2023 KTM 690 SMC R Supermoto Review Specs

The 2023 KTM 690 SMC R Supermoto can revolutionize Supermoto racing with its legendary 690 LC4 engine, ultralight chassis, and cutting-edge electronics package. Show off your asphalt sliding prowess on mountain roads or at your chosen track’s highest point.

Whatever the case, you can be sure that you will be racing into the future with nothing but joy and excitement coursing through you. With the latest fully adjustable WP APEX suspension, you can focus on the road ahead and press the throttle to the floor, thanks to improved handling.

2023 KTM 690 SMC R Supermoto – Features and Specs

Engine

Even at low speeds, the LC4 690 cc single-cylinder engine has rapid acceleration, smooth operation, and remarkable free-revving characteristics better than 2022 KTM 690 SMC R. Its prolonged service intervals of 10,000 km further reduce running expenditures, and the engine’s outstanding fuel efficiency is only one of its many great features.

Cylinder head

A small, lightweight cylinder head houses four valves, an upper-mounted camshaft, and a timing-chain-powered secondary balancer shaft. Finger followers control the intake valves, while a rocker arm operates the exhaust valves.

Also Read: 2023 KTM 450 SMR Supermoto Review

Resonator chamber

A resonator chamber dampens vibrations in the throttle response and dampens pulses in the intake tract.

Balancer shaft

Two balancer shafts reduce vibration and make the ride smoother. One is in the cylinder head, and the other is in front of the crankshaft.

Piston

Because of its durable and lightweight design, the forged piston reduces reciprocating mass, making the engine more responsive.

Conrods

Since the conrod uses simple bearings, the reciprocating mass is reduced, which enhances the engine’s dynamic quality and helps it run more smoothly.

PASC clutch

With the PASC (Power Assist Clutch), the engine torque is sent to the clutch plates less often, resulting in less effort the rider requires to control the bike. The rear wheels don’t lock up when you downshift hard, thanks to the slipper clutch, so there’s less noise when you brake quickly or turn.

Transmission

With the clutchless up and downshifts made possible by the smooth 6-speed gearbox with Quickshifter+, you can quickly zip in and out of bends. Because of this, the rider can have a tight grip on the handlebars, which improves control and enhances traction at the back of the bike.

Ride-by-wire

With the 2023 KTM 690 SMC R Supermoto’s ride-by-wire technology, electronic sensors detect when the rider twists and presses the throttle grip. Then, the valves are activated to control the amount of throttle action.

As a result, the response increases, allowing you more control over the strong single-cylinder and a more comfortable ride.

Injection / Engine Management

Thanks to electronic fuel injection and engine management, performance can be fine-tuned to the riding conditions. Consequently, innovations like Quickshifter+, MTC (motorcycle traction control), and MSR (motor slip regulation) provide an additional benefit, along with reduced pollutants, decreased petrol use, and improved regulation of power.

The rider may modify the engine’s characteristics by choosing between two mappings. By independently managing two spark plugs of various diameters in the cylinder head, a twin-plug ignition system guarantees more efficient combustion and a smoother, more precisely controlled combustion sequence at all times.

Slipper clutch

Those annoying talking wheels? That won’t happen because of the typical slipper clutch.

Exhaust

The 2023 KTM 690 SMC R Supermoto’s exhaust system satisfies pollution requirements thanks to its skilled design and excellent stainless steel construction. However, if you’re in the mood to be a little more “grunt,” you can find some race-ready gear in the KTM PowerParts catalog and improve your 2023 KTM 690 SMC R Supermoto.

Airbox

The airbox is conveniently located under the seat, making it easy to reach and fix the air filter. It makes fixing the bike a breeze, even after a long day on the road.

Chassis Frame

The trellis framework is built from lightweight sections of superior chrome-molybdenum steel tubing that range in thickness from thin to thick.

For optimal handling and rideability, a well-balanced frame design provides high torsional rigidity, while suspension components with finely adjusted longitudinal flexibility absorb wheel impact energy and reduce rider fatigue.

Subframe

An old-fashioned way to save weight and make the subframe easier to build is to use the rear petrol tank as its main structural component.

Swingarm

The progress rate is guaranteed to be swift because the rear shock can be positioned in the perfect spot thanks to this swingarm design. A single-component casting process removes the welded swingarm’s inherent imperfections and weak spots.

Triple clamp

The forks are securely held in place by sturdy forged triple clamps with an adjustable offset of 24 mm to 22 mm for precise handling. They let the handlebars be changed in four separate forward and backward positions for the greatest possible rider ergonomics.

