is now fixed on the newer bikes. I also had a 2009 690r and remember switching out some rockers on that one.

[@PhilTonic]

Thanks. The 690s from 2019 have a revised valve drive. Completely different concept.

[@PRO21SHOT9]

this is awesome to see. i bought a 690 from the dealer last year and i absolutely love it. i did have to go back to the dealer for various fixes under warranty for example: cam chain tensioner had to be replaced because the bike made al kinds of pinging noises on startup sometimes my radiator had to get replaced because it cracked at the mounting brackets and it started leaking.

[@davidharrison8762]

You are so right about 690 owners living with anxiety 😂

[@bradsanders6954]

Not hardly, Ive had lots of KTM's and now a 19 690R is here, these things run a long time and are REALLY fun. Many are scared away from bikes they might really love, due to spending too much time on the internet. All they know is what some say online, its more fun to ride than worry.

[@orange1666]

I understand the concern because of mostly internet exaggeration , I have ridden and raced KTM’s for over 30 years , owned an incredible number , sold thousands as a dealer and race team owner and overall they have been very reliable with the odd exception , I currently own 6 KTM’s and never had one fail on the street and only once stopped in competition due to a generator failure , in competition they are the strongest and most reliable and on the street they ride amazing , take the risk and buy something that’s fun , Nothing is perfect but KTM is closer than most , most of the time

[@Surpriseify]

@@orange1666 Saying KTM is closer than most, most of the time is interesting considering my 3 friends with a 790, 690 and a Norden has experienced the following Norden filled engine with coolant after 30 minutes of riding, totaled the engine, then throttle bodies broke, THRICE 790 had water leak into the dash, the headlight, ALL indicators and constantly had some other small issue The 690 was honestly the most reliable, only burning a LOT of oil and just needed constant oil/valve checks... NEVER EVER NEVER Heard of a new Honda/Yamaha/Kawasaki/Suzuki from ANYONE i'v met with even remotely the same style of issues KTM is not reliable, in my experience Go to their forums, i am NOT alone hahhaha

[@marcmorris-kb9ry]

Mine killed a rocker arm at 50k....if you get it realy hot in single track it will show oil light on tickove.....other than that all good😊

[@slakk5093]

@@orange1666unfortunately I have watched many overland trips in Australia, can almost guarantee that any ktm or husky in the group will fail on the journey. Maybe our conditions are just harsher than Europe?

[@PlattLaneEnd]

Great review - very informative. As an English man, can I say 2 things. 1) Glad you've made it over to the Isle of Man. 2) Your English is far better than most English people I know. Most of them would never have heard of the term Crown Dependency!

[@PhilTonic]

Haha cheers 😁

[@monikapecek7317]

always rode sportbikes until i bought smcr 690 2012, 2 months ago. Its the most fun i had riding a bike and doing maintenance is something i enjoy doing :) one of my best decisions as far as motorcycling is concerned ;)

[@plllot9713]

similar here. I used to ride sport-tourers, naked (fz6, mt09 tracer, street 765rs) and after going supermoto I've stopped looking for anything else 🤷 the only thing that'd driving me crazy is how snatchy the bike is when you open fully closed throttle. the jerk it makes really throws me out of balance and when you want to apply gas mid turn on a hairpin it's just terrible. the only way around it is feathering the clutch or slightly re-applying gas before turning and controlling speed with rear brake. that's obviously riding fairly calmly. it gets better when you go full beans but that's not for public roads 🤷 I've got a swm sm650 (husly sms630) and I've been actually wondering whether 690s are any smoother. also it's unrideable in 30kmh speed zones. 1st gear is too low and too jerky. 3rd gear is too high. second gear at those speeds is exactly on the throttle open/close area, sometimes it snatches so badly I'm feeling like throwing the bike in the bushes 😵

[@gfhfhrthsefsehtjgngd]

I bought a brand new 690 three weeks ago and i really love it. Nice to see that they can hold up for that milage

[@Tdmotoss]

Awesome dude !!! My 701 year 2022 is now already at almost 19k km... and this season is just started. Hopefully the newer models are just as strong as yours.

[@PhilTonic]

As far as I've heard they are even more reliable. Hence the revised timing drive.

[@Premises187]

Great video Phil! Hope you're keeping well mate

[@PhilTonic]

Hey look who's there! Doing well thanks! Yourself?

[@Szlejer]

Thanks for the honest review! I've the Euro 5 version, it's a pretty solid bike after riding it for a couple years.

