Used test: 2012 KTM 690 ENDURO R GENUINE DUAL-PURPOSE WEAPON

The 690 Enduro model has been a significant part of KTM’s line-up since 2008. Unlike its much more focused, smaller engined enduro bikes, the big capacity single (actually of 654cc capacity) was fit for road duties of a much longer distance. Not only did it have sufficient performance, but its seat was plusher, the tank range was longer and, just as crucially, it had much longer service intervals than those pukka, more competition-biased machines. It really was a true dual-purpose machine, though still with a design emphasis to ensure it was adept off-road. Suiting that role all the more, an R version joined the original E model the following year. Styled differently, and with an orange frame, the 2009 bike also featured 20mm longer suspension travel and a correspondingly taller seat height.

For 2012, the 690’s engine became more truthful to the model’s name by having a 690cc capacity. The E model was dropped, though the remaining Enduro R’s seat height and suspension travel were reduced by 20mm to make it more manageable. Its headlight was improved and the 690 now came fitted with a rev counter. Two years on,