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I can't tell you how awesome it is to hear an honest "I don't like it" from a reviewer. Just makes me trust your reviews even more.

KTMs are hooligan bikes at heart. That's why I love them. Definitely not for everyone.

Well, I'm old, fat, and short. I love my 690. Best dual sport I have ever ridden. 10k trouble free miles to date. It is a bit twitchy, I admit that, but the beast can be tamed and for sure not a beginner bike! It likes to wheelie, can do 80-100 mph no problem. Gravel, two track, single track are all smiles for me. I have done loads of mods to my 690. Rally fairing, aux tank (I carry 5 gal of fuel). Rally pegs, comfort XL seat, crash bars. The 690 is for sure my unicorn!

Sounds like maybe the old adage still holds true: "it's more fun to ride a slow bike fast than ride a fast bike slowly." Great review Dork!

I've had my '17 690 now for about 4 years. I LOVE it. It does have a Yenkro fairing on it, which makes it a whole lot nicer to ride on the highway. However, you still don't forget that it's a thumper/dual sport. Everyone reviewing these makes the same mistake, they think it's going to rip up singletrack like a 500 EXC. It's not, at least not in the hands of most riders. It's a dual sport bike that kicks serious ass on BDR type rides. I'm a lot happier picking up my bike vs my friends T7, which weighs over 100lbs more for instance. The bike is a complete hoot, it makes me giggle in my helmet every time I ride it. I haven't found it unhappy at slow speeds, on the more technical passes here in Colorado I usually leave it in 1st gear and just let it eat.

I enjoyed the honest opinion actually great work brother 👊

"A mans got to know his limitations" - DH

That's why i like my DR650. It's not fast, but fast enough and i can pick it up easy, because i suck at off roading in sand (FL) and cost less.

I guess Dork is not Ready To Race 😝

I bought my bike from Power because of this channel, so just chiming in so they hear that again. :)

Excellent assessment. I've had two of these, the original 640 and now a kitted out 701. 20k miles between the two, and I think the sweet spot for these is BDR riding and camping. It's light enough to make all the expert sections but can still easily ride the highway. I just did sections 1 and 2 of the ORBDR this week on it I appreciate that it can haul a small camping load, but still easily get back home on the highway at the end of the day. I have a 500 that gets a lot of use, and it's unquestionably better for hard off road that the 701, but it is way less fun on the road and is is less relaxing with a load. The 701 was a replacement for my 790 as a BDR bike two years ago, and I'm still very happy with the switch.

You are, in a way , correct about this bike. I have a 2023 Husqvarna 701 Enduro and to me it is a light easy to manage bike but I say that after owning a 2018 1290 Super Adventure R. It is definitely not an Adventure bike in any way no matter how much you try to make it one. It is a dual sport bike geared more to off road than street. It is also geared to the more aggressive rider. To me it's not in the same class as a KLR, DR XR or T700 in stock form although many people try to compare them. Ride it hard and you'll love it. Rise it easy and you'll realize you spent way too much money for a bike when you could've had one better suiting your needs for half the price.

I rode one once. Was like a big puppy that wants to play but doesn’t realize it can kill you easily. Down, boy!

Llove your videos I truly enjoy them. Keep them coming thanks

KLR with a slip-on and a 16 tooth has just been a treat for highway and off-road.....love it everyday

I got a 2017 enduro R many years ago. I didn't like it either for about 2 months. Then it RAPIDLY grew on me, and is now the benchmark.

Thanks very much, Ben for reviewing this bike. I had the same feeling that you had while riding. I have not written it, but I imagine it’s just a beast with a pile of power. Thanks for the review. Looking forward to your next ride.

I own a 690 and love it. For me, it has done everything that I need and have asked of it. Not always elegantly but it gets the job done. Your assessment is insightful and on target. To get the most out the experience, you need to ride it hard, not fast, just within it's power band. It's not for everyone. Horses for courses. Know and understand your requirements and intended use. I wish more riders would take note of your criteria for bike selection, instead of buying machines that are not fit for their riding purpose. I see a lot of poor buying decisions made out there. Nice content Dorkster. Keep up the good work.

I replaced my 690 with a T7. No regerts.

