P94
RIDE REVIEW I 2026 KTM 690 SMC R
The 690's motor is vibey and
one-dimensional—even if it is pro-
digiously powerful—but perhaps I
am being too harsh here. After all,
KTM can't keep up with demand
for the 690 Enduro R version
of this bike that uses the exact
same engine, and I'm told these
SMC R's have no issues selling
off dealer floors, so what gives?
At a glance, the numbers are
good.
Producing a claimed 78 horse
-
power (up four over the 2025
model) and 54 lb-ft of torque,
KTM's legendary 693cc LC4
single-cylinder engine continues
to deliver its performance with a
brutal immediacy few twins, or
even triples, can match.
There is still enough vibration
to remind you what you're riding,
but I'll admit some of the exces-
sive tingles that once defined
big-bore thumpers have been
mostly eradicated. And that's no
easy engineering task.
Although the single-cylinder
engine retains its familiar dis
-
placement and overall architec-
ture, KTM has carried out one of
the most extensive revisions to
the platform in recent years for
2026.
The LC4 features redesigned
crankcases, new clutch and sta-
tor covers, an updated oil circuit
and revised internal oil routing
to improve lubrication efficiency
and durability.
A new, higher-pressure fuel
pump works alongside updated
valve timing and revised map
-
ping to deliver a smoother
throttle response, cleaner emis-
sions and Euro 5+ compliance
All-new bodywork gives a
slimmer stance to the largest
single-cylinder engine you
can buy in any motorcycle.
