2017 Ktm 690 Duke Top Speed
KTM 690 DUKE (2016 - 2019) Review
13
Highlights
- Excellent value naked single
- Easy to ride for new and experienced bikers
- Handling can be improved with Track Pack or R versions
At a glance
| Owners' reliability rating: | 4.3 out of 5 (4.3/5) |
|---|---|
| Annual servicing cost: | £170 |
| Power: | 72 bhp |
| Seat height: | Medium (32.9 in / 835 mm) |
| Weight: | Low (327 lbs / 148 kg) |
Prices
New N/A
Used £5,200 - £6,800
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakes
4 out of 5 (4/5)
Simply put the KTM 690 Duke is really impressive: in a dream garage you'd have one. The motor is versatile, smooth, user friendly and doesn't mind revving. The lightness makes the 690 a doddle to ride, fun and enjoyable, perfect for darting up mountain roads or nipping between traffic in on a city commute. However it's on the expensive side compared to the twin cylinder competition.
- Related: Best naked motorbikes
The Duke 690 is toy-like, like a BMX with an engine. It will turn with very little effort and will drop to toe scraping angles of lean with ease. You don't really need to hang off or manhandle it, simply look where you want to be and you're there.
This version of the KTM 690 Duke replaced the 2012-2015 bike of the same name.
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: Engine
4 out of 5 (4/5)
At only 148.5kg it's incredibly light, that's near as dam it 30kg lighter than Yamaha's featherweight MT-07 that's 4 stone 10 in old money. As soon as you flick the Duke up from the side stand you instantly notice the lack of weight. This makes town work a doddle and means the Duke will turn on a dime.
The Duke's lightness also has a fun flips side; less weight means better handling and more fun. It will turn with very little effort and will drop to foot-peg scraping angles of lean with ease. You don't really need to hang off or counter steer, simply look where you want to be and you're there. The non adjustable WP suspension is impressive on out of the box, even on track.
KTM 690 Duke Track Pack
Included in the 'track pack' is MSR (motor slip regulation), which prevents the rear wheel locking up on heavy downshifts, by increasing the rpm of the motor respectively. Additionally there's optional Supermoto braking; where the ABS only works on the front, the rear is down to the rider.
It's a shame you have to add the 'track pack' and it doesn't come as standard as it makes a real difference. While it is only an extra £248, I believe rider modes and traction control should come as standard on a £7699 bike.
Engine
Next up: Reliability
5 out of 5 (5/5)
They've reworked the old 690 motor, in fact very little of the old motor remains. The bore has increased 3mm but the stroke has been reduced accordingly, with displacement staying the same. The cylinder head has been significantly improved which has resulted in an increase in power, up 7% to 73bhp and torque has increased by 6% to 54.48ftlb. The new motor also revs higher by 1000rpm to 9000, peak power is actually at 8500rpm which is astonishing for a single, so is the smoothness and refinement.
This engine is shared with the KTM 690 Enduro, 690 SMC & 690 Super Moto.
- Related: KTM's 690 engine in detail
Reliability & build quality
Next up: Value
4 out of 5 (4/5)
KTM are the masters of single cylinder engine production, have won more Moto 3 races than any other manufacture and have already won 7 world titles when this review was first written in 2015. The quality of the engine is mighty impressive and so is the technology behind it. The WP doesn't feel budget, the level of components used is high, but that is reflected in the price.
Our KTM 690 Duke owners' reviews highlight some issues with reliability. A leaking rear shock (that you can't service yourself) is the most worrying, but corrosion is also reported.
Value vs rivals
Next up: Equipment
3 out of 5 (3/5)
At £7699 the new middle-weight Duke wasn't cheap. In comparison Yamaha MT-07 was £5349 and Kawasaki ER6-N was £5799. The racy R model was just shy of nine grand at £8999 which is comparable to a 600 Supersport machine. But which one was best? Read on...