[@PhilTonic]

The Euro 4 and 5 are said to be pretty bullet proof. Some people have had broken gears, but not very many.

[@crashbangwhallopwhatavideo]

I have a 690 with similar mileage and the same issues as you had. I would still buy another one. Have a 990 smr with 90000 on it now too

[@jebatkapat]

Damn what a bike, first gen 690 is like uncle for my 701, I love this bike so much, it's really high, it allows you to watch over the cars, you can custom almost everything and I'm glad that your is still running

[@PhilTonic]

Yeah it's great bike! Thanks!

[@jimbroen]

I bought a 2020 about a month ago and so far I'm loving it. It's such a good machine when you live in a city with dodgy roads. The Canadian Prairies have extreme temperatures and soft foundations which generate potholes. I'm surprised these bikes aren't better sellers given how capable and fun they are compared to the alternatives. I plan to do all the maintenance myself so it's encouraging to hear confirmation that it's straightforward.

[@PhilTonic]

Enjoy your new bike!

[@JinKazama92]

This is refreshing! I have had 2 690s. First one was 2010 SMC. Sold that one cuz I wanted to get my hands on a 790 Duke. Sold the 790 After 6 months cuz I missed the 690 style of riding. Sold the 790 and now Im on 2015 690 Enduro with Supermoto Wheels. :D I think there is no better bike this easy to maintain.

[@PhilTonic]

Oh yes, I can fully understand. I considered getting a 790 or 890 Duke but I can't let go of the supermotos.

[@JinKazama92]

@@PhilTonic oh yeah and love your channel man. I watch your German channel even though i cant understand. 😅

[@wafxles6877]

I have never wanted a 690 nor have I looked at it too much, but now I want one to ride and look at Well done on the review, very calm watch lad!

[@PhilTonic]

Thank you!

[@hatchetjack1031]

I have a 2023 RC390. Loved KTM since I raced them in MX during the 70's. Love the power and performance of KTM but hear lots of bad reviews about Cam problems, particularly w/ the 690. Would like to trade up in a few years and appreciate your analysis 👍! Ride Safely!

[@mimounazdad9195]

Good review! Thanks for taking the time to do it in English. I would like to buy the bike if it really needs to go!

[@tolga1cool]

The part price policy of KTM is a serious concern and was one of the main reasons for me selling my beloved 990.... EVERYTHING is 2-5x the price it used to be not even 10 years ago when you compare it to prices / receipts from back then in the forum's. It's just not fun when suddenly a cheap fix turns into a huge hole in your wallet

[@PhilTonic]

That sounds bad. I hope I will keep getting parts for my 690 for reasonable prices.

[@sylvainlaurence1554]

Problem is like Mercedes. Too much models, not enough sales makes parts hard to find and when you found it, it’s not cheap $$$$

[@tolga1cool]

@@sylvainlaurence1554 You can buy it straight from ktm. They just incrementally increase the price on all the spare parts after the bikes get a bit older

[@howardadams781]

Great video, been wondering about long term use. I have the same bike ktm690smc 2010 model with 51,833 miles on it bought it with 1,119 miles on it in 2012. same as you know real problems , had to replace my speedo at 37,358 miles and replace my clutch springs at 45,000 No issues with my rocker arms but I change my oil ever 1,000 miles just because I live in the mountains and I try to ride it as hard as I can. And Iike you I like doing my on maintenance super easy bike to work on check my valves ever 5,000 miles. Only modes wings exhaust DNA filter kit and remapped, I did but 2017 duke690 wheels on mine was a easy swap just new f/ r - rotors that was it. Hope we make it to 100,000 miles.

[@PhilTonic]

Sounds great. Keep it going!

[@796andy2]

thats good news to hear ! ive got 690 anxiety but 2k miles so far so good 😂

[@audi0syst3m62]

love it. Thanks 4 sharing. my absolute dream bike since they came out... love the pre facelift one because i hate the new speedometer :(

[@PhilTonic]

Thanks. The new speedo isn't too bad to be honest. At first I complained about it too, but now I rarely check it anyway.

[@murdock6450]

I never even knew this bike existed.. thank you for the video i have been thinking about a bike to commute to work that isn't too big but can do motorways no problem. This one looks great.

[@krrmoto5048]

It can do motorways, but if that is what you'll mainly be driving on I wouldn't recommend a 690. With it being a single cylinder and all, I find it is far from comfortable to do 60+ for longer periods of time. Maybe the new double counterbalanced versions with a larger front sprocket fitted would make it more bearable.

