Thank you so very much for this review and comparison! Unfortunately I have to wait about another 2 years until I can get my KTM 690, but I am living vicariously through you lol! Thanks again
@@Aengen I did!😁 A 2020 model from a dealership in Texas called Mainland cycle center Already did a trip to Tail of the dragon from Louisiana Love it!!
@@BJJNINJA215 Good to hear!! I just bought a T7 after selling my CRF300Rally, but now I think I should have gotten a KTM 690 enduro R or Husky 701 enduro… 😂
I'm sure you've found this out already after owning the bike but the quick shifter is not a smart clutch. It trips the ignition long enough to mesh the next gear. Also the mode buttons are different maps that are preprogrammed modes. 1 has an anti wheelie mode within it, and 2 is more sport oriented. Only the euro models came with LED turn signals. The only thing I havent looked into is your bike has wave rotors, which isnt for dirt removal. It's been proven for rotor cooling under high heat conditions which improves performance. My 2019 699 smcr has oversized rotors, but arent wave, and the other endures I've seen dont have waves on them. So that could possibly be a euro enduro only thing. I have friends in europe with the new smcr and they also so not have waves. Since you're a traveler, you should look into the Rade auxiliary fuel tank which comes with an aftermarket intake which they claim adds 3-5hp. Not that you say you dont need.. but it adds a gallon and a half of fuel in the place of the factory air box. There are multiple people who have added this to their bike, and instead of running the fuel shut off on the outside of the bike and running the fuel line to the fuel pump under the tank. They just run the auxiliary fuel line directly to the fuel vent nipple on the stock fuel cap, and let the suction pull the fuel from the front. Which has proven to work perfectly fine. To each their own on that mod.. Also running it that way will work with aftermarket billet fuel caps on the rear. If you're running a BRP steering damper set up you'll need to trim the carbon fiber trim piece that sits around the ignition switch to clear the post for the dampener. Another thing to look out for is that the shift star on the 2019 models were redesigned to accommodate the new quick shifter sensor. The new shift stars are powdered cast aluminum and have no dowel supports, which as the older models have steel dowel pins and are supported by an outer ring. There wasnt any room to run the old style apparently with the new shift arm setup, so this was a cheap change. My shift star broke the day after bringing my bike home and wouldnt shift below 3rd gear. I was down shifting like normal (with the clutch) and one of the dowels broke clean off because of a crap casting flaw. The dealer replaced it right away being under warranty, but I bought a spare anyway. The dowel that broke off stuck to the magnet on my quick shift sensor so I got lucky.. Factory Pro has a shift kit that I personally think every 690 or 701 should have. I installed the pro kit on mine with the ceramic bearing, which made a world of difference and totally eliminated my miss shifts and false neutrals. The fuel dongle from Rottweiler performance also cleared up my stalling issues I was having. Since those chances the bike has been great.
Thank you for these in-depth thoughts and analysis. I learned some things from you. The Rade tank is not a good idea as I don't want deacon on top of a gas cap. We just got back to Colorado after 8 months in Mexico. We felt that Colorado is now safer from the Covid-19 than Sonora. I did not have any trouble with my 2019 690, but did bring down a spare shift star, slave o-rings, kickstand sensor magnet, and Oberon slave cylinder, and filters, but never needed to install them. Its been working fine. I'm not hard on bikes any more and don't rip or roost (tough with the dog on board), and I do not try to get air under my wheels. I wake up with too many pains from the sins of my youth as it is. Thanks again.
07-17 only .... " Factory Pro has a shift kit that I personally think every 690 or 701 should have. I installed the pro kit on mine with the ceramic bearing, which made a world of difference and totally eliminated my miss shifts and false neutrals"
Thanks for the info , I’m getting a 2021 690 r soon , been wanting one for years. Got out of dirt Riding, I’ve missed it . Been riding big Harleys last 25 years instead. Gonna Add the 690 to my Street Glide while I’m still young enough to do it !
It was a surprise to me, too. I complained to my dealer in Mexico that they didn't include the tool kit in my KTM portfolio, like my 3 previous KTMs. I almost broke the left side cover trying to get it off.