I’ve put about 12000 miles on a 690 over a course of a year - rode it across the country and up to Alaska as part of the Alcan 5000. Lived off of it for weeks at a time. Everything from 500+ mile days to freeway to singletrack. Mine was lightly adventurized (small tower) and I carried some luggage most of the time. I think your assessment is fairly spot on - it’s a very unique motorcycle because it’s not a dual sport and it’s not an adventure bike. It’s a rally bike - KTM built the platform for Dakar - and I think they do a piss pour job of explaining/marketing what it’s supposed to be. It’s designed to go fast off-road, in mostly a straight line, and for a long time. That’s why it’s tall, kinda top heavy, doesn’t turn particularly well, and has gearing that seems way too short for any on-road riding. That said, it’s also super reliable and capable. Once you get used to how it rides, it becomes instinctive and the margin of safety you have when riding fast off-road is hard to match. It’s a platform that can be built into probably the ultimate light weight adv bike (basically what Lyndon Poskitt did), though also a ridiculously expensive one. I think the fact that this platform exists (with changes/upgrades over the years) for almost 20 years now (more, if you include the 640) is testament to how good and unique it is in KTMs line up. They’ve redone everything else at least twice already.

Great honest review with excellent perspective!

Love your honest reviews!

I went to that dealership's website. I saw something I'm interested in and asked for a quote. I told them that you sent me. I hope that your good relationship with them continues and improves! Great videos!

I had a 690 a few years ago and tried to talk myself into really loving it. It never happened. Buzzy as hell on the highway, too much power on the gravel roads, horrific to change oil on and fuel pump issues. I have a fully farkled 300L that's smoother on the highway, more controllable on the gravel or off road, and have $5000 less in it.

I've been riding a 2019 Husky 701 for 2.5 years. I love the bike. Up to then I owned a 640 Adventure for 10 years. In comparison the 701 motor is nearly electric feeling. No vibes until over 70mph. I also totally see where you're coming from. When I first hopped on the 701 it was like sitting down at someone's computer where the mouse sensitivity is turned to 11. Offroad felt like a struggle trying to tame that motor. But I've figured the bike out and now love ripping it offroad. What helped me most was bar risers and steg pegs. More comfortable riding stance and I no longer have to hold onto all those horses with my hands, I just squeeze my boots and can lighten my grip on the bars. You're absolutely right about it not being comfortable on the highway. Speeds above 70mph I'm just being blown off the back of the bike. I'm fully OK with that, I avoid long highway stints as much as possible. I've hacked up a little windshield that keeps most of the blast off my chest, but ditch it as soon as I can once I hop off the highway. For me it's a close to the unicorn light weight ADV bike I have found. It's definitely not for everyone, and neither was the 640 Adventure. I appreciate your honest review.

It's more fun to ride a slow bike fast than a fast bike slow!

I’m still riding my 2017 690 enduro r and it still makes me grin whenever I throw a leg over it. It’s vibey at high speeds. It’s kinda expensive to maintain but it’s got plenty of power and so much fun both on and off-road. It’s found a forever home in my garage next to my 2004 GSXR750 and my 1995 Harley springer softail

I appreciate the fearless honesty.

I have a 2022 690 enduro R, I had the suspension adjusted to my weight (260 pounds), switched the intake and dongle from rottweiler, added a power commander, arrow exhaust... all those mods made it smooth as hell at any speed. I agree that it was twichy stock but now it's the best dual sport for me. I had a tiger 900 rally pro for a couple of years and it was great but this is way easier to handle. I've been riding for around 6 years now and it's a bike I think will make me a better rider and I don't think I will outgrow it.

My 701 owns. I agree with some of the commentary but not all. Glad you got to take one for a rip.

I have filmed a few rides on the KTM 690 recently and have nothing but excellent things to say. From streets & highways, to single track and hard enduro riding.. The bike is MORE than capable of doing it all, comfortably. I think you need to give it a second chance

Bought my 701 recently. Came from a 900 roadbike. Done a bit of dirtbiking in my younget days . Went for my first dirt ride on it today , gravel , mud . Handfull but cool fun . Love it.

I sold mine and bought a used DR650 and a Wr250r. It was fun but too advanced for me and my riding. The traction control saved me from going wide at high speed. In the DR I never get in that situation as Im not going so fast. Your assessment is pretty accurate dude.

I have a 701 that's all setup as a light ADV. Your assessment is fair as it comes from the dealer. If you had a chance to ride one that had a windshield or rally tower setup, your highway expectations would have been met. Off pavement, like you said, it's big and powerful, and you didn't do yourself any favors jumping from a Tdubs right to this. It has big power, but it is controllable and the clutch is easy to modulate to control that power. To me it is the unicorn bike, but it took a good amount of mods to dial it in exactly the way I wanted (Rade tower, Seat Concepts, Rekluse, Veridian Cruise), I can do tight trails, or hours on the highway at 70+ comfortably. A couple weeks ago I did 700mi in 2 days with hours on the highway and trails. Is it cheap? Nope. But it's a bike that I can comfortably do anything on. My son rides a 300L Rally with ABS, and my bike feels like a super powerful version of that. They are very well matched aside from my comfort at higher speeds on the highway and really rough stuff.

