Revised KTM 690 SMC R and Enduro R become most powerful singles in the US Market

KTM have revealed the full details on their revised 690 SMC R and Enduro R families, with both flavours now powered by a 692.7cc Euro5+ LC4 motor that is said to be the most powerful single cylinder engine fitted to a mass-production, road legal motorcycle.

Both models share the same altered motor, which now produces a claimed 77.9bhp and punchy 53.9lb.ft of torque. The Ducati, which previously held the singles power crown, pushes out a claimed 76.4bhp at 9750rpm.

Changes to this engine include a revised crankcase, clutch, and stator cover, plus a redesigned oil system – said to boost reliability and performance alike. As before, it’s held in a tubular steel chassis, which is partially visible through the minimalist plastics.

This bodywork – although claimed to be ergonomically tweaked – is incredibly similar to the outgoing models – retaining the trademark motocross-on-steroids side profile while decorated in some fresh colour options.

What’s more noticeable are the improvements to the onboard technology. The outgoing duo’s LCD display made a Casio wrist watch look advanced, but this has been replaced with a 4.2in colour TFT display alongside new switchgear, and a USB-C charging port on the Enduro.

On top of this, both models are treated to cornering ABS and traction control, plus riding modes. The Enduro takes things further with a new Dynamic Slip Adjust, which comes as part of the optional Rally riding mode and is said to apply real-time, terrain-adaptive traction control to keep things driving forwards on the trails.