Group test: KTM Duke 690 vs Kawasaki ER-6n vs Yamaha MT-07
First published in MCN 17 February 2016 by Jon Urry
In 2016 just after its launch, MCN pit the Duke 690 against its main rivals, the class-leading Yamaha MT-07 and the Kawasaki ER-6n
Jon Urry was your referee: "There is a very definite split between these three bikes. The ER-6n is a great first big bike, but one that you will certainly outgrow. It is best viewed as a stepping stone machine before greater things. The KTM and Yamaha, on the other hand, are bikes that you can own as first big bikes, because they are very easy going. But when your skills improve you will discover far more fun and performance can be unlocked.
"You'll be finding the limits of the Kawasaki by that point. Is the KTM worth the premium over the Yamaha? In a world dominated by budgets, poundfor-pound the Yamaha still offers the best of all worlds – fun and performance at a phenomenal price. However, if the KTM cost £1000 less, it would be a far tougher decision. Sadly, for those of us on a budget, it doesn't."
Equipment
4 out of 5 (4/5)
The new full colour clocks are a nice touch and gives the 690 a quality feel. The clocks change in colour depending on the light, automatically changing into an easier to read night mode.
When the engine is cold the digital revs appear in blue, orange as standard then change to red at the redline. ABS comes as standard as does WP suspension and Brembo brakes but the rider modes and traction control is an optional extra. MSR (motor slip regulation) which prevents the rear wheel locking up on heavy downshift is also an optional extra.
Specs | |
| Engine size | 690cc |
|---|---|
| Engine type | single cylinder, liquid-cooled |
| Frame type | Steel Trellis |
| Fuel capacity | 14 litres |
| Seat height | 835mm |
| Bike weight | 148kg |
| Front suspension | - |
| Rear suspension | - |
| Front brake | - |
| Rear brake | - |
| Front tyre size | - |
| Rear tyre size | - |
Mpg, costs & insurance | |
| Average fuel consumption | 57 mpg |
|---|---|
| Annual road tax | £96 |
| Annual service cost | £170 |
| New price | - |
| Used price | £5,200 - £6,800 |
| Insurance group | - How much to insure? |
| Warranty term | 2 years |
Top speed & performance | |
| Max power | 72 bhp |
|---|---|
| Max torque | 54.48 ft-lb |
| Top speed | 120 mph |
| 1/4 mile acceleration | 12 secs |
| Tank range | - |
Model history & versions
Model history
- 2008: KTM 690 Duke launched
- 2010: Second generation breaks cover
- 2012: Third 690 Duke review
- 2016: Fourth version ridden
- 2019: Bike goes off sale
Other versions
There's also a KTM 690 Duke R. The standard model and the R as they share the same engine, with the R only gaining one more horse thanks the titanium Akrapovic silencer, but the difference is instantly apparent, especially on track. The R sits a whole 30mm taller on its fully-adjustable WP suspension. The front brake master cylinder is now radial and easier to adjust and there a little more bark from the road homologated Akra silencer. The adjustable pegs are also higher, and the whole package feels more racy. The 690 R is impressive, but its £8999 price tag dramatically limits its appeal.
MCN Long term test reports
Bike of the day: KTM 690 Duke
The KTM 690 Duke's surprisingly revvy single cylinder engine coupled with a light, flickable chassis makes for an exhilarating ride. It is restrained enough at 72bhp to accommodate less experienced riders, but more than capable of giving the more experienced a thrill too. MORE FROM MCN Ducati elect…
Read the latest report
Owners' reviews for the KTM 690 DUKE (2016 - 2019)
13 owners have reviewed their KTM 690 DUKE (2016 - 2019) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your KTM 690 DUKE (2016 - 2019)
Summary of owners' reviews | |
| Overall rating: | 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5) |
|---|---|
| Ride quality & brakes: | 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5) |
| Engine: | 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5) |
| Reliability & build quality: | 4.3 out of 5 (4.3/5) |
| Value vs rivals: | 4.3 out of 5 (4.3/5) |
| Equipment: | 3.5 out of 5 (3.5/5) |
| Annual servicing cost: | £170 |
5 out of 5 Why would you ever need more for a road bike?
30 October 2021
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £200
Why would you ever need anything more?
