Motorcycle specifications KTM690 SMC R 2026 The upside down

Can you hear that crriiiiiiiiiiii right behind? That's the gumshoe groaning on the tarmac and begging for more. Even if it takes a bit of skill to get the comma screaming on the tarmac, the 690 SMC-R can already provide a wealth of sensations for both the amateur and the more experienced rider. As if that weren't enough, it's now even sharper for 2026.

The supermotard is the near-ideal machine for having fun at the 10-metre mark, trying all kinds of tricks and flirting with mischief all the time. Or you can become formidably efficient in tight ambushes. As soon as the going gets tough, or on a mountain pass, the machine is impregnable. KTM knows its stuff, to the point of maintaining such a toy in its range. A toy, yes; because versatility is limited.

An insanely efficient single-cylinder

The single had teeth full of gniak; here are a few more to scratch the roads. With no change in displacement, the engine can pass Euro5+ standards while gaining in power. And not a bit of horsepower, just to make it look good. No, it's 5 horsepower in one go. It's impressive to see an engine of this architecture put out 79 horsepower - almost a competition engine, which is sure to wring bits of pleasure out of you with every rush.

Katoche also modernized the engine, upgrading the crankcases, the oil supply and a large number of parts (half of the block's components are said to have been overhauled) to boost performance. Even more surprisingly, maintenance is more frequent, with an oil change every 15,000 km and valve lash adjustment after 30,000 km.

Around it, the tubular steel trellis frame looks identical, but gains in rigidity to give a better feel for its behavior. The suspensions, as always easily adjustable, are technically unchanged but recalibrated for greater comfort and performance. Brake status quo too, with a Brembo 4-piston M4.32 caliper on a 320 mm disc to stop this machine weighing just 153.5 kg dry. That's 4 more than the front model, but the Italian pliers will make short work of it. The 240 mm rear disc coexists with the throttle to take part in cross-country slides and piggybacks.

More control, but not just yet

The 690 SMC-R already boasted two riding modes, Street and Sport, angle-sensitive ABS that can be deactivated at the rear, a shifter and traction control. On the new version, the shifter is no longer standard. Katoche is being petty, but tries to make up for it by allowing the rider to take more control... as an option. This is where the Track extra mode comes in, offering Launch Control, engine slip control and 5-stage anti-wheeling. Sport ABS is also available as an option, for reduced rear-end intervention.

An all-new instrument panel is standard. Mattighofen has installed a small, 4.2-inch color TFT display, with a long, slim line. It gives pride of place to speed and gear, but hides its game. Go just a little bit further and you'll be able to enjoy call and music management, as well as turn-by-turn navigation. The SMC-R also gains LED lighting and a USB port.

Will it still be as high to climb onto the saddle?! No, just a little higher. Its height now peaks at 899 mm. That's right, the 48 mm WP Apex fork has gained almost a cm of travel. A supermoto is as high as an enduro, and it needs ground clearance.

It senses the threat

The 690 SMC-R didn't fear many in its field. What could have prompted it to react and gain some grumbling?
A certain Ducati 698 Hypermotard arrived in 2024, with a hell of an engine, formidable efficiency, more advanced electronics and a price tag on a par with its rivals. The Austrian has just reacted, so it's going to be a blast to ride.

M.B. - Manufacturer's photos