Great review of the 2 man. Love me some Wings muffler. Same here. Great weight reducing add on to the 690. I just lived on my 690 for a year. Been home for 3 days. I adore this bike and don’t really see myself departing from the platform any time soon. Thanks for sharing this data man. I’m gonna sub right now.
I had a 2013 690 I rode to Ushuaia Argentina with. Engine failed in Antofagasta Chile (rockers). I sold it and bought a new 2017 Husqvarna 701. I use it for dual sport but I’m slowly making it my lightweight ADV bike. I’ve got it dialed in except for the short fuel range, been using a 1 gallon rotopax to get me by.
The 2019 690 is a weapon. It's my first ever KTM. I've had mine for about 6 weeks now and can't get enough of riding it. I love that you take your doggie riding on your bike, we have two dogs - a Border Collie and a Whippet/Staffy, and have often contemplated how we could ride with them on board. I always assumed you'd have your furry friend on the rear rack sometime, your videos have changed my mind. Are you going to upgrade to the Rade Garage tank? It will give you another 100km of ride range and replaces the stock airbox. Keep the videos coming and keep living the dream :) Peace and happy trails from Down Under :)
Hi, Tori. Nice to meet you! Deacon rides on the back of my Vespa, facing the rear, resting on the luggage bag, but on a motorcycle, he always has his paws over the handle bars.
I have a 2017 ktm 690 and I wonder how much smoother the engine is with the added counterbalance on the 2019 than the older motor? At higher rpm’s my 2017 does vibrate but not through the bars much at all any longer since installing the Scott’s damper with BRP rubber mounted risers just like the one shown in your video. Just wondering if ktm has totally eliminated vibration or it’s just less and if it’s just less how much less?
Wondering the exact same thing. Good deals on the 2018 and older bikes and I'm tempted. Hard to find used 2019 and newer so if the difference in vibration isn't that great, I could see buying an older one.
You guys sound like you're researching the same things as me.. Happen to know the best year to go used with a 690? Was thinking 16 was realistically the earliest I could go.. How does the 2017 do on the highway? I do long camping/adventure rides with.
I have a home in San Carlos and it was not legal for me to ride in mainland Mexico without a bike purchased and registered in Mexico. I can still ride it in the USA and Canada. no import fees here, as long as it goes back to Mexico every year.
Great review and comparison,Do you know if the 2019 and up has the daily where you can adjust and run the bike temporarily on low octane fuel, like the previous models ?
"absolutely" is a weird term, as sitting position is based on the bike and setup. I'm not the guy to ask because my dog sits in front of me, so I have to be a bit back from where I would like to be. I also have not received my handlebar risers and seat Concepts seat yet, and have to lower my pegs.
That's weird, it's like TH-cam read my mind on a video I would like to see because I looked at a used, tricked out, 690 and then I decided upon a new 2020...and I was just wondering a few minutes ago how they would compare.
I'm also 220 pounds. I travel only about 4-5 hours per day and 150-200 miles, just because I am 73 and have back problems. Deacon gets tired too. The comfort XL seat is very nice, but you can extend your range by wearing Adventure Motoskivvies. My 2015 does not have the XL. The XL is a wider seat, so it spreads your legs a bit when stopping and putting your foot down. I'm 6 ft. Dunlop Trailmax Mission adventure tires smooth out the road and work awesome off-road. th-cam.com/video/KIocQBI3aTM/w-d-xo.html
telerover thanks for the great response! I’m 6ft too, I wish I had your riding time, with my current schedule I’m lucky if I get an hour and half to ride per day. It sounds like the seats are good for that duration. I’ll also check out those skivvies. Thanks!