[@murdock6450]

@@krrmoto5048 Thanks for the reply, well the motorway part is only 25 miles.. the only problem is it's the busy part of the M6 that gets silly jammed if one car brakes down as theres no hard shoulder now.. i would be more than happy to do 40-50mph through all that when they stood still for hours?

[@krrmoto5048]

@@murdock6450 yes for filtering they’re great, it would probably work well for your application. Real fun bike

[@murdock6450]

@@krrmoto5048 Thank you.. will look more into these then :)

[@chrisblvck3942]

Weiterhin gute Fahrt. 👍🏻 danke für das Video und die Infos. Grüße aus dem Ktm Forum 😁

[@jasonperry1444]

Great informative review, awesome bikes I have an 08 enduro LC4 with only 8000 miles from new, only nagging issue is the bleeding fuel pressure FI flicker on start and occasional stall which having changed the fuel pump for a kemsko aftermarket one I believe it to be the stupid nylon fuel lines possibly leaking or seals (I’ve had it out 4 times now..) I am so frustrated I am just about to spend £425 on a whole assembly (fuel pump, fuel lines, plastic cover, filters and clips..) for a genuine OEM replacement….when you love the bikes you have to spend what it costs and these early bikes, as I’m sure the newer ones also, are a riot when the mood takes..ride safe 💪👍

[@righttobloodydissent]

I did 55.000 km on my MTO7 in three years. Now I have a Tenere and it just clicked over 1800km in three weeks.

[@PhilTonic]

Not bad! Munching miles! :D

[@Tonyx.yt.]

yamaha cp2 is well know for beign reliable, ktm lc4? not as much

[@nicholasbaker2904]

Great video. I have a 2007 I bought used. I loved the look of the Beaker front end. I plan on running it forever bc I'm on the fence for newer model ktm reliability. I offen consider something more touring or cruiser as I age but every ride I cant deny the fun of a capable lightweight bike.

[@PhilTonic]

That was actually the first KTM I have ever ridden and after 10 km I knew I had to get a KTM. Eye opening moment in terms of: "Oh, this is how a motorbike can feel like, too!"

[@chrro466]

Bloody great bike.good job 👏🏻👏🏻🌝

[@mantheymotoexperience]

Great to hear all your very positive comments! Thanks a lot!

[@philparrott4424]

I've been wanting to buy one of these but I think you sold me on it. Not sure which version yet. I have been looking hard at the Enduro with a bigger front wheel. Thanks for doing this in English.

[@PhilTonic]

Thank you. You're welcome. In my opinion it doesn't really matter which one you get. The later years are more road focused. The old 2011 model has 270mm of travel front and rear. The newer ones have considerably less. But that makes them more stable in fast corners.

[@jimbob67]

Thank you for making this video. Good content 👌. I had a 2001 ktm 640 adventure, i put over thirty thousand miles on it with no issues. If anything, it ran better than it did when new. I'm hoping my 2022 gas gas es700 will be as reliable 🤞

[@PhilTonic]

Thank you! Fingers crossed!

[@lassivaatamoinen5468]

7:10 the hole in the fuel filter to me looks a bit too regular shape to be just chafing in the tank, it looks more like a round blade cut... 7:42 you mention knocking issues, and you also have had blown rocker arms; do those incidents have any timely connections..? For the fuel filter, I suggest changing every 10 000km, or so. I am at my 3rd filter now, closing in on 30 000km mark, and last year I cleaned the injector. Got noticeable addition of torque to the lower RPMs. Previously I was not able to get the bike off of standstill on 2nd gear, especially at idle RPM, which it is now capable after cleaning. Also, intake rocker arm bearing got stuck around 13 000km, so I had similar top end rebuild with valves and camshaft.

[@PhilTonic]

There are a few possible factors that might have caused the cam shaft failure. Unfortunately you cannot look at them in isolation anymore.

[@lassivaatamoinen5468]

@@PhilTonic sure. My idea is that the knocking might not be a fuel filter issue. Of course, you will lose fuel pressure in that case, so it will run lean, if at all. It's a bit or a miracle that it was running, but maybe under presure the fuel filter material has been pressing against the hole and plugged it.. For me, there is no reason pointed why the rocker failed. They were checked in 10 000km service by my request, and I actually asked it they should be replaced. They did punch the pins then, to make sure they stay put. 3000km later I needed the top end rebuild. So instead of spending 1000 EUR for the rebuild, it would've cost me 250 EUR for the rocker arms earlier on..

