KTM scratched away the idea of boundaries and limits with the KTM 690 ENDURO R. A machine with superlative offroad pedigree to blast the toughest and longest trails was given the advanced tech and engineering to make it a viable option for any terrain or any trip. The last incarnation of the bike two years ago hit new peaks of ergonomics, electronics (with adjustable ABS options) and handling to become a reference in the Travel segment. The 2021 KTM 690 ENDURO R is a deception: a bike that seems powerful and daunting for offroad is actually a slim and maneuverable machine. The cornering ABS (which means it is lean angle sensitive), offroad ABS, motorcycle traction control and sensitive motor slip regulation ensures a customizable setting for any condition or landscape. WP XPLOR Suspension (adapted from the Enduro range especially for the KTM 690 ENDURO R) dispenses grip, supplies confidence and expertly channels the motor’s output to the surface. The 74hp and 73.5Nm of torque and output means it is appropriate for long treks on smooth tarmac.
For 2021 KTM have retained many of the refined strengths of the motorcycle but have applied key updates that make the KTM 690 ENDURO R even more of an essential choice for riders that crave impressive versatility. Towards this aim of enhanced practicality KTM have added improved ride mode functionality through the handlebar switch: STREET mode enables two channels of ABS both on the front and rear of the bike. The OFFROAD setting disengages rear wheel ABS for that important rear braking feel for low-traction terrain. The ABS itself benefits from a new modulator unit to better regulate the force and application of the braking power required, which also means it can be activated ‘on the fly’ and there is no longer a need for a ‘dongle’.
The new dashboard has an ABS ‘button’ to provide a rapid way to switch off the rider aid for the full flow offroad setting. The same display now shows indicators for RPM and gear selection. When it comes to the aesthetic of the motorcycle then a fetching 2021 graphics and color revision is an eye-catching addition.
The KTM 690 SMC R MY 2021 takes the torque and pace of the LC4 into a pulse quickening supermoto form. Riders that seek the buzz of swooping along twisty roads, beating traffic or breaking loose with rear end traction around a track will find all the technical resources they need both to generate speed and scrub it away.
The bike is very single-minded and has always been a wholesome expression of KTM motorcycling: sporty, aggressive, extreme but eminently usable. This has been cultured through the years thanks to evolution of the top-quality chrome-molybdenum steel tubing chassis, WP APEX suspension, purposeful supermoto ergonomics, and wide-ranging electronic ABS modes such as Cornering and Supermoto mode (rear wheel deactivation of lean angle input).
The 2021 KTM 690 SMC R has the same new ABS modulator as the KTM 690 ENDURO R, permitting adjustment ‘on the go’ as well as the handy new dash.
The KTM 690 SMC R boasts large and high quality Brembo brakes and for the 2021 model the braking system has been augmented. A latest generation Brembo M 4.32 monoblock caliper lifts the grade of stopping performance even further on the 320mm front disc (240mm rear) thanks to optimized stiffness. The result gives even more control and feel at the rider’s fingertips.
As with its LC4 cousin, the KTM 690 SMC R gets a cosmetic makeover that lift its styling and appeal to further heights. The bike has a sharp and modern look to fulfill its status as KTM’s latest symbol of supermoto excellence for the road as well as any circuit setting.
Additionally, a new specification of the catalytic converter has been fitted to the muffler, which sees Euro5 status of emissions for both LC4-equipped machines.
Joachim Sauer, KTM Product Manager: “The LC4 has been a powerful component of the KTM 690 ENDURO R and KTM 690 SMC R but we’ve still been able to harness that asset and continue to develop both motorcycles to be a special part of our KTM portfolio. We’ve found ways to give riders a more exciting and upgraded package for 2021 that keep the bikes as references in their segment. They are unique in their own special ways and we want to keep making them as essential as they are exhilarating.”
The KTM 690 ENDURO R and the KTM 690 SMC R MY 2021 will be available at authorised KTM dealers in Australia and New Zealand from March 2021 onwards. For more info visit www.ktm.com.