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Superb all round bike. Stiff but compliant ride, otherworldly handling...effortless and way faster in bends than a litrebike or SS600 - I had to recalibrate my reference points on familiar roads. Think and turn. Comfy ( only second bike of very many that I didn't bin the stock seat); lovely exhaust note (fist bike ever where I didn't bin the can for an aftermarket item); stock M7RRs brilliant. Brakes perfect, never engages ABS no matter how aggressive I ride.
Engine 5 out of 5
Incredibly smooth for a big single; tons of grunt but smoothly singing along at extralegal speeds. As fast as a road bike ever needs to be. Sure it's a bit lumpy at below 3K so just keep it in proper gear
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Really a 4.5. Warranty service no problem. Loose bolts and faulty petrol gauge.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Very reasonable, nain dealer seems to know their stuff
Equipment 3 out of 5
Not much in way of equipment but never feel I need it.
Buying experience: Dealer purchase from a fair distance but good deal on NOS bike.
5 out of 5
24 January 2021 by Bill
Version: Track pack
Year: 2019
Would recommend to anyone , great fun
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Excellent brakes [ upgraded ktm wavey discs front and rear ] abs , traction control , street , sport and rain modes is a £ 250 option but well worth it . You can ride for as long as you like . Its comfy with ergo seat but does get vibey on long rides out .
Engine 5 out of 5
Bags of torque for a 690 single . Its quick for what it is [ 690 single ] keep it in the right gear and you cant stop smiling . Cruise at 80 mph no problem but wind becomes a problem above that due to no protection .
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Bought new in 2019 . Only problem i have had was leaking rear shock after 850 miles , replaced under warranty .
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Pricey for annual oil and filter change and general going over .
Equipment 5 out of 5
Abs , rider modes [option] traction control tft screen . Ergo seat and rear seat cowl more comfy and look the part
4 out of 5 Brilliant bit of kit the 690 Duke, very minor flaws. Enjoy
23 December 2020 by mclay
Year: 2016
Annual servicing cost: £200
Traded my CB500F for a 2016 YM with track pack. Since then I have been upgrading her a little with Akra pipe/Fender extender/Ergo pillion and rider seat. Cheapest practical mods O2 sensor delete and 15T front sprocket means you loose the jackhammer effect below 3500rpm. It feels different and special - both fast and fun without scaring you to death. Love the brand [also has BMW & Honda's in the past]. If you're thinking about one just buy one but bear in mind some minor mods to iron out the "straight from the factory "issues". Thankful on reflection for the track pack that she came with..
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Front Brembo dual piston has bite and stops on a dime however i do use trail rear Brembo brake quite a bit and that's also just as effective. not changed any pads as yet but braking efficiency has a lot to do with bikes light weight i would guess. Ride quality is good once mods to stop the judder effect through villages and towns have been fitted - best £50 you could spend to improve stock machine
Engine 5 out of 5
Total powerhouse for what it is...73bhp from a single, boatload of torque relative to CC's. What's not to like. In 3rd gear it will pull like a train cleaning and strongly from around 40 till she almost hits the limiter around 75-80 before changing up. I also find the gearbox so much better that the Honda CB500F I had prior which jumped out of gear occassionally.. She has a solid change, slipper assist clutch. Only word of caution make sure you use the very expensive Motul 10-60 recommended oil and i would change more frequently than the recommended 6k intervals but that's a personal preference.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
No problems whatsover to date [all though she did some fully serviced and MOT'd including new C&S set and tyres with Oxford heated grips] having done 10k prior so not sure whether prior owners ironed out any niggles. I find the fittings and overall quality better that the Honda CB500F I had prior, everything from the paint quality on the engine, galvanised fittings and alloy everywhere which i assume contributes to its "insane" light weight" feel.
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
Brembo Brakes, Slipper Clutch, TFT screen [looks a tiny bit dated compared to latest but better than LCD], WP suspension [I will change the rear shock as I do carry pillion quite often for a Nitron or Wilbers], Hydraulic Magura clutch. Not as good as the best for equipment but then you are buying for the riding experience and fun not for all the latest "trinkets and gizmos", never forget that..
