Go Back   Two Wheel Fix > In the Garage or Shop > Model Reviews

Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
Old 12-08-2008, 05:31 PM   #1
fnfalman
Europhile
 
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: SoCal
Moto: Aprilia RS125, Aprilia SR50 Factory, Aprilia Tuono, BMW Rockster, KTM 990 Adventure
Posts: 1,875
Default IMS Show Long Beach test ride review - KTM 690 SMC supermotard

After the Aprilia, pretty much everything else paled in comparison.

The 690 SMC is very tall, of course, as per all proper motards. Riding it right after riding the 690 Duke really brought out the differences in the bike despite the engine configuration and displacement.

The SMC seems "slower" in comparison to the Duke, and rougher around the edge too. Not polished but more of a race bike. And the soft motard suspension pogos back and forth on acceleration and braking. I had some fun taking some corners with my feet sticking out.

Amazingly enough, it was more stable at top end than the Duke just because of the motard/dirt seat that allows me to sit practically on the gas tank and put all of my considerable heft on the front end. Brake is also less sensitive and more forgiving. Still shed speed quickly but with better control. Gear shift has longer throw than the Duke but gives more positive feedback. I can actually tell whether or not I changed gear.

__________________
Cogito Ergo Vroom - I think therefore I ride

fnfalman is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 12-09-2008, 09:34 PM   #2
Homeslice
Elitist
 
Homeslice's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2008
Location: SF Bay Area
Moto: Gix 750
Posts: 11,351
Default

Rode one at the KTM demo 2-3 months ago, thought it sucked.....But then I'm not a motard guy.
Homeslice is offline   Reply With Quote
Reply

Bookmarks


Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off

Forum Jump


All times are GMT -4. The time now is 02:13 PM.

Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.11
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions Inc.