The 2019 KTM 690 Enduro R specifications list is where I am starting, as I begin the search for a new motorcycle. I am sitting and researching the possibilities and options that I have available. It will take me some time to save up money for one, but in the meanwhile, this kind of stuff will help me sort out my thoughts and wants.
Ideally, I want a motorcycle that I can ride both on and off the road without needing a trailer. Which is what my older Himalayan allowed me to do. And, for my next, that will be the obvious benchmark motorcycle, though I am not taking the quality control of the 2016 Himalayan into account. I would be setting the bar pretty low if I did.
I have seen this motorcycle in action and while I just do not like the wind protection on it, it is quite the capable machine, at least in Sam’s hand. That motorcycle seemed really tall for me at the time, but KTM seems to say that the new one has a lower seat height. Still tall at 35.8 in, but shorter than before.
Its new chassis, revised styling and an updated version of the trusted 690 LC4 engine, are enhanced by upgraded electronics and new WP XPLOR suspension. Thanks to the hydraulically actuated PASC slipper clutch, the rear wheel always remains under control, even in heavy trail braking. – According to KTM
I have never owned a motorcycle with ABS and this will be a definite upgrade for me with its “highly advanced cornering ABS” which comes standard. The ABS does have an aggressive set-up and offroad mode, but I need to ride it to see how that works.
The innovative WP fork with separate damping should make it especially easy to find the optimum set-up with the help of maybe the local KTM shop or other riders. Especially since the compression and rebound adjustments do not interfere with each other. That in addition to about 10 inches of travel.
Looks pretty cool, has a very powerful engine (for me) and great ergonomics all-round ensure that at least on paper, the 2019 KTM 690 Enduro R specifications make it look like a good bike for urban commuting, back roads on gravel and offroad. Speaking of looks, it is based on the EXC family for a more aggressive look and enhanced ergonomics. Which reminds me of Vicky’s 530 EXC.
Okay, paid homage to both the KTM boys here. 😀
2019 KTM 690 Enduro R specifications
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, SOHC |
| Displacement | 690cc |
| Bore/Stroke | 105 / 80 mm |
| Starter | Electric; 12V 8.6Ah |
| Transmission | 6 Gears |
| Fuel System | Keihin EFI, 50 mm Throttle Body |
| Lubrication | Pressure Lubrication |
| Two Oil Pumps Cooling | Liquid Cooling |
| Clutch | PASC Slipper Clutch |
| Hydraulically Operated Ignition | Keihin EMS with Ride-By-Wire, Dual Ignition |
| Frame | Chrome-moly Steel Trellis |
| Subframe | Self-supporting Plastic Tank |
| Handlebar | Aluminium, Tapered, Ø 28/22 mm |
| Front Suspension | WP USD Ø 48 mm |
| Rear Suspension | WP Monoshock with Pro-Lever Linkage |
| Suspension Travel Front/Rear | 250 mm / 9.8 in; 250 mm / 9.8 in |
| Front/Rear Brakes | Disc Brake 300 mm / 240 mm |
| Front Wheel | 1.85 x 21” |
| Rear Wheel | 2.50 x 18” |
| Front Tire | 90/90-21” |
| Rear Tire | 140/80-18” |
| Steering Head Angle | 27.7º |
| Wheelbase | 1,502 mm ± 15 mm / 59 ± 0.6 in |
| Ground Clearance | 270 mm / 10.6 in |
| Seat Height | 910 mm / 35.8 in |
| Tank Capacity | 13.5 l / 3.6 gal |
| Dry Weight, Approx | 146 kg / 321.9 lbs |
Some extra points for myself, so that I do not forget later:
- High-quality Brembo braking system combined.
- Lightweight waved discs.
- Technology-leading Cornering ABS with Offroad mode (to disengage rear ABS) for hard braking under all circumstances.
- Quickshifter+ for smooth clutchless shifting.
- Motorcycle traction control (MTC), motor slip regulation (MSR)
- Street and Offroad ride modes that can be switched directly from the handlebars for controlled power delivery.
Of course, I cannot finish this without giving the lads from the Continental Drift a hat tip. Watch it if you haven’t. Watch it again, if you have back in the day.