Buying experience: Bought from a KTM dealer in Dewsbury and they could'nt have been better. Competitive price, very clean and smooth. I paid the sticker price as I'd part exchanged the CB500F and they gave me a reasonable trade in so I did not haggle.
4 out of 5 Buyer beware
07 August 2020 by Shaun
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £200
Think twice. Looks good but let down by poor quality.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Comfortable ride overall
Engine 5 out of 5
Fab engine just let down by everything around it!
Reliability & build quality 2 out of 5
Warped fuel tank, leaking rear shock (unserviceable), goes to support the mcn reviews that build quality is a concern, even on their 2020 models.
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
Pay through the nose for ktm dealer servicing on a machine that's fraught with issues.
Equipment 3 out of 5
Track pack is a hefty £250 extra. Why wasn't this standard on both 690 models??
Buying experience: Private. Going price for the year and mileage so no complaints.
4 out of 5 Great fun, but very single minded; Motorcycling at its purest?
30 May 2020 by gixerjohn
Year: 2018
Annual servicing cost: £200
Great fun, but very single minded. Very light and easy to handle, a surprising amount of punch from the engine, but despite the 2 ballencers it still vibrates quite a bit. I found after 30 miles on the road I would have pins & needles in my left hand. Incredibly frugal on fuel, averaged mid 70's to the gallon if not going nuts.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Firm to stiff, works well when bonkers.
Engine 3 out of 5
73 hp for a 690 single is a lot, but it hates running below 3,750 / 4,000 rpm. With stock gearing you need to stay in 2nd gear in a 30mph limit or the engine jackhammers in the frame, which sounds to pedestrians that you are deliberately holding a lower gear (which you are). Like many owners I swapped to a sprocket with 2 extra teeth on the rear with just enables me to get into 3rd at 28 mph.
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Looks really well built, the only issue I had in 14 months was the side stand pivot bolt became loose. A touch of locktight and retorqued was all that was required.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
The bike is so light the sticky tyres last twice as long as expected.
Equipment 3 out of 5
Minimal, ABS, lights and a horn. Motorcycling at its purest?
Buying experience: Northampton Moto, (KTM and Kawasaki dealers). They were great, very friendly, not at all pushy, nice showroom, free drinks, toilets etc. I must mention Michael Crouch the service engineer, great chap, really knows his stuff. I have no connection with the dealership or any of the staff, other than being a happy customer.
5 out of 5 Bike is superb. Overall better than I need. Do miss not having the Trackpack though!
05 May 2020 by JOHN FISHMAN
Year: 2017
Bike is superb. Overall better than I need. Do miss not having the Trackpack though!
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Brakes superb. There's an air of sophistication and high quality about the ride yet it's still a tad raw and just that characterful bit of vibey. Gearbox can be a bit hit-and-miss but I suspect part if that is me not being used to it and another part possibly the shift lever might need a wee adjustment and another part might it being brand new. Handling is hard to explain - utterly unlike anything I've ever ridden - telepathic and if you think too much or are too mechanical about it you can oversteer it SO easily...really lovely though. Suspension is firm and sporty - as expected - but sublime, especially given forks are unadjustable and I am 216lbs naked. Seating position is just unremarkable so far - which may be the best thing you can say about a seating position.
Engine 5 out of 5
For a 690cc single it is incredible. Great tractability and acceleration. If I am honest, it can be a bit vibey under 4k rpm but I suspect that might get better with bedding in too. It's surprisingly fast even keeping the revs under 6k for break-in period.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Not sure, brand new leftover 2017
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
At the price I paid for a leftover 2017 in mid 2020, ridiculous value. 50mpg average so far.
Equipment 4 out of 5
Had I not known about the Trackpack, I'd be over the moon. But, in the US it's been discontinued so there's a lot of the bike that just needs to be activated and I can't. LCD dash is great. Gear indicator, especially for this motor, MPG function all highly rated.
Buying experience: It was a big mainline dealer that sold all Big-4 Japanese manufacturers, Polaris, Indian; so it's no wonder it sat for 3years. Staff was just warm bodies, friendly enough though.
