KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 vs. KTM 690 SMC R 2019

The KTM 1090 Adventure model year 2017 and the KTM 690 SMC R model year 2019 are both powerful motorcycles designed for different purposes.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 features a 2-cylinder engine with a bore of 103 mm and a stroke of 63 mm. It delivers an impressive engine power of 125 HP and a torque of 109 Nm. The bike is equipped with an electric starter and a chain transmission. On the other hand, the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 has a single-cylinder engine with a larger bore of 105 mm and stroke of 80 mm. It produces a slightly lower engine power of 75 HP and a torque of 73.5 Nm. Similar to the 1090 Adventure, it also has an electric starter and a chain transmission. The 690 SMC R has a displacement of 690 ccm, while the 1090 Adventure has a displacement of 1050 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 is equipped with WP suspension components, with a front fork diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 185 mm. The rear suspension has a travel of 190 mm. On the other hand, the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 also features WP suspension components, but with a larger front fork diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 215 mm. The rear suspension has a travel of 240 mm. These suspension setups provide a comfortable and controlled ride for both models.

KTM 1090 Adventure 2017

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. The KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 has a rake of 64 degrees and a trail of 120 mm, while the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 has a slightly smaller rake of 63.6 degrees and a trail of 107.7 mm. These chassis designs contribute to the agile and safe handling of both motorcycles.

When it comes to brakes, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 is equipped with double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 320 mm. The brakes use radial technology and are manufactured by Brembo. On the other hand, the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 has a single disk brake at the front with a diameter of 300 mm, also using radial technology and manufactured by Brembo. Both motorcycles have advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, and traction control, ensuring safe and controlled braking.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 has a front tire width of 110 mm and a diameter of 19 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 150 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1560 mm, and the seat height is 850 mm. The dry weight of the motorcycle, including ABS, is 205 kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. On the other hand, the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 has a slightly wider front tire width of 120 mm and the same diameter of 17 inches. The rear tire has a width of 160 mm and the same diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is shorter at 1470 mm, and the seat height is higher at 890 mm. The dry weight of the motorcycle, including ABS, is significantly lighter at 147 kg, and it has a smaller fuel tank capacity of 13.5 liters.

KTM 690 SMC R 2019

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 is known for its very powerful and cultivated engine with a wide rev range. It offers performance modes, the ability to switch off ABS, and adjustable traction control. The motorcycle also provides agile and safe handling, adjustable ergonomics, a height-adjustable windshield, low weight, and a comparatively low price. On the other hand, the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 is praised for its powerful single-cylinder engine with 74 HP, playful handling, and being a pure fun machine. It also features a high-quality electronics package, including a quickshifter as standard, and is considered a real statement at bikertreffen.

However, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 has some weaknesses, including its outdated optics compared to the newer 1290 Super Adventures and the lack of adjustable suspension fork. On the other hand, the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 is only conditionally suitable for long-distance travel and has a spartan speedometer unit.

In conclusion, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 and the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 are both impressive motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The 1090 Adventure excels in power, handling, and adjustability, while the 690 SMC R stands out for its playful nature, powerful single-cylinder engine, and high-quality electronics package.