[@-DC-]

Absolutely love the SMC by far the most fun on 2 wheels I've ever experienced ❤️

[@PhilTonic]

Hence why it's still in the garage 👍🏻

[@PeterR0035]

Thanks for the video and all your replies to viewers! I recently got a Husqvarna LR 701 enduro and love the 500km range 😀 ❤❤❤

[@PhilTonic]

Nice! I remember being very keen on the 701 just because of those tanks. Have you ever managed to use all the fuel in one sitting? 😉

[@PeterR0035]

@@PhilTonic hahaha, indeed 500km is way too long to ride without stopping 🙂 it does give a lot of peace of mind; lots of spare fuel AND 2 completely separate fuel systems; 2 fuel pumps, etc... The after market fuel tank systems do NOT offer that...

[@philparrott4424]

The larger tanks would be great for doing the Trans America Trail.

[@joaosantos-fo4kh]

Between Husqvarna and KTM witch one is the best to go to work and ride on days off? I take a good care of my bikes same times to mutch well, saw using well the bike witch one I should buy?

[@Antonio-fj6ds]

Ciao, grazie tante per il video.. è sempre di ottimo aiuto ! Una domanda so che le 2008/2011 soffrono molto di copro farfallato e hanno i cuscinetti dell' albero motore rivestiti di argento e si consumano molto prima ( infatti sul sito della KTM hanno aggiornato i codici per questo motivo..anche con i bilancieri ) ..in tanti chilometri fatti hai mai avuto piccoli problemi del corpo farfallato? Io alla mia purtroppo l'ho dovuto sostituire a 35000 km ..nuovo 😢 e nonostante questo resto sempre della paura se continuerà a difettare come modello di corpo..

[@Delinquentsm]

I’m loving my 2020! I’m really beating on it pretty good with the stunt riding and so far I’ve had no issues! I’m keeping an eye on those rocker arms.

[@bradsanders6954]

The 2020 doesnt have those rocker arms, so no need to look after them! Totally redesigned top end.

[@Twistedmetallic]

My girlfriend have a smc-r 690 (2016) with 80.000 km now. I do all service myself also. Changed rocker arms at 60.000 km.

[@PhilTonic]

Nice!

[@CRFLAus]

I'd keep it. The kilometres the bike has done would make it hard to sell, or if it did sell I don't think you'd get much for it. The only thing it comes down to is somewhere to store it, and my suggestion is in your loungeroom!

[@PhilTonic]

I'd have to get a crane to do that lol. Or take it apart and put it back in the living room.

[@LuisBrygala]

Phil Glückwunsch so etwas zu hören! Viel spaß in de Zukunft. Liebe Grüße

[@BenMcghie]

German Police care about the stock airbox!? Serious business. Thank you for the detailed overview. Myself and my partner have a couple LC4 engines with over 45k kms. I just bought mine, owner just replaced the camshaft. Seems like the main issue is those rocker arms for the older models. Thanks for the vote of confidence. We have the enduro version, and they are fantastic for ADV use. Eat motorway speeds all day, then blast up virtually anything off road. The rider is by far the biggest limitation on these machines. I agree with not trusting the dealer. Particularly with older machines, they have no idea how to troubleshoot stuff logically.

[@PhilTonic]

I got chased by police once. Luckily they didn't check under the seat when they stopped me :D

[@bakplaat13]

Great video. Very informative and I like your sense of humor:)

[@PhilTonic]

Thanks!

[@blowduke]

It’s nice to see someone using there bike that much

[@bradsanders6954]

I watch the classifieds on ADV and elsewhere, and your right, a lotta people never ride the bikes they spent so much to buy....it was just a whim, or the new wore off the day the bike came home, they sell with 200 miles on odo.

[@joelboutier1736]

Your English is excellent 👍. The rocker arms may not have been getting proper lubrication. From the wear in the pictures, it looks like they were not getting oil. Friction will both remove material, and reheat & re-temper it making it softer and vulnerable to wear.

[@randersson3672]

Amazing ! I'm at 30 000km, and started to wonder how much is left....except for the clutch cylinder no problems at all.😊 Engine sounds like a bunch of loose nuts and bolts, ever since new.. lol...but runs like a dream.

[@PhilTonic]

Another anxiety inducing aspect of the 690s: weird noises! I just got used to it.

[@randersson3672]

@@PhilTonic Yes, coming from japanese bikes to this was a shock. But it's the way this engine speaks, just a new language.😅

[@Birky_41]

Love this video. Great to see someone riding them as intended & strangely invested in that accent!

[@PhilTonic]

Thank you very much!