5 out of 5 I love it despite its wrinkles
19 April 2020 by Jobsworth
Year: 2016
Annual servicing cost: £260
I bought this bike new after more years than I care to think of without one. Much had changed since last I rode, and I fell in love with the power delivery, the sound, the riding position and the light weight (153kg dry), right away. Now, 3½ years/17k+ miles later (including an 18-day, 4,300-mile trip to Norway last Summer) and despite a few caveats, it's still the bike for me.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
The ride has been quite a revelation, and I've been surprised and pleased that as a slightly porky 70-year-old I can do a 500-mile day without feeling shredded by the end of it, stopping to stretch my dodgy knees and back about every 1¼ to 1½ hours. The front single disc is adequate rather than spectacular, but the whole package feels balanced and well-thought-out.
Engine 5 out of 5
There's just enough vibration to prove the thing is alive and give it great big-single character. It needs to be kept spinning though, as it doesn't pull all that strongly from low revs; brisk overtakes need to drop a gear. Power comes on smoothly through the ride-by-wire throttle, so I guess the fuelling must be pretty well spot-on. I had the optional Track Pack retrofitted, which gives me three ride modes and traction control; I bought this largely for safety reasons, but my insurers whacked my premium up by 40 quid anyway! Early false neutrals disappeared when everything had bedded in, and the hydraulic clutch is super-light but progressive and with plenty of feel.
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
I'll admit to not being a fastidious bike-cleaner, so it would be nice to have stainless fasteners instead of galvanised, which are showing signs of rust in places. Rust spots also showed up on one of the fork sliders, which KTM replaced under warranty. Quality seems good overall though, with the notable exception of the plastic petrol tank which distorted for unknown reasons and started leaking fuel from the pump flange. To their credit, KTM replaced it out of warranty - but I'd have been knackered if it had happened abroad because I wouldn't have been allowed on a ferry home while leaking fuel.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
I haven't owned another modern bike for comparison but the £8K purchase price, including dinky little OEM panniers and a lowering kit, seemed high-ish but not excessive. Fuel economy of mid 40s mpg in normal use and up to 70 or just over on motorway/autobahn riding is pretty good. Fuel range is 150/180 miles, depending on riding type. Now it's out of warranty I'm using a local bike shop rather than the (very good but quite distant) franchised dealer for servicing when it's outside my capacity to do it myself.
Equipment 3 out of 5
My Duke is, frankly, a bit lacking when it comes to equipment. There were no power sockets and an incredibly weedy horn, and the monochrome LCD dash is angled just right to catch the sun more-or-less wherever it is, and become invisible. The OEM panniers I bought with the bike are about the size of the handbag my granddaughter took to her first prom, and their (mild steel) frame mounting brackets started shedding their single coat of paint very quickly. Finally, because it's quite compact, finding storage for a puncture kit and some extra tools is a real problem.
Buying experience: The nearby dealer I bought the bike from was fine, but changed hands and no longer has KTM. I now have a 76-mile round trip, but JD Racing in Saltash (Cornwall) are excellent.
5 out of 5 I love it despite its wrinkles
19 April 2020 by Jobsworth
Year: 2016
Annual servicing cost: £260
I bought this bike new after more years than I care to think of without one. Much had changed since last I rode, and I fell in love with the power delivery, the sound, the riding position and the light weight (153kg dry), right away. Now, 3½ years/17k+ miles later (including an 18-day, 4,300-mile trip to Norway last Summer) and despite a few caveats, it's still the bike for me.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
The ride has been quite a revelation, and I've been surprised and pleased that as a slightly porky 70-year-old I can do a 500-mile day without feeling shredded by the end of it, stopping to stretch my dodgy knees and back about every 1¼ to 1½ hours. The front single disc is adequate rather than spectacular, but the whole package feels balanced and well-thought-out.
Engine 5 out of 5
There's just enough vibration to prove the thing is alive and give it great big-single character. It needs to be kept spinning though, as it doesn't pull all that strongly from low revs; brisk overtakes need to drop a gear. Power comes on smoothly through the ride-by-wire throttle, so I guess the fuelling must be pretty well spot-on. I had the optional Track Pack retrofitted, which gives me three ride modes and traction control; I bought this largely for safety reasons, but my insurers whacked my premium up by 40 quid anyway! Early false neutrals disappeared when everything had bedded in, and the hydraulic clutch is super-light but progressive and with plenty of feel.
