Great review! Very articulate guy, obviously bright. I already bought a 690 about 45 days ago so I wasn't expecting to get much out of the video, but it was good enough that I watched it 'til the end. Interested for the in-depth review.
Very good and honest review. I want to do Southern Africa with my son for about two months and I your review just confirmed what I was hoping from this bike. Thanks. 👍🏼👌
I had my 2009 SMC for 8 years and loved it. Rode the PCH, all over the Rockies, Tail of the Dragon, Jennings GP, etc. Had to sell for a long distance move but now I'm looking at getting another 690/701 Enduro and some SM wheels for it. So freaking fun on a twisty mountain road and now I also want to get up in the mountains on forest roads and do some camping this coming summer too. Never had a problem during my ownership aside from a stripped oil drain bolt so this time, I'll set my torque wrench a few pounds less than what the manual says. Hands down the most fun motorcycle I've owned since I started riding in 2004.
I have the 690, a YZ450FX dual sported, and KTM 500. The 690 is everything I want my 500 to be on the road - smoother, longer range, more stable at high speed. But it's barely an offroad bike. It doesn't handle well on gravel or trails. It's just too heavy and rigid. Front end is twitchy on gravel. It makes a great backroad adventure bike where the 200 mile range gives you less worries about making a wrong turn and having to backtrack. But if I could have only one bike, it would be the 500 because it's more fun when the pavement ends.
This is the best quick summary of the 690 I’ve seen on YT. Even handed, sensible, no yelling/exaggerating. I own a 500 and 690 and agree with everything he said. Where the 690 runs rings around a 500 is city riding, where it’s almost impossible to find neutral on the 500. The 690 is less vibey and quieter too. Re seats, in my opinion all adv/dirt bike seats are terrible so with an improved seat a 690 is just as comfy as a T7/Tuareg and you can’t legally ride at more than 110kph/70 mph anyway.
O yeah nothing like 70mph at an rpm that goes against all things holy on a thumper not to mention your good sense says 70mph is too high an rpm to run the thing down the road.
Love my ktm 690r tho but it goes in the back of my truck for any highway trip..never had my pecker fall asleep on a gs adventure not one time! I actually like my xr650 more for allot of things and that old girl after flat side carb, cams, sprockets bigger jugs ain't no slouch..the 690 tho when you bump it up a notch is hands down superior..I finde myself thinking the bushes are going past really fast then reallise I'm going 65 mph across the desert ...
I am so glad I just got one. I was skeptical because of people saying they're too heavy for offroad, get a 500 or 450 supermoto. Hell no. The 690 is awesome offroad. I had no issues and actually prefer it over the yz450 I've gone back and forth on riding the past weekend in some hilly areas, mud etc. But then again I'm 6'1 230, and have been used to road racing 420lb bikes for years so the 690 is tiny to me lol.
Great honest review, I had the dr650 before this bike, one thing I noticed is that with the 690 my off road skills got much better , it just provided the little help that I needed to gain confidence and keep going
I've had my DR650 for 7 and I've been wanting to upgrade to the 690 for about as long. I've taken my DR up plenty trails a ktm exc 300 would be comfortable in but it does not give me confidence on anything besides a hill climb. It just feels so unstable under it's own weight offroad but I also never bothered touching the suspension. Glad to hear the 690 gave you that extra confidence
Top review, thank you sir. I use to have a 2016 Duke with the older 690 engine. Loved the bike. Mine used to consume a LOT of oil though, but a that still a thing with the newer engines?
Great video. One of the most informative I have seen on the 690 Enduro R. Spot on regarding tire selection for this bike. I am on my second 890R and just sold my 500 EXC-F. Keep coming back to the 690 Enduro R and debating about building it up to be my travel ADV bike to replace the 890R. I listened to an old podcast with Walter Colebatch (Sibirsky Extreme) the other day and his line of thinking is that you get the ADV bike that can do the hardest parts/bits of your trip regardless if the other 95% is easy gravel/pavement....certainly has me heading back down the 690 Enduro R rabbit hole.
It’s such a versatile platform! I do like that line of thinking. I’d prefer to be confident the bike is going to make it regardless of where I point it. Big ADV bikes take much more calculating!
I have a 890 and my son does as well …he actually likes it so much he wants to race a few harescrambles on it. I however would ride something else in the stable…the 890 is amazing
Like any dual sport, the 690 is a compromise. I have had many dual sport and adventure bikes over the years, the 690 works pretty good for what I plan to use it for. I think a lot of people have too big of an expectation for one bike to fit all their needs without considering the compromises that they will have to make. A 690 won't cruise 1000 miles as well as a GS1250 and it won't do single track as well as a 300 two stroke but could be a better choice if you had to do both of those things in a trip. Lots of choices out there, choose the one that works best for your use.
Nice video, very well presented. By way of background, I have a 300 XC and a Super Tenere with a '23 Husky 701 parked between them, which is basically the same bike in white plastic. I live in Colorado and this platform is the ultimate Colorado dual sport. It can rip down a paved or unpaved canyon road and it can trail ride on actual single track. In really technical situations this platform is a little much but still capable and nobody this side of Chris Birch would even think of taking a T7 or 790 type bike in the kind of Colorado mountain single track environment I am talking about. I recently rode my 701 on "difficult" mountain single track that I ride my 300 XC on, and not only didn't die, I actually had fun. Funny thing is, the next time I rode that same trail on my 300 I really hauled ass, as the bike felt so weightless. It seems the 701 is a good trainer for the "real" dirt bike - LOL A few mods that I completed that really upped my 701s game: 1) The stock fork springs are .59. I went two steps stiffer to .65, this made a huge difference and the bike feels much better balanced to it's .72 stock rear shock spring. The valving on the '19 and later bike's XPLOR suspension is very good, the shock always worked well after setting the laden sag, and the forks work great now with heftier springs in them. I weigh 215 in gear and ride at a good clip, it was pogoing badly with the OEM fork springs in whoops. Ya, I actually charge through whoops on this thing. Insane right? 2) Rottweilerized the engine with their O2 sensor delete dongle and a PC6 with their map on it, exhaling through a Yosh slip on with spark arrestor. It is the same old story - these machines come set very lean at low RPM and part throttle for emissions reasons. Correct fueling beefed up the low and and midrange big time! The engine feels "unboggable" now, lug it down to idle or just above while off road, give it the gas and it will turn the tire and spool up, this at Colorado 7,500 and up elevations. It must be nuts at sea level! Plus the big thumper sound out the Yosh is deep, smooth and meaty - braap city! 3) Lower temp 80/85C fan switch. The OEM switch doesn't turn on the fan until the water temp at the bottom of the radiator is around 210F. The fan will pretty much run all the time with the lower temp switch while off roading, but that is OK, the charging system has no issue keeping up. Between the fan running and the fueling mods the engine runs much cooler and it should last longer. 4) Puig smoked windscreen. This bolts to the stock headlight shell and makes a nice difference as it takes the wind off my torso and leaves the helmet in clean air. It only cost $90 and doesn't get in the way while riding off road. I spaced the screen out from the headlight shell a bit to give the front brake line a good routing. The 690 platform, like the DR650 and XR650L, is a true 50/50 dual sport. Most people want a bike that is more dirt or more street oriented. Being a true 50/50 bike is the 690's greatest strength, or weakness, depending on how one looks at it. I like the versatility as it makes the bike simply fun to ride. The 690 may be a "master of none" but it can do it all, and the engine is just fantastic. If not on my 701, I would be on a Honda XR650L with a big tank and lotsa mods, but no amount of work can make a 690 out of the ancient Honda. I am interested in replacing the headlight with a simple drop in LED, and would like to hear from anyone who has done this. Not looking to replace the entire assembly, just the bulb.
Thanks for the awesome comments, Craig! That is all great to know! I have also owned a super Tenere , and a 300 XC, so I definitely can relate to your synopsis! Heck, I should have you do the full review on the 690 for me! Lol also, thanks for just making my shopping cart online way bigger. 😂🤣
I highly recommend the Cyclops LED unit that replaces the standard lamp (bulb). Used it for 18 mths now, mostly off-road on rallye events including a lot of riding on rough/loose ground (i.e. bumpy/shakey for the lamp) and quite a number of 'offs'. The Cyclops unit takes all the vibration and knocks with no issues so far.
Great review , I am just on the tipping point to decide if I replace my 790R with 890 or 690 . I have tried the 690 for about 3 hours Offroad , loved it and had a better off-road experience with than the 790, much lighter, easier to control , didn’t have to take the “chicken line” at rocky climbs , the 790 is heavy to lift once you fell and it is exhausting after couple of times. however the tarmac experience really brought me down with the 690. I am not even talking long trips , but as you said over 70 mph it get Like my head is going to rip off , and I am not that tall .. 5’7” .. so the decision is tough
Add a $90 Puig screen to the stock headlight shell and the 690/701 is comfy enough wind wise. The screen keeps the wind off my torso with helmet in clean air, it is pretty perfect and I think it looks cool. I went to 16/45 sprockets from the stock 15/46, this drops it 400 RPM from 5100 to 4700 at 70 MPH per the Gearing Calculator. The 400 RPM drop is notable on the freeway, the engine feels smooth as glass at 70 with the 16T while it is definitely a bit busy with the 15T. Off road the 16T feels a little taller in sub 10 mph going, but I was surprised to find for the trails I ride the taller gearing works better! I was in between 1st and 2nd a lot with the stock gearing, now 1st runs out farther and hanging out the rear end and power sliding in 2nd is more controllable. It is basically a 2 speed while on a trail anyway, as 2nd is good for faster than I wanna go in the woods! The seat remains an issue, it is a weapon of ass destruction during extended pavement rides. I plan to go with a Renazco Racing suede saddle.
I'm debating this being my next moto. Currently riding the Fe 501, which is pretty fantastic. I'm just wanting to do longer multi day BDR type routes. I just wonder how much better it would be.
Great video. Any way we could get a true weight on this bike? That Rade Kit, off-road tires, crash bars and hand guards I'd have to think closer to 400+.
An excellent, no nonsense review, so many thanks. I bought a T7 a year ago and do like it but am finding that I'm doing more off road and very little motorway riding, so it's weight is bothering me. I'm doing most long distance travel across Europe on back roads so would you think the 690 might be the way to go? There are the usual rumours about reliability. Should these be ignored?
That would be the next step down! I personally will risk the potential reliability issues for the POWA! Haha I’d definitely consider it in your position. Another option could be in the DR/XR 650 line, but they are definitely not similar - definitely more reliable though!
