From [ Ссылка ] See the pinned first comment for a 2019+ model update on this 2017 video. First a correction! The 690 doesn't make 70HP at the rear wheel, it's more around 63HP with derestriction and some mods - my bad. Many have asked what I think about the KTM 690R and its brother the Husqvarna 701. The KTM 690 definitely has its fans and I can see why - over 70 horsepower at the rear wheel is very addictive for the speed jockeys. However I wasn't so impressed with mine. In fact I sold it two months after buying it. Personally I think there are design issues with both the KTM 690R and the Husqvarna 701 and also something of an identity crisis. I know many will disagree, yes this is just a personal opinion, so read a pile of other reviews too for a well rounded perspective.
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KTM 690R and the Husqvarna 701 Close ratio gearbox and false neutrals
If found the 690 had a close ratio gearbox compared to similar bike in its class. First gear feels too high for dirt work, while it seems to be revving higher than needed on the highway. I found persistent false neutrals between fourth, fifth and six gears. It's a commonly reported issue that some guys say disappears after a good run in... not so with my bike.
Husqvarna 701 Twitchy engine at low revs
In stock trim, my KTM 690 was unbearably twitchy and jerky at low revs, and very prone to stalling. There are probably more up to date fixes now, but the solution back then was a remap and aftermarket exhaust. Most KTM models run fine in standard trim and with its price tag I think it's a shame the 690 doesn't at least run properly until modified... at least those of us who like to use the low revs. Apparently the Husqvarna 701 has a completely new engine for 2017, let's hope it runs better and is more reliable.
KTM 690R exhaust
Speaking of exhausts, I've always liked KTM exhausts as they aren't too restrictive, are quite light and keep the bikes reasonably quiet. But the KTM 690R pipe is a shocker; it weighs a ton and the catalytic converter means it runs so hot it melts the plastic sidecover - a terrible design that is only good for frying eggs. Apparently the Husqvarna 701 has a different exhaust, hopefully it's a better design.
KTM 690R Seating position and ergonomics
For taller riders the footpegs are too high and you may find yourself in a jockey-style position and some find the bars too low as well although that's an easy fix on both the KTM 690R and the Husqvarna 701. While the ergos suit shorter riders, the tall seat height works against them though. The seat is pure dirt bike and you'll want something more comfortable for dual sport and adventure riding.
Husqvarna 701 Suspension
The suspension on mine was brutally harsh. It seemed fine on the road but only started to work reasonably well with extremely aggressive riding. I'm not sure if this has been fixed on recent models, but a quick google around suggests this was still a common complaint up to the 2013 models at least.
KTM 690R Reliability
Plenty of 690 owners report trouble-free riding, but reliability is a well known problem for others. Google around for a list, but common problems are fuel pumps, rocker arm bearings, electrics, injectors and the wiring loom. This has deterred some from using the 690 as an adventure bike, while others say you just need to carry the relevant spare parts, know the problems and fixes, and do maintenance checks before adventure rides with both the KTM 690R and the Husqvarna 701.
Identity crisis
What is the KTM 690R meant to be? They call it an enduro model but it's far too heavy and lacks a good turning circle. It takes a lot of mods to turn it into an adventure bike but the reliability issues can be a problem. Is it just a wheel spinning kick arse dual sport bike? Many use it that way and love the bike. All I know is it's a bike that polarises riders... at a rough guess I'd say two out of three riders like the 690 and the rest don't - I'm one of the latter riders obviously. Usually KTM work hard to improve their bikes but the 690 appears to have been left in the too-hard basket. I'm keen to see the rebadged Husqvarna 701 version for 2017 can resolve the identity crisis and get the bike fully sorted.
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