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
I'll admit to not being a fastidious bike-cleaner, so it would be nice to have stainless fasteners instead of galvanised, which are showing signs of rust in places. Rust spots also showed up on one of the fork sliders, which KTM replaced under warranty. Quality seems good overall though, with the notable exception of the plastic petrol tank which distorted for unknown reasons and started leaking fuel from the pump flange. To their credit, KTM replaced it out of warranty - but I'd have been knackered if it had happened abroad because I wouldn't have been allowed on a ferry home while leaking fuel.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
I haven't owned another modern bike for comparison but the £8K purchase price, including dinky little OEM panniers and a lowering kit, seemed high-ish but not excessive. Fuel economy of mid 40s mpg in normal use and up to 70 or just over on motorway/autobahn riding is pretty good. Fuel range is 150/180 miles, depending on riding type. Now it's out of warranty I'm using a local bike shop rather than the (very good but quite distant) franchised dealer for servicing when it's outside my capacity to do it myself.
Equipment 3 out of 5
My Duke is, frankly, a bit lacking when it comes to equipment. There were no power sockets and an incredibly weedy horn, and the monochrome LCD dash is angled just right to catch the sun more-or-less wherever it is, and become invisible. The OEM panniers I bought with the bike are about the size of the handbag my granddaughter took to her first prom, and their (mild steel) frame mounting brackets started shedding their single coat of paint very quickly. Finally, because it's quite compact, finding storage for a puncture kit and some extra tools is a real problem.
Buying experience: The nearby dealer I bought the bike from was fine, but changed hands and no longer has KTM. I now have a 76-mile round trip, but JD Racing in Saltash (Cornwall) are excellent.
4 out of 5 Incredible single, but unpleasant below 4000rpm
15 March 2020 by FM34
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £100
The bike is very very light, with a powerful engine and that is a unique combination on the market. Very pleasant on small (moutain) roads but quite a nightmare in town with lots of mechanical noises and hard thumping below 3500-4000 rpm. Too bad because the super light weight and small footprint are important assets in town ...
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Excellent road handling. Suspension (rear mainly) could be more confortable but it is efficient.
Engine 5 out of 5
I do NOT like the low rev behavior of this engine. But if you keep it over 4000 rpm, it's strong, with a lot of torque immediately available. It pulls strong with a very nice sound (OEM exhaust) until 9000rpm! Incredible single.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Only 3000KM, so no probem. When in the market to buy min, I've seen Dukes with more than 30.000KM that were still running strong, so I guess the bike is reliable is you treat her well.
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Very expensive for a single, but once again it's the only offer on the market
Equipment 3 out of 5
The "Track Pack" which is only software is an additional 300€ which I think is uncool given the price point of this bike. For the rest, the TFT screen is really nice.
Buying experience: Bought it used but very recent. Good service at the local dealer though
5 out of 5 Big fan of this bike!
15 May 2019 by Mark BCN
Version: Standard Duke 690 (with track pack)
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £100
Super light (2kg lighter than the 390!) and super fun. After test riding every bike in this class, the Duke felt tall, agile, quality, with loads of character and punch from that single. It's so nimble! Front wheel often wants to come up and play. I use it as daily commuter. It excels in traffic due to low weight and that narrow single. No issues with fueling at slow speeds. Get it into the twisties and you, will, fall, in love!
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Apart from the seat (powerparts seat makes a big difference, buy it) I love the ride quality. The WPs aren't adjustable but perform real well. Single disk Brembos are very good, not amazing but very good. Plus there's not much mass to stop.
Engine 5 out of 5
Big thumping single! Agricultural (in a good way) with bags of character and poke. Pops and crackles on overrun. Keep it above 3.5k and you're all good. I've got a twin and an inline four in the garage, but this has most character and my daily go-to ride for short blasts.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Zero problems so far.