I downloaded your novel on my Kindle "Vietnam Reunion"and WOW you can write! To ne honest I dont know why but assumed it would be lame but it is really truly an entertaining story! Probably I assumed it would be bad because I keep fantazixing I cound write a novel featuring adventure motorcycles which I am positive would not go well lol....so I guess I just figured you being similar age/hobby/ dog lover would also be a clumsy writer....not so! In fact I am guessing that it is far from your first rodeo..it is too good I think for a first effort! Really my only criticism is one place where you seemed to make clear a moral judgment against marijuana being legal which I kindly suggest is a bad idea for anyone hoping to sell books! Just figure that at least as many folks are for it as against it so you really are judging ,,,,personally I dont like the weed these days but people I love are fine with it and if anything I believe outlawing it has caused WAY more harm to people than good....And I suggest that IF folks (particularly of our age) with chronic pain would likly be be far better off if they can tolerate the effects finding relief in pot than with popping NSAIDs as your character Nick does daily (which I am utterly convinced is a REALLY REALLY bad idea for many/most older folks ,,,I mean REALLY) Then in a round about way the moral judgments against it could actually contribute to significant harm....just my 2 cents just saying
Looking at getting preowned a 690. What are your thoughts on 2018 vs 2020/21? Are the changes to the 2019+ worth a $3/4K higher purchase price? My concern with the 18 and older is the vib at freeway speed and my assumption is the newer 690's are pretty smooth at the higher speeds. I know you have a new version now, but if you were buying one for the first time, knowing how they compare, would you spend $4K more to get the improvements KTM made in 2019? Thanks for your feedback.
Hi, nice video. What a pragmatic and wise driver you are ! (liked the video with the scale/weight comparison). One technical question : don't you think the front of the bike is a bit lower than the rear ? When you compare with your 350 exc ? Is it my personnal and wrong feeling or would it be nice (=more actual enduro bike setting) to add one inch travel on the front (using husky 701 fork cartridge ?). Thanks and keep making videos !
I think it is an optical illusion, because you are expecting to see a gas tank behind the handle bars, instead of the flat top look of the 690 seat. Great for flat tracking though, getting your nuts up there
nice comparison, I am thinking about getting one for myself. Wonder though how much they change the frame? because the older handled more of a road bike then dirt...
I don't know who or what you are referencing, but the 690 trellis frame, and later with the 450 motor installed, has won every Dakar Rally in the last 15 years. Most people think its a better dirt bike than a street tourer, but I think its the best all around motorcycle ever made. I travel all of North America using DOT knobbies. My experience is with the 2015 model prior to getting the 2019.
@@telerover Well, KTM Replica Rally is completely different bike man, motor, longer swing arms etc etc :) Lyndon Poskit described differences somewhere some tome ago.
Great comparison of old and new versions. I am starting my research. I ride a F800GS, but getting too heavy and tall. Looking for all around bike. But, really adventure touring bike. I hear the new KTM 690 Enduro R can handle long distance rides on pavement. Long service interval is very appealing. My only issue is gas mileage, range, and seat height. Can anyone share what you get for MPG, range on stock tank, and seat height? Can seat height be lowered through adjusting rear suspension link or preload? How much lower. Do you have a post on ADVrider comparing old vs. new? Great post telerover.
I have done multiple 2000+ mile rides on pavement and gravel back roads in North Ameerica using full knobbies. My 2019 690 (EU) came with 50/50 tires. The best lowering changes are seen in my latest video: th-cam.com/video/sT-xznl5AEo/w-d-xo.html
on range, it varies between 150-180 miles on my 2015, depending on altitude and throttle management (less range at sea level). I do not 'rip' anywhere and try not to ever cruise above 65mph because of my dog. off-road, 25-35 mph is comfortable. the 2019 has an extra half-gallon, which should give me 200 miles now. I carry an extra gallon in 4 bottles, but i may start leaving them behind.
@@telerover yeah no reliability issues? What bullshit ... My 2016 with 6500kms on it had a very expensive rocker arm failure (which is extremely common - it's all over forums and TH-cam) and left me stranded in the middle of the Australian outback. And Dakar bikes have nothing to do with the bike you ride champ.....
@@occyman New motor. All fixed. This also had a year or two seasoning in Husqvarna 701 so hopefully all is well now. I thought I heard there are upgraded rocker arms available for your motor? Dunno.