[@Bjork3n1]

What a great video 👌. Do you enjoy the euro 4 better? I had the 2010 and now a 2022 but man what they lowered the new models. 2010 had 275mm of travel and now the new 215mm 😄

[@PhilTonic]

Thank you! I give the Euro 4 a slight edge. You notice the 10 extra horsepowers and longer rev band when overtaking. The suspension is more stable in fast corners as well. When going fast, the quickshifter helps to reduce wobble when changing gear as I usually shift without the clutch on the Euro 3.

[@plllot9713]

I can't imagine touring on a SM. I take my bike with me in a van. I've just spent 2 weeks in the Alps and covered almost 2k km. 350km is the most I did in one day and I had enough. Not to mention I wore a brand new rear tyre almost down to its cord and I'm not even a fast rider. last year in May I took the bike for the same trip with a tyre that was already a bit worn in... after a week I had to find a tyre shop for a new rear tyre 😂 I ride a SWM sm650 which is a copy of a Husky sms630. a brand new camshaft costs 130 euros 😅

[@PhilTonic]

I had no choice other to get used to it in the first week. Went on a tour with friends while I was breaking her in. Turned out to be a 800 km day trip, almost went into France. Bought the bike on a Tuesday, went back to the dealer the following Monday for the first service with 1100 km 😁

[@meinkraftrad8593]

Hallo Phil, bestimmt wieder ein tolles Video , gehe ich mal einfach von aus, oder anders ausgedrückt bewährte Qualität wie wir es von dir gewohnt sind. Meine Bitte, kannst du vielleicht mal ein Video machen wie es eure Meinung nach um Großbritannien steht ? Sowohl deine Meinung , als im besonderen die Meinung deiner Ehefrau . Das würde mich wirklich sehr interessieren . Vielen lieben Dank, für das tolle Video . DLzG Marco Ach so, wenn es geht bitte auf deutsch.

[@Meifesto]

Was thinking about a 690 SMC for years, trying to save up. And then I bought an XT660 and it kept my hunger for the SMC saturated. And now we have a Duc Mono 698 ... and now I'm in doubt ;)

[@PhilTonic]

The DUC is more road oriented, closer to a naked bike than the 690.

[@Meifesto]

@@PhilTonic Yeah, but that works, 80 to 85% of the km's are road use for me ;)

[@braxen690]

Nice video! This makes me a lot calmer as a 690 owner, mine should be good for at least 75000km more!

[@PhilTonic]

Thanks a lot and enjoy your 690!

[@xGxPhantomZzz]

I still love the sound of 690s. I don't think I will ever buy one again though, because when I bought my 2008 SMC (used, MANY previous owners, like >12) the engine seized after 150km. 1700€ Engine Rebuild later and it ran awful. No power whatsoever, rattled like crazy and didn't like being on, just turned off or didnt start at all most days. Sold it and went back to Suzuki. Never regretted it a second. Mine was restricted to 32hp (old A2 law) back then, it was so slow that my tuned 125 two stroke outran it in a drag race (after which the engine blew up).

[@PhilTonic]

Oh my god sounds like you had a lot of action with your bikes 😅

[@xGxPhantomZzz]

@@PhilTonic Yep, 10 Bikes in 6 years. Had 4 125cc bikes. First one was a project bike the previous owner stopped and half of the parts were either missing or broken beyond repair. Second one passed TÜV before buying it and got seized by police 1 day after registering it because it was "too illegal". Third one blew up and snapped the conrod into thousands of pieces on the first ride after I bought it. "Freshly rebuilt" engine with receipts and all, after disassembling it I found rust inside the engine... 4th was finally my first 4 stroke and it worked so incredibly perfect, that it even survived a broken crankshaft bearing for way over 10.000km before giving up. Rebuild the engine in my shed with a friend and it still runs, saw it 2 times on Kleinanzeigen with many more kilometers on it. Still same custom decor, still same broken plastics and whacky spokes (miscounted while respoking them so the front looks _slighty odd_ .) Safe to say I'm super unlucky. 10 Bikes, 1 never even got assembled, 1 got seized and lost registration, 4 engines blew up and the rest were cheap beater bikes that were too angry to die (Suzuki GS500E, GSX600F, GSX1100F). Currently on my second 2002 Hayabusa, because the first one ate its crankshaft bearings at 160kph.

[@Subliminal3117]

Thanks for the story! Greatly appreciated.

[@PhilTonic]

You're welcome.

