2015 EICMA: KTM 690 Duke and 690 Duke R
Back in September, KTM announced some updates to its 690 Duke in prototype form. The changes big naked thumper are now official with the final production version as well as the up-spec R version were revealed at EICMA.
The 690 Duke has been thoroughly overhauled, and now the magnificent LC4 thumper spits out 73 hp (54 kW) and 55 lb-ft (74 Nm) of torque. A completely new cylinder head uses a single cam that works the intake valves directly, the exhausts through roller rockers, and also acts as a secondary balancer shaft.
A new, ultra light piston and connecting rod, a new crankshaft with new bearings, and twin spark plugs with individual mapping – all add up to a powerband KTM says is a full thousand rpm broader than before. KTM says it has also optimized intake and exhaust systems, with incoming air routed through a resonator chamber, and an advanced ride-by-wire system with three riding modes lets the rider choose the threat level. There’s also a standard slipper clutch.
The 690 Duke R adds cornering ABS, traction control and three selectable power modes. The base model has regular ABS but power modes and TC are only accessible with an optional Track pack. The R model also gets the spiffy orange frame, LED indicators and a passenger seat cover
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