KTM 690 Duke Motor Bike
It’s a slim Supermoto with the same 654cc, 62bhp engine that powers the 690 Duke and Enduro.The SMC is a lively lump with the option of three different engine mappings, from 30 per cent less power, to an abrupt and brutal power delivery, to a smoother and more useable setting.
My legs ached from the constant leg-out Supermoto-styled action, but wild horses couldn’t have dragged me into the pits. Lap upon lap, the SMC flick-flacked through chicanes, and fell into turns like a drunk into a bar.
The seat is long and slim, with the 12litre self-supporting fuel tank hidden below where it doubles as a rear subframe and helps to lower the centre of gravity.
I could slide my bodyweight back to tuck in for the mini straights, or push forward towards the rally race bike-derived airbox above the engine block.
On the road, I doubt whether I’d find the 900mm seat quite so comfortable. And yes, it is really that high but it’s so much fun you don’t give two hoots!
The suspension is provided by the KTM-owned WP company and the front forks are fully adjustable while the rear monoshock has adjustable rebound and high-low speed compression.
The handling was spot on, as was the grip from the Pirelli Dragon Supercorsa Pro tyres. Banging down the six-speed gearbox was made all the easier with the slipper clutch, which kept my ride on an even keel despite my best efforts.
Although the SMC is a totally focused Supermoto, it’s light and handy with an unintimidating playfulness to the ride.
And the high, wide bars mean you’ll be chopping direction faster than Jamie Oliver with a freshly sharpened knife.