[@therealad1238]

Lang drauf gewartet, bin mal auf dein Fazit gespannt nach so vielen Kilometern. Hatte auch zwischenzeitlich überlegt mir nochmal ne ältere zu holen, wenn die alten aber 7.000€ kosten und ne neue beim Händler 10.000€ seh ich das nicht ein.

[@PhilTonic]

Ja die Gebrauchtpreise sind schon immer verrückt.

[@H4nut4fr3ss3]

Die Preise sind in den letzten Jahren echt absurd geworden, habe meine vor ca 3 Jahren für 6,4 verkauft mit 14k km hätte dafür jetzt viel mehr bekommen

[@sebastianclauss4537]

ich schau momentan auch nach supermotos... die PREISE ... es ist nur verrückt ! ne alte exc 450 bj 2008 kostet als sumo mindesten 5k eher 6 ... tendiere auch stark zum neukauf..

[@PhilTonic]

Ich liebäugle auch schon seit Jahren mit ner EXC Supermoto, aber da ist man nie legal unterwegs und was den Wartungsaufwand und die -intervalle betrifft ist man mit einer 690er einfach besser dran.

[@theflyingbavarian]

Vielleicht kann man sich auch mal die GasGas SM anschauen. Effektiv fast das gleiche Bike, bekommt man aber schon für unter 9000€ nagelneu.

[@SWFXTRADING]

I also ride a 690 SMC-R 2015. Currently at 26.500. Before I had a 690 SMC-R 2016, this was a total mess up. There were so many things wrong with the engine and I had to replace the piston and cilinder already at 11.000 soon after I bought it. I think if you really maintain these 690's good they can last long. Other than that its an amazing bike, I love it more than my superduke 1290 r

[@PhilTonic]

They need a little bit of love but they give you lots back.

[@mickluinge8292]

Legend!

[@BlackdogADV]

On my ride from Portland to Ushuaia Argentina my 2013 690 my engine failed in Antofagasta Chile. It was the exhaust rocker bearing. I had a spare so I replaced in a motel parking lot. I’m on a Husqvarna 701 now with the improved engine.

[@PhilTonic]

Great bike too!

[@lepgrego7588]

sehr stark. das schaue ich mir später an ❤

[@philiplaurell1163]

Great video. Thanks

[@bishoymikheal]

Really informative video, I recently rebuilt a 690 Duke 08 and it's been running pretty good. It only had 31k and the gearbox was in pieces. Good to know that the hard work was worth it if you got to 100k. Just wondering is yours the 690 or the 654 engine? Thanks for the help!

[@PhilTonic]

Thank you. It's the 654.

[@hannesdobbelaere]

@@PhilTonic good to know, i have the same engine in my 690SM (with the 2 exhausts and funny front fender) i'm at 42000km now.

[@PhilTonic]

That was actually the first 690 I've ever ridden. After the test ride I started saving money for the SMC.

[@therealtashiro]

Great video! Thanks for sharing! What's your opinion on what's the better bike to get for having both a supermoto and a dual sport. Get a 690 SMC and get dual sport rims/tires or get a 690 Enduro R and get supermoto rims/tires? Cheers! 🍻🏍

[@PhilTonic]

Thanks. I have another set of wheels which fit plug and play, but the suspension is too stiff for Enduro riding. And you can still do a lot even with street tyres on a supermoto. So for me it wasn't worth it. If you are aiming towards dual sport just get the Enduro. It's great on the road too.

[@repeterz]

Great review. Thank you.

[@PhilTonic]

Thank you, you're welcome!

[@SomeRandoInternetPoster]

Wow, the KTM 690 has cam shaft wear issues as well. I thought cam shaft wear was only happening on the KTM 790 and KTM 890 models which required replacement of camshafts. This suggests KTM have a wider cam shaft manufacturing issue, cam shafts are not a wear items and should look brand new even at 100,000km.

[@PhilTonic]

I know a guy who rode his 690 Enduro for 140,000 km and he didn't have any issues with the cam shaft itself.

[@jdesmo1]

Is the rocker arm issue corrected by KTM in the newer 690 engine on your new SMCR ??

[@PhilTonic]

Yes since it's a completely different timing head design.

[@jdesmo1]

@@PhilTonic Ahh yes I remember now, it changed from DOHC to SOHC with balance shaft

[@PhilTonic]

They are both SOHC. They valve actuation is different.

[@brikt8826]

Thanks for making this video!

[@PhilTonic]

You're welcome!

[@majkii1042]

I love this bike! I miss mine :)

[@Jaszczur-sp2tx]

I have a 2008 690 SMR with 52k (bought it with 44k) and I'm currently replacing the intake rocker arm bacause the roller bearing is worn out. It sucks that this little part is so expensive right now...

