Is the KTM 690 SMC R a good all-rounder to commute to the city and go on weekend adventures?
As a supermoto, the KTM 690 SMC-R is well established, but there are many riders who want to know if it is versatile. How is it on daily commutes through urban traffic but still fun on weekend rides on twisty backroads or light off-road trails? It turns out that a few riders are concerned about whether it is comfortable for longer trips, and some are worried about how it performs on the highway. The bike's agility is praised thanks to its single-cylinder engine and lightweight design, but what does that mean in the real world where you ride on varied surfaces? So let’s take a look at whether this bike is the jack of all trades or better at some things.
Absolutely! I've had my 690 SMC R for over a year, at this point using it both for commuting and weekend fun. In city traffic, it's nimble; a blast on snaky roads. For a nicer ride, just slap on a comfier seat; you can go for longer rides too.
I wouldn’t call it an all-rounder; it’s great for short commutes and hooning around. On longer rides, the vibrations can get annoying, and highway trips are a chore because there is no wind protection.
Having owned both adventure bikes and supermotos, I think the 690 SMC-R is a nice middle ground. It's not a dirt bike, but it's more capable on the road and still light enough to have a bit of fun off-road. Don't expect ADV bike comfort; just don't.
I take mine everywhere from grocery runs to weekend trips. The secret is to accept the supermoto nature of it—it’s not a cushy tourer, but if you’re prepared to learn to ride accordingly, it can do a little bit of everything.
I honestly think it’s overkill for just commuting. If you are not going to be whipping around twisties or doing a little bit of off-roading on the weekends, you will probably be better off with something more practical to use every day.
If you want fun over comfort, it’s a great all-rounder. Mine I use every day on the commute and on weekend trips. It’s not nearly as comfy as a big ADV bike, but the smile factor makes up for it!
I’d say it’s about a 70/30 bike, 70% street fun, 30% practicality. It can do it all, but it is the hooligan machine. If you’re looking for more balance, check out the 690 Enduro R.
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Discussions and Questions Is The Ktm 690 Smc R A Good All Rounder To Commute To The City And Go On Weekend Adventures
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