I’ve had my 2019 690 for a couple of months. I geared mine up higher,, dropped to a 42 sprocket in the rear. Really helps the on road rpm. Have a Rekluse clutch coming. There is so much power, I don’t miss the low end from gearing up. The US model does not have LED blinkers. I’ve met you and Deacon in Crested Butte and Park City last year. See you in Breakenridge September!
Why do you feel the need for a Rekluse clutch? I'm wondering if it will conflict the new clutchless auto shifting. I never had one (old school) so its hard for me wrap my head around it.
telerover , I’ve had Rekluse clutches on different bikes. 500Exc and my current 450Exc. If you have ever had one,, it spoils you. It’s great for any bike, and makes my Exc models where you don’t even use the clutch to shift either. Will definitely not interfere with quick shifter, may even help it. It also runs cooler than a standard clutch. And adding a left hand brake which is rear brake,, it gives you the option on precarious down hills or up hills applying both brakes if you need to put both feet down. A lot of pro riders use Rekluse. It really does improve the ride.
@@keithguinn4706 LHRB is a game changer. Panic stops w/o worry about stall and pulling the clutch is a nice performance add as well. Also when riding with others and stopping looking at maps and GPS you can leave bike idling and have both hands free and still use foot brake if need to hold on a slope. It's like having a dropper post on a mountainbike. Hard to imagine riding without one once you discover all the subtle and obvious performance advantages of having it.
@@chasejiannalone8763 Does it completely get rid of the clutch? So basically like having a a car with paddle shifters(but obviously you still shift with your foot)
Super video ! viens faire un tour sur ma chaine et n’oublie pas de me dire ce que tu en pense en commentaire ! ça me permetterais de m’ameliorer ! 😁😁✌️✌️
Hi there! I don't if you have heard of these guys, they make an excellent skid plate. www.axp-racing.com/en/product/2015-2019-husqvarna-701-ktm-690-xtrem-skid-plate-black-ax1472. Good review by the way. UK
Are you ever concerned about riding with your dog? I have a couple of dogs and I'd hate to think about going down on the bike with either one. I'm more concerned about their welfare than my own. At least I have a helmet, padded coat and pants.
Of course. He's my reason for riding, as it was his idea to get on. If he becomes too old to jump up, we will stop and sell the bikes. The bike is built specifically for Deacon's safety and comfort and has evolved over the last 5 years. We have fallen over many times at slow speed, 0-2.5 mph, which are shown in my videos. He is always the first to bail and leave the sinking ship. I am the only one who ever gets hurt. I have flashing strobes front and rear, and we never travel very fast and we always take back roads away from major traffic streams. th-cam.com/video/co2PXidSbps/w-d-xo.html
@@telerover That's good, Sir. I'm a 690 rider myself and my dogs are "healthy" shar peis, so it would be a big leap for them to get up to the seat. I've taken your advice on a few mods and I was wondering about a Rade auxillary tank. Have you considered one? Experience with one? Thanks, DO
Thank you so very much for this review and comparison! Unfortunately I have to wait about another 2 years until I can get my KTM 690, but I am living vicariously through you lol! Thanks again
Thanks, buddy. One happy viewer is all I ask for!
Sooo, did you get one?
@@Aengen I did!😁 A 2020 model from a dealership in Texas called Mainland cycle center
Already did a trip to Tail of the dragon from Louisiana
Love it!!