@@bfeadventures I don't fancy the DR/XR option. Regarding reliability, I'm wondering just how "unreliable" KTMs/690 can be? Would you say most of it is nonsense/jealousy/cmpetition? Have you had any issues with your 690?
@@CinntSaile I think KTM has always had that stigma. With increased performance, there will always be more maintenance. The LC4 engine has been around for a very long time. I would not be too concerned about its reliability. I’m not personally concerned about it.
@@CinntSaile if you’re willing to drop a penny you can get a wide ratio gearbox for it through Nova Racing.. it’ll make the first gear usable for off-road and the 6th gear way better for highway cruising. Combine that with a small external oil cooler (that ads a bit of oil capacity), and maybe a stronger clutch if you ride hard. With this setup there are people with 240.000 kms on the clock. Check out Lyndon poskitt racing. Not cheap but awesome
Great review, thanks!! Just one question, have you tried on the track? Because I'm trying to decide beetween this (or Husqy701) or 500EXC but I'm not sure it it still too heavy to put it on a circuit (amateur level I mean). Thanks a lot!!
What kind of track? Motocross - too heavy. Enduro - too big. Supermoto - yes. Could you use it for any of those? Probably, but there are dedicated bikes to those tracks that would walk all over it.
One thing that wasn't mentioned, is its quite a tall bike. Overall great review, I also have the rade fairing. I agree with that I wish the wind protection was a bit better. Can't win them all I suppose.
Great point, Mike! I think I brought it up in our dual sport comparison video but I totally forgot it here! Can’t win them all, but she sure does check a lot of the right boxes! Haha
On the 2021 onwards 690s in the UK the "dongle" is not required as ABS automatically switches to front wheel only on mode 2. Strange that they did not do that for all markets. With the right screen you can ride a 690 all day on the road at 90 mph. Those expensive rally screens do not always work well on highway and cause buffeting, I use a home made set up based on the optional 2019 onwards Power parts screen but mounted on my own bracket 4 inches higher. Zero wind pressure and I am 6'2''and 190 lbs. A small well positioned screen can be far more effective than a large one in my extensive experience of testing/developing different screen set ups. Tires wise, the E07+ is a fantastic tire with far more off-road grip than you would imagine and you can corner it to the point of scrubbing all the hero knobs on the road. It is also smooth and quiet and lasts very well mileage wise. One of the best 50/50 tires made, more 80/80 really.
Great point, James! Yeah, I really wish it would automatically switch off. As far as the rally tower goes, you could not be more correct. For my size at 5‘10“ and 170 pounds, it seems to put the wind just right for me. However, I was more concerned about getting my navigation up in front of me while riding. That was the value of the rally sharing. Also, I just absolutely love the looks of it. That was probably 70% of my decision. Haha that is great to know about the EO 7 plus! I ran through multiple sets of those on my bigger adventure, bikes. I absolutely loved that tire.
Hey brother, looking into purchasing one of these beasts as my adv/ more off road based bike on the stable. I found a 2015 690 enduro r with 7k miles for 6k OTD from a dealer in Nashville. In your opinion, is that worth the price, or would you recommend the newer ones? I do plan also on purchasing a set of 17s so I can do a pseudo SM mode haha
Great review What's the go with ABS? Do you leave it on when offroad? Is it effective or does it just get in the way? I have had a Honda 300L and the abs sucked offroad. But I did feel more comfortable riding on the street with ABS compared to my fe501. I'm looking for either another 500/501 or maybe now a 690/701. I'm just torn, as I prefer the lighter offroad bike over the heavier 690 but it's the road sections that scare me the most. For me a 500 with ABS would be perfect.
I personally do not want any ABS off-road on my rear wheel. ABS on the front is helpful though. So, I just got the Rottweiler dongle to allow off-road ABS (front on - rear off) and it holds my settings so I do not need to change them when I fire up the bike every time. Best money I spent on the bike so far, aside from the rally tower.
Greetings from IA. Love the content. I've got an Africa Twin for long road rides and gravel. Can't decide between a KTM 690 Enduro R or CRF 450 RL with GET ECU for: OHV park- 45 min ride, gravel rides with dual sport club or loading in truck to go do CO, UT BDR, etc. What do you recommend?? BTW, I'm 55 yo former dirt biker, been out of the game for 15 yrs due to kids.
If you are keeping the AT, then I’d go 450. I swapped my AT and WR out for the 690 just to consolidate the garage a bit. It sounds like you won’t be doing much pavement with the new one at all, and the 450 is just plain and simple better than the 690 in the dirt.
Hello Excellent video full of very useful information I am about to buy my KTM 690 Enduro but I have not taken the step due to the information that exists regarding overheating. Have you had any problems with the temperature of the motorcycle? Greetings from Colombia
Hey man! How did you find the fueling after the airbox fro rade? You have the exhaust as well? I think I have heard you either to remap or buy a dongle. I have the akrapovic and installed the rotweiler, I think I will buy the rade storage foam kit
Great review but what do you think? The innovative use of the rear fuel tank as the main structural element of the subframe keeps weight low and eliminates structural complexity, but I think it seriously weakens the rear part of the structure, which may crack, especially if carrying heavy luggage, unless I'm mistaken ?
Thanks! That’s a great point, but I think when considering the intent behind the bike, it is typically a nonissue. A vast majority of users put this in their garage to ride shorter (smaller camping trips) adventures or ride more aggressively off-road than with the big ADV bikes. In both cases, less is more in regards to luggage. I think if you are packing more than 50L of gear, you should probably be on a bigger bike anyway. If I were to take this cross country with a months worth of gear, I’d be concerned for something to break.
Been eyeing this bike coming from a 390adv. Think it is still to much of a compromise though. Master of none. Probably going to go with the 500exc next instead even though the 690 checks alot of boxes. Great video!
Hey man, If i get this bike, can i have a spare set of tires only for pavement riding ? , like if i were to go on a ride with friends that don't do offroad. Thank you, your videos are very informative
You sure can! You just need an extra set of wheels with a street setup on them. I’d suggest warp 9 if you are looking for a good value. Swapping wheel sets and spacers is much faster than swapping tires.
Aside from the weight, one issue I seriously dislike offroad is the electronic throttle. Throttle-by-wire just doesn't have the response of a cable TB.
Had a T7, it has a excellent motor, very tractable, the problemnis overall weight and where it is, up high. 690 feels light in comparison. The 500 was a consideration but the oil change interval was the deal breaker, i commute on my 690. I have 300 for the gnarly stuff. How is the Rade tower for wind protection? Its pricey, makes the bike look like a real rally bike though, very tempted.
The rally tower gets the wind off your chest, but dumps it onto your helmet. It’s clean air though, so it’s totally fine for daily commutes. If I were to go a few hours each way, I’d put on my clip-on lip to get it over my helmet.
I ride primarily east coast tight woods 100% off road GNCC not alot of space for this 690 to open it up except maybe an occasioanl fire road to blast down. I would never get into the meat of that power except maybe on the street and thats a whole diff thing i'm just not into. Ktm is by far the better enduro bike tho and love mine. The 690 is so tempting and looks like a load of fun and they nailed the look of this year too with all that orange. I could make an excuse to grab one. I just don't have a serious use for it and can't justify it. Now a 350 excf might be in my future tho just enough of power and torgue lightweight has the lights I want just going to strip off the emissions and street stuff and turn it into another closed course machine like my 250.
I had a $70K KIT690RFR custom build love my 180Hp @180Kg wet 1290 super enduro custom build lot better & again no ABS/TCS BS plug the ABS , use custom HEL Performance brake lines to old school , relocate the rear brake switch to the rear brake MC Extend the brake switch loom to plug back in the main loom at front were was plugged in , use the KTM dongle set, = no ABS TCS crap back to bare seat pants
Either ktm or aftermarket should make a complete adventure model or kit with everything adv bikes have standard. LR tanks or integrated rally fairing, subframe luggage solution, stiffer rear shock and/or spring. buying that off ktm showroom as a complete 690 adventure would be perfect.
I am really looking forward to content on the 690 with rade garage rally tower etc. I have your bike’s identical twin. Like you I’ve had almost every bike in every class. Unlike you I’m an old duffer that rode enduros hare scrambles woods rider for years. Now I’m in my 60 s trying to figure out my twilight years of riding. I currently own a 690 rally converted heavily modded, an almost stock 2023 890r for longer trips A 300l rally Honda ( buddy bike) that I rode and modded the suspension bars tires pipe etc and I have a T7 because I like the way it looks and sounds. I have just taken the 690 on it’s maiden voyage and it is almost as much fun as my 500 excf was but a thousand times better on road. I’m short so every bike I own has seat concepts comfort low on it. I had to lower the 690 about an inch with koubalink and seat is shorter so it’s down about an inch and 1/2. I’m still on tip toes. Worth it for that suspension. The 690 is for planned BDR routes where I trailer bike. I traded an almost new Africa twin for the 890. Some say I was nuts but that 890 is incredible and almost as good offroad as the 690 ( at least on gravel roads the 690 still smokes it on single track) Thanks for channel can’t wait.
@@Davidbattan it really boils down to your skill level and budget. If you are a seasoned rider with no budget, go 690. No question. The 300 will be much more manageable on rough terrain if you are just getting started. That is about the only pro I see to getting the 300 over the 690. You would also get Honda reliability. That 300 will go forever. Outside of those two things, the 690 is far superior to the 300 in suspension, power, handling, and fun factor. If you are budget minded, the 300 will absolutely take you anywhere that the 690 would - just not as quickly lol
I got a KTM 300exc and a 450xcw. Then bought a 790 adv. s model. I tipped over on in on my 1st. 2 trips on it. Both times had to get help to turn it around and to get my leg out from under it. 500 lbs bike has no right to be on the trail by itself. Thought about the 690 enduro but still 100 lbs. heavier than the 500exc-f. I ended up going with the 500exc-f. I was scared of the big bikes, I'm now 64. I grew up with tall bikes that is not an issue.