Really aopreciate the honest review. It wasn't on my radar anyways, but it's still interesting to understand the characteristics of bikes that I won't ever own.

I have a 2017 and it is used for mostly exploring country roads. Every time I get home from a long ride I just think about how much I love this bike. I am fortunate to have a few others as well but if I only could have one this would be it.

I had the same experience. The biggest complaint I had was the amount of vibration. Thanks for the review!

Timely video my friend. I’ve been looking at the Husky 701 and the 690. Leaning towards the Husky for the extra year of warranty. I think you’re spot on with the review. Getting one or the other before the fall! Ditching the heavy ADV scene!

I agree with you 100%!!!! I rode one at Touratech last year and felt exactly the same way.

Great review! Would really like seeing that test ride you talked about possibly doing on the KTM 500 exc - f or even on a 350 exc- f. I believe they wouldn’t fill that great on road but would love to see how you like the exc-f off road. Especially having watched you develop your riding skills over the years. I am still using my CRF250L that I’ve had for 10 years but struggle a little with the weight off road on those more difficult sections. Love everything else about the bike and use an NC750X for road touring duties and well maintained gravel roads. Keep on crushing it!

Great review mate thanks. I sometimes look at these KTM branded 700s an wonder should I trade in my Tenere 700. Testing a few more bikes will give me the answers I seek but for now I will keep riding the T7 an looking at other peoples reviews.

I go on group rides in my Transalp and on tough offroad rides these 690s always do the best. For me I would rather get a crf250f as a complimentary bike but for riders that only want one bike I feel like the 690 might be it

The sound and feel of my KTM (cough), I mean 701, has always really thrown me off. After riding bikes like my KLR, DR, & XR it's just so different. That being said, after you spend a lot of time on it and get a better understanding of the throttle, engine sound and what it takes to spin the rear, it's an amazing dual sport! As for the uneasy feeling, if you lowered one like the PO did with mine, I'd bet it would have a similar affect to what lowering my XR just did for me. Ground clearance is great, but not if you can't trust the bike in the corners!

Your first impressions are spot on. I have a 701 Enduro; I initially thought I had made a mistake. The bike has very tall gearing. I changed the sprockets to 14/47 and added a Rottweiler Fueling Dongle to smooth out the on/off throttle, and it is a different bike. It still has plenty of top end to uncomfortably cruise at 70 mph if you're into riding a bike like this on the highway.

I ride a DR650. I have a buddy with a 690. It’s a beast. I can’t keep up with him - he just walks away from me. Which is actually kind of a good thing. That way I can stop and pick up all the bits that keep falling off his bike. Literally. 😂😉

Unexpected review but appreciate your honesty. I bought an Africa twin, then 500 excf, but had a gap for a bike that I could ride at 90 mph, and kill it in single track that I. Can turn around on single track. I bought gas gas 700 with recluse clutch. It’s my unicorn-ish bike. Also with the traction control and the two fuel mapping, it gives me some advantages over the 500. But every bike is great in its own way.

Dork, you nailed this review. I own the Husky 701 and also a KLR 650. I have a lot of off road experience being an A level Enduro and Hare Scramble racer. Couldn’t agree more that this is not a beginner bike. Thought I was going to immediately sell my KLR when I got the 701 but decided to keep it as they are polar opposites and like both. I tell people the 690/701 is a thoroughbred race horse that is only happy all out. On easy non technical gravel roads I will chose my KLR all the time. Two tools for different jobs.

As a 701 owner I think this is a fair assessment. I like to ride somewhat aggressive and I am a heavy guy. The suspension is great from the factory, I just needed to go with a higher rate rear spring and get the sag set and I can be pretty aggressive off road. It does get a little buzzy on long trips but I did 530 miles in one day on the way back from the Giant Loop ride last week and it did better than any other dual sport thumper I've ever owned, full loaded down with me + gear 75 mph most of the way was no problem.

Had two buddies that had these a few years back. Both had engine issues. I think this is one of the bikes that got KTM on the bad reliability radar. Good review

Hated my 690 but had to run it for 2yrs. Much happier with my 890 R and 500excf.

Thanks for your honest opinion. I bought a 2023 KTM 390 ADV in February, on the way for 1st service I had the thought, what I really need is a 790, then I laughed, I like the lightweight and the 40 something HP of the 390. It's fun to ride.

