2022 KTM 690 SMC R: Full Specs & Performance

What's up, fellow riders! Today, we're diving deep into the heart of one of the most exciting machines to hit the tarmac in recent years: the 2022 KTM 690 SMC R. If you're all about sharp handling, a no-nonsense attitude, and a whole lot of fun, then this bike is definitely going to be on your radar. We're talking about a supermoto weapon, a bike that’s designed to make every ride an adventure, whether you're carving up canyons or just blasting through your local streets. KTM has a reputation for building aggressive, performance-oriented bikes, and the 690 SMC R is a prime example of their 'Ready to Race' philosophy. It’s not just about raw power; it’s about how that power is delivered, combined with chassis dynamics that make you feel like a superhero on two wheels. We’ll break down all the juicy details, from its beastly engine to its sophisticated electronics, and figure out why this bike is a serious contender for the title of ultimate street-legal supermoto. So, buckle up, grab your favorite beverage, and let's get into what makes the 2022 KTM 690 SMC R so darn special. This isn't just a bike; it's an experience, a tool for pure riding enjoyment that demands your attention and rewards you with every twist of the throttle.

Engine and Performance: The Heartbeat of the Beast

Let's kick things off with the powerhouse of the 2022 KTM 690 SMC R: its engine. At its core lies a 690cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled LC4 engine, and guys, this is no ordinary thumper. KTM has really refined this unit over the years, and in 2022, it’s a masterpiece of engineering. It pumps out a seriously impressive 86 horsepower and 73.6 Nm (54.3 lb-ft) of torque. That might not sound like a crazy number compared to some multi-cylinder beasts, but remember, this is a single-cylinder powerhouse with a weight advantage. The power delivery is instantaneous and brutal, especially in the lower to mid-range, which is exactly what you want in a supermoto. It’s got this incredible urge to get up and go, making wheelies and stoppies feel almost second nature – though, remember to practice responsibly, folks! The engine is known for its responsiveness, and the torque is spread out beautifully, giving you plenty of grunt for any situation. Whether you're launching off a traffic light, exiting a tight corner, or just looking to blast down a straight, the LC4 engine delivers the goods with a character all its own. It’s a single-cylinder, but it feels potent and alive. KTM also boasts about its innovative slipