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Harley1
Forum Moderator

Date Joined Dec 2006
Total Posts : 247

Posted 4/2/2007 8:03 AM (GMT -8)

MCUSA got a chance to kick around KTM's latest entry into the supermoto market at the Streets of Willow. We'd like to hear your views on our 2007 KTM 690 Supermoto - First Ride article.

Tros
Global Moderator

Date Joined Apr 2004
Total Posts : 7309

Posted 4/2/2007 11:01 AM (GMT -8)

I want to like the motorcycle, I really do. I just might like it if I ever got a chance to ride it... But I can't help but say, "meh" when I look at the cost of the motorcycle combined with it's looks. I am certainly a "traditionalist" when it comes to looks. As for it's price, it seems to have quality parts to make for a fun ride, but I just cant help but think that it would be a better option to buy another bike and buy the parts I want on the bike from the get-go. I could be wrong, but for an out-of-the-box supermoto bike, the Husqvarna SM610 just seems like a better fit for me personally.

With that said... I would be happy to see more people riding around on SuperMoto bikes, in general. I think people are really missing out on fun motorcycles if they never get a chance to ride a SuperMoto bike. If this KTM will help more people get on the road with SuperMoto bikes, then so be it. You'll see nothing but grins from me.

"People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they're not on your road doesn't mean they've gotten lost."

Desmolicious
Registered Member

Date Joined Aug 2004
Total Posts : 4618

Posted 4/2/2007 11:03 AM (GMT -8)

Local dealer has the 950 Supermoto and 990 Superduke sitting there. The Superduke looks fantastic, especially in grey/black. Super bad a$$ and now I want one... (it also has a bigger motor and FI vs the Supermoto 950).

Børk! Børk! Børk!

Tros
Global Moderator

Date Joined Apr 2004
Total Posts : 7309

Posted 4/2/2007 11:31 AM (GMT -8)

Oh what I'd to do trade the local Aprilia dealership for a KTM dealership. *keeps dreaming*

"People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they're not on your road doesn't mean they've gotten lost."

umarth
Registered Member

Date Joined Jun 2005
Total Posts : 18

Posted 4/2/2007 12:53 PM (GMT -8)

I like the idea of a supermoto a lot; most of the roads around Eugene, OR are kinda bumpy and gravelly and I assume a 'moto would make life easier (more fun). I like the looks because it is fugly and I like the idea of mid-sized engined. Still, it is kinda of expensive and I don't really know what kind of bike its performance would be comprable with...? Is orange the only color?

Tros
Global Moderator

Date Joined Apr 2004
Total Posts : 7309

Posted 4/2/2007 1:42 PM (GMT -8)

It also comes in black, and "prestige" which looks to be silver.

"People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they're not on your road doesn't mean they've gotten lost."

louemc
Registered Member

Date Joined Mar 2003
Total Posts : 15451

Posted 4/2/2007 1:43 PM (GMT -8)

Bring on the 990 SuperDuke. That's the size and specs for the varibles of whats out there. Sure a single can be fun in a tight (like parking lot track) and when you don't have to pay for it, just ride and report, that's fun. But use it everyday, in every way a bike see's duty. Some freeway, some open road drone, a lot of nothing special curves and corners, what it takes to get to the tight twist, knarly road. The single is gasping for breath.Way too often.

Focus the forces, Be The Force

Tros
Global Moderator

Date Joined Apr 2004
Total Posts : 7309

Posted 4/2/2007 2:11 PM (GMT -8)

Thats the impression I got from the XR650L. Fun bike, but wasnt exactly an ideal fit for me. Of course, what isn't enough for me, might be perfect for another person. In fact, if a person knows they arent doing alot of high-speed riding, then the 650+ thumpers are an absolute blast.

"People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they're not on your road doesn't mean they've gotten lost."

louemc
Registered Member

Date Joined Mar 2003
Total Posts : 15451

Posted 4/2/2007 2:24 PM (GMT -8)

The blast is bigger and comes on earlier, and lasts longer, when ya up the Numbers

, Ya don't have to go faster, before it shows, just have more going on, from the git-go.

Focus the forces, Be The Force

OhioSteve
Registered Member

Date Joined Jul 2004
Total Posts : 861

Posted 4/2/2007 4:00 PM (GMT -8)

louemc, not everyone has your level of skill, or your level of interest in sportbikes.

I would love to ride a big single in tight urban areas. It would be great for zooming through traffic and low-speed hellraising. Yes, it is almost as expensive to purchase as a 600cc sportbike. But I have a buddy who got his KTM supermoto insured in the "dual sport" category. So he only pays 1/4 the sportbike premium.

A key question for me is "how ugly is it?" If it is merely unpleasant to look at, that would be disastrous. But if it is AMAZINGLY ugly, well in a way that would be better than owning a beautiful bike. For this bike to appeal to me, it would need to be so ugly that I could brag about its ugliness.

I am the foremost expert on my opinion.

