Make supermotos great again! That should be the election day mantra, and if that was the case, then KTM would be our candidate. It has been a long time since we saw an SMC model in the lineup, but the KTM 690 SMC R is coming back onto the scene for the 2019 model year.
Helping fuel this revival is obviously the fresh that came to the KTM 690 Enduro R, as the SMC variant basically switches out the 21″/18″ wheel combo for a set of 17″ hoops.
This bodes well, because it means that the 2019 KTM 690 SMC R will make 72hp (54 kW) and 54 lbs•ft (73.5 Nm) from its 690cc single-cylinder power plant. Two pounds heavier than its dirt-biking twin, the KTM 690 SMC R weighs 346 lbs when it is fully fueled, with its 3.2 gallons (13.5 liters).
A robust electronic package is also part of the 2019 KTM 690 SMC R. As such, an IMU assists the cornering ABS (which includes a “Supermoto Mode”) and traction control systems; there are two different riding modes (Street and Sport); and KTM has even thrown in its up/down quickshifter for good measure.
Where the SMC and Enduro differ is in suspension and brakes. Up front, KTM is using the fully adjustable WP APEX 48, which have springs in each fork tube, but separate out the damping duties (rebound on the right, compression on the left).
The forged triple clamps have an adjustable offset. At the rear, is a fully adjustable WP APEX shock, which connects via a linkage.
Braking is handled by Brembo, with a radially mounted four-piston caliper on the front wheel, mated to a 320mm single disc. Tires are by Bridgestone, using that Battlax S21 rubber.
Just for kicks, the 2019 KTM 690 SMC R can be made A2 license compliant, with its 47hp (35 kW) variant.
Source: KTM
As always, Asphalt & Rubber will be covering all the new bikes debuting at EICMA this year. Be sure to follow our coverage for the most recent news and photos.
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