[@PhilTonic]

140€ was the last price I remember.

[@Jaszczur-sp2tx]

@@PhilTonic They are 150-160€ now, seems like they keep getting more expensive every year :(

[@joaosantos-fo4kh]

I m really thinking to buy the 690 2024 or the 701 Husqvarna. I had the 530 exc was the best bike ever I regretted alot to sell it. Never have one engine problem was just amazing bike

[@marcinkmiecik3058]

Nie kupuj modeli 2018-2024! Kup 2015-2016.

[@Iewjuks]

How offten do you have to refill engine oil? 😊

[@PhilTonic]

On my last tour it used about 50ml per 1000km.

[@otmuppet]

Well done! Im only a 1/3 of the way with my 2019 1090R. Question, how does the chain oiler work? Timer? Or is it just gravity fed?

[@PhilTonic]

Force fed. You twist it a few degrees (a quarter turn in my case) and then it squeezes a little bit of oil out for a while. I do it at every fuel stop.

[@otmuppet]

@@PhilTonic perfect! Thank you

[@stefanosbestias5547]

Hi, I’d like to make a question. Is there any mechanic differences between the new and the oldest 690? (Except the 10 hp)

[@PhilTonic]

Different valve train, higher displacement, cornering abs, traction control, map switch and a few other bits.

[@stefanosbestias5547]

Thank you very much for the information!!

[@Nathan_1492]

Thanks for the video showing how reliable these bikes can be if you take care of them. I hope to get that many miles on my 2022 SMC R. How many times have you had to adjust the valves?

[@PhilTonic]

Every 7500 km. As far as I remember they were only in spec once, maybe twice.

[@wasfuertim8380]

Hallo Phil ich habe eine ktm smc 690 2011 mit 28.000 km gelaufen. Bisher nie was kaputt gegangen . Was kann an dem baujahr oft kaputt gehen. Habe angst das bald was passiert

[@BladeRicsi]

That is a nice review Phil, I ride a 701 enduro, which shares parts with your bikes, but I never thought to my 701 as a long distance capable bike until now. Maybe i shold ride my 701 on my next long distance tour.

[@PhilTonic]

Yes definitely! Slap a comfort seat on it and you're good to go!

[@xdevice617]

Welches Öl hast du über die Jahre verwendet? und gibt es noch irgendwelche kleinen Krankheiten außer den Kipphebeln? Hab mir vor paar Tagen auch eine gekauft mit 29.000km und würde ungerne den Motor revidieren lassen, weil ich etwas übersehen habe. Würde Ventile und Kipphebel checken und Ölwechsel machen. Sonst noch irgendetwas worauf ich achten sollte bevor ich auch die erste Fahrt mit der Guten gehe?

[@PhilTonic]

Nö, nur Kipphebel. Ich bin Motul 300V 15W60 gefahren.

[@EricBanner571]

How often were you changing the engine oil and what brand / viscosity were you using?

[@PhilTonic]

Every 7500 km, mostly Motul 300V 15W60.

[@al3xxx918]

Es ist das gleiche Problem, wie mit meiner WR 125 R. Jeder sagt, dass dir spätestens nach 50000 Kilometern der Motor hochgehen wird. Ich halte meine Serviceintervalle penibel ein und gönne ihr bei jedem Ölwechsel auch einen neuen Filter (entgegen der Yamaha Richtlinie). Ab und zu schaue ich mal mit dem Endoskop in den Brennraum und die Ventile werden kontrolliert (hier passiert aber wahrscheinlich nix mehr). Hier machen also auch einige Panik, wo keine Panik angebracht ist.

[@FraxeroneMemone]

My 2015 390 duke has achieved more than 60k kms, but not without issues… the previous owner was a complete idiot and gave me the bike with the head gasket basically gone, i’ve noticed a strange oil consumption problem and strange bubbles in the oil after using the bike… i’m not a mechanic (in thet period i was still a noob and didn’t know anything about engines) and after spending 500€ for a complete service and 300€ for a complete front fork service the bike still runs great, incredible for the city, incredible in the twisties. Apart from that problem all the regular maintenence i did all by myself, brakes, clutch replacement, oil, filters, chain tension, electrical stuff…

[@PhilTonic]

The Duke is a great bike too. Had a change to ride one twice. For me the SMC/Enduro offer better ergonomics (I'm 1,85m).

[@DamonOnBikes]

hey dude if its not too much bother could you tell me what gear you wear looks very tidy

[@PhilTonic]

Büse B Racing.

