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Zach Poole·
2023 Motorcycle Models
··6 min read

2023 KTM 690 SMC R [Specs, Features, Photos]

2023 KTM 690 SMC R

The 2023 KTM 690 SMC R Is A Crazy Supermoto

Contents

KTM has racing in its blood, whether it’s Motocross, Enduro, MotoGP, or Supermoto, the Austria-based manufacturer seems extremely adept at building race-ready motorcycles for its 2023 production lineup. The 690 SMC R supermoto is no exception, featuring state-of-the-art engineering and technology mixed with blistering performance and great looks to top it off.

The 690 SMC R comes equipped with a 693cc single-cylinder engine, producing 74 hp and about 54 lb-ft of torque at peak. Surely it doesn’t need to be said that for a bike weighing in at a whopping 324 lbs (Wet), those power numbers are more than enough to have some fun.

The SMC’s light weight comes courtesy of a chrome-molybdenum steel trellis frame, among other weight-saving measures throughout the entire package. Keeping this European motorcycle steady is a state-of-the-art, fully adjustable 48mm upside-down fork setup designed in conjunction by WP and KTM. In the rear is a WP APEX fully adjustable shock.

Lightweight 17-inch wire-spoked wheels come wrapped in a set of Bridgestone S21 Tires (although we think a set of racing slicks would suit this bike pretty nicely). Stoppage is provided by a full set of Brembo brakes, with a 320mm disc in the front and a 240mm in the back. ABS is standard.

Rounding out the package is a suite of electronic features, including two unique rider modes – Street and Supermoto, each of which changes the characteristics of the bike to match its namesake’s riding style. Street is said to be more on the tame and reserved side, while Supermoto goes full hooligan, allowing for some wheel slipping and wheelieing completely unimpeded by the bike. Additionally, the SMC R comes with a dual-direction quick shifter, cornering ABS, a lean angle sensor, and a Power-assisted Clutch (PASC) setup.

Interestingly, despite being a full-on Supermoto bike, KTM says that their “Supermoto ABS” system, a feature which disables ABS on the rear wheel to allow for sliding while maintaining safe braking on the front, is an optional upgrade on the SMC, whereas it appears to come standard on cheaper bikes such as the RC 390.

The 2023 KTM 690 SMC R starts at $12,999 USD / $13,999 CAD.

On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc., so you can read up on the new 2023 KTM 690 SMC R in one place.

2023 KTM 690 SMC R

Model Overview

General Info

  • Price: $12,999 USD / $13,999 CAD
  • Key Features:
    • Standard ABS
    • Optional Supermoto Mode
    • Brembo Brakes
    • Quickshifter+ system

Main Specs

  • Engine: 693 cc Single cylinder
  • Power: 74 hp
  • Torque: 54 lb-ft
  • Weight (Wet): 324 lbs (126 kg)
  • Seat Height: 33.4 inches (892 mm)

Competitors

2023 KTM 690 SMC R

2023 KTM 690 SMC R Specifications

From KTM

ENGINE
Engine 690cc, 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine
Power 74 Hp
Bore x Stroke 80 mm X 105 mm
EMS Keihin EMS with RBW, twin ignition
Power in KW 55 kW
Starter Electric starter
Lubrication Forced oil lubrication with 2 oil pumps

DRIVETRAIN
Clutch APTC(TM) slipper clutch, hydraulically actuated
Transmission 6-speed
Chain 520 X-Ring

CHASSIS
Suspension Front WP APEX 48
Suspension Rear WP APEX with Pro-Lever linkage
Brakes Front 300 mm
Brakes Rear 240 mm
Suspension travel (front)
Suspension travel (rear)
ABS Bosch 9.1 MP (incl. Cornering-ABS and super moto mode)
Color Orange

ELECTRICAL
Ignition
Spark Plugs
Headlight LED
Tail Light LED

WARRANTY
Warranty
Extension

2023 KTM 690 SMC R

2023 KTM 690 SMC R Features

Engine

The LC4 690 cc single-cylinder engine combines powerful acceleration from the very lowest revs with an outstanding free-revving nature and refined engine running. Another big plus is besides the engine being extremely economical with fuel it also has long service intervals of 10,000 km, keeping running costs low.

Frame

The trellis frame is manufactured from lightweight sections of top-quality chrome-molybdenum steel tubing of varying thicknesses. This type of balanced frame design provides high torsional rigidity for best handling and rideability, while a more specifically-tuned longitudinal flexibility can absorb the wheel impact energy, supporting the suspension for reduced rider fatigue.

Cylinder Head

A lightweight, compact cylinder head contains four valves and a single camshaft placed over the intake valves, and a secondary balancer shaft driven by the timing chain. The intake valves are actuated by finger followers and the exhaust valves by a rocker arm.

Frame

The trellis frame is manufactured from lightweight sections of top-quality chrome-molybdenum steel tubing of varying thicknesses. This type of balanced frame design provides high torsional rigidity for best handling and rideability, while a more specifically-tuned longitudinal flexibility can absorb the wheel impact energy, supporting the suspension for reduced rider fatigue.

Swingarm

This swingarm design allows for an optimal mounting position of the rear shock ensuring a high progression rate. The single-component casting process eliminates any inconsistencies and weak points that would be inherent in a welded swingarm.

Triple clamp

Highly rigid forged triple clamps with an offset of 24 mm (adjustable to 22 mm), provide a solid grip on the forks for precise handling. They allow forwards and backwards adjustment of the handlebars in four different positions for optimum rider ergonomics.

Rider aids

Electronic fuel injection, ride-by-wire and the engine management system (EMS) make it possible to offer innovative yet easy-to-use electronic rider aids. These features can be selected, deselected and utilized to put the potent new-generation LC4 motor to effective use across a much wider range of streets, surfaces and conditions.

Ride modes

Two ride modes (1) Street mode (2) Supermoto mode: “Street mode” for sporty throttle response where wheel slip and wheelies are kept to a minimum for optimal street performance. “Supermoto mode”, by contrast, produces smooth throttle response with Supermoto Traction Control, which allows wheel slip and front wheel lifting without hindering performance. The modes are easily switched over from the handlebar, making adjustment to the character of the engine possible on the fly. Traction control can be disabled if needed.

Handlebar

The lightweight tapered 808 mm wide handlebars are rubber mounted to reduce vibrations. Their width and shape are aimed at providing optimum control in all situations.

2023 KTM 690 SMC R Photos

2023 KTM 690 SMC R Videos

S IT WORTH IT AFTER 1 YEAR? | KTM 690 SMC R by Life Well Ridden:

WHY you SHOULD get the KTM 690 SMC R | Top 5 reasons explained. By BKLF:

KTM Websites

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