A fair and well balanced video. In my opinion the 690 platform is truly a 50/50 dual sport. Most people want their bikes to be tilted more towards street or dirt, so a true 50/50 bike may not be for them. Being a 50/50 bike is this platform's greatest strength or weakness, depending on one's point of view. The 690 platform is unusual though as it brings a big dose of tech, power and expense to a segment dominated by the KLR, DR and XRL. I live in Colorado and can ride fun twisty canyon roads to trails, so for me a true 50/50 bike that can do it all if not do it all as well as more focused bikes is perfect. I have a '23 701, as a can't help myself modaholic, I did the following mods to it that made it better, and almost more fun than humans should be allowed to have: 1) Puig windscreen, spaced out a tad from the stock headlight mask to give the front brake line a place to go. It doesn't get in the way while off road and it takes the wind pressure off the torso while leaving the helmet in clean air. 2) Rottweiler deletes for charcoal canister and air injection. This removes a bunch of hoses and junk from the engine. 3) Yoshimura RS4 exhaust can. It sounds great, saves some weight and eliminates the incredibly hot running stock can, which contains a CAT in it. I chose the Yosh as it has a spark arrestor and it is longer than most so it clears the turn signal. It has a beautiful deep smooth DB killer free thumper tone, and it is not obnoxious unless you pin it and rev it, then it sounds like the world is coming to an end. 4) Rottweiler O2 sensor dongle. This allows removal of the O2 sensor and richens up the lean part throttle fueling. After experiencing better response with just the dongle and the Yosh can, I went to #5 below. 5) PC6 with Rottweiler map. Holy shit. It ran better with just the O2 dongle and the Yosh, but the Kraken is fully unleashed with the PC and map. The bike makes far more low end and midrange power with a bit more on top. The low end is phenomenally improved over stock, it chugs hard off idle like a friend's good running XR650R, but it has considerably more mid and top power than the XR does. No need to clutch it while riding slow off road unless traveling very slowly below idle speed at 6 MPH or less. Just roll on the throttle off idle and spin the tire to get it spooled up, it is unboggable. Have also learned the beauty of TC off quick shifter assisted long wheelies. Oh my - must try to stay out of jail, the punchy big single is a bad influence for sure. 6) 80/85C radiator fan switch. The stock switch kicks the fan on at 215F and it is located in the bottom of the radiator which means the coolant at the top of the rad is probably around 235. Now it comes on at 185F. The fan rarely comes on while street riding, but it runs continuously while going slow off road. That is alright though, running the fan won't hurt anything and a cooler running motor is happier motor. 7) Twin Air foam air filter. Replaced the stock paper air filter with this washable unit. Trimmed the interior of the air box top to make the snorkel open to the filter along it's full length. I noticed no increase in intake noise. This might help flow a little, but more importantly it spreads the incoming air over the filter. The stock setup concentrates the air (and dirt) at the top of the filter. 8) .65 kg/mm fork springs. These are two rates stiffer than the stock .59 springs and a better balanced match to the .72 rear spring. The suspension on the 701 is good enough that I ride it more than a little like my 300 XC at times! The more supportive fork springs help when riding it faster off road than I probably should, I sometimes actually charge whoops on it, carrying/tapping the front wheel as it goes. 9) Cyclops LED headlight. Yes, the stock halogen headlight sucks. I wanted to keep the stock headlight shell and the Cyclops is much better and what it should have come with from the factory. There are brighter total replacement options, but for $60 or so the Cyclops works well and they have a good reputation for reliability. 10) Enduro Engineering bar risers. I had extra spacers with the requisite bolts laying around as I put this kit on my dirt bike. I like the stock bar's bend, but they are too low when standing. They are much better with a bit of lift while standing and not so high that they feel weird while sitting and riding on the street. 11) Raised the gearing from 15/46 to 16/45. What am I nuts? Everybody drops the gearing on these. The thing is, this gearing puts my Enduro on par with the SMC-R, which makes it much better on the street. 70-75 on the highway is smooth and nearly vibration free. The quickshifter works better and the transmission ratios feel perfect on pavement. The stock tuning would not handle the gearing change off road, but the abundant extra off idle power and throttle response handle the gearing fine on any trail I want to ride this heavy bike on. In other words, the stock gearing/stock bike with it's weak low end is blown away by tuned bike / taller gearing, even on tight trails. 12) Removed kickstand sensor and rear ABS sensor, tucked them under the seat. Why? Because the kickstand sensor is low and easily damaged by rocks. If a rock takes the sensor out it strands the bike, there is no trailside fix. As for the ABS sensor, ABS and TC are a disaster in the dirt, taking the rear sensor out of the equation turns both off full time. As a long time dirt bike rider/racer I greatly prefer this. There is lots of other stuff like bigger footpegs, billet gas cap, etc but this diatribe is already way out of hand. Obviously I love my 701, but like any bike it can be personalized and made better. One final comment - due to ride by wire, these bikes don't have a lot of engine braking which is good most of the time, but being in Colorado sometimes I point it down some very long and steep downhills. I found leaving the key on but killing the ignition with the handlebar switch shuts down the fueling / ride by wire, which creates a tremendous amount of engine braking. It also sounds a little like a diesel big rig with the Jake Brake on. This is handy when descending down a long steep 4x4 trail in the mountains. This doesn't hurt anything at all but it saves the brakes from getting toasted on extreme sustained long downhill runs. I do ride my 701 in some "stuff". Oh, and it does sick 2nd gear wheelies, even with 62 y/o me on board. Click on my name and check my crappy little page 😆

I’ve never heard “That KTM box of rocks feeling” but that is so accurate ahaha.