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
Glad I bought the Track Pack which was €250 (I'm in Barcelona). The extra rider modes, ABS modes aren't essential but fun to have. TFT is slick, although in bright direct sun can be difficult to see details. Mirrors are properly ugly and no LED indicators are my only complaints about this bike.
Buying experience: Real good. Dealing with KTM dealers here in Barcelona has been smooth.
3 out of 5 Buy 790 instead i did
13 June 2018 by anotheronetoday
Year: 2017
Interesting bike but bad value, i always wanted to try a large single so just had to buy. The fun stopped quickly on this bike for me and i was very happy to sell it for a 790
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
One up and standard suspension was ok, 2 up hopeless reasonable comfort but this is not a long distance bike so for the 1 hour type ride comfort is good enough. Handling one up is ok
Engine 3 out of 5
Horrible in town, fine on good A and B roads. Gearbox is the worst of the modern road KTM's
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Only had the bike for 8 months as i did not like it Nothing went wrong during my ownership
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
due to my short ownership nothing to add
Equipment 3 out of 5
Poor equipment for price point
Buying experience: great experience from main dealer
4 out of 5 Great Fun And Easy to Ride
21 November 2017 by Nik Spring
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £100
Only let down by the uncomfortable seat. But, still good for 2 hour stints before 'numb bum' takes over. This is NOT a bike for long straight(ish) roads or long motorway stints. It's for windy roads and city/town riding. That's where it excels.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
This is not a touring bike! (Yes, I've been on reasonably long 600km rides but, wouldn't you rather have a tourer?) For the Alpine roads where I live, it's light and flickable characteristics work just fine round the curves of the mountain roads. It's great in the city as well, as it gets through ridiculously narrow spaces due to it's thin profile. Two hours see's me wanting to get out of the hard seat (KTM Power Parts saddle). In all fairness, after that time the tank may need topping up anyway. The front brakes to me feel somewhat spongy and ineffectual compared to other bikes I've ridden. Unless you are riding slowly, having a presence on the rear brake, for me, is essential for a controlled slowing down or stop.
Engine 5 out of 5
Gorgeous agricultural sound from the Akropovic exhaust. Brings a smile to my face every ride. Plenty of torque for B roads and mountain curves. The left foot's always busy selecting the correct gear but that's half the fun. This is not a characterless bike!
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
It's early days as it's only been on the road for 6 months. However, with less than 5,000km on the clock, so far everything has performed very well.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
The first oil change after 1200km allowed me to start working through the gears and even though limited to a 14L tank, it's not a big drinker even when opening up the throttle or working the gears thoroughly.
Equipment 4 out of 5
Don't bother with the Power Parts seat as I'm not convinced it's any better than the standard fayre. I elected not to buy the optional TC and variable driving modes in the track pack as I wanted to improve my riding skills first. After 6 months with just ABS I may add it next season. Fascia is ultra clear but needed a shade in the sun. (DigiCharge 6" visor DAL002 works very well). I'd love heated grips which, apparently, are not available.
Buying experience: Bought new from a KTM dealer in France where I live. Great service.
5 out of 5
21 March 2017 by Steve
Year: 2016
Annual servicing cost: £120
Great punchy motor, light weight, good suspension and breaks and engine breaking make this a B road (or Alps if you're lucky) weekend warrior. It's the most fun I've had on ANY bike I've ever owned when doing under 60mph. It's very economical.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
You need to be able to keep the revs above 3,500 - 4,000. Below that you will be feathering the clutch somewhat, which is not a big problem in itself but if you do a lot of town riding (which I don't) it could become a little tiresome.
Engine 5 out of 5
Extremely strong for a mid range single cylinder.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
No issues as yet.
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
Engine is excellent, ABS brakes as standard are very welcome, suspension very good as standard and the tyres are very good. The colour display is awesome. The stock exhaust looks and sounds good.
Buying experience: Bought from Jim Aim in Essex. Not the first time I've bought from them - excellent service and knowledge.
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Source: https://www.motorcyclenews.com/bike-reviews/ktm/690-duke/2016/
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