KTM 790 Duke 2018 vs. KTM 690 SMC R 2019

The KTM 790 Duke 2018 and the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 are both powerful and high-performance motorcycles, but they have some key differences in terms of specifications and strengths.

Starting with the KTM 790 Duke 2018, it is equipped with a 105 HP engine, making it a lively and high-revving bike with powerful acceleration. The fuel system is injection-based, ensuring efficient fuel delivery. The bike has a liquid cooling system and a displacement of 799 ccm. The front suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork from WP with a travel of 140 mm, while the rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 150 mm. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular structure, providing stability and strength. The front brakes are double disk with a diameter of 300 mm and four pistons, utilizing radial technology. The bike also features advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, and traction control. It has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 180 mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1475 mm, and the seat height is 825 mm. The dry weight of the bike with ABS is 169 kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters.

KTM 790 Duke 2018

On the other hand, the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 is powered by a 75 HP single-cylinder engine with fuel injection. It also has a liquid cooling system and a displacement of 690 ccm. The front suspension is an upside-down telescopic fork from WP with a travel of 215 mm, while the rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 240 mm. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum with a tubular structure. The front brakes are a single disk with a diameter of 300 mm and four pistons, utilizing radial technology. Similar to the KTM 790 Duke, the KTM 690 SMC R also features advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, and ride by wire. The front tire width is 120 mm, and the rear tire width is 160 mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1470 mm, and the seat height is 890 mm. The dry weight of the bike with ABS is 147 kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 13.5 liters.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 offers a lively and high-revving engine with powerful acceleration. Its chassis is optimally tuned for sporty riding, and it provides a comfortable seating position. The bike also has many electronic gimmicks and functions, including an extremely precise quickshifter that makes fast riding even easier. Additionally, the KTM 790 Duke produces an awesome sound even with the series muffler.

On the other hand, the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 has a powerful single-cylinder engine with 74 HP, making it a pure fun machine. It offers playful handling and is considered a real statement at bikertreffen. The bike also comes with a high-quality electronics package, including a quickshifter as standard.

KTM 690 SMC R 2019

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The KTM 790 Duke 2018 can be rough to handle at low revs and can feel difficult in city traffic. Some riders also reported oil leaks at the engine block on many 790 Dukes. 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 790 Duke 2018 and the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 are both powerful and high-performance motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The KTM 790 Duke offers a lively engine and sporty chassis, while the KTM 690 SMC R provides a fun and playful riding experience.