I waffled between this and the 500 EXCF and 2 days ago got the 690. The 2 ride modes, TC, more forgiving maintenance schedule, and larger fuel tank won it over for me. The icing on the cake was purchasing it for far less than MSRP, including tax, setup, and doc fees.

In the right hands and with the right setup, it's the magic combination for a dual sport.

I had a 690 and don’t love it for the same reasons. It hates to go slow in technical stuff, and it’s just too much of a workout for me off road. I switched to a KTM 350 exc-f and love that bike. But I’m old and kind of out of shape, so maybe that’s my problem. But the 690 was damn fun on the road, and loves to lift the front wheel.

You kind of hit the nail on the head with the 690. Some pretty awesome riders I know all have the same comment, they started the design of the bike right then stuffed it when they put the tank in the rear. They are twitchy and vague to ride, just don’t handle well at all. They also have the worst parts of dual sport and adv and are too “in the middle”. I had one, now I have a 500exc and a 790 adventure r. They make an awesome motard with the SMC’s, that’s about it.

I rode an XR400R for 20 years. Now I have a 2017 690 and it rips everything. I did a weekend of Sierra trails at Foresthill (yes I did trail 5) and I was not having issues keeping up with a Husky 300 and SurROn Ultrabee. This bike rips, I think it'll do everything but MX. (not a dare for Ivan Tedesco, iykyk)

I've been riding for about 2 years, I would call myself an intermediate rider. I have a 701 and I love it. I wouldn't consider myself to be the go fast and crazy always kind of person and I do think this bike is perfect for me. It doesn't have any direct competitors. People will say well there's the DR650, and honestly it's not even a competition. The 701 platform is better in every single way. I had a DR and I loved it but this bike is in a league of it's own. I do think this bike is a unicorn, but it doesn't come from the factory as one. It's a unicorn platform to build into what you want. I'm 6'3 and I don't have a tower or windscreen on my bike and I think it's totally fine below 75mph. I expected way worse hearing what people say but it's really not bad. It does have a lot of HP and torque which can be a lot, but once you get used to the engine I feel like it can be ridden pretty mildly offroad. This bike is really really good for the people who want to do ADV/Dualsport riding but can only have one bike to do it all. I don't haul my bikes ever, and I'm not a good enough rider to do harder stuff on a 450lb bike. This thing is perfect for people like me. I don't think I'd suggest it as a first bike but I also don't think I agree with the conclusion that this bike is for people that only want to ride aggressively. I think it can be ridden pretty mildly and I know that cause I do it. My previous bikes were a 250l rally and a DR650, I feel like I've learned more on my 701 than the other two. The 701 makes me want to ride more than any other bike I've had. I've put like 5k miles on mine in 4 months. I definitely don't think I'm capable of harnessing the bikes full potential, but I do feel like I can grow with it and it genuinely gives me a lot of confidence. I'm not sure how I feel about what you said about needing to be good about body position on this bike. I guess it's true but I try to be good about that regardless. All I can say is that my 701 is my unicorn, and it really pushes me to learn and grow as a rider. I never thought I'd be able to afford one but I managed to snag my 2019 with 2k miles for $7500. I'm not sure what it is but I also feel like I have more trust in this bike than any other bike I've had. Maybe it's cause it's my first bike with decent suspension. It's a really good platform and I hope you get the chance to try one on a more long term basis.

I have owned a T7 great bike , I’ve owned a FE501 light adv with ecu /exhaust/cush hub , it was nice enough for most travel , now I have a GasGas ES700 , exhaust/Coober LM and a 14tooth front sprocket, so far it’s way better than the 501 and nearly as nice on the hwy as the T7 was, but the T7 was better on road for sure.

My 2 cents as I just left the dealership 2hrs ago because of the notorious slave cylinder problem. I bought it about two months ago and has 1000 miles on it and 2 days ago it pumped all the DOT 5.1 in my crankcase. I bought the bike just for a CDR - "The Hard Way", trip next month instead of taking my DR650 that I have full 100% trust in. Or several other bikes I have that is 100% ready to roll on the trip. Research the dealer reputation on warranty repair, or any repair for that matter. You will need and use it. I thought I had a good dealership, I was wrong. The 690R is a hot rod for real, but I'm concerned with its reliability for a BDR, 3000 miles from home. At the moment I'm leaning to my DR.

