KTM 690 Rally Spied Testing Overseas, Will Be Based On 690 Enduro R
KTM has been spotted testing the 690 Rally. It is supposed to be a bike which is similar to the 690 Enduro R but focuses more on adventure touring. It will come with a triple fuel tank and shares critical components like the motor with the latter.
The KTM 690 Rally will be based on the Enduro R version with drastic changes made to the rider triangle, design to mobilise the rider for adventurous exploration. However, unlike the Enduro R, it is also designed to be versatile to both off-road and adventure touring scenarios.
Design Changes
It can be observed, from the spyshots, that the 690 Rally has various design changes such as a tall Dakar-inspired windscreen, and a transparent front cowl as seen on the 450 Rally Replica. The vertically positioned LED headlights have a DRL strip in the middle of them which looks intimidating.
The 690 Enduro R’s design can be noticed as the two share the same seat and tail design as well as the rear wheel and swingarm. Unlike the Enduro R, the Rally version has passenger footpegs on the custom-designed hangers. The two fuel tanks are positioned just above the engine.
Practicality
A third fuel tank is placed under the seat, as seen on the Enduro R. This triple fuel tank should help the riders counter adverse conditions and terrains where there may be a lack of fuel stations.
Surprisingly, despite the added bodywork on the Enduro R, which weighs 148 Kg (dry), it should remain as one of the lightest adventure bikes in the segment. This can help in accessing and using the available performance.
Engine & Performance
The 690 Rally is powered by the same 692.77cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that produces 74 HP. It will be paired to a 6-speed gearbox. However, it is safe to assume that the 690 Rally may have special tuning done to the engine to allow for the best combination of long distance touring and adrenaline-filled off-roading.
Outlook
The 690 Rally isn’t expected to launch in India. However, it will be interesting to see whether the Austrian brand is able to pull itself out of the losses it is going through with it’s big bikes. The KTM 690 Rally should appeal to the consumers in a way where the brand is able to justify production of the bikes with larger engines.
Image source: CycleWorld.com