@@BJJNINJA215 Good to hear!! I just bought a T7 after selling my CRF300Rally, but now I think I should have gotten a KTM 690 enduro R or Husky 701 enduro… 😂
I'm sure you've found this out already after owning the bike but the quick shifter is not a smart clutch. It trips the ignition long enough to mesh the next gear. Also the mode buttons are different maps that are preprogrammed modes. 1 has an anti wheelie mode within it, and 2 is more sport oriented. Only the euro models came with LED turn signals. The only thing I havent looked into is your bike has wave rotors, which isnt for dirt removal. It's been proven for rotor cooling under high heat conditions which improves performance. My 2019 699 smcr has oversized rotors, but arent wave, and the other endures I've seen dont have waves on them. So that could possibly be a euro enduro only thing. I have friends in europe with the new smcr and they also so not have waves. Since you're a traveler, you should look into the Rade auxiliary fuel tank which comes with an aftermarket intake which they claim adds 3-5hp. Not that you say you dont need.. but it adds a gallon and a half of fuel in the place of the factory air box. There are multiple people who have added this to their bike, and instead of running the fuel shut off on the outside of the bike and running the fuel line to the fuel pump under the tank. They just run the auxiliary fuel line directly to the fuel vent nipple on the stock fuel cap, and let the suction pull the fuel from the front. Which has proven to work perfectly fine. To each their own on that mod.. Also running it that way will work with aftermarket billet fuel caps on the rear. If you're running a BRP steering damper set up you'll need to trim the carbon fiber trim piece that sits around the ignition switch to clear the post for the dampener. Another thing to look out for is that the shift star on the 2019 models were redesigned to accommodate the new quick shifter sensor. The new shift stars are powdered cast aluminum and have no dowel supports, which as the older models have steel dowel pins and are supported by an outer ring. There wasnt any room to run the old style apparently with the new shift arm setup, so this was a cheap change. My shift star broke the day after bringing my bike home and wouldnt shift below 3rd gear. I was down shifting like normal (with the clutch) and one of the dowels broke clean off because of a crap casting flaw. The dealer replaced it right away being under warranty, but I bought a spare anyway. The dowel that broke off stuck to the magnet on my quick shift sensor so I got lucky.. Factory Pro has a shift kit that I personally think every 690 or 701 should have. I installed the pro kit on mine with the ceramic bearing, which made a world of difference and totally eliminated my miss shifts and false neutrals. The fuel dongle from Rottweiler performance also cleared up my stalling issues I was having. Since those chances the bike has been great.
Thank you for these in-depth thoughts and analysis. I learned some things from you. The Rade tank is not a good idea as I don't want deacon on top of a gas cap. We just got back to Colorado after 8 months in Mexico. We felt that Colorado is now safer from the Covid-19 than Sonora. I did not have any trouble with my 2019 690, but did bring down a spare shift star, slave o-rings, kickstand sensor magnet, and Oberon slave cylinder, and filters, but never needed to install them. Its been working fine. I'm not hard on bikes any more and don't rip or roost (tough with the dog on board), and I do not try to get air under my wheels. I wake up with too many pains from the sins of my youth as it is. Thanks again.
07-17 only .... " Factory Pro has a shift kit that I personally think every 690 or 701 should have. I installed the pro kit on mine with the ceramic bearing, which made a world of difference and totally eliminated my miss shifts and false neutrals"
Thanks for the info , I’m getting a 2021 690 r soon , been wanting one for years. Got out of dirt Riding, I’ve missed it . Been riding big Harleys last 25 years instead. Gonna Add the 690 to my Street Glide while I’m still young enough to do it !
Great video iv owned mine for 2 months and didn't know there was a tool kit until your review thanks 👍
It was a surprise to me, too. I complained to my dealer in Mexico that they didn't include the tool kit in my KTM portfolio, like my 3 previous KTMs. I almost broke the left side cover trying to get it off.
Great review of the 2 man. Love me some Wings muffler. Same here. Great weight reducing add on to the 690. I just lived on my 690 for a year. Been home for 3 days. I adore this bike and don’t really see myself departing from the platform any time soon. Thanks for sharing this data man. I’m gonna sub right now.
Thanks for visiting my channel and being a good ktm 690 role model
telerover my pleasure man. Great data in the videos. We are team orange at Story Moto!!!
I had a 2013 690 I rode to Ushuaia Argentina with. Engine failed in Antofagasta Chile (rockers). I sold it and bought a new 2017 Husqvarna 701. I use it for dual sport but I’m slowly making it my lightweight ADV bike. I’ve got it dialed in except for the short fuel range, been using a 1 gallon rotopax to get me by.