[@DamonOnBikes]

@@PhilTonic cheers mate 👍

[@kai-uweoch1159]

I am hoping I am as lucky as you with my 2022 Husky 701!

[@PhilTonic]

The Euro 4/5 models should in theory be even more reliable!

[@backup-yb3fl]

in more or less 6 years, i hope to do a video like this about my Mt09 :D

[@sandroschindler9129]

Ich habe eine Wave Bremsscheibe auf meiner 2011 smc eingebaut, und der Tacho stimmt nicht mehr, was könnte der Grund sein?

[@Mr4321aldo]

Excellent video.

[@PhilTonic]

Tahnks a lot!

[@bradsanders6954]

The rocker arms on these get replaced every 10,000 miles if you want to be sure. As of 2019 690's don't have these rocker arms any more, and they run way smoother and make 8 more HP. Vibration is near nil. 75mph is easy for hours. For me, any bike can have issues. I had one BMW and I am cured for life, no mas. By 36,000 miles it was no longer trust worthy to go out of town on.................the first electrical repair was under warranty luckily. @ 4500.00 for parts, and 2 months down time...................the shop admitted it also needed a new wiring harness @ 1500.00 for parts. It always used a lot of oil. Like a half quart before lunch if I rode it hard.

[@PhilTonic]

As I've said I also own a 2020 SMC. Pretty confident this one will last a long time.

[@kollosytravel5796]

Herzlichen Glückwunsch erstmal zur sechsstelligen Laufleistung mit der 690er! Zwei Fragen hätte ich: Was glaubst du würdest bekommen, würdest du sie verkaufen? Wann denkst du müsstest du den Motor ausbauen und zur Generalüberholung einschicken? Ich stelle die Frage, weil ich mit meiner Enduro R gerade bei 73k bin und gerade die Nockenwelle und die Ventilhebel tauschen musste aufgrund der von dir geschilderten Probleme. Mir bleiben also noch 27k (rund 2 Jahre) bis zur Generalüberholung, die ich wahrscheinlich machen lassen werde, weil ich keine Lust habe mein einziges Moped mit geteiltem Motor in der Garage stehen lassen zu müssen, wenn ab 100k die goldene Grenze zum Retrofit überschriften ist.

[@PhilTonic]

Puh das ist ne sehr gute Frage. Keine 6000 mehr denke ich. Ich werde den Motor erst machen lassen, wenn wirklich was ernsthaft kaputt ist oder sie keine Leistung mehr hat. Aber mich würde auch reizen, das selbst zu machen.

[@kollosytravel5796]

@@PhilTonic Naja, ist bei dir ein bisschen einfacher, weil du ne zweite zum fahren hast. Ich bin drauf angewiesen, dass die von Frühjahr bis Spätherbst und manchmal auch im Winter läuft. 😅

[@PhilTonic]

Oder für Notfälle wie diesen ne günstige 125er anschaffen? Die machen auch Laune.

[@kollosytravel5796]

@@PhilTonic Entweder so oder ne Himalayan für den Weg zur Arbeit

[@lifeofme937]

Wie heißen dies "Rockas" von dene du sprichst auf Deutsch? Ich find keine Übersetzung, vermutlich, weil ich es falsch schreibe :D

[@ThePhilippSchepers]

kipphebel

[@PhilTonic]

Rocker arms = Kipphebel

[@joewatkins1667]

thanks for sharing

[@PhilTonic]

You're welcome!

[@santaon2wheels600]

I had the exact same story as you but the problems happened much sooner on my 2014 SMC-R: -8,400km: rocker arms failed and replaced both with the updated part nrs. -28,000km: rocker arms failed again and camshaft damaged From now on, I will just replace both rockers every 15,000km.

[@PhilTonic]

Do you know what kind of failure you had with the rockers? To prevent the pin from getting loose, punching helps as shown.

[@santaon2wheels600]

@@PhilTonic I'm not sure what exactly happened on the rockers, as I had someone else working on the bike.

[@giannisgg7440]

What gears size you have ?

[@PhilTonic]

Standard ratio.

[@skaraborgcraft]

What about oil changes? Old Honda XL/XR had camshaft wear if the oil was neglected. Your cam looks like its been cooked, or its sub standard metal. Still riding a 123kg Honda XL but with only 20hp.......still smiling.

[@PhilTonic]

There were no signs of overheating on either the lobe nor the rocker arm. Probably just excessive wear on the lobe that in turn killed the rocker arm bearing surface.