I found the offroad TC was good enough that I left it on instead of going fully manual. Fuel economy varies between low 40's (at high speeds) and 60mpg (low speed). Cruise control is available aftermarket. Gearing I agree on... you can fix it but it's expensive (change to wide ratio gearbox). IMO the 690/701 is ideal for TAT/BDR use if you like to ride hard and have the money to build it (I spent $20k but it let me run the TAT in 19 days averaging 42mph). It's not great for hard offroad (where bikes like the 350 or 500 exc are MUCH better choices) and it's not great for long pavement runs (where the heavyweight ADV bikes are more comfortable). BUT - for blasting along on seasonal and fire roads it's fantastic... so for dirt focused ADV imo it's the best bike available. I guess the seat comfort is something that's user dependent... I rode 10-15 hour days for weeks at a time and found the SC comfort seat to be perfectly comfortable after some adjustment period... and I'm old (56).
it should be mentioned that even a fully upgraded dr650/xr650l would come up short vs this bike in some performance areas.. gearing on the 690/701 is still a little wonky, would love a lower 1st and taller 6th
Yeah, not particularly happy with gears either. And the gearbox is getting stuck in "neutral" between 1st and 2nd, as well as I think 3rd and 4th every now and then, which is incredibly annoying.
How much weight is added with all the unicorn mods? (Fairing, tank) +edit+ I did a CRF450L unicorn build and just couldn't get over riding that thing on the road. You say 2hours, I say more like one :) It was amazing on gravel/dirt/jeep/forest service roads but getting there was a chore.
I bet that was a fun bike though! Just ballparking, I'd guess less than 25lbs. The storage tank/intake actually cuts a bit of weight. The rally tower is plastic and carbon. Most of the added weight comes from the protection, and I'm okay with that. I have ridden extensively w/ a 450L and I can say with certainty that the 690 is superior on road by a decent margin. It definitely does feel heavier than the 450 off-road though.
1st world problems for sure. Ive got 18,500 miles on my 890R. Love it, its like a magic bike, but in no way feels like a dirtbike to me. Ive ridden 2 strokes all my life and 470+lbs ready to ride is not a dirtbike. But I ride it on all kinds of dirt roads and it will take a wallop and like it, it likes to be pushed harder. On the street for me its an all day 500 mile bike, cruise control is very slick. Such a fun bike on tight backroads. I have serious wheelie issues so the wheelie control button stays on. It wheelies in 3rd at 65mph easy. But I want a 690, always have. Ive put 50,000 miles on my DR and when I get on it now, its like going back to 1985. Done with it. The hunt is pretty much on for a good 690, as new as I can find.
I can’t decide if I should buy the KTM 690 enduro or SMC. All the reviews I’ve read online say that the enduro is the better choice but you just messed my head up when you said “if you’re going to put street tires on the enduro then you might as well buy the SMC” because tbh that’s what I was thinking about doing. I wanted a powerful bike that I could do both on and off-road riding with but I will definitely be on the road more often. What should I do? Btw this is only the second bike I’ve ever owned. The first was a crf150r so this is a big jump for me but I have ridden bigger bikes before without a problem. I just haven’t ridden in about 5 years. Was also looking into the Honda CRF450RL. Money isn’t the issue. I just want a great bike. Open to any advice or suggestions on any other bikes I should check out.
Hey, Trey! I think you may have taken my comment out of context. If you plan to ride the bike off-road with knobbies at all, then I would definitely get the Enduro. if money is not an issue, I would buy the Enduro and buy a set of street wheels for it. Unless you are a pro rider, the suspension on the Enduro will be more than supple for street riding with super Moto set up. Then, when you take it off road, it will still be ready for it. The SMC suspension would not be good off-road at all. If you are doing, just a gravel, then it would be fine. However, if you plan to actually ride off road, that suspension would not handle it. I hope that makes sense. The Enduro suspension is good off-road and it is definitely good. Enough on road. The SMC suspension is good on road, but not off-road.
@@bfeadventures Hey man. Thank you so much for responding. I really appreciate it and that was helpful. I just also wanted your opinion on if there were any other bikes I should check out because tbh this is the first time I’m picking a bike out for myself and I’m no pro at this stuff like you. I know that there probably isn’t a perfect bike that exists that checks every box but the things that were important to me was being able to do both on road riding for my commute to work which is about 45 miles each way and when I ride around the town locally plus some off road trail riding every so often. If I’m paying top dollar for a bike I hope I can get my moneys worth and achieve this. I want a bike that’s fast and powerful. I also want a bike that is fun to ride and I could learn to do cool shit on like wheelies and what not lol. From my research online KTM seems to be the cream of the crop but like I said before I owned a Honda previously and it was a great first bike. I was looking at the KTM 690 enduro, 690 SMC and the 500 EXCF. Also was looking at the Honda CRF 450. Do you know of any other bikes I should check out or would you hands down get the 690 enduro? What would you do if you were me? Also would you buy the bike new or get a used one? Thanks for the help man. Happy New Year.
One important thing i want to say about the bike is it isnt tall, my r6 sat higher. I have a stock 2017 690 and it blew my mind when i went to get on it for the first time and i could confidently get both feet down (im just over 6 foot)
Im comsidering one of these or the Norden 901 as a daily driven commuter and moto camping bike. May occassionally hit some single track until I get a dedicated trail bike to pair with it. Would you still suggest the Husky 701/KTM 690 Enduro R if you are putting down 10,000-12,000 miles of pavement a year?
Great question! If I were in your shoes, it sounds like the Norden would be best for you. The 690 is a RIOT to commute on, but it is not nearly as comfy. Based on your comment, it sounds like you’re not getting too gnarly off-road. If you plan to ride aggressive off-road, the Norden will be a handful. Sounds like you ultimately want 2 bikes. So, I’d say go Norden and if the itch gets too big to scratch for off-road then get a 300 smoker 😜
@@bfeadventures I think youre right. The plan is to have a comfy commuter and long distance bike that I can take on enduro trails on occasion. Then next year snag a FE 501 or 701 Enduro for rough stuff. I want a 300 2T (all my old riding buddies have switched to them) but the areas I would be riding to are 20-60 miles away so I think a 4 stroke may be better for the dedicated trail bike. I was a mechanic for 8 years and do all my own maintenance. I just have 4 little boys under 10 years old and dont want to spend a lot of time wrenching on a bike before I can jump on it and go.
I have 21 701, love tge bike. When I'm hooning the gas mileage is 130miles, if I adv ride and ride responsibly I have gone over 200miles on a tank, could probably push 220.
I put a deposit on a 690 enduro and then changed my mind and got 500 EXC. Overall I don't regret as I'm only an hour away from the trails and I do pretty gnalry tracks / enduro. The 690 would have felt too heavy I think. 690 defo more comfy on the highway but the 500 is ok cruising at 70 mph. Not more than 2 hours though for sure 😅
Add a $90 Puig screen to the 690's stock headlight shell and it is much better on the road without getting in the way off road. Even with the screen it is no Gold Wing, but it is a lot nicer at street speeds.
have you ever had the chance to use it with a passenger? Would be it ok? If i bought it as a dual and everyday bike it could happen to have a passenger for a small trip on weekends
Hi man i don't know what bike I should choose between the KTM 690 enduro r (2014) or the BMW F800 gs (2012) I'm a student that rides about 5 000 miles a year on paved roads but also does off road tours twice a year and go ride off road when i get a chance What bike do you think i should get
Honestly, it sounds like you have a pretty heavy street by us. So, I would lean more towards the BMW. The 690 is fantastic on the street, but if you were using it as a commuter, there are better road bikes. How aggressive is the off-road you plan to ride?
I moved from an XR650L to my 690. Based on new pricing spend the extra and get the 690. Don't get me wrong I loved my Honda, but it is very dated tech. By the time you spend the cash on suspension work,you may as well have gone with a 690.
After a handful of front brake on a gravel road a few times, I can promise it does. I think my bike may be in the weird limbo between Euro and IS models. With the ABS dongle I now have a front ABS and no rear setting. If I unplug it, I only get all on or all off.
@@JohnDoe-dk8zz Yep, easy enough. There are a few companies who make appropriate SM wheels that fit, have a look at a few videos on YT. The swap isn't so easy the other direction, so if you go for this option look to pick up an enduro rather than SM :-)
I've got a built '17 690 that I love. I'd like to ride one with the newer motor just to feel the difference but I don't feel that mine vibrates all that much. One thing you didn't bring up is seat height, the 690 seat height is on the taller side. Don't think you've got the maintenance intervals correct, my manual says valve checks at 10k km/6k miles. I do an oil change every few thousand miles on mine. Otherwise totally agree with your assessments...
Thanks, Doc! I had some overlap in content w/ a comparison video to a XR650L. I discuss seat height there. I honestly probably just forgot to restate it here. The newer bike definitely feels smoother, but if yours is built, probably not even a worthy difference. Thanks for clarifying the maintenance discrepancy! I keep my oil changes around 2500 miles apart. i know that seems like overkill, but I’d always rather err on the side of caution.
@bfeadventures I find myself trying to tackle quite technical offroad areas around me more and more often. Live in a very rocky woodsy area and most unmaintained roads are quite difficult on large bikes. I love this bike but can't afford to keep it and supplement a dual sport. Dropping down to a dual sport would probably eliminate my payment too.
Where im from, Australia, you can't exceed 660cc in your first 2 years of riding a bike. After that 2 years you can sit a test to upgrade your license. This bike ticks all of the boxes but i can't legally ride it yet I looked into the crf300L but a lot of owners are having issues with foot peg welds snapping, the engine cutting out on take off or down shifting from 3rd to 2nd. I've looked at it in person and it just looks like a cheap bike. The drz isnt meant to be good at 60mph otherwise that would be a strong contender. They don't sell the dr650 here anymore due to emission laws and used ones are as much as a new bike I can't get the klx300 here otherwise id probably choose that as the klx models i have to choose from are the 230s or the 250. The build quality looks much better on them than the Honda but im struggling to find aftermarket parts for it Are there any other bikes you can recommend me looking into? The wr250r is something im watching the used market closely for but id rather buy it new if possible. Enduro bikes look good but don't know if the maintenance of them would get old quick aha
I know this is a generic answer, but you cannot go wrong with either. Assuming you will be using it outside of the TAT, I'd pick the one that suits your typical needs more. Both bikes could easily complete the TAT.
Great beginner or lightweight ADV bike! The biggest downside to that bike along with most others in that category is the suspension and power on the highway. It is not going to take hard hits with weight very well and it isn’t going to was to pass cars at 75mph. Lol
The only problem I have had with this bike ever has been the kickstand safety switch. It got bumped in a creek with a bunch of boulders and kept cutting the bike off. I simply rerouted it and used the magnet trick (there is a youtube video on this). I wouldn't even consider that a reliability problem. That's just literally the only issue I have had outside of normal wear items.
The biggest annoyance is that every time you stop, you have to start the bike, roll it a ways, and then hold the ABS button to disable it. The process takes a minute and gets old when riding with a group. I mainly want it just to eliminate that step.
I believe that On mode 2 abs is off on the rear and on in the front, and it would stay like that as long as you stay on mode 2, the abs dangle will help in the case when you would like to keep the abs off front and rear even if you turn off the bike
@@alexanderzhulin3528 Well, that would be a gamechanger! haha Ever since I hit my first gravel road and forgot to turn off ABS (still in mode 1), I assumed it was all on or off based on the ABS button. After that, I just disable it every time, so I wouldn't know if it is off to the rear,. I never gave it a chance in mode 2! haha Guess I'm checking that on my way to work today. haha
@@bfeadventures maybe my 23 701 is different but i can start it and just hold the abs button for 5 seconds it will blink then the abs is off, same with tc start bike hold button for 5 seconds and it will stay off. the tc wont blink or do anything to let you know its off but the light stays lit and tc stays off. no need to roll the bike to turn both lights of before. try it out.
Basically you're telling me I need to buy a K-Mart Trail Machine... (KTM)... MEGA Yamaha dude and my perfect bike is a KTM... Why couldn't you just lie about it?!?!?! lol jk - thank you for doing such great reviews - like real world opinions. The specs on the brochures dont matter as much as the real world feel! THANK YOU! :) I just worry about the Tenere 700 being too dang heavy. I'm used to racing YZ250's and love how nimble and flickable they are, and basically I want a YZ250 with a 75-80hp engine, able to cruise at 70-80 on the freeway with a rally faring kit - is that too much to ask?! lol (its not possible I know I know)
You're telling ME! haha Well, I'd say the 690 is about as close as you're going to get to what you are asking. I LOVE the T7, but when I'm choosing for a weekend rip, I'll pick my 690 over my T7 almost every time.
@@bfeadventuresbiggest challenge I come to is how will I ACTUALLY use it. Feel like it will ACTUALLY be used as a run around bike and spend most of its time on the street around town and what not. To the point where I’ve considered a YZ450 and just super moto the thing. But I think the off road exploration will be super fun and want something that can do both. Just need to figure out what % will be on road vs off road. If I’m honest with myself I bet it will be 70-80% of the miles ON road.
Headlight 500 Footpags 120 Air filter 40-200 Exhaust 500-1500 Castum tuning ECU 500 Rear top case holder 200 AL engine cover 200 Rubber protection Left and right engine cover 120 I'm thinking 😂
Had a '22 690R and whilst ultimately it wasnt for me, the one thing i couldnt stand was the TC when I used Mode 2 in offroad situations. Every time the motor is switched off (say you stop to check directions, stall in technical terrain, or drop the bike, etc) the TC turns back on. To turn it off you need to travel for several metres whilst holding down the TC button for 5 secs. Far from ideal if you take off in technical terrain
there is KTM offroad dongle for that. But i doubt it will need it for traction control, is you just stall it. i have 2019 and with dongle all settings are perma set(map, tc,abs)
Actually - here’s the list off the top of my head. Rade Garage rally tower Rade Garage storage tank Double take mirrors KTM heated grips Steg Pegs IMS ADV Pegs (I believe - I forgot) Rottweiler ABS bad fuel dongle Rottweiler SAS delete AXP skid plate Outback Motortek crash bars Vanasche rear rack Vanasche fuel cap Seat concepts seat Carbon case guards That’s off the top of my head.
Great point! A small bag would be fine, but like a 40L duffel would be a stretch! However, if you travel with a big bag often, you may want a bigger bike anyway. 🤷🏼♂️
Everyone seems to be convinced that this KTM is in every way better than Honda CRF250L/CRF300L. Is it? Let's assume Honda with already upgraded suspension, because otherwise things are obvious. I own CRF250L and need upgrade - but I'm not sure if KTM isn't just a little too much for me. I rented and loved T7 power offroad, but could not keep it straight on sand and had to use both legs to keep it from falling - scarry heavy monster, not for me. KTM weights same as Honda, but is a lot higher...
Its like 40mm higher. Center of gravtiy is better than the honda, being the fuel tank is in the subframe, not on top of the motor. Yes this is the next, and last step from the honda.
You have 3 times the horsepower, way more fun factor, I had a 2022 klx300, it’s like comparing a corvette to a yugo , the yugo will get you there, but no smile on your face when you get there! Nothing wrong with the 250’s or 300 class bikes just not enough power for me, that’s why they make all different kinds of bikes
No you should not. In 2022 I bought the KTM 690 R brand new and sold it with only 1100km 8 months later. I sold it and on the same day I bought a brand new Kawasaki 230 s. You probably already know why I did it The KTM 690 is a weapon! It's a beast. No joke. I downsized dramatically and could not be happier. The Kawa 230 s is perfect for me driving trails in the bush.
If you want to Ride Offroad….skip it. It’s great on the road but not very good Offroad. I have owned one for a while and just traded it. Get a 500 if you want both…far more capable in the dirt. I have owned 122 bikes…45 were KTMs …so I have had most models… still have a dozen.
Dang! I need to show this comment to my wife! Then my bike list won’t look so bad! 😂 That’s awesome! Glad you found what works for you! Someday, I assume the 690 will go for a 1290 and 500. For now, it does the job of faking an ADV and dirt bike for me. Lol
@@bfeadventures my wife has two 390 adventures, I have a 890 and ditched the 690 to go to another 450 I am sure the 500 would be the best if you couldn’t have many bikes. We are races as well as I am a large promoter….I have had a few GNCCs ….doesn’t get any bigger than that. We are now riding several electric bikes… I have two electric motion as well as a ktm electric…and a Stark coming any day now. They are so much fun….but for those long trips…for now the gas bikes are where it’s at. The electric let us ride everywhere…so that’s a different thing. Enjoy the 690….it is an incredible bike…wants to go everywhere at 100mph but for serious off road it’s hell.
I'm amazed how so many so- called in- depth review never rate the suspension and chassis qualities offroad, what is essential if riding at pace offrad, like all these "rally" kits suggest. Which makes me think the 690 is not reasonably good offroad, just better than a steel pig like Africa Twin etc
I have an “in depth review” that discusses exactly what you’re talking about. In short, the 690 is best when ridden fast. It’s great for flowing single track and 2-track (and obviously anything faster than that). It does not do well in tight stuff. The gearing, rake, and steering lock really hinder it there.
Sorry you had bad luck with yours! There is no doubt Japanese bikes tend to have more reliability. I would argue that there is no Japanese equivalent in this category though.
I sold my Husqvarna Norden 901 and bought this 690. I think it’s a great move! I’m 70 years old and need this lightweight quick bike. 👍🏻👍🏻
Been browsing videos for 2.5 months now and this is the most straightforward video I’ve seen.
Thanks!
Great review! Very articulate guy, obviously bright. I already bought a 690 about 45 days ago so I wasn't expecting to get much out of the video, but it was good enough that I watched it 'til the end. Interested for the in-depth review.
Excellent review for a new adventure rider. Thanks.
Very good and honest review. I want to do Southern Africa with my son for about two months and I your review just confirmed what I was hoping from this bike. Thanks. 👍🏼👌
Enjoy the ride! You will love it!
awesome, finally good summary from someone who was in between T7 and this! Thank you so so much! and enjoy the unicorn!
I had my 2009 SMC for 8 years and loved it. Rode the PCH, all over the Rockies, Tail of the Dragon, Jennings GP, etc. Had to sell for a long distance move but now I'm looking at getting another 690/701 Enduro and some SM wheels for it. So freaking fun on a twisty mountain road and now I also want to get up in the mountains on forest roads and do some camping this coming summer too. Never had a problem during my ownership aside from a stripped oil drain bolt so this time, I'll set my torque wrench a few pounds less than what the manual says. Hands down the most fun motorcycle I've owned since I started riding in 2004.
Great review, Subbed
You nailed it! This is the best summary of 690 platform for anyone considering getting this bike. 701 enduro owner here. Cheers!
Thank you! I hope you enjoy your 701 as much as I enjoy my 690!
@@bfeadventures I do, very much! I think I will keep this bike forever, maybe replace it with newer model in the future.
I have the 690, a YZ450FX dual sported, and KTM 500. The 690 is everything I want my 500 to be on the road - smoother, longer range, more stable at high speed. But it's barely an offroad bike. It doesn't handle well on gravel or trails. It's just too heavy and rigid. Front end is twitchy on gravel. It makes a great backroad adventure bike where the 200 mile range gives you less worries about making a wrong turn and having to backtrack. But if I could have only one bike, it would be the 500 because it's more fun when the pavement ends.
This is the best quick summary of the 690 I’ve seen on YT. Even handed, sensible, no yelling/exaggerating. I own a 500 and 690 and agree with everything he said. Where the 690 runs rings around a 500 is city riding, where it’s almost impossible to find neutral on the 500. The 690 is less vibey and quieter too. Re seats, in my opinion all adv/dirt bike seats are terrible so with an improved seat a 690 is just as comfy as a T7/Tuareg and you can’t legally ride at more than 110kph/70 mph anyway.
Some stretches of road here in Texas are 85mph 🤠
EU highways are usually 130 kph (80 mph). Definitely not fun on a 690.
O yeah nothing like 70mph at an rpm that goes against all things holy on a thumper not to mention your good sense says 70mph is too high an rpm to run the thing down the road.
And all adventure bikes seats are not anywhere near the nightmare the ktm 690 seat is..do you mean all light class adventure bikes??
Love my ktm 690r tho but it goes in the back of my truck for any highway trip..never had my pecker fall asleep on a gs adventure not one time! I actually like my xr650 more for allot of things and that old girl after flat side carb, cams, sprockets bigger jugs ain't no slouch..the 690 tho when you bump it up a notch is hands down superior..I finde myself thinking the bushes are going past really fast then reallise I'm going 65 mph across the desert ...
I am so glad I just got one. I was skeptical because of people saying they're too heavy for offroad, get a 500 or 450 supermoto. Hell no. The 690 is awesome offroad. I had no issues and actually prefer it over the yz450 I've gone back and forth on riding the past weekend in some hilly areas, mud etc. But then again I'm 6'1 230, and have been used to road racing 420lb bikes for years so the 690 is tiny to me lol.
Great honest review, I had the dr650 before this bike, one thing I noticed is that with the 690 my off road skills got much better , it just provided the little help that I needed to gain confidence and keep going
Awesome! I could see that for sure!
I've had my DR650 for 7 and I've been wanting to upgrade to the 690 for about as long. I've taken my DR up plenty trails a ktm exc 300 would be comfortable in but it does not give me confidence on anything besides a hill climb. It just feels so unstable under it's own weight offroad but I also never bothered touching the suspension. Glad to hear the 690 gave you that extra confidence
You are one of very few, if any, on YT that has a clue about these bikes.
Just got a 2023 almost done with the break in absolutely loving it
Heck yeah! Enjoy!
Nice
how many miles for the break-in period ?
Great video thank you
You’re welcome!
Great review
Thank you!
Yep good and honest review l had an early model 690 and your pro's and cons were on the money .
Thanks!
Hello! Suscriber #1000 here... Great video👍
Thank you!!! Welcome!
Top review, thank you sir. I use to have a 2016 Duke with the older 690 engine. Loved the bike. Mine used to consume a LOT of oil though, but a that still a thing with the newer engines?
Not that I have noticed
Great video. One of the most informative I have seen on the 690 Enduro R. Spot on regarding tire selection for this bike.
I am on my second 890R and just sold my 500 EXC-F. Keep coming back to the 690 Enduro R and debating about building it up to be my travel ADV bike to replace the 890R. I listened to an old podcast with Walter Colebatch (Sibirsky Extreme) the other day and his line of thinking is that you get the ADV bike that can do the hardest parts/bits of your trip regardless if the other 95% is easy gravel/pavement....certainly has me heading back down the 690 Enduro R rabbit hole.
It’s such a versatile platform! I do like that line of thinking. I’d prefer to be confident the bike is going to make it regardless of where I point it. Big ADV bikes take much more calculating!
I have a 890 and my son does as well …he actually likes it so much he wants to race a few harescrambles on it. I however would ride something else in the stable…the 890 is amazing
Like any dual sport, the 690 is a compromise. I have had many dual sport and adventure bikes over the years, the 690 works pretty good for what I plan to use it for. I think a lot of people have too big of an expectation for one bike to fit all their needs without considering the compromises that they will have to make. A 690 won't cruise 1000 miles as well as a GS1250 and it won't do single track as well as a 300 two stroke but could be a better choice if you had to do both of those things in a trip. Lots of choices out there, choose the one that works best for your use.
Great synopsis!
Love my 690.
Good job.👍👊
Awesome content as always Alex. To a mere mortal like myself that is like a bucking Bull😅.
Thanks! She sure is fun though! haha
Nice video, very well presented.
By way of background, I have a 300 XC and a Super Tenere with a '23 Husky 701 parked between them, which is basically the same bike in white plastic. I live in Colorado and this platform is the ultimate Colorado dual sport. It can rip down a paved or unpaved canyon road and it can trail ride on actual single track.
In really technical situations this platform is a little much but still capable and nobody this side of Chris Birch would even think of taking a T7 or 790 type bike in the kind of Colorado mountain single track environment I am talking about. I recently rode my 701 on "difficult" mountain single track that I ride my 300 XC on, and not only didn't die, I actually had fun. Funny thing is, the next time I rode that same trail on my 300 I really hauled ass, as the bike felt so weightless. It seems the 701 is a good trainer for the "real" dirt bike - LOL
A few mods that I completed that really upped my 701s game:
1) The stock fork springs are .59. I went two steps stiffer to .65, this made a huge difference and the bike feels much better balanced to it's .72 stock rear shock spring. The valving on the '19 and later bike's XPLOR suspension is very good, the shock always worked well after setting the laden sag, and the forks work great now with heftier springs in them. I weigh 215 in gear and ride at a good clip, it was pogoing badly with the OEM fork springs in whoops. Ya, I actually charge through whoops on this thing. Insane right?
2) Rottweilerized the engine with their O2 sensor delete dongle and a PC6 with their map on it, exhaling through a Yosh slip on with spark arrestor. It is the same old story - these machines come set very lean at low RPM and part throttle for emissions reasons. Correct fueling beefed up the low and and midrange big time! The engine feels "unboggable" now, lug it down to idle or just above while off road, give it the gas and it will turn the tire and spool up, this at Colorado 7,500 and up elevations. It must be nuts at sea level! Plus the big thumper sound out the Yosh is deep, smooth and meaty - braap city!
3) Lower temp 80/85C fan switch. The OEM switch doesn't turn on the fan until the water temp at the bottom of the radiator is around 210F. The fan will pretty much run all the time with the lower temp switch while off roading, but that is OK, the charging system has no issue keeping up. Between the fan running and the fueling mods the engine runs much cooler and it should last longer.
4) Puig smoked windscreen. This bolts to the stock headlight shell and makes a nice difference as it takes the wind off my torso and leaves the helmet in clean air. It only cost $90 and doesn't get in the way while riding off road. I spaced the screen out from the headlight shell a bit to give the front brake line a good routing.
The 690 platform, like the DR650 and XR650L, is a true 50/50 dual sport. Most people want a bike that is more dirt or more street oriented. Being a true 50/50 bike is the 690's greatest strength, or weakness, depending on how one looks at it. I like the versatility as it makes the bike simply fun to ride. The 690 may be a "master of none" but it can do it all, and the engine is just fantastic. If not on my 701, I would be on a Honda XR650L with a big tank and lotsa mods, but no amount of work can make a 690 out of the ancient Honda.
I am interested in replacing the headlight with a simple drop in LED, and would like to hear from anyone who has done this. Not looking to replace the entire assembly, just the bulb.
Thanks for the awesome comments, Craig! That is all great to know! I have also owned a super Tenere , and a 300 XC, so I definitely can relate to your synopsis! Heck, I should have you do the full review on the 690 for me! Lol also, thanks for just making my shopping cart online way bigger. 😂🤣
@@bfeadventures It is all about the "engagement" on TH-cam. Glad to help a brother out 😆
I highly recommend the Cyclops LED unit that replaces the standard lamp (bulb). Used it for 18 mths now, mostly off-road on rallye events including a lot of riding on rough/loose ground (i.e. bumpy/shakey for the lamp) and quite a number of 'offs'. The Cyclops unit takes all the vibration and knocks with no issues so far.
Thanks for the mod list! '22 690 is my first bike 😅
@@dyllonleavingnow1982 690 as 1st bike? Do try to stay out of jail 😆
Should probably buy one
Great review , I am just on the tipping point to decide if I replace my 790R with 890 or 690 .
I have tried the 690 for about 3 hours Offroad , loved it and had a better off-road experience with than the 790, much lighter, easier to control , didn’t have to take the “chicken line” at rocky climbs , the 790 is heavy to lift once you fell and it is exhausting after couple of times. however the tarmac experience really brought me down with the 690. I am not even talking long trips , but as you said over 70 mph it get
Like my head is going to rip off , and I am not that tall .. 5’7” .. so the decision is tough
Good luck in your decision! I don’t think you can go wrong with either!
Add a $90 Puig screen to the stock headlight shell and the 690/701 is comfy enough wind wise. The screen keeps the wind off my torso with helmet in clean air, it is pretty perfect and I think it looks cool.
I went to 16/45 sprockets from the stock 15/46, this drops it 400 RPM from 5100 to 4700 at 70 MPH per the Gearing Calculator. The 400 RPM drop is notable on the freeway, the engine feels smooth as glass at 70 with the 16T while it is definitely a bit busy with the 15T.
Off road the 16T feels a little taller in sub 10 mph going, but I was surprised to find for the trails I ride the taller gearing works better! I was in between 1st and 2nd a lot with the stock gearing, now 1st runs out farther and hanging out the rear end and power sliding in 2nd is more controllable. It is basically a 2 speed while on a trail anyway, as 2nd is good for faster than I wanna go in the woods!
The seat remains an issue, it is a weapon of ass destruction during extended pavement rides. I plan to go with a Renazco Racing suede saddle.
I'm debating this being my next moto. Currently riding the Fe 501, which is pretty fantastic. I'm just wanting to do longer multi day BDR type routes. I just wonder how much better it would be.
I think you should probably get a bigger gapped bike - it’s just not a big enough difference, honestly.
Great video. Any way we could get a true weight on this bike? That Rade Kit, off-road tires, crash bars and hand guards I'd have to think closer to 400+.
Great point! I’ll run it over a grain scale sometime in the next week or 2!
Nice review I'm considering getting rid of my fully built drz400 for one of these but I might miss my old dinosaur 😢
You might miss it for about 30 seconds or so! haha
I went to a 14 tooth front sprocket, yes you lose some top end for HWY comfortability. This helped the low range for me
Good to know!
An excellent, no nonsense review, so many thanks.
I bought a T7 a year ago and do like it but am finding that I'm doing more off road and very little motorway riding, so it's weight is bothering me. I'm doing most long distance travel across Europe on back roads so would you think the 690 might be the way to go? There are the usual rumours about reliability. Should these be ignored?
That would be the next step down! I personally will risk the potential reliability issues for the POWA! Haha I’d definitely consider it in your position. Another option could be in the DR/XR 650 line, but they are definitely not similar - definitely more reliable though!
@@bfeadventures I don't fancy the DR/XR option. Regarding reliability, I'm wondering just how "unreliable" KTMs/690 can be? Would you say most of it is nonsense/jealousy/cmpetition? Have you had any issues with your 690?
@@CinntSaile I think KTM has always had that stigma. With increased performance, there will always be more maintenance. The LC4 engine has been around for a very long time. I would not be too concerned about its reliability. I’m not personally concerned about it.
@@CinntSaile if you’re willing to drop a penny you can get a wide ratio gearbox for it through Nova Racing.. it’ll make the first gear usable for off-road and the 6th gear way better for highway cruising. Combine that with a small external oil cooler (that ads a bit of oil capacity), and maybe a stronger clutch if you ride hard. With this setup there are people with 240.000 kms on the clock. Check out Lyndon poskitt racing. Not cheap but awesome
Great review, thanks!! Just one question, have you tried on the track? Because I'm trying to decide beetween this (or Husqy701) or 500EXC but I'm not sure it it still too heavy to put it on a circuit (amateur level I mean). Thanks a lot!!
What kind of track? Motocross - too heavy. Enduro - too big. Supermoto - yes. Could you use it for any of those? Probably, but there are dedicated bikes to those tracks that would walk all over it.
One thing that wasn't mentioned, is its quite a tall bike. Overall great review, I also have the rade fairing. I agree with that I wish the wind protection was a bit better. Can't win them all I suppose.
Great point, Mike! I think I brought it up in our dual sport comparison video but I totally forgot it here! Can’t win them all, but she sure does check a lot of the right boxes! Haha
Tried a clip on screen riser?
On the 2021 onwards 690s in the UK the "dongle" is not required as ABS automatically switches to front wheel only on mode 2. Strange that they did not do that for all markets. With the right screen you can ride a 690 all day on the road at 90 mph. Those expensive rally screens do not always work well on highway and cause buffeting, I use a home made set up based on the optional 2019 onwards Power parts screen but mounted on my own bracket 4 inches higher. Zero wind pressure and I am 6'2''and 190 lbs. A small well positioned screen can be far more effective than a large one in my extensive experience of testing/developing different screen set ups. Tires wise, the E07+ is a fantastic tire with far more off-road grip than you would imagine and you can corner it to the point of scrubbing all the hero knobs on the road. It is also smooth and quiet and lasts very well mileage wise. One of the best 50/50 tires made, more 80/80 really.
Great point, James! Yeah, I really wish it would automatically switch off. As far as the rally tower goes, you could not be more correct. For my size at 5‘10“ and 170 pounds, it seems to put the wind just right for me. However, I was more concerned about getting my navigation up in front of me while riding. That was the value of the rally sharing. Also, I just absolutely love the looks of it. That was probably 70% of my decision. Haha that is great to know about the EO 7 plus! I ran through multiple sets of those on my bigger adventure, bikes. I absolutely loved that tire.
Hey brother, looking into purchasing one of these beasts as my adv/ more off road based bike on the stable. I found a 2015 690 enduro r with 7k miles for 6k OTD from a dealer in Nashville. In your opinion, is that worth the price, or would you recommend the newer ones? I do plan also on purchasing a set of 17s so I can do a pseudo SM mode haha
Great review
What's the go with ABS? Do you leave it on when offroad? Is it effective or does it just get in the way? I have had a Honda 300L and the abs sucked offroad. But I did feel more comfortable riding on the street with ABS compared to my fe501. I'm looking for either another 500/501 or maybe now a 690/701. I'm just torn, as I prefer the lighter offroad bike over the heavier 690 but it's the road sections that scare me the most. For me a 500 with ABS would be perfect.
I personally do not want any ABS off-road on my rear wheel. ABS on the front is helpful though. So, I just got the Rottweiler dongle to allow off-road ABS (front on - rear off) and it holds my settings so I do not need to change them when I fire up the bike every time. Best money I spent on the bike so far, aside from the rally tower.
Greetings from IA. Love the content. I've got an Africa Twin for long road rides and gravel. Can't decide between a KTM 690 Enduro R or CRF 450 RL with GET ECU for: OHV park- 45 min ride, gravel rides with dual sport club or loading in truck to go do CO, UT BDR, etc. What do you recommend?? BTW, I'm 55 yo former dirt biker, been out of the game for 15 yrs due to kids.
If you are keeping the AT, then I’d go 450. I swapped my AT and WR out for the 690 just to consolidate the garage a bit. It sounds like you won’t be doing much pavement with the new one at all, and the 450 is just plain and simple better than the 690 in the dirt.
And thanks!
Hello
Excellent video full of very useful information
I am about to buy my KTM 690 Enduro but I have not taken the step due to the information that exists regarding overheating.
Have you had any problems with the temperature of the motorcycle? Greetings from Colombia
It definitely runs warm just sitting on top of it, but I have not had any problems with it.
Hey man! How did you find the fueling after the airbox fro rade? You have the exhaust as well?
I think I have heard you either to remap or buy a dongle.
I have the akrapovic and installed the rotweiler, I think I will buy the rade storage foam kit
I did not need to remap. It runs great! I’m going to when I install the wings exhaust in a couple months.
Great review but what do you think? The innovative use of the rear fuel tank as the main structural element of the subframe keeps weight low and eliminates structural complexity, but I think it seriously weakens the rear part of the structure, which may crack, especially if carrying heavy luggage, unless I'm mistaken ?
Thanks! That’s a great point, but I think when considering the intent behind the bike, it is typically a nonissue. A vast majority of users put this in their garage to ride shorter (smaller camping trips) adventures or ride more aggressively off-road than with the big ADV bikes. In both cases, less is more in regards to luggage. I think if you are packing more than 50L of gear, you should probably be on a bigger bike anyway. If I were to take this cross country with a months worth of gear, I’d be concerned for something to break.
If a pack Mule and a tractor had a love child, it would be a KTM 690.
Never giving mine up.
Been eyeing this bike coming from a 390adv. Think it is still to much of a compromise though. Master of none. Probably going to go with the 500exc next instead even though the 690 checks alot of boxes. Great video!
Thank you! It all depends how you plan to use it! The 500 is an INCREDIBLE bike!
Hey man,
If i get this bike, can i have a spare set of tires only for pavement riding ? , like if i were to go on a ride with friends that don't do offroad.
Thank you, your videos are very informative
You sure can! You just need an extra set of wheels with a street setup on them. I’d suggest warp 9 if you are looking for a good value. Swapping wheel sets and spacers is much faster than swapping tires.
Aside from the weight, one issue I seriously dislike offroad is the electronic throttle. Throttle-by-wire just doesn't have the response of a cable TB.
That’s not the first time I have heard that! At my skill level, it hasn’t seemed to bother me though. Haha
Had a T7, it has a excellent motor, very tractable, the problemnis overall weight and where it is, up high. 690 feels light in comparison. The 500 was a consideration but the oil change interval was the deal breaker, i commute on my 690. I have 300 for the gnarly stuff.
How is the Rade tower for wind protection? Its pricey, makes the bike look like a real rally bike though, very tempted.
The rally tower gets the wind off your chest, but dumps it onto your helmet. It’s clean air though, so it’s totally fine for daily commutes. If I were to go a few hours each way, I’d put on my clip-on lip to get it over my helmet.
I ride primarily east coast tight woods 100% off road GNCC not alot of space for this 690 to open it up except maybe an occasioanl fire road to blast down. I would never get into the meat of that power except maybe on the street and thats a whole diff thing i'm just not into. Ktm is by far the better enduro bike tho and love mine. The 690 is so tempting and looks like a load of fun and they nailed the look of this year too with all that orange. I could make an excuse to grab one. I just don't have a serious use for it and can't justify it. Now a 350 excf might be in my future tho just enough of power and torgue lightweight has the lights I want just going to strip off the emissions and street stuff and turn it into another closed course machine like my 250.
Yeah, the 690 is geared awfully tall for that sort of thing. I think you are right on the money w/ a 350!
I had a $70K KIT690RFR custom build
love my 180Hp @180Kg wet 1290 super enduro custom build lot better & again no ABS/TCS BS
plug the ABS , use custom HEL Performance brake lines to old school , relocate the rear brake switch to the rear brake MC Extend the brake switch loom to plug back in the main loom at front were was plugged in , use the KTM dongle set, = no ABS TCS crap back to bare seat pants
Either ktm or aftermarket should make a complete adventure model or kit with everything adv bikes have standard. LR tanks or integrated rally fairing, subframe luggage solution, stiffer rear shock and/or spring. buying that off ktm showroom as a complete 690 adventure would be perfect.
We can dream! Haha
Never owned a KTM before, how is this 690 reliability? Any problems should I be aware before I pull that trigger?
I am really looking forward to content on the 690 with rade garage rally tower etc. I have your bike’s identical twin. Like you I’ve had almost every bike in every class. Unlike you I’m an old duffer that rode enduros hare scrambles woods rider for years. Now I’m in my 60 s trying to figure out my twilight years of riding. I currently own a 690 rally converted heavily modded, an almost stock 2023 890r for longer trips
A 300l rally Honda ( buddy bike) that I rode and modded the suspension bars tires pipe etc and I have a T7 because I like the way it looks and sounds. I have just taken the 690 on it’s maiden voyage and it is almost as much fun as my 500 excf was but a thousand times better on road. I’m short so every bike I own has seat concepts comfort low on it. I had to lower the 690 about an inch with koubalink and seat is shorter so it’s down about an inch and 1/2. I’m still on tip toes. Worth it for that suspension. The 690 is for planned BDR routes where I trailer bike. I traded an almost new Africa twin for the 890. Some say I was nuts but that 890 is incredible and almost as good offroad as the 690 ( at least on gravel roads the 690 still smokes it on single track)
Thanks for channel can’t wait.
That’s quite the stable! Heck yeah! Loving the 690! Definitely will have more to come!
@@bfeadventures adventure motorcycling is better than almost anything.....
@@rodneyjohnston2467 agreed
Rodney/BFE what’s your opinion on Honda CRF Rally 300 v KTM 690? Eyeing them both for BDRs and light trails…
@@Davidbattan it really boils down to your skill level and budget. If you are a seasoned rider with no budget, go 690. No question. The 300 will be much more manageable on rough terrain if you are just getting started. That is about the only pro I see to getting the 300 over the 690. You would also get Honda reliability. That 300 will go forever. Outside of those two things, the 690 is far superior to the 300 in suspension, power, handling, and fun factor. If you are budget minded, the 300 will absolutely take you anywhere that the 690 would - just not as quickly lol
I got a KTM 300exc and a 450xcw. Then bought a 790 adv. s model. I tipped over on in on my 1st. 2 trips on it. Both times had to get help to turn it around and to get my leg out from under it. 500 lbs bike has no right to be on the trail by itself. Thought about the 690 enduro but still 100 lbs. heavier than the 500exc-f. I ended up going with the 500exc-f. I was scared of the big bikes, I'm now 64. I grew up with tall bikes that is not an issue.
How do you like the 500? I love them!
I found the offroad TC was good enough that I left it on instead of going fully manual. Fuel economy varies between low 40's (at high speeds) and 60mpg (low speed). Cruise control is available aftermarket. Gearing I agree on... you can fix it but it's expensive (change to wide ratio gearbox).
IMO the 690/701 is ideal for TAT/BDR use if you like to ride hard and have the money to build it (I spent $20k but it let me run the TAT in 19 days averaging 42mph). It's not great for hard offroad (where bikes like the 350 or 500 exc are MUCH better choices) and it's not great for long pavement runs (where the heavyweight ADV bikes are more comfortable). BUT - for blasting along on seasonal and fire roads it's fantastic... so for dirt focused ADV imo it's the best bike available.
I guess the seat comfort is something that's user dependent... I rode 10-15 hour days for weeks at a time and found the SC comfort seat to be perfectly comfortable after some adjustment period... and I'm old (56).
Great synopsis! Also - Age is between the ears! ;)
it should be mentioned that even a fully upgraded dr650/xr650l would come up short vs this bike in some performance areas.. gearing on the 690/701 is still a little wonky, would love a lower 1st and taller 6th
Agreed! I talk more about that in the 690/650 comparison video
Yeah, not particularly happy with gears either. And the gearbox is getting stuck in "neutral" between 1st and 2nd, as well as I think 3rd and 4th every now and then, which is incredibly annoying.
@@Elektrobastler agreed
How much weight is added with all the unicorn mods? (Fairing, tank)
+edit+ I did a CRF450L unicorn build and just couldn't get over riding that thing on the road. You say 2hours, I say more like one :) It was amazing on gravel/dirt/jeep/forest service roads but getting there was a chore.
I bet that was a fun bike though! Just ballparking, I'd guess less than 25lbs. The storage tank/intake actually cuts a bit of weight. The rally tower is plastic and carbon. Most of the added weight comes from the protection, and I'm okay with that. I have ridden extensively w/ a 450L and I can say with certainty that the 690 is superior on road by a decent margin. It definitely does feel heavier than the 450 off-road though.
Great review. But I would say there isn't another bike in this class at all.
Great point - the other bikes have similar displacement, but I agree, not really in the same class.
1st world problems for sure. Ive got 18,500 miles on my 890R.
Love it, its like a magic bike, but in no way feels like a dirtbike to me.
Ive ridden 2 strokes all my life and 470+lbs ready to ride is not a dirtbike. But I ride it on all kinds of dirt roads and it will take a wallop and like it, it likes to be pushed harder. On the street for me its an all day 500 mile bike, cruise control is very slick. Such a fun bike on tight backroads. I have serious wheelie issues so the wheelie control button stays on. It wheelies in 3rd at 65mph easy.
But I want a 690, always have. Ive put 50,000 miles on my DR and when I get on it now, its like going back to 1985. Done with it.
The hunt is pretty much on for a good 690, as new as I can find.
That's awesome! You will love it!
I can’t decide if I should buy the KTM 690 enduro or SMC. All the reviews I’ve read online say that the enduro is the better choice but you just messed my head up when you said “if you’re going to put street tires on the enduro then you might as well buy the SMC” because tbh that’s what I was thinking about doing. I wanted a powerful bike that I could do both on and off-road riding with but I will definitely be on the road more often. What should I do? Btw this is only the second bike I’ve ever owned. The first was a crf150r so this is a big jump for me but I have ridden bigger bikes before without a problem. I just haven’t ridden in about 5 years. Was also looking into the Honda CRF450RL. Money isn’t the issue. I just want a great bike. Open to any advice or suggestions on any other bikes I should check out.
Hey, Trey! I think you may have taken my comment out of context. If you plan to ride the bike off-road with knobbies at all, then I would definitely get the Enduro. if money is not an issue, I would buy the Enduro and buy a set of street wheels for it. Unless you are a pro rider, the suspension on the Enduro will be more than supple for street riding with super Moto set up. Then, when you take it off road, it will still be ready for it. The SMC suspension would not be good off-road at all. If you are doing, just a gravel, then it would be fine. However, if you plan to actually ride off road, that suspension would not handle it. I hope that makes sense. The Enduro suspension is good off-road and it is definitely good. Enough on road. The SMC suspension is good on road, but not off-road.
@@bfeadventures Hey man. Thank you so much for responding. I really appreciate it and that was helpful. I just also wanted your opinion on if there were any other bikes I should check out because tbh this is the first time I’m picking a bike out for myself and I’m no pro at this stuff like you. I know that there probably isn’t a perfect bike that exists that checks every box but the things that were important to me was being able to do both on road riding for my commute to work which is about 45 miles each way and when I ride around the town locally plus some off road trail riding every so often. If I’m paying top dollar for a bike I hope I can get my moneys worth and achieve this. I want a bike that’s fast and powerful. I also want a bike that is fun to ride and I could learn to do cool shit on like wheelies and what not lol. From my research online KTM seems to be the cream of the crop but like I said before I owned a Honda previously and it was a great first bike. I was looking at the KTM 690 enduro, 690 SMC and the 500 EXCF. Also was looking at the Honda CRF 450. Do you know of any other bikes I should check out or would you hands down get the 690 enduro? What would you do if you were me? Also would you buy the bike new or get a used one? Thanks for the help man. Happy New Year.
One important thing i want to say about the bike is it isnt tall, my r6 sat higher. I have a stock 2017 690 and it blew my mind when i went to get on it for the first time and i could confidently get both feet down (im just over 6 foot)
For me, anything bigger than a klx110 is tall 😂
5”8….I have a lowering link in and still struggle to touch the ground 😂
Im comsidering one of these or the Norden 901 as a daily driven commuter and moto camping bike. May occassionally hit some single track until I get a dedicated trail bike to pair with it.
Would you still suggest the Husky 701/KTM 690 Enduro R if you are putting down 10,000-12,000 miles of pavement a year?
Great question! If I were in your shoes, it sounds like the Norden would be best for you. The 690 is a RIOT to commute on, but it is not nearly as comfy. Based on your comment, it sounds like you’re not getting too gnarly off-road. If you plan to ride aggressive off-road, the Norden will be a handful. Sounds like you ultimately want 2 bikes. So, I’d say go Norden and if the itch gets too big to scratch for off-road then get a 300 smoker 😜
To clarify though - 10-12k per year would be easy on the 690/701
@@bfeadventures I think youre right. The plan is to have a comfy commuter and long distance bike that I can take on enduro trails on occasion. Then next year snag a FE 501 or 701 Enduro for rough stuff. I want a 300 2T (all my old riding buddies have switched to them) but the areas I would be riding to are 20-60 miles away so I think a 4 stroke may be better for the dedicated trail bike.
I was a mechanic for 8 years and do all my own maintenance. I just have 4 little boys under 10 years old and dont want to spend a lot of time wrenching on a bike before I can jump on it and go.
I have 21 701, love tge bike. When I'm hooning the gas mileage is 130miles, if I adv ride and ride responsibly I have gone over 200miles on a tank, could probably push 220.
I have never seen that! That’s great! I typically get nervous at 120 miles lol
The ktm 690 it worth buying amazing bike super fast you won't be disappointed I have a supermoto and it's badass bike
yes ... valves adjustment at 10k km :)
I put a deposit on a 690 enduro and then changed my mind and got 500 EXC. Overall I don't regret as I'm only an hour away from the trails and I do pretty gnalry tracks / enduro. The 690 would have felt too heavy I think. 690 defo more comfy on the highway but the 500 is ok cruising at 70 mph. Not more than 2 hours though for sure 😅
Heck yeah! The 500 is an incredible platform!
Add a $90 Puig screen to the 690's stock headlight shell and it is much better on the road without getting in the way off road. Even with the screen it is no Gold Wing, but it is a lot nicer at street speeds.
have you ever had the chance to use it with a passenger? Would be it ok? If i bought it as a dual and everyday bike it could happen to have a passenger for a small trip on weekends
I have not, so I cannot speak to that.
Hi man i don't know what bike I should choose between the KTM 690 enduro r (2014) or the BMW F800 gs (2012)
I'm a student that rides about 5 000 miles a year on paved roads but also does off road tours twice a year and go ride off road when i get a chance
What bike do you think i should get
Honestly, it sounds like you have a pretty heavy street by us. So, I would lean more towards the BMW. The 690 is fantastic on the street, but if you were using it as a commuter, there are better road bikes. How aggressive is the off-road you plan to ride?
I moved from an XR650L to my 690. Based on new pricing spend the extra and get the 690. Don't get me wrong I loved my Honda, but it is very dated tech. By the time you spend the cash on suspension work,you may as well have gone with a 690.
If you started on a crf250l...then a 690 enduro r is the only logical upgrade.
Are you sure it switches ABS off to the front? I don't think so.
After a handful of front brake on a gravel road a few times, I can promise it does. I think my bike may be in the weird limbo between Euro and IS models. With the ABS dongle I now have a front ABS and no rear setting. If I unplug it, I only get all on or all off.
You can fit SM wheels on the Enduro or have a set of "mostly tar" 18/21 wheels, two bikes in one ;-)
Is it easy to swap wheels on this model ? i like the idea of two bikes in one.
@@JohnDoe-dk8zz Yep, easy enough. There are a few companies who make appropriate SM wheels that fit, have a look at a few videos on YT. The swap isn't so easy the other direction, so if you go for this option look to pick up an enduro rather than SM :-)
@@krazed0451 something like this - th-cam.com/video/Jitn2swWbBA/w-d-xo.html
I've got a built '17 690 that I love. I'd like to ride one with the newer motor just to feel the difference but I don't feel that mine vibrates all that much. One thing you didn't bring up is seat height, the 690 seat height is on the taller side. Don't think you've got the maintenance intervals correct, my manual says valve checks at 10k km/6k miles. I do an oil change every few thousand miles on mine. Otherwise totally agree with your assessments...
Thanks, Doc! I had some overlap in content w/ a comparison video to a XR650L. I discuss seat height there. I honestly probably just forgot to restate it here. The newer bike definitely feels smoother, but if yours is built, probably not even a worthy difference. Thanks for clarifying the maintenance discrepancy! I keep my oil changes around 2500 miles apart. i know that seems like overkill, but I’d always rather err on the side of caution.
I’m coming up on 5200 miles though! Guess I better check the manual! Haha
@@bfeadventures That's probably when I'm doing my oil changes, if not sooner. I don't think it's overkill given the size of the thumper motor
@@bfeadventures RMATV has a great how to video for checking the valves. I followed their video for mine, was super easy
The only bike that i regret selling 😢
I have a 1250gsa and debating a 690 enduro
I used to have an R 1200 GS. What is your reasoning to switch? I could give you some insight based on my experience.
@bfeadventures I find myself trying to tackle quite technical offroad areas around me more and more often. Live in a very rocky woodsy area and most unmaintained roads are quite difficult on large bikes. I love this bike but can't afford to keep it and supplement a dual sport. Dropping down to a dual sport would probably eliminate my payment too.
@@brandonrides8953 understandable
Where im from, Australia, you can't exceed 660cc in your first 2 years of riding a bike. After that 2 years you can sit a test to upgrade your license. This bike ticks all of the boxes but i can't legally ride it yet
I looked into the crf300L but a lot of owners are having issues with foot peg welds snapping, the engine cutting out on take off or down shifting from 3rd to 2nd. I've looked at it in person and it just looks like a cheap bike.