I love my 2018 690. I've got 25,000 miles on it and it still puts a big grin on my face. I don't ride more than 20 miles on the asphalt though, I keep it all dirt whenever possible.

Thanks for the honest opinion. Recently a dealer tried to convince me to buy a ES700 Gas Gas. 300 Rally sounds more appropriate. I will keep my T7.

The problem with the TKC80 is not necessarily that it is a 50/50 ADV tire. The problem is that it is a 20 year old 50/50 ADV tire ;) These days there are just much better tires in the same segment (same offroad performance but much better on the road and better mileage). But luckily Conti is currently testing prototypes for the TKC80 successor, so it won't be long until they have a competitive offering in that segment again. That being said: yes, of course you would want a more aggressive kind of tire on a hard enduro like this.

Own one.... Love it. Don't disagree with your analysis. Is it a unicorn? .... It fits my needs so for me yes.

A+ Testing.

I get what you are saying. However, I sold a 2014 a few years back and regretted that every day. If you are like me and have been riding for years, ride a couple of BDRs per year and ride single and double track in southern Oregon and like some technical challenges, the weight of the other adventure bikes eventually gets old, and I have owned quite a few adventure bikes. Yes, you are correct, it's not a comfortable ride because it's not an adventure bike, however, with a few tweaks and additions, it can be good enough and coming in 100lbs lighter than a mid-size adventure bike even when fully loaded on a BDR, never, ever gets old;) Nice review.

Love my 701. I do have a 1290 sas for longer road trips. The 701 handles everything else. Such a great machine. 🤪 It did take some adjusting to get it perfect but once you get it dialed in. It's the one.

Ben, thanks for another awesome video! I was excited to read that you just reviewed the next bike I think I want to buy, but saddened you didn't like it! I'm currently on a street legal DRZ400E that I ride on 3-5 day trips with about 40-60 lbs of gear. I'm tall, at about 215 lbs w/out gear and was looking at the 690 to serve as a lightweight and powerful dual sport solution which could handle occasional 60 mph sections of pavement. If I like the E for its lightweight power over bigger bikes and just want something a bit stronger with more legs, do you think I should still give the 690 a look?

My dude I appreciate you doing all these test rides for the perspective and comparison we can get watching but based on 6:42 and a couple times seeing your standing position in other videos I think your standing position needs some work. Always something to work on no matter who we are. Ride on!

I would've loved to seen you actually take it of road and do some single track with it. I've had my 701 since 2016 and I call it the lounge chair on wheels. I personally think it's the best of both worlds. I currently own 2017 husky 701, and a husky 401, 2016 triumph 800xcx , 2022 yz450f, 2018 yz450fx. Yes, it is a beast and you have to respect the power as it will get you into trouble if your unaware. I have been thrown plenty of times on the dirt and got many xrays to prove that respect is required...😂. I'm a heavy rider 110kg and I have been known to reach speeds on the dirt at 170kmh and handles the speed well. I personally love this bike for what it was made for. If you want to ride tight single track at high speeds I'd go with something smaller as it can be a handful if not experienced, that's why I have the yz450f and fx, but if your not racing your mates and happy to do things at a slower pace it is more than capable. I use mine for mainly trail riding and over the 8 years it hasn't missed a beat as long as you do regular maintenance and inspections. It is pretty tall and has had me reaching out for sky hooks a few times when on unlevel ground. Like Ben said, it's not really comfortable on the highway but would assume that should be improved by adding a tower with a windshield and suspension upgrades to counter the extra weight. The ktm 690/husky 701 are amazing bikes and built tough with pretty good periods between servicing. There is a awesome clip on the 701 from MAD TV on KZfaq here in Australia. Ben has mentioned them before in regards the honda 300 rally. They do an awesome review on the bike. Once again, I would like to thank you Ben for you honest reviews. I would like to see you do another review on the new 2024 honda africa twin. Thanks again Ben, and many more safe journeys ahead Andy

I just bought a 501s and it's a blast. Waiting for my Seat Concepts seat to come in. Looking to make a Ultralight adv bike out of the 501!!!

Great video! 450 is the biggest I go on dirt bikes and I'm 230 lbs

I love your videos and I see you posted this and told myself not to watch it because I knew you would dog it. I just bought a KTM 690 Enduro R and I agree with some of your comments, the bike likes to be rev'd high, it doesn't like to be chugged down low like most dual sports. But saying you can't do technical stuff, or slow speed trails and need to keep it flat out... I think you over exaggerated this statement by a long shot. Now before I go further, I own a KLR650, a bike known for being a tractor. Yes, off road you need to keep the speed up but that is the thing. the KTM 690 is perfect for those that are looking for the next step up. Those that have the skill level that outperforms their current bike. A lot of people look at your advice to make decisions, so making the ktm not sound capable of being able to do hard offroad work is a shame.

