KTM Gives Its 690 Series More Power, New Electronics

Big-bore single-cylinder motorcycles are not common anymore, but now that its Austrian production line is back in business after bankruptcy, restructuring, and finally new owners, KTM is reviving its 690 Enduro R and 690 SMC R models with updates for 2026.

So far, KTM hasn’t divulged many details on the updated engines, but we do know they get new crankcases and clutch and stator covers, as well as a new oil system that’s supposed to be more reliable and have better performance. We hear that it’s a new single-pump system, as opposed to the older two-pump system, but the tech details don’t confirm that.

While engine size doesn’t grow (the 690 is still at 692-cc capacity), power has supposedly risen by about 4 hp, to a maximum of 78 hp at 8,000 rpm. Max torque is 54 lb-ft at 6,750 rpm, the same as the previous version of the 690 engine, which was also used in the Husqvarna 701-series bikes and the GasGas ES700 models.

While we don’t know exactly what KTM changed internally, they also tell us the new engine can go 15,000 kilometres between oil changes and 30,000 kilometres between valve clearance inspections. Those are massive improvements over the rattly old air-cooled single-cylinder bikes that many motorcyclists grew up with on the dirt or street.

The shift to modernity on both the enduro and supermoto versions of the 690 continues with an all-new TFT dash. Previously, all 690-series KTMs (and 701-series Husqvarnas and 700-series GasGas models) had a basic LCD screen that belied their luxury bike pricing. Now, the new TFT isn’t just easy to read, but it will also make it easier to navigate the sub-menus for the electronic features. 

Leaning-sensitive antilock brakes and traction control return to the 690-series models; both ABS and traction control can be turned off if you want better control of the bike off-road. As well, there’s a new Dynamic Slip Adjust function, only available to riders who pay for Rally Mode. KTM says this system “automatically balances the allowed wheel slip to the traction in any given situation.” It sounds like it’s an automated version of the adjustable-on-the-fly traction control system that is available on larger adventure bikes.

As far as the suspension, KTM says it’s updated, but it’s still a WP XPLOR 48 fork and WP XPLOR shock, both fully adjustable. The brakes are KTM spec’d Brembo brake calipers with a 300-mm front disc and a 240-mm rear disc. The bodywork and seat are revised a bit on both the Enduro and SMC models as well. The Enduro continues with its 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch wheel in back, allowing a wide range of dual sport, ADV or off-road tires. The SMC, since it’s aimed at street and track riding, has 17-inch rims for your choice of sticky road tires.

KTM hasn’t announced Canadian prices yet, but the bikes will be here in September, so we will know very soon.