"KTM 690 Duke": description with photo, technical specifications, engine power, maximum speed, features of operation, maintenance and repair

2024 Author: Erin Ralphs | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-19 11:41

The first photos of the "KTM 690 Duke" discouraged experts and motorists: the new generation lost its signature faceted shapes and double optical lenses, turning into an almost identical clone of the 125th model. However, the company's press managers diligently assured that the motorcycle has gone through an almost complete update, so it can be considered a full-fledged fourth generation of the Duke model, which first appeared in 1994.

Review "KTM 690 Duke"

Up close, the device looks much more interesting and attractive than in the photographs. The optics have significantly decreased in size, the hump of the gas tank protrudes against the background of the silhouette, significantly transforming it and bringing it closer to the traditional canons of motor-building. The former pedigree was replaced by a streetfighter essence, but it is impossible to call the KTM 690 Duke motorcycle completely original - it has undergonedeep modernization.

Engine

The power unit was created on the basis of the 690 Duke R, released in 2010. The development was led by Josef Mindlberger, who gave the LC4 two spark plugs with individual coils, independently controlled by the ECU, and a Drive-by-Wire throttle control system. Engine output remained unchanged at 70 horsepower and 70 Nm, but fuel consumption and emissions were reduced by almost 10%.

The 690 cc engine was equipped with an APTC slipper clutch and balancer shaft and was similar in design to the engine introduced a few years earlier for the Duke 690R and now found in the 690 Enduro-R and 690 SMC-R.

Chassis

The "KTM 690 Duke" suspension features a WP inverted front fork with 43mm chainstays and a non-adjustable WP rear shock.

The braking system has been simplified to reduce fuel consumption. The main brake cylinder is no longer radial, the Brembo front caliper has been simplified. The Bosch 9M+ anti-lock braking system, considered one of the best in Europe, will cost an additional 500 euros and increase the bike's weight by 1.3 kilograms.

Mechanical connection between throttle and throttle is eliminated thanks to the innovative Drive-by-Wire system. Therefore, several driving modes have been added to the characteristics of the KTM 690 Duke,which, according to the manufacturer, do not reduce engine power. The engine mode switch is located in the luggage compartment and has nine positions, but only three of them are working.

Dashboard

Panels "KTM 690 Duke" 2008 vs 2012 are distinguished by the presence of an activated transmission indicator. ABS operation is signaled by a lamp located in the lower left corner, the anti-lock braking system is turned off by the button located opposite.

Motorcycle history

The Duke 620 received the title of a real road bike in 1994 and, despite the fact that it did not receive proper recognition and its place in history, fell in love with many thanks to its unusual shapes. The serial production of the model lasted until 2007 with minor changes, but until 2012 it was "foreign" for Mattighofen: born from the Supermoto concept, it was just a motard for racing. It wasn't until five years later that the class of powerful naked road bikes emerged.

Everything changed in 2011, when the KTM factory management set the goal for the next five years to conquer the road bike market in all available segments. Previously, the brand was positioned as a manufacturer of enduro and motocross motorcycles, but since 2012, the plant began to produce several new products every year. To date, the KTM brand produces motorcycles in the Supersport, Naked, Adventure and Sport-Turing classes.

Technicalspecifications "KTM 690 Duke"

The street naked market for daily use and long trips has been almost completely conquered by this model, created on the updated LC4 platform, equipped with electronic control and Ride-by-Wire throttle. The KTM 690 Duke features a 690 cc, 70 horsepower engine with two spark plugs, a slipper clutch and forced lubrication.

The brake system is represented by powerful and efficient Brembo radial brakes of one of the series - P or M, depending on the specific motorcycle model. For the past four years, the KTM 690 Duke and its sibling, the 690R, have been among the brand's best-selling models.

Updated version of the motorcycle

For four years, the described motorcycle has topped numerous ratings due to its light weight, powerful engine, excellent dynamics and performance. "KTM 690 Duke", however, lacked a couple of little things that appeared only in 2016.

KTM's traditional single-cylinder engine has been redesigned. The manufacturer released a new, 766th model, which differed from the previous version in an increased volume and timing and CPG elements. The displacement of the engine was increased to 693 cubic centimeters, which affected its power, which increased to 75 Nm and 73 horsepower. The power unit provides an optimal ratio of power to weight and significantly exceedstheir counterparts with motors of the same size.

On the market, the KTM 690 Duke remained the most powerful motorcycle and had significant advantages over its competitors. After the upgrade, the set of electronics was expanded, thanks to which the pilot received full control over the on-board computer. This allowed you to make changes to the motorcycle, configuring it to your own needs.

The rev range has been significantly extended to give you the maximum opportunity for aggressive or smooth driving, peaking at 8500rpm, up from the 2012-2015 model. Despite the shift of the red zone upwards, the motorcycle fully complies with Euro 4 standards.

"KTM 690 Duke" received two-channel C-ABS and MSC, and after flashing, access to MSR is opened, which was previously installed only on V-Twin models. The Duke engine comes standard with a slipper clutch for easy braking and shifting. The MSR system prevents control errors associated with engine braking by preventing the engine from locking up and providing minimal overshoot in situations where the driver did not do this himself or chose the wrong speed mode.