Thanks for the true to yourself review! I don't miss a review 👍(500 exc-f @$10,000??) wow.

I have a 2010 Enduro R as my second bike and I can see why you would not like it, if you prefer a comfy bike that you can ride flat out everywhere. I was looking for a dirt bike with long service intervals and for that it fits the bill. Yes, it is more twitchy than it needs to and yes, 80mph on it is a proper workout, but on a dirt road, on tight, twisty tarmac, or just commuting with a poppy aftermarket exhaust on, it is incredible fun. I find myself riding it more than the Ducati lately

Do a review on the 501. That would be great 👍🏻!!

After over 20 Years offroadexperience on many different bikes, for me the KTM 690 Enduro R 2022 that i own myself is the easiest bike to ride offroad on the market. With the Ridingmode you can set at the handlebar, it makes everyone an offroad-pro.

I have a highly modified 2014 690. It's definitely a beast, not for everyone. It definitely needs the first two gears to be lower. Another annoying point the kickstand is way too long from the factory, makes it difficult to put up with even a slight left side grade. The older ones definitely need a power commander, from the factory it was very lean under 4,000 rpm, then turned into a beast after that very abruptly. With the power commander the power is always on tap.

Was really interested to hear a trusted review from you on this bike. A friend was inspired seeing my Honda 300 Rally at work everyday and wanted to get into a dual sport. Being younger, more disposable income, and having more emphasis on "image", he bought a brand new KTM 500 EXC-F. 2nd time out he had to limp it 5 miles back in shame among buddies because of some reed thing that came loose in airbox. So he switched to his well used and abused 35 year old Honda CR 250 and it performed flawlessly. I have yet to hear a single rave review from him on the $12,500 bike which tells me its probably not what he expected and more like what your review indicated. As you say they have their niche where they shine but it requires some sacrifices in true dual sport riding in exchange for the raw power and suspension. Thank You! Peace!

I have owned one... it was not the unicorn I was expecting in the dirt. It handles like an adventure, bike and on the highway it handles like a dirtbike all the right things in the wrong places

Really interesting take on it. I own a 2020 690 and I like my bikes scary 😂. It is a workout indeed (physical and mental), but personally never expected it not to be 😂 (offroad background)Try to get your hands on one that has a rally tower on it. Would be really interesting to hear your take on it.

A happy 2020 690 owner here. I totally get what you mean and I agree 100% with you. That's not a beginner bike, it is something different. For me, it is the perfect sweet spot. I have +20 years of riding on two wheels, and currently have my 3rd LC4, so I would say that it takes time to learn to love these bikes. I really like the description of "... I enjoy riding fast, but it's not the purpose of my riding, it's a byproduct that I enjoy". I really feel that, very well said. Thanks for the video!

I like KTM motors, they are a raw and excellent.

Another great review from dork in the road. I do have to say that I disagree with you on a lot of your statements about the KTM 690 Enduro. I purchased the same bike in 2022 brand new and it was my beginner bike at 57 years old. I have logged 15,000 km of a lot of different kinds of train including highway, double track and single track. I Find this bike excels in all situations. I did however make some upgrades to the bike including the seat concepts XL seat better foot pegs and a 1 inch riser on the handlebar. I love this bike and I can take it pretty much anywhere even more so now that I've geared it down on the rear sprocket which doesn't affect its high manners whatsoever. This year I upgraded to a Husqvarna Norden 901 expedition and I am loving that bike. I wouldn't dream of taking the expedition the places I've taken my 690 though.

Thank you Dork, great review for us non-speeddemon dual sport riders. I refuse to go too fast because I like to enjoy the outdoors and scenery. And thanks for saving me $13k. Maybe try the Kove next??

I traded my 890r Adventure for a 690r Enduro. Right move for me as I was riding the Adventure in places I should not, and it was too heavy. The 690r is the perfect compromise due to the lighter weight and passable highway capability. It helps that I am 6'2" tall with a 34" inseam so I fit the bike better. I never feel like the bike is riding me and it does not really tire me out, but I am an experienced rider and had a 2009 690r that I used for a week long northern Baja ride in 2012. Perfect bike for that trip. I have ridden a KTM 500 EXC and a Husky 501 one the highway and the 690r is way better. I put a Rade Garage auxiliary tank on the bike which gives it a 200 mile range. Mosko Moto panniers make it an adventure light bike. Also like the longer maintenance intervals compared to the 500s. I agree that the bike is NOT for technical single track. It is too heavy and geared too high. I am too old for that stuff now so not an issue.

