KTM 690 Duke 2012 vs. KTM 690 Duke R 2013

KTM 690 Duke 2012

KTM 690 Duke 2012

KTM 690 Duke R 2013

KTM 690 Duke R 2013

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Overview - KTM 690 Duke 2012 vs KTM 690 Duke R 2013

The KTM 690 Duke model year 2012 and the KTM 690 Duke R model year 2013 are both naked bikes with similar technical specifications. They both have a 1-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 690cc. The engine power and torque are also the same, at 70 HP and 70 Nm respectively. Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks from WP for the front suspension and WP for the rear suspension. The frames of both bikes are made of chromium-molybdenum and have a tubular design. The front brakes on both models have four pistons and use radial technology from Brembo. They also both have ride by wire advanced rider assistance systems.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have the same front and rear tire widths and diameters, as well as the same wheelbase and fuel tank capacity. However, there is a difference in seat height between the two models. The KTM 690 Duke 2012 has a seat height of 835mm, while the KTM 690 Duke R 2013 has a slightly higher seat height of 865mm.

KTM 690 Duke 2012

KTM 690 Duke 2012

The KTM 690 Duke 2012 is praised for its extremely fast yet smooth performance. It has a precise and manageable chassis, making it very agile on the road. However, some riders may find it takes some getting used to when driving bends in the road.

On the other hand, the KTM 690 Duke R 2013 has several additional strengths compared to the 2012 model. It features monobloc brakes, which provide improved braking performance. The bike also comes with an Akrapovic exhaust, which enhances the sound and performance of the engine. The suspension elements from WP are also upgraded, offering better handling and comfort. Additionally, the KTM 690 Duke R 2013 has a higher lean angle clearance, allowing riders to take corners at a steeper angle.

KTM 690 Duke R 2013

KTM 690 Duke R 2013

However, there are also some weaknesses associated with the KTM 690 Duke R 2013. Due to its sportier design, it may lack comfort compared to the 2012 model. Additionally, the naked bike design means there is no weather protection, leaving riders exposed to the elements.

In summary, both the KTM 690 Duke 2012 and the KTM 690 Duke R 2013 are powerful and agile naked bikes with similar technical specifications. The 2013 model offers some additional features and improvements, such as monobloc brakes, an Akrapovic exhaust, upgraded suspension elements, and a higher lean angle clearance. However, it may sacrifice some comfort and weather protection compared to the 2012 model.

Technical Specifications KTM 690 Duke 2012 compared to KTM 690 Duke R 2013

KTM 690 Duke 2012
KTM 690 Duke R 2013

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore102 mmBore102 mm
StrokeStroke84.5 mmStroke84.5 mm
Engine powerEngine power70 HPEngine power70 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power7,500 rpmRpm at Max. Power7,500 rpm
TorqueTorque70 NmTorque70 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque5,500 rpmRpm at Torque5,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.6 Compression Ratio12.6
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeAntihoppingClutch TypeAntihopping
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
CylindersCylinders1Cylinders1
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
ValvesValvesRocker arm, OHCValvesRocker arm, OHC
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement690 ccmDisplacement690 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork
BrandBrandWPBrandWP

Suspension Rear

BrandBrandWPBrandWP

Chassis

FrameFrameChromium-molybdenumFrameChromium-molybdenum
Frame typeFrame typeTubularFrame typeTubular

Brakes Front

PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
Shock mountShock mountFixed caliperShock mountFixed caliper
TechnologyTechnologyradialTechnologyradial
BrandBrandBremboBrandBrembo

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonSingle pistonPistonSingle piston
Shock mountShock mountFloating caliperShock mountFloating caliper
BrandBrandBremboBrandBrembo

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsRide by WireAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsRide by Wire

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width160 mmRear tyre width160 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height60 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,466 mmWheelbase1,466 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height835 mmSeat Height865 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity14 lFuel Tank Capacity14 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

KTM 690 Duke 2012

KTM 690 Duke 2012

More than a decade after its launch, the KTM 690 Duke remains a fascinating bike with its own character. The attempt to turn the rebellious Duke into a bike with more mass appeal has proven to be a successful strategy. The combination of an outstanding LC4 engine, direct handling and good value for money continues to make it an attractive option for riders looking for something special. Although newer twin-cylinder models are superior in terms of smooth running and comfort, the 690 Duke offers an immediacy and character that only a large single-cylinder can deliver. As a used motorbike, it has proven to be surprisingly stable in value and durable - provided you pay attention to regular maintenance.

Outstanding LC4 single-cylinder engine with a unique character

Outstanding power-to-weight ratio (2.29 kg/HP)

Direct, precise handling in all riding situations

Good value stability and surprising longevity

Disengageable ABS and effective anti-hopping clutch

Low fuel consumption (3.5-4 litres/100 km)

Suspension without adjustability with limited reserves

Mediocre shifting precision, especially at higher mileages

Alternator as a potential weak point at higher mileages

Clutch play needs to be adjusted more frequently

"Whipping" chain at very low speeds in the partial load range

Slight vibrations at higher speeds (especially before 2016)

Read the full article on 1000PS.com

KTM 690 Duke R 2013

KTM 690 Duke R 2013

That the KTM 690 Duke R is the better motorbike is clear just from looking at the two machines from the outside. The Akrapovic exhaust and the WP suspension elements simply work and sound better.

Monobloc brakes

Akrapovic exhaust

WP suspension elements

higher lean angle clearance.

Lack of comfort

no weather protection

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price KTM 690 Duke vs KTM 690 Duke R

There are a few key differences between a KTM 690 Duke 2012 and a KTM 690 Duke R 2013. There are the same number of bikes of both models available on the 1000PS.de marketplace, specifically 16. It takes less time to sell a KTM 690 Duke with 50 days compared to 65 days for a KTM 690 Duke R. Since model year 2008 1000PS.de editors have written 29 reviews for the KTM 690 Duke and 9 reviews for the KTM 690 Duke R since model year 2010. The first review for the KTM 690 Duke was published on 28/09/2007 and now has more than 14,800 views. This compares to more than 23,900 views for the first review on KTM 690 Duke R published on 02/12/2009.

Price KTM 690 Duke

Model year
Current average market prices

Price KTM 690 Duke R

Model year
Current average market prices

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