Alright, let’s dive into my experience with the 690 SMCR. Man, this bike is a beast!
So, it all started when I decided I needed something more… engaging. My old ride was fine, reliable even, but it was missing that raw, visceral feel. I started doing some research, watched a ton of videos, and kept coming back to the 690 SMCR. It just looked like pure hooligan fun.
First thing I did was hit up the local KTM dealer. I’d already checked out a few online, but nothing beats seeing a bike in person. The dealer had one on the floor, bright orange, just screaming to be ridden. I sat on it, felt the riding position, and knew right then and there I had to have it. I haggled a bit (didn’t get much off, those things are popular!), and signed the papers. Took delivery the following week.
Right away, I could tell this wasn’t your average motorcycle. The riding position is upright and aggressive, giving you tons of control. The engine is a single-cylinder monster, packing a serious punch. The first few rides were all about getting used to the power delivery. It’s not like an inline-four, it’s more immediate, more… in your face.
The initial setup wasn’t perfect for me. The stock suspension was a little stiff, and the throttle response was a bit jerky at low speeds. I started tweaking things. I adjusted the suspension damping to soften things up a bit, making the ride more compliant on rough roads. That made a noticeable difference. Then, I installed a throttle tamer, which smoothed out the low-end throttle response and made it much easier to ride smoothly in traffic. That thing was a lifesaver!
After that, I went for some proper rides. Twisty backroads are where this thing shines. The lightweight chassis and responsive engine make it incredibly flickable and fun to ride. You can really attack corners and the bike just begs for more. I was grinning ear-to-ear after every ride. Seriously, this thing turns every ride into an adventure.
Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The single-cylinder engine vibrates quite a bit, especially at higher speeds. Long highway rides can get tiring. And the seat… well, let’s just say it’s not designed for comfort. It’s definitely a supermoto seat. Form over function, all the way. I’m considering getting a softer aftermarket seat at some point.
Maintenance is also something to keep in mind. Single-cylinder engines tend to require more frequent maintenance than multi-cylinder engines. Oil changes, valve adjustments, etc., are all part of the deal. I bought a service manual and started doing most of the maintenance myself. It’s not that difficult, and it saves a ton of money. Plus, it’s a good way to get to know your bike.
Over the last few months, I’ve done a few more mods. I added some handguards to protect my hands and the levers in case of a fall (I’ve had a few close calls, haha). I also installed a tail tidy to clean up the rear end. It looks much cleaner now. And I put on some stickier tires. That improved the handling even more.
Overall, I’m absolutely loving the 690 SMCR. It’s not the most practical motorcycle, but it’s definitely the most fun I’ve ever had on two wheels. It’s a true hooligan bike, and it always puts a smile on my face. If you’re looking for something that’s exciting, engaging, and just plain fun to ride, I highly recommend checking one out.
- Adjusted suspension for comfort.
- Installed throttle tamer for smooth riding.
- Added handguards for protection.
- Installed tail tidy for a cleaner look.
- Upgraded tires for better handling.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go for a ride!
