Chronicling Adventures On Two Stroke

Ktm 790 Duke Vs 690 Smc R

Main points

  • The 790 Duke has a more modern and aggressive look, while the 690 SMC R has a more retro and utilitarian look.
  • The 790 Duke is a more powerful and comfortable bike that is better suited for street riding, while the 690 SMC R is a more agile and responsive bike that is better suited for off-road riding.
  • The KTM 790 Duke is a more powerful and comfortable bike that is better suited for street riding, while the 690 SMC R is a more agile and responsive bike that is better suited for off-road riding.

The KTM 790 Duke and 690 SMC R are two of the most popular motorcycles in their respective classes. Both bikes are known for their performance, agility, and aggressive styling. But which one is right for you? In this blog post, we’ll compare the KTM 790 Duke vs. 690 SMC R and help you decide which bike is the best fit for your needs.

Engine and Performance

The KTM 790 Duke is powered by a 799cc parallel-twin engine that produces 105 horsepower and 63 lb-ft of torque. The 690 SMC R is powered by a 693cc single-cylinder engine that produces 74 horsepower and 53 lb-ft of torque.

On paper, the 790 Duke has a clear advantage in terms of power and torque. However, the 690 SMC R’s single-cylinder engine is lighter and more compact, which gives it a better power-to-weight ratio. This makes the 690 SMC R more agile and responsive, especially in low-speed situations.

Handling and Suspension

The KTM 790 Duke and 690 SMC R both have excellent handling and suspension. The 790 Duke has a more traditional street bike chassis with a 43mm WP upside-down fork and a WP monoshock. The 690 SMC R has a more dirt-oriented chassis with a 48mm WP upside-down fork and a WP PDS monoshock.

The 790 Duke’s suspension is more plush and comfortable, while the 690 SMC R’s suspension is stiffer and more suited for off-road riding. Both bikes have adjustable suspension settings, so you can tailor the ride to your own preferences.

Brakes and Safety Features

The KTM 790 Duke and 690 SMC R both have excellent brakes. The 790 Duke has 320mm Brembo discs with four-piston calipers up front and a 240mm Brembo disc with a two-piston caliper in the rear. The 690 SMC R has 320mm Brembo discs with four-piston calipers up front and a 220mm Brembo disc with a single-piston caliper in the rear.

Both bikes also come with ABS as standard equipment. The 790 Duke has a more advanced ABS system that includes cornering ABS, which helps to prevent the bike from skidding when braking in a corner.

Styling and Ergonomics

The KTM 790 Duke and 690 SMC R have very different styling. The 790 Duke has a more modern and aggressive look, while the 690 SMC R has a more retro and utilitarian look.

The 790 Duke has a more upright riding position, while the 690 SMC R has a more aggressive riding position. The 790 Duke is also more comfortable for long rides, while the 690 SMC R is more suited for short rides.

Price and Availability

The KTM 790 Duke has a starting price of $8,999, while the 690 SMC R has a starting price of $9,999. Both bikes are available at KTM dealerships across the country.

Which Bike is Right for You?

The KTM 790 Duke and 690 SMC R are both excellent motorcycles. The 790 Duke is a more powerful and comfortable bike that is better suited for street riding. The 690 SMC R is a more agile and responsive bike that is better suited for off-road riding.

Ultimately, the best bike for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a powerful and comfortable street bike, the 790 Duke is a great choice. If you’re looking for an agile and responsive off-road bike, the 690 SMC R is a great choice.

The Verdict: KTM 790 Duke vs. 690 SMC R

The KTM 790 Duke and 690 SMC R are both excellent motorcycles that offer different advantages and disadvantages. The 790 Duke is a more powerful and comfortable bike that is better suited for street riding, while the 690 SMC R is a more agile and responsive bike that is better suited for off-road riding. Ultimately, the best bike for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between the KTM 790 Duke and the 690 SMC R?

The KTM 790 Duke is a more powerful and comfortable bike that is better suited for street riding, while the 690 SMC R is a more agile and responsive bike that is better suited for off-road riding.

2. Which bike is faster, the KTM 790 Duke or the 690 SMC R?

The KTM 790 Duke is faster than the 690 SMC R. The 790 Duke has a 799cc parallel-twin engine that produces 105 horsepower and 63 lb-ft of torque, while the 690 SMC R has a 693cc single-cylinder engine that produces 74 horsepower and 53 lb-ft of torque.

3. Which bike is more fuel-efficient, the KTM 790 Duke or the 690 SMC R?

The KTM 790 Duke is more fuel-efficient than the 690 SMC R. The 790 Duke has a fuel economy of 50 mpg, while the 690 SMC R has a fuel economy of 45 mpg.

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About the Author
Matthew is an avid motorbike enthusiast from South London. He started riding bikes as a teenager and has owned over 10 bikes throughout his life. Matthew loves exploring the picturesque British countryside on two wheels and uses his matthewbikelog to document his riding adventures. When he's not out on his...