Front Fork

We suggest the WP APEX 48 inverted fork for the best Supermoto control. The 2023 KTM 690 SMC R Supermoto adjusts the split fork concept that WP and KTM originally developed.

The two springs on each side, one for compression and one for a rebound, work together to attenuate vibrations in distinct ways. They have no detrimental effect on each other. Adjusting the damping is a breeze using the 30-click controls atop each fork tube.

Rear Shock

The Supermoto-tuned WP APEX shock absorber is linked to the swingarm via a connector. Because of this, you can be sure there will be no bottoming out, and the suspension will be progressive. High and low-speed compression are only two ways the shock absorber may be fine-tuned to fit your riding style and the weather.

Wheels & tyres

The 2023 KTM 690 SMC R Supermoto’s wheels are designed to be lightweight and robust. They include superior black 17-inch rims, and CNC hubs machined for optimum robustness. The Bridgestone S21 tires provide the traction you need on the track and the comfort you require on the road.

Brakes

The BREMBO brakes provide an ideal combination of stopping power and dependable braking feel thanks to its lightweight discs (240 mm for the rear wheel and 320 mm for the front).

Fuel tank

The 2023 KTM 690 SMC R Supermoto’s 3.6 gal/13.5 l fuel tank is a structural member that strengthens the bike and gives an ergonomic advantage to the rider.

Ergonomics & Comfort Handlebar

Rubber mounts dampen vibrations on the 808 mm wide, light handlebars. Optimal control in every situation is the goal of their design and scope.

Footpegs

Short footrests are necessary for the best lean position, and a removable rubber insert ensures comfort even while wearing street boots.

Seat

The 2023 KTM 690 SMC R Supermoto has an 890 mm seat height and a brand-new blue seat cover that goes well with its striking decal kit. The SMC-R-specific texture of the seat cover further enhances the traction and freedom of movement offered by leather racing suits.

Software & Electronics Rider aids

Electronic rider aid that is state-of-the-art and easy to use is made possible by technologies like the engine management system (EMS), ride-by-wire, and electronic fuel injection.

The powerful new-generation LC4 motor may be used efficiently on a much broader range of streets, surfaces, and conditions by selecting, deselecting, and using these features.

Ride modes

One is for riding on the street, and the other is for off-road. For the quickest and most athletic throttle action that prevents wheelies and tire sliding, switch to 2023 KTM 690 SMC R Supermoto’s “Street mode” for optimal street performance.

In contrast, Supermoto Traction Control allows for front wheel lifting and wheel sliding without sacrificing performance. It is accomplished using the silky throttle response in “Supermoto mode.” Switching between the modes is a breeze using the handlebar, giving you instantaneous control over the engine’s personality. You can turn off traction control if that becomes essential.

MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control)

Motorcycle Traction Control’s (MTC) lean-angle sensitive traction control system reacts in real-time if the speed of the rear wheels’ rotation deviates from the riding circumstances.

Milliseconds after the selected riding mode and current lean angle are reached, MTC intervenes at the throttle valves to reduce engine power in a very smooth and hardly perceptible manner. For the most daring riders, there’s an option to turn off the traction control system.

Quickshifter+

Quickshifter+ makes use of two sensors. As soon as the rider upshifts, the system immediately stops the injection because a sensor on the shift arm detects motion on the shift lever rod.

Efficient and seamless functioning is ensured across all throttle openings and engine speeds by re-injecting fuel and opening the butterfly valve in reaction to the second sensor detecting gear engagement. While downshifting, the system synchronizes the engine speed with the lower gear.

Cornering ABS

You may ride with complete assurance thanks to cornering ABS, which lets you apply full braking power in any circumstance, including while leaning sharply. When you’re trying to establish quick lap times or race down twisty mountain courses, this comes in very handy. Supermoto ABS is an optional add-on that requires a dongle and, if desired, removes cornering sensitivity and ABS on the back wheel.

Supermoto-ABS

An optional feature that completes it is Supermoto ABS. By reducing the force acting on the front wheels, anti-lock brakes (ABS) partly deactivate the rear wheels. With this, you can do tire-smoking apex exits and giant 2023 KTM 690 SMC R Supermoto slides by dragging the back end into turns.

Lean Angle Sensor

A lean-angle sensor tracks the bike’s attitude. It sends that information to the electronic control unit (ECU) and other control units to adjust traction control and anti-lock brakes (ABS).

2023 KTM 690 SMC R Supermoto – Technical Specifications

Engine

Chassis