All KTM motorcycles are equipped with the MTC traction control system. Several engine control maps were also available on the 690 Duke, however, their setting was carried out by sector rings located under the seat. However, after the changes, the left control panel becamefull-fledged, having received control keys, the ability to change driving modes and levels of traction control directly while driving. All the necessary information is displayed on the color display of the control panel, the functionality of the on-board computer is not inferior to Super Duke R.

The control panel displays maximum information, especially in comparison with previous models. These are ambient temperature, operating mode, engine overheating level, fuel consumption, gear activated indicator and current driving speed.

The tachometer is equipped with an intelligent system: when starting a cold engine, the rpm scale will remain blue until the engine warms up to the desired temperature. The maximum RPM level is highlighted in red. There are two operating modes: day and night.

Chassis

The chassis design has not been significantly changed, but it differs from the analogues of previous models - the motorcycle's handling when driving in a straight line has been significantly improved, which was achieved due to the increased fork extension in the traverses, which provided a flatter Trail equal to 99 millimeters. The front wheel is moved a little further from the center line of the steering column, which increased the stability when driving in a straight line. The motorcycle does not require special repairs: with regular maintenance, it is only recommended to replace the KTM Duke 690 pads and other components when they are worn out.

Insignificant changes made to the design had a positive impact onrider comfort: a wide and comfortable seat with special support paddles and a softer passenger seat are designed for regular riders.

The difference between motorcycles

Except for the classic wheel and frame color differences, the 690 R features an Acrapovic exhaust system, more efficient brakes and Brembo bars.

Braking control in the R-version is carried out by a radial release cylinder. The model is fitted with a Brembo M50/100 monobloc caliper with 30mm pistons, which provides excellent feedback and effective braking. The mass of such a block is 700 grams.

Another highlight of the KTM 690R is the adjustable monoshock and WP fork. The curb weight of the models is practically the same, but the driving experience is completely different, which is noted in the reviews of the KTM 690 Duke and the opinions of experts and is achieved through more precise tuning of electrical equipment and the installation of a new exhaust system. The R-version, moreover, is a few horsepower more powerful, and the basic equipment is equipped with all systems - MSC, MTC, MSR and C-ABS. The passenger seat of the version is closed with a special cover, so it will not be possible to carry a second person.

Model prices

In Russia official dealers offer KTM 690 Duke for 840 thousand rubles, model R - for 965 thousand rubles. The difference in price is 125,000 rubles, but it is worth considering that in the regular version all options are activated by ordering from a dealer,while the 690R has them built in.

Design difference

Motorcycle owners celebrate their bright appearance, which attracts the attention of everyone in the city traffic. One look at the KTM is enough to understand that he is an expensive model. Both models - both 690 and 690R - are almost identical in appearance, but there are certain differences.

The R-version's steering wheel is painted black, and the design of the LED turn signals is sleeker than the base model. The 690 R is also equipped with traverses, which are marked with the tightening torque of the fixing bolts. Both bikes are equipped with WP suspension, but only the Duke R has adjustable suspension. The Brembo caliper caliper is stronger on the R version. The sporty riding position of the 690R is provided by higher footpegs, allowing you to lean the bike while riding.

Control and driving feel

For those who have never ridden motocross bikes, Duke will be a real discovery. The low saddle provides a flat and relaxed seating position, but on the R version it is slightly higher, but even a tall pilot will find it difficult to reach the ground. The motorcycle is narrow, but the handlebars are wide, which, coupled with low weight, provides perfect handling. Motorists note that you can maneuver on any city street, even with the densest traffic. A separate advantage is the hydraulic clutch, which is squeezed out with one finger.

KTM Duke motorcycles are remembered for their habits and fit. All potentialmodels unfold in busy city traffic: 690 and 690R have excellent maneuverability and dynamism. The motorcycle accelerates very well from a standstill, but on the highway it only picks up speed up to 160, after which it somehow reaches 200 km / h, then the autopilot actually turns on. The pilot could relax, but the resistance of the headwind does not allow it.

On the base Duke, there are more than enough brakes to stop the bike effectively and quickly, and it’s almost impossible to overheat them, but on the 690R version there are even a lot of them: despite the fact that the model is equipped with only one brake disc, the caliper stops the motorcycle abruptly, almost completely ignoring the ABS system. The wheel is locked by the rear brake after a slight pressure on the pedal.

Engines

The single-cylinder engine is astounding in character and volume, with motorcycle owners commenting that this is most noticeable on the 690R, which is equipped with Akrapovic, which barely muffles the sound of the engine.

The engine revs very quickly, the motorcycle almost instantly responds to the throttle. The lower rev range is not particularly pleasing: up to 4-6 thousand, the motorcycle maintains a smooth and confident ride. All the fun begins after overcoming the maximum threshold: Duke easily accelerates to 150 km / h. Shifting is crisp and firm, a heritage from off-road models. Between 5th and 6th gears, you can stumble upon a false neutral if you are not confident enough to shift gears.

The maximum speed of the Duke 690 is 195-200 km/h and depends on the driver's driving skills. The engine can hardly be called economical: fuel consumption is 6-7 liters per 100 kilometers.

All options offered on the 690 R version can also be installed on the base Duke 690 model by ordering them from an authorized dealer as an optional package. This feature allows you to avoid paying extra for multi-colored rims and arches, fitting the 690 model to the characteristics of the 690R. There is no need for Brembo monoblocs and custom suspension fitted to the bike unless the rider is out on the race tracks.