The 2019 690 is a weapon. It's my first ever KTM. I've had mine for about 6 weeks now and can't get enough of riding it. I love that you take your doggie riding on your bike, we have two dogs - a Border Collie and a Whippet/Staffy, and have often contemplated how we could ride with them on board. I always assumed you'd have your furry friend on the rear rack sometime, your videos have changed my mind. Are you going to upgrade to the Rade Garage tank? It will give you another 100km of ride range and replaces the stock airbox. Keep the videos coming and keep living the dream :) Peace and happy trails from Down Under :)
Hi, Tori. Nice to meet you! Deacon rides on the back of my Vespa, facing the rear, resting on the luggage bag, but on a motorcycle, he always has his paws over the handle bars.
How’s the weight loss goals going? How many miles do you have racked up on the 690 now?
I have a 2017 ktm 690 and I wonder how much smoother the engine is with the added counterbalance on the 2019 than the older motor? At higher rpm’s my 2017 does vibrate but not through the bars much at all any longer since installing the Scott’s damper with BRP rubber mounted risers just like the one shown in your video. Just wondering if ktm has totally eliminated vibration or it’s just less and if it’s just less how much less?
Wondering the exact same thing. Good deals on the 2018 and older bikes and I'm tempted. Hard to find used 2019 and newer so if the difference in vibration isn't that great, I could see buying an older one.
You guys sound like you're researching the same things as me.. Happen to know the best year to go used with a 690? Was thinking 16 was realistically the earliest I could go.. How does the 2017 do on the highway? I do long camping/adventure rides with.
The 2019+ is remarkable after riding my 2015.
I have a home in San Carlos and it was not legal for me to ride in mainland Mexico without a bike purchased and registered in Mexico. I can still ride it in the USA and Canada. no import fees here, as long as it goes back to Mexico every year.
Great review and comparison,Do you know if the 2019 and up has the daily where you can adjust and run the bike temporarily on low octane fuel, like the previous models ?
"absolutely" is a weird term, as sitting position is based on the bike and setup. I'm not the guy to ask because my dog sits in front of me, so I have to be a bit back from where I would like to be. I also have not received my handlebar risers and seat Concepts seat yet, and have to lower my pegs.
That's weird, it's like TH-cam read my mind on a video I would like to see because I looked at a used, tricked out, 690 and then I decided upon a new 2020...and I was just wondering a few minutes ago how they would compare.
Is the seat concepts seat comfortable after 45 min? Im 220 pounds, looking to get a 690. I know it’s a very subjective question.
I'm also 220 pounds. I travel only about 4-5 hours per day and 150-200 miles, just because I am 73 and have back problems. Deacon gets tired too. The comfort XL seat is very nice, but you can extend your range by wearing Adventure Motoskivvies. My 2015 does not have the XL. The XL is a wider seat, so it spreads your legs a bit when stopping and putting your foot down. I'm 6 ft. Dunlop Trailmax Mission adventure tires smooth out the road and work awesome off-road. th-cam.com/video/KIocQBI3aTM/w-d-xo.html
telerover thanks for the great response! I’m 6ft too, I wish I had your riding time, with my current schedule I’m lucky if I get an hour and half to ride per day. It sounds like the seats are good for that duration. I’ll also check out those skivvies. Thanks!
I downloaded your novel on my Kindle "Vietnam Reunion"and WOW you can write! To ne honest I dont know why but assumed it would be lame but it is really truly an entertaining story! Probably I assumed it would be bad because I keep fantazixing I cound write a novel featuring adventure motorcycles which I am positive would not go well lol....so I guess I just figured you being similar age/hobby/ dog lover would also be a clumsy writer....not so! In fact I am guessing that it is far from your first rodeo..it is too good I think for a first effort! Really my only criticism is one place where you seemed to make clear a moral judgment against marijuana being legal which I kindly suggest is a bad idea for anyone hoping to sell books! Just figure that at least as many folks are for it as against it so you really are judging ,,,,personally I dont like the weed these days but people I love are fine with it and if anything I believe outlawing it has caused WAY more harm to people than good....And I suggest that IF folks (particularly of our age) with chronic pain would likly be be far better off if they can tolerate the effects finding relief in pot than with popping NSAIDs as your character Nick does daily (which I am utterly convinced is a REALLY REALLY bad idea for many/most older folks ,,,I mean REALLY) Then in a round about way the moral judgments against it could actually contribute to significant harm....just my 2 cents just saying
Looking at getting preowned a 690. What are your thoughts on 2018 vs 2020/21? Are the changes to the 2019+ worth a $3/4K higher purchase price? My concern with the 18 and older is the vib at freeway speed and my assumption is the newer 690's are pretty smooth at the higher speeds. I know you have a new version now, but if you were buying one for the first time, knowing how they compare, would you spend $4K more to get the improvements KTM made in 2019? Thanks for your feedback.
