2013 KTM 690 Duke R - Test Ride

Short vid of me riding the KTM 690 Duke R.

This is my personal opinion, so don't get offended if you don't agree with the points below.

Good points:
The twin spark engine is very smooth with plenty of power. Good brakes from Brembo even with the ABS off and WP suspension soaks up the bumps really well. The handling is quick and precise for a little bike. Feels like riding a 125 again although with a bigger engine in the frame. Fuel range is fantastic, very economical for a big single. Looks like a stunt bike as well.

Bad Points:
I could feel vibrations through the bars but overtime I think the rider would get use to it. The riding position is very compact and was too cramped for me and I'm not that tall neither (5'10). ABS, just don't like it, thank god it was disabled. Even though it looks like a stunt bike, it struggled to wheelie. On a flat straight road, I just couldn't clutch it up in 3rd, gearing was way too tall for it, maybe -1 on the front sprocket and 2-3 on the back it would be a little hooligan machine.

In summary its a fun bike to ride, nimble in the twisties and keeps up with the big bikes. Be ideal for commuting and is a great starter bike for new riders, but for the experienced rider, I wouldn't recommend it.