The drz isnt meant to be good at 60mph otherwise that would be a strong contender. They don't sell the dr650 here anymore due to emission laws and used ones are as much as a new bike
I can't get the klx300 here otherwise id probably choose that as the klx models i have to choose from are the 230s or the 250. The build quality looks much better on them than the Honda but im struggling to find aftermarket parts for it
Are there any other bikes you can recommend me looking into? The wr250r is something im watching the used market closely for but id rather buy it new if possible. Enduro bikes look good but don't know if the maintenance of them would get old quick aha
I'd vote WR250R above all else in that category. Better suspension, better build quality, and bulletproof engine like the rest.
Does it have rim locks? Tubed or tubeless tires? Thanks.
It does not come standard with rim locks - tubed tires
@@bfeadventures Thanks.
Hi. What would you take for the Trans American Trail? 690 or T7?
I also considered the 450rl or CRF300L.
But I know for the 300 and T7 need new suspension.
I just don't want to be late for work Lol
I know this is a generic answer, but you cannot go wrong with either. Assuming you will be using it outside of the TAT, I'd pick the one that suits your typical needs more. Both bikes could easily complete the TAT.
Are those special KTM PowerParts sneakers? Are they needed to reach the ground with both feet?😁😄😆
Yep! Paid extra for them! haha Still can't touch the ground though...
my ass hurts after 20 min on my 501 def need that seat 🤣
you forgot to mention awesome quickshifter up/down on 2019+ models. Also suspension is better. Otherwise agree with everything =)
Good point! I don’t use the quick shifter much in the dirt, so I honestly forget about it!
@@bfeadventures Try out. Really nice to slam gears down, when going in too hot into tight section, while standing and need to hold grips tightly :D
what do you think about KTM 390?
Great beginner or lightweight ADV bike! The biggest downside to that bike along with most others in that category is the suspension and power on the highway.
It is not going to take hard hits with weight very well and it isn’t going to was to pass cars at 75mph. Lol
What rally kit is that?
Rade Garage
have you ever had troubles with reliability on this bike?
The only problem I have had with this bike ever has been the kickstand safety switch. It got bumped in a creek with a bunch of boulders and kept cutting the bike off. I simply rerouted it and used the magnet trick (there is a youtube video on this). I wouldn't even consider that a reliability problem. That's just literally the only issue I have had outside of normal wear items.
You don't need ABS dongle on a new model - in mode 2 it's disabled on the rear.
The biggest annoyance is that every time you stop, you have to start the bike, roll it a ways, and then hold the ABS button to disable it. The process takes a minute and gets old when riding with a group. I mainly want it just to eliminate that step.
@@bfeadventures you don't need to touch the ABS button - just switch to the mode 2. At least that's how it works on 701.
I believe that On mode 2 abs is off on the rear and on in the front, and it would stay like that as long as you stay on mode 2, the abs dangle will help in the case when you would like to keep the abs off front and rear even if you turn off the bike
@@alexanderzhulin3528 Well, that would be a gamechanger! haha Ever since I hit my first gravel road and forgot to turn off ABS (still in mode 1), I assumed it was all on or off based on the ABS button. After that, I just disable it every time, so I wouldn't know if it is off to the rear,. I never gave it a chance in mode 2! haha Guess I'm checking that on my way to work today. haha
@@bfeadventures maybe my 23 701 is different but i can start it and just hold the abs button for 5 seconds it will blink then the abs is off, same with tc start bike hold button for 5 seconds and it will stay off. the tc wont blink or do anything to let you know its off but the light stays lit and tc stays off. no need to roll the bike to turn both lights of before. try it out.
Basically you're telling me I need to buy a K-Mart Trail Machine... (KTM)... MEGA Yamaha dude and my perfect bike is a KTM... Why couldn't you just lie about it?!?!?! lol jk - thank you for doing such great reviews - like real world opinions. The specs on the brochures dont matter as much as the real world feel! THANK YOU! :) I just worry about the Tenere 700 being too dang heavy. I'm used to racing YZ250's and love how nimble and flickable they are, and basically I want a YZ250 with a 75-80hp engine, able to cruise at 70-80 on the freeway with a rally faring kit - is that too much to ask?! lol (its not possible I know I know)
You're telling ME! haha Well, I'd say the 690 is about as close as you're going to get to what you are asking. I LOVE the T7, but when I'm choosing for a weekend rip, I'll pick my 690 over my T7 almost every time.
@@bfeadventuresbiggest challenge I come to is how will I ACTUALLY use it. Feel like it will ACTUALLY be used as a run around bike and spend most of its time on the street around town and what not. To the point where I’ve considered a YZ450 and just super moto the thing. But I think the off road exploration will be super fun and want something that can do both. Just need to figure out what % will be on road vs off road. If I’m honest with myself I bet it will be 70-80% of the miles ON road.
Headlight 500
Footpags 120
Air filter 40-200
Exhaust 500-1500
Castum tuning ECU 500
Rear top case holder 200
AL engine cover 200
Rubber protection Left and right engine cover 120
I'm thinking 😂
All good upgrades!
690 vs pr7 opinions?
I wish I could tell you! I unfortunately have no experience with a pr7.
Had a '22 690R and whilst ultimately it wasnt for me, the one thing i couldnt stand was the TC when I used Mode 2 in offroad situations. Every time the motor is switched off (say you stop to check directions, stall in technical terrain, or drop the bike, etc) the TC turns back on. To turn it off you need to travel for several metres whilst holding down the TC button for 5 secs. Far from ideal if you take off in technical terrain
there is KTM offroad dongle for that. But i doubt it will need it for traction control, is you just stall it. i have 2019 and with dongle all settings are perma set(map, tc,abs)
@@CheradenineZakalwe theres no dongle for the ‘22 model.
@@k_plax let me check with dealer
It is an everyday bike.
Sounds like you need a bigger rear sprocket
I just like the highway cruisability - I’m too stubborn to change gearing
Great info. Volume to low.
Thank you for the feedback! I’ll crank up the mic volume on the next one!
Can you get me your build sheet for that 690?
Sure! Feel free to send me your email!
Actually - here’s the list off the top of my head.
Rade Garage rally tower
Rade Garage storage tank
Double take mirrors
KTM heated grips
Steg Pegs
IMS ADV Pegs (I believe - I forgot)
Rottweiler ABS bad fuel dongle
Rottweiler SAS delete
AXP skid plate
Outback Motortek crash bars
Vanasche rear rack
Vanasche fuel cap
Seat concepts seat
Carbon case guards
That’s off the top of my head.
10,000 mile bike. Wanna buy mine?
Also I beleive with the gas tank being at the rear, it would not be convenient to carry stuff on a rear rack.
Great point! A small bag would be fine, but like a 40L duffel would be a stretch! However, if you travel with a big bag often, you may want a bigger bike anyway. 🤷🏼♂️
Everyone seems to be convinced that this KTM is in every way better than Honda CRF250L/CRF300L. Is it? Let's assume Honda with already upgraded suspension, because otherwise things are obvious. I own CRF250L and need upgrade - but I'm not sure if KTM isn't just a little too much for me. I rented and loved T7 power offroad, but could not keep it straight on sand and had to use both legs to keep it from falling - scarry heavy monster, not for me. KTM weights same as Honda, but is a lot higher...
Its like 40mm higher. Center of gravtiy is better than the honda, being the fuel tank is in the subframe, not on top of the motor. Yes this is the next, and last step from the honda.
I would say it is absolutely worth the upgrade if you are already considering it! It is taller, but can be lowered w/ a link.
@@winterbreed Riding both bikes back to back in tighter terrain, the KTM690 feels a more top heavy.
You have 3 times the horsepower, way more fun factor, I had a 2022 klx300, it’s like comparing a corvette to a yugo , the yugo will get you there, but no smile on your face when you get there! Nothing wrong with the 250’s or 300 class bikes just not enough power for me, that’s why they make all different kinds of bikes
No you should not.
In 2022 I bought the KTM 690 R brand new and sold it with only 1100km 8 months later.
I sold it and on the same day I bought a brand new Kawasaki 230 s.
You probably already know why I did it
The KTM 690 is a weapon! It's a beast. No joke.
I downsized dramatically and could not be happier. The Kawa 230 s is perfect for me driving trails in the bush.
If you want to Ride Offroad….skip it. It’s great on the road but not very good Offroad. I have owned one for a while and just traded it. Get a 500 if you want both…far more capable in the dirt. I have owned 122 bikes…45 were KTMs …so I have had most models… still have a dozen.
Dang! I need to show this comment to my wife! Then my bike list won’t look so bad! 😂 That’s awesome! Glad you found what works for you! Someday, I assume the 690 will go for a 1290 and 500. For now, it does the job of faking an ADV and dirt bike for me. Lol
@@bfeadventures my wife has two 390 adventures, I have a 890 and ditched the 690 to go to another 450
I am sure the 500 would be the best if you couldn’t have many bikes. We are races as well as I am a large promoter….I have had a few GNCCs ….doesn’t get any bigger than that. We are now riding several electric bikes… I have two electric motion as well as a ktm electric…and a Stark coming any day now. They are so much fun….but for those long trips…for now the gas bikes are where it’s at. The electric let us ride everywhere…so that’s a different thing. Enjoy the 690….it is an incredible bike…wants to go everywhere at 100mph but for serious off road it’s hell.
Il take my blue bike wr 450 over it any time.
I loved my WR! Such a great bike!
no
Glad you know it’s not right for you!
Never buy indochina machine! When Ktm brings back in house motors then. Their asking price will be closer to logic
690s are still in Austrian plant, my man!
I'm amazed how so many so- called in- depth review never rate the suspension and chassis qualities offroad, what is essential if riding at pace offrad, like all these "rally" kits suggest. Which makes me think the 690 is not reasonably good offroad, just better than a steel pig like Africa Twin etc
I have an “in depth review” that discusses exactly what you’re talking about. In short, the 690 is best when ridden fast. It’s great for flowing single track and 2-track (and obviously anything faster than that). It does not do well in tight stuff. The gearing, rake, and steering lock really hinder it there.
Worst bike I ever owned, throttle position sensor faults constantly, get any japanese equivalent. Amen.
Sorry you had bad luck with yours! There is no doubt Japanese bikes tend to have more reliability. I would argue that there is no Japanese equivalent in this category though.