2012 KTM Duke 690

craigs23 · Mr Muscle Joined: 08 Jun 2005 Karma :

I took one for a test ride, umming and arring about whether to upgrade my DRZ, but was left a little disappointed.

I didn't like the unadjustable suspension especially and was a little disappointed with the engine - gearing around town especially seemed a constant battle to find a 'sweet spot' between second and third. The engine didn't feel as torquey as I'd have thought low down and only got into its stride with 2/3rds of more throttle. Brakes were 'meh (I thought they'd feel as nice as those on my CBR6RR8, what with the bike being nice and light), and felt the bike was pretty cheaply put together.

Are the earlier models better? I was expecting a riot on two wheels, but felt that my DRZ, despite its massive power deficit offered more kicks.

It's the first KTM I've properly tried and left me a little reluctant to try another.

P. · Red Rocket Joined: 14 Feb 2008 Karma :

990 Superduke.

You will not be disappointed.

drzsta · World Chat Champion Joined: 20 Apr 2009 Karma :

Why the duke and not the SMC?!!! Shocked

But in my experience of KTM they're build quality now is excellent ( atleast in their off road range) reliability used to be sketchy going back 10years or more - but now It's all ironed out.

No enduro bike is built better than a KTM, and trust me I am an avid YAM man Laughing

Have no experience of the road range but if it's anything as capable as the off-road then it should be a stormer.
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Current Bikes - BMW S1000RR ‘17 & KTM 690 SMC-R ‘12