Kawi500
Registered Member

Date Joined Feb 2007
Total Posts : 78

Posted 4/2/2007 7:58 PM (GMT -8)

The KTM 690 is the coolest ive seen yet. I guess my pasion has allways been thumpers. But the new Kawi and Honda 650 thumpers are like 5000 or less if ya get a good deal. This thing is to much for my bank account! Dont get me wrong though i want one,have to buy a lotto ticket. DREAM N***** rolleyes

Kawi500***

Tros
Global Moderator

Date Joined Apr 2004
Total Posts : 7309

Posted 4/2/2007 9:17 PM (GMT -8)

They may be cheaper, Kawi500, but they also don't have the brakes, suspension, etc of the KTM. They are still fun bikes and will always be a solid option for people looking for something cheaper.

Anyways, these supermoto's have their place. The thumpers are fun motors, and I believe there will always be a place in the market for them. What is enough, and isn't enough will always depend on individuals; which means this bike could possibly be perfect for a number of riders. I hope it sales well.

"People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they're not on your road doesn't mean they've gotten lost."

OhioSteve
Registered Member

Date Joined Jul 2004
Total Posts : 861

Posted 4/3/2007 2:06 PM (GMT -8)

Yes brembo brakes are a real plus.

I am the foremost expert on my opinion.

Kenny
MCUSA - Editorial Director

Date Joined Apr 2003
Total Posts : 460

Posted 4/3/2007 8:07 PM (GMT -8)

Glad to hear the 690 can draw out a decent conversation. I don't know what it is for certain Kansas but this barrage of Supermoto bikes has me hooked. I love sportbikes, love off roadtoo and this just makes for such a great combination. As far as the insurance goes - that is certainly a plus. As far as the price of this bike goes - well, you cant have everything all the time. I am sure KTM will sell some of these things and I am sure people will be really happy with them. I would like to suggest that a bike like this is comparable to the Suzuki Supermoto but I think this would flat wax it on the road. The yellow bike would have its number in a track environment though. After that, the Husky SM is one of the few bikes in the same league as this - and they are still quite a bit different. In the end - were just showing you what is out there and personally I had a helluva time on this bike during our brief relationship and I would like to go back for more.

Damn it, where'd Duke go now?

x2468
Registered Member

Date Joined Feb 2005
Total Posts : 1171

Posted 4/3/2007 8:17 PM (GMT -8)

i love ktm. but what a weird looking bike. under engine exhaust on a dirtbike style MC. and that "spy vs. spy beak".

Kawasaki Kx250
Kawasaki Brute Force 750 4x4

Tros
Global Moderator

Date Joined Apr 2004
Total Posts : 7309

Posted 4/4/2007 11:17 AM (GMT -8)

Kenny said...
Glad to hear the 690 can draw out a decent conversation. I don't know what it is for certain Kansas but this barrage of Supermoto bikes has me hooked. I love sportbikes, love off roadtoo and this just makes for such a great combination.

Without a doubt. Supermoto bikes are an absolute blast to tear around on. For me, an ideal supermoto bike would have to be focused more to street that all-out race prepped; this KTM certainly has that going for it. I still think it would be neat to somehow take the traditional dirtbike look, and then add a motor like what is in the SV650. Sure, it wouldn't the lightest, but it would be a heck of a hooligan bike.

You can't tell I am torn between supermoto bikes or stripped streetfighters, can ya? lol

"People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they're not on your road doesn't mean they've gotten lost."

umarth
Registered Member

Date Joined Jun 2005
Total Posts : 18

Posted 4/4/2007 11:36 AM (GMT -8)

Supermotos are the most intriguing style of bike for me; I do a lot of city riding and then spend times on corners. Sportbikes don't really do the city, but streetfigthers and supermotos do. Grab a couple streetfighters and pit them against some supermotos and then tell us what the best is for every riding condition....

Desmolicious
Registered Member

Date Joined Aug 2004
Total Posts : 4618

Posted 4/4/2007 4:34 PM (GMT -8)

Kawi500 said... The KTM 690 is the coolest ive seen yet. I guess my pasion has allways been thumpers. But the new Kawi and Honda 650 thumpers are like 5000 or less if ya get a good deal.

I had a KLR 650 and to bring it up to IMO normal rideable spec ya gotta dump cash into it (brakes, suspension). But you couldn't pour enough cash into that thing to make it even come close to competing with the crunchy orangy Austrian goodness that is the KTM.

One is an ancient design, the other is the KTM.

Børk! Børk! Børk!

Kawi500
Registered Member

Date Joined Feb 2007
Total Posts : 78

Posted 4/4/2007 6:15 PM (GMT -8)

Ok Ok i admit it....I love this bike....I want this bike....I need this bike....I need to make more money or save more money. And i dint even test ride it yet**Laugh! Maybe mount a couple of guns on this wicked thing?

Im only joking...Garantee: You will get the looks on this hot bike!

