KTM 690 Duke R 2017 — Specifications

The KTM 690 Duke is not just a roadster. It's also the beast boasting the most powerful single-cylinder engine on the market. A figure that transcends the R version. Consider: 75 horsepower expelled by a single piston housed in 690 cm3. KTM expresses here the best of what can be drawn from this architecture. Its new fins, the installation of an additional balancing shaft, the technical improvements brought to this generation of Duke, the impressive engine speed it can reach (9000 rpm) and its character, both consistent and sporty, are enough to make mono enthusiasts fall in love. Also, with the Akrapovic exhaust system installed as standard, the sound and the breath go hand in hand with the engine's gnashing.

The 690 Duke owes its vitality in part to this powerful engine, and totally to its unique existence. The firm of Mattighofen has reserved the most complete expression of its potential for the R. 2 hp more powerful than the standard model, it also benefits from a chassis and electronics that are significantly improved. Regarding the suspension, it steps up a level. The inverted fork and WP shock absorber are of higher quality here, fully adjustable, with increased travel. Compared to the base Duke, this is 15 mm of travel on each side allowing the elements to slide on 150 mm. The seat is higher, but not by the same amount. The entire riding position is different on the R. KTM wanted Race onboard. A different handlebar, higher and more rearward footpegs, and a seat at 865 mm in height (30 mm more than the Duke) give a more pronounced attack tone.

You can let loose, the 690 Duke R will have difficulty being caught out. The chassis presents itself under the altar of efficiency, with particular mention of the braking. A radial master cylinder and a Brembo M50 caliper provide a real plus in terms of deceleration; especially for this 147.5 kg grasshopper (1 kg less than the standard model). The mono's temperament can here be bent to the pilot's wishes and three conjugations. If a single riding mode is available on the 690 Duke, there are three on the R. In Rain, Street or Sport, the electronics adjust the engine's fury as well as the traction control. But that's not all. You will enjoy an engine management spike acting as an anti-stall (the MSR) and an ABS Supermoto which fades for the rear wheel. Enough to cheerfully slam on the brakes while allowing slides of the rear. Finally, this ABS takes into account the angle taken by the motorcycle in order to modulate its action. Onboard, the TFT screen of this generation of Duke looks great, almost precious for a machine rather intended to set the tempo only with a tachometer and crazy corner entries.

Noticeably more expensive than the normal Duke, the 690 R is also much better equipped and of a largely superior level of efficiency. It becomes even more exclusive and yet even more striking. KTM perpetuates, values and maintains a philosophy for this roadster that is both powerful and offbeat, playful and unique, thrilling and sporty. The top of the mono for an engine that has never been like any other.

M.B - Photos constructeur