I had $15k cash in hand. The bike I wanted- REALLY wanted was the KTM 690- EXC F- SM. I could get it. But I would have been BROKE and I had no confidence to keep it running on my own (no dealer nearby and no budget for parts and accessories). As I shopped and weighed my options, I realized I could buy 2 (two) KLX for the same price of ONE KTM. So, I did. KLX 300 DS and KLX 300 SM (BOTH). I paid off two bikes with cash and got to scratch more than one itch. I slowly mod out my KLX DS for trails and the KLX SM for everything else (except touring)- I still fanboi WISH I could get the KTM 690 EXC F SM for street and the KTM 350 EXC F for trails. I know budget does not allow it, and I don't have resources for keeping it going on my own.

I see my bike in the background (3:17). I haven’t ridden it much yet. So far I really enjoy it. I am new to dual sports, but so far this thing is a blast.

I picked up a 701 a couple months ago and will likely never touch my CRF Rally ever again. I too wasn't exactly 100% smitten with the 701 at first, but after a few hundred miles of gravel road and some time spent learning the bike, I can honestly say that I think you'd feel completely different about the 690 with some additional riding time. My biggest complaint with the bike is that the fuel tank under the seat and it's weight definitely become a noticeable issue. Anytime the rear wheel locks under hard braking, the bike tends to want to swap. It's particularly noticeable and bad on steep descents. Ultimately, having the fuel under the seat is worth it though. I've ridden KTM LC640 Adventure off road quite a bit also, and that bike is 100% chore to steer because of the weight of the fuel up front. 701/690 definitely not a bike for those with poor throttle control for sure. The bike can be ridden quite happily being short shifted and ridden slowly, once you have a solid technique. The fact that there's ALWAYS more power available makes this bike an absolute blast to ride.

Slightly de-tuned Adventure R with a fairing and TFT would be so awesome.

Hey man, saw you at the BMW MOA national as I rode by on my 690 with Nomad fairing - I saw you checking it out. Now I see why you had probably just filmed this episode. Turned around to talk to you but you were busy. Anyway with a fairing and some luggage and a decent seat the 690 is absolutely a great lightweight touring rig. I rode mine to AK last year and did over 9000 miles. Rode to the MOA this year and then did 400 miles of the TAT fully loaded from Port Orford to Prineville. Just got home (Montrose, CO) yesterday and this trip was 3300 miles. Mine is a 2015 and I’m thinking of eventually getting the newer fully counterbalanced version so was disappointed that you didn’t care for it, but guess it saved your wallet. BTW I started my KTM love affair with a 2000 640 Adventure that I ended up putting 25k miles on.

Looking forward to test riding one at Touratech Rally this year. It's always been on my list.

Fantastic bike.Classic.

I thought about one of these but decided that it wouldn't be the best for day long highway use, which is something I occassionaly need to do. Ended up with a transalp which I am happy with. I would love this bike off road though, not so much for the raw power, but more the light weight.

This completely agrees with my experience when I thought the 690 might be for me. I usually ride a plated 450 XCW which is great off road but quite uncomfortable on road. I thought the 690 would be a better road bike and only give up a little off road. Boy was I wrong. This was probably the shortest test ride I've ever done. I knew in less than a mile that this was not at all what I thought it would be. Sure it made more power but it was just as uncomfortable and vibey as my 450. It was also taller and way heavier. I found the DR650 smoother and had a more manageable seat height. It is a bit heavier than the 690 and it has a carb, but it also is half the price and for me would fit the bill better for a larger dual sport.

I hope you make a video on the NX500

Excellent review!!!! I was absolutely going to purchase one 2 years ago.........until...................I felt how heavy it is at the dealership! I realized that for ME...... and tight east coast single track...it would be a mistake... I MAY get one eventually.... I purchased a BETA 430RR S................................. off road it will run circles around this bike.... and about 60 ilbs less weight.....

They are an odd challenge. As designed and built, they need help to "move" them toward one's definition of a "unicorn." Also, knowing they need some investment to bring it to meet your ideal, I chose to buy used. My 2016 690 is about the perfect BDR/TAT/Dalton Hwy ADV-Dream bike one could ever want. The list of mods is extensive. Some came from the original owner, some I added later. For me, it's a dream over the KLR (70 lbs lighter, 35 hp more; and whose engine I've been inside a whole lot more than the KTMs). Maybe, someday, I'll let you ride mine, then you'll have that "project bike" bug to build out "your" unicorn! Love the channel. I think this review of the off-the-showroom-floor bike was just and fair. Keep 'em coming!