In 2019 they improved the valve rocker arm design which is much better and more reliable than all previous years. Definitely worth the upgrade.
More gas and HP, too
Hi there! I have a question. Is sitting position absolutely the same as in previous enduro 690 model?
how is the vibration as compared to 2018 models?
it makes me wonder too
My 2019 rides very smooth, no vibration, it kinda feel like a Honda crf250 but with 50 more horsepower
Why did you purchase the bike in Mexico? Was it cheaper? Difficult to import back home? Thanks.
Hi, nice video. What a pragmatic and wise driver you are ! (liked the video with the scale/weight comparison). One technical question : don't you think the front of the bike is a bit lower than the rear ? When you compare with your 350 exc ? Is it my personnal and wrong feeling or would it be nice (=more actual enduro bike setting) to add one inch travel on the front (using husky 701 fork cartridge ?). Thanks and keep making videos !
I think it is an optical illusion, because you are expecting to see a gas tank behind the handle bars, instead of the flat top look of the 690 seat. Great for flat tracking though, getting your nuts up there
Thanks ! Have a good ride.
nice comparison, I am thinking about getting one for myself. Wonder though how much they change the frame? because the older handled more of a road bike then dirt...
I don't know who or what you are referencing, but the 690 trellis frame, and later with the 450 motor installed, has won every Dakar Rally in the last 15 years. Most people think its a better dirt bike than a street tourer, but I think its the best all around motorcycle ever made. I travel all of North America using DOT knobbies. My experience is with the 2015 model prior to getting the 2019.
@@telerover Well, KTM Replica Rally is completely different bike man, motor, longer swing arms etc etc :) Lyndon Poskit described differences somewhere some tome ago.
30 minutes long and we didn’t get to hear about the difference riding the 2019 vs 2018?
That 2018 brake is not original on the rear 18 models if it is then the dealer I got my bike from screwed me...
In the KTM fiche finder its listed as Travel but still under dual sport Enduro mid.
hi again, I've been wanting to ask; regarding your 2015 KTM 690, have you ever had any problems with your Engine/ Rocker Arms?
The new KTM is lighter and have more power ist best changes for me !!
Great comparison of old and new versions. I am starting my research. I ride a F800GS, but getting too heavy and tall. Looking for all around bike. But, really adventure touring bike. I hear the new KTM 690 Enduro R can handle long distance rides on pavement. Long service interval is very appealing. My only issue is gas mileage, range, and seat height. Can anyone share what you get for MPG, range on stock tank, and seat height? Can seat height be lowered through adjusting rear suspension link or preload? How much lower. Do you have a post on ADVrider comparing old vs. new? Great post telerover.
I have done multiple 2000+ mile rides on pavement and gravel back roads in North Ameerica using full knobbies. My 2019 690 (EU) came with 50/50 tires. The best lowering changes are seen in my latest video: th-cam.com/video/sT-xznl5AEo/w-d-xo.html
on range, it varies between 150-180 miles on my 2015, depending on altitude and throttle management (less range at sea level). I do not 'rip' anywhere and try not to ever cruise above 65mph because of my dog. off-road, 25-35 mph is comfortable. the 2019 has an extra half-gallon, which should give me 200 miles now. I carry an extra gallon in 4 bottles, but i may start leaving them behind.
