New for 2016 KTM Duke 690 more power, no vibes (NGC)

[jas67]

Light weight, more power, no vibes.     Last year, I got the Monster 796 instead of the Duke 690, due to the vibes.   It is possible that this new one would win me over if I was making that choice today.

I know there are some fans here of light sporty singles, so, here you go:

Power: 73 HP
Torque: 54.5 lb*ft
Dry Weight: "less than 330 lbs" -- add 22lbs for fuel fuel tank, and additional 6-8 lbs for coolant, and another 4-5 lbs for oil, that's still a read-to-ride weight around 370 lbs!
Fuel Capacity: 14L

KTM website: http://www.ktm.com/naked-bike/690-duke-2016/

Full motorcycle.com review:
http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/ktm/2016-ktm-690-duke-690-duke-r-first-ride-review.html

MCN:
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/news/first-rides-tests/2015/november/ktm-690-duke-r-2016-first-ride/
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/news/first-rides-tests/2015/november/ktm-690-duke-r-2016-test/
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/news/first-rides-tests/2015/august/2016-ktm-690-duke-prototype-ridden/

Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldB4MhMani0

The sad part, is that we won't get the trick Duke 690R here in the US.

[Red07]

KTM is really making some incredible bikes.  That new 690 Duke looks great!  And I absolutely love the 1290 Super Duke R!   Some day I'll own a KTM.  Thanks for sharing

Randy

[canuguzzi]

When I stood next to one it sort of reminded me of when I saw the Budweiser horses, tall things. For their top of the line bikes I think they make up for the seat height by lowering your bank account balance .

[jas67]

Why, I'll bet that they're fun bikes, I'd likely go for the Ducati Scrambler instead, as I like the way it (Duc) looks.   The KTM, not so much.    Still, I'll be it is fun.

[leafman60]

I have been impressed by the power obtained from the 690 engine. I have also looked more than once at KTM's dual-sport version. For me, it falls short of what I've wanted in that it is almost purely ma dirt bike with lights.

The seat is narrow and tall and it would be terrible on a long trip.

I still have my '09 BMW 650 XCountry (modified) that pushes all the right buttons and features a dry weight of 326 pounds. The little sumbich with over 50HP is a hoot to ride.

The Corbin seat and suspension make the bike a true dual-sport. I've done long-distance cross country treks, curvy road sport riding and needled through the scruffiest of dirt and brambles on dirt trails.

If KTM put their new improved 690 into a truly dual-sport platform, I'd probably have to buy it.

There's nothing like the sound and feel of a big single.

[bpreynolds]

Hey, maybe it's the dirt bike guy I was in my youth but I love KTM "dirt" street bikes like the supermotos and enduros; I'm less a fan of their flying machines like the Duke series and such.  The KTM 950 Supermoto is one of most absolute pure fun motorcycles I've ever ridden in my life - the 990 Duke I test drove, not so much.  I know this one would be a blast to ride but I just can't get over that Betty appearance that makes my former Street Triple appear almost attractively retro in comparison. 

[tool flinger]

Hey, maybe it's the dirt bike guy I was in my youth but I love KTM "dirt" street bikes like the supermotos and enduros; I'm less a fan of their flying machines like the Duke series and such.  The KTM 950 Supermoto is one of most absolute pure fun motorcycles I've ever ridden in my life - the 990 Duke I test drove, not so much.  I know this one would be a blast to ride but I just can't get over that Betty appearance that makes my former Street Triple appear almost attractively retro in comparison.

I was a dirt bike guy too and I'm not a fan of KTMs street bike styling at all.  Fortunately they own Husqvarna now so you can get the 690 dressed as the Husky 701.  Watch this and tell me you don't want one 

https://youtu.be/Fh88exSsQ-g

[leafman60]

Oh, I bet the KTM street moto would be very much fun on the street.

However, I have become more addicted to swiss-army knife bikes that allow me to do it all.

[leafman60]

https://youtu.be/Fh88exSsQ-g

Again, dirt bike with lights.

[Murray]

Will be interested when the 1290 GT is released although the R has had some very good reviews including this one

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp4aIPHiYmQ

[leafman60]

I've grown to appreciate the smaller-is-better mentality.  I do not need or want a high-powered superbike anymore. Lighter weight is becoming a premium for me.

A lighter bike with a smaller motor can still run like stink.  Power to weight ratio.

[PeteS]

A 690 with even more power would be really impressive. I have ridden a friends 2 year old dual sport and found it to be a real blast. Nearly as quick to 80 as my 800 Triumph Tiger and way more nimble. Now he takes on 2000K mile rides but being a 30 something I guess he can handle it though he does get sore after a days ride. Take care of the seat and it would be a real winner.

Pete