Kawi500***

The 70s were simple*** scool

louemc
Registered Member

Date Joined Mar 2003
Total Posts : 15451

Posted 4/4/2007 6:48 PM (GMT -8)

umarth said...
Supermotos are the most intriguing style of bike for me; I do a lot of city riding and then spend times on corners. Sportbikes don't really do the city, but streetfigthers and supermotos do. Grab a couple streetfighters and pit them against some supermotos and then tell us what the best is for every riding condition....

There isn't any best for every riding condition. This is where the biker comes in. The biker knows the type of roads where the biker will be riding. The biker knows how the biker likes to ride. And a general size that works best there.

This type of bike is not expensive or hard to come up with, unless you can't do anything yourself. If the only way to get one is turn key new off the show room floor, completely done by a manufaturer (like KTM, Aprilia, Ducati) then it's expensive. There are bikers that have been doing these bikes themselves Street fightered sportbikes with rashed plastic, or open class dirt bikes Motarded. You guys serious? You want this type bike? Get a bike that's tanked the market value, like a Suzuki TL1000R, toss the clip-on handle bars and get the street fighter conversion to standard or dirt bike bars. How does V-Twin 117 HP, frame to take on, and kick Ducati 916 ass (which didn't happen, but the frame/forks/wheels/brakes are there). The TLR out powered the Ducati 916 but, the Ducati's higher refined total package got it around the track faster, better rider confidence, I'm digressing though, you guys will not find the short comings, only thrill to the long comings. Or, any race replica, it's got a license plate, it's got the goods, all you have to do, is a little cosmetic work. So..... do you want it? Or Not?

Focus the forces, Be The Force

Tros
Global Moderator

Date Joined Apr 2004
Total Posts : 7309

Posted 4/4/2007 7:27 PM (GMT -8)

I could of given you, umarth, the answer lou spit out; but I knew he'd chime in... He's right. It doesnt take too much work to get a sportbike to be a good streetbike. Heck, just changing the handlebars out makes such a dramatic difference.

Lou, not to go off topic or anything (ha!) I've always been paranoid about buying used sportbikes. Providing a guy knows mechanic "basics" (to me, basic is any external mechanical work, not so much engine internals) what are the odds of a guy being able to tell if the bike was ran into the ground or not?

"People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they're not on your road doesn't mean they've gotten lost."

louemc
Registered Member

Date Joined Mar 2003
Total Posts : 15451

Posted 4/5/2007 10:11 AM (GMT -8)

Totally depends (or gamble free enough), tell by looking at it. Mileage a clue, no signs of abuse, assuming for this street fighter based project, the bike was "totaled" so it is totally rashed on one side. Everything plastic, cracked, scuffed, muffler scratched, turn signals broken. This happens all the time, simple tip over or slow speed dump. No bent forks, no bent frame, no harm except cosmetic, and it's all stuff you don't want anyway. I wouldn't buy a bike that isn't running. The checks made to a running bike of sound, and sight, going through the gears, is the exhaust clean? Are enough for me. We have to be talkin a very low price, on a bike that the insurance company has paid off as a Total.

I wouldn't touch a bike that even had a possibility of bent forks or frame, because ya don't have to. Better choices (and no Gamble) bikes are there.

Focus the forces, Be The Force

Tros
Global Moderator

Date Joined Apr 2004
Total Posts : 7309

Posted 4/5/2007 10:48 AM (GMT -8)

Thanks, Lou!

"People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they're not on your road doesn't mean they've gotten lost."

umarth
Registered Member

Date Joined Jun 2005
Total Posts : 18

Posted 4/6/2007 7:18 AM (GMT -8)

I like the idea of doing a crashed out sportbike for a streetfighter, however my mechanical skills with bikes extends about as far as changing the oil. I also have a strong preference to v-twins for most of my riding. I have an SV now and it is about the only bike I've ever ridden. It has been a good three or four years but I would like a little more. I think. The nice thing about a crashed sportbike is that I don't have to worry about when I crash it. But I don't need that kind of power. Thanks for the insight/advice.

RD350
Registered Member

Date Joined Jan 2006
Total Posts : 14

Posted 4/6/2007 7:39 AM (GMT -8)

I love this bike. The looks are controversial at the moment but I prefer to think of them as forward thinking. When the Super Duke 990 was introduced many many critics called it ugly and weird. Now most people seem to love it. Compare it to the Ducati Monster ... the standard for all naked twins ... and it makes the Monster look ancient.

My prediction is that this bike will make all the other MX derived SuperMotos look dated in a year or so.

However, I may wait for the expected 2008 690 Duke III before stepping up to the plate.

The most significant thing about this bike which no-one seemed to mention is the new motor. The new counter balancer is reported to seriously cut vibration as compared to the old LC4 paint shaker. While this wont make the bike a highway cruiser, it will broaden its range and appeal quite a bit. Also new ... FI, anti-hop clutch, 6 speed, 63hp.

If all of this works well without blowing up too often, then this is the most significant single since the Ducati SuperMono.

No, its not a good "only bike" unless you live in the city or very close to lots of twisty roads. But it very well may be your most fun bike by a long shot.

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