Hi, if you need more range have a look at www.radegarage.com/parts/ktm-690-19-tank/ they make a auxiliary tank that fits under the seat.
And what about the legendary poor reliability issues with 690? How has yours held up? Have you changed the rocker arms?
@@telerover yeah no reliability issues? What bullshit ... My 2016 with 6500kms on it had a very expensive rocker arm failure (which is extremely common - it's all over forums and TH-cam) and left me stranded in the middle of the Australian outback. And Dakar bikes have nothing to do with the bike you ride champ.....
@@occyman New motor. All fixed. This also had a year or two seasoning in Husqvarna 701 so hopefully all is well now. I thought I heard there are upgraded rocker arms available for your motor? Dunno.
I’ve had my 2019 690 for a couple of months. I geared mine up higher,, dropped to a 42 sprocket in the rear. Really helps the on road rpm. Have a Rekluse clutch coming. There is so much power, I don’t miss the low end from gearing up.
The US model does not have LED blinkers. I’ve met you and Deacon in Crested Butte and Park City last year. See you in Breakenridge September!
2019 KTM 690 US models not having LED blinkers, that is a good fact to mention. Thanks. We'll see you in Breck!
Why do you feel the need for a Rekluse clutch? I'm wondering if it will conflict the new clutchless auto shifting. I never had one (old school) so its hard for me wrap my head around it.
telerover , I’ve had Rekluse clutches on different bikes. 500Exc and my current 450Exc. If you have ever had one,, it spoils you. It’s great for any bike, and makes my Exc models where you don’t even use the clutch to shift either. Will definitely not interfere with quick shifter, may even help it. It also runs cooler than a standard clutch. And adding a left hand brake which is rear brake,, it gives you the option on precarious down hills or up hills applying both brakes if you need to put both feet down. A lot of pro riders use Rekluse. It really does improve the ride.
@@keithguinn4706 LHRB is a game changer. Panic stops w/o worry about stall and pulling the clutch is a nice performance add as well. Also when riding with others and stopping looking at maps and GPS you can leave bike idling and have both hands free and still use foot brake if need to hold on a slope.
It's like having a dropper post on a mountainbike. Hard to imagine riding without one once you discover all the subtle and obvious performance advantages of having it.
@@chasejiannalone8763 Does it completely get rid of the clutch? So basically like having a a car with paddle shifters(but obviously you still shift with your foot)
fine for town needs adv for far .i gota atk n ktm r alot for a hard seat
I'm not a fan of the orange front, it looks like a goose
Super video ! viens faire un tour sur ma chaine et n’oublie pas de me dire ce que tu en pense en commentaire ! ça me permetterais de m’ameliorer ! 😁😁✌️✌️
Hi there! I don't if you have heard of these guys, they make an excellent skid plate. www.axp-racing.com/en/product/2015-2019-husqvarna-701-ktm-690-xtrem-skid-plate-black-ax1472.
Good review by the way.
UK
Riding will help you lose weight.
Another thing, video is to dark.
time of day.
Poor sound, poor optic, poor boys
He said ampacity
Are you ever concerned about riding with your dog? I have a couple of dogs and I'd hate to think about going down on the bike with either one. I'm more concerned about their welfare than my own. At least I have a helmet, padded coat and pants.
Of course. He's my reason for riding, as it was his idea to get on. If he becomes too old to jump up, we will stop and sell the bikes. The bike is built specifically for Deacon's safety and comfort and has evolved over the last 5 years. We have fallen over many times at slow speed, 0-2.5 mph, which are shown in my videos. He is always the first to bail and leave the sinking ship. I am the only one who ever gets hurt. I have flashing strobes front and rear, and we never travel very fast and we always take back roads away from major traffic streams. th-cam.com/video/co2PXidSbps/w-d-xo.html
@@telerover That's good, Sir. I'm a 690 rider myself and my dogs are "healthy" shar peis, so it would be a big leap for them to get up to the seat. I've taken your advice on a few mods and I was wondering about a Rade auxillary tank. Have you considered one? Experience with one? Thanks, DO