KTM Duke 690 Highly Recommendable Motorcycle

by Oliver · May 25, 2014

Duke In the History Eye

The KTM Duke 690 is the latest generation in KTM’s line of midrange single-cylinder engine super Moto or naked motorcycles that began in 1994 with the 609 cc (37.2 cu in) displacement, Duke 620 or Duke 1st, in 1998 followed the 625 cc (38.1 cu in) Duke 640 or Duke II, followed by the 654 cc (39.9 cu in) Duke III, and finally the 690 cc (42 cu in) Duke IV made since 2012. Both the Duke III and Duke IV are known as the Duke 690.

So KTM revived the pure, unadulterated single-cylinder motorcycle in the form of the “original” Duke. Judging by the latest 690 Duke that stands before us today, much has been gained: smoothness, room for a pillion passenger, long-distance ability. But what it has never lost is its intensive and elemental ride dynamics. The most cutting-edge series production single-cylinder of our times and a precision chassis with a wealth of outstanding components turn every trip on the 690 Duke into an incomparable and unforgettable riding experience.

KTM Duke 690 increased riding pleasure when accelerating, when riding demanding trails or due to the much more significant safety factor when braking, in general vehicle control or when evading sudden hazards. Duke 690 models are has not only A2-compliant, but also highly recommendable for novice riders, since they guarantee greater riding pleasure yet even more safety.

Highlighted Features and Specifications

Engine Type	Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, spark-ignition engine, liquid-cooled	Starting Choice	Electric starter, automatic decompressor
Displacement	690 cm³	Bore	102 mm
Transmission	6-speed, claw shifted	Stroke	84.5 mm
Engine lubrication	Semi-dry-sump lubrication with 2 rotor pumps50	Cooling system	Liquid cooling system, continuous circulation of cooling liquid with water pump
Clutch	APTC™ Anti-hopping‑clutch / hydraulically operated	Ignition system	Contactless, controlled, fully electronic ignition system with digital ignition timing adjustment
Performance	kW (67 hp)	Secondary gear ratio	16:40
Primary gear ratio	36:79	Chain	5/8 x 1/4” X‑Ring
Frame	Tubular space frame made from chrome molybdenum steel, powder-coated	Fork	WP Suspension Up Side Down
Shock absorber	WP Suspension with Pro‑Lever linkage	Suspension travel rear	135 mm
Suspension travel front	135 mm	Brake system front	Disc brake with radially mounted four-piston brake caliper
Brake system rear	Disc brake with single-piston brake caliper, floating	Brake discs – diameter rear	240 mm
Brake discs – diameter front	320 mm	Ground clearance (unloaded)	192 mm
Wheel base	1,466±15 mm	Seat height	835 mm
Steering head angle	63.5°	Fuel tank capacity	14 L approx.