“Ready to Race” is KTM’s promise to all the customers and riders out there. And with the new model year of the 690 SMC-R, KTM continues to offer the 1-cylinder power train in its street range. With 74 Bhp, 73.5 Nm of torque and a dry weight of only 147 kilograms – the brand promise seems to be quite clear. And all that is compatible with the Euro 5 regulations? Short answer – yes it is. Responsible to follow the tight qualifications is the new catalyzer that reduces CO2 emissions to 96 g/km.
Equipment and Performance
The liquid cooled engine of the 690 SMC-R is based on the classic LC4 unit and offers 55 kW (74 bhp). Power to weight ratio on this Supermoto bike is pretty precise at 0,5 bhp/kg.
The Apex suspension of course comes from KTM’s affiliate firm WP and is fully adjustable. Bridgestone S21 tyres on 17 inch rims connect the bike and tarmac. And there is more to it – as known from other bikes of KTM’s model range, the SMC-R is packed with technological helpers. The bike offers 2 ride modes – 1 Street and 2 Supermoto. Street prevents wheelspin and wheelies to get the power best on the road plus 2 channel ABS is activated. In Supermoto mode the bike reacts even more precise on the throttle and allows the rider to leave corners on the rear wheel. To enable the rider to perform Supermoto-drifts, the rear wheel ABS is disabled in mode 2. The different ride modes can be easily adjusted from handle bar and switched at any time.
What we like
We do have to say that we really like the appearance of the new KTM 690 SMC-R. Everything is focused on what this bike is about – performance and fun on the road. Something else – service intervals are at every 10.000 kilometers which keep maintenance costs at a moderate level. Fuel capacity of 13.5 liters require the rider to approach the next gas station after ~330 kilometers – regarding to KTM. If that really is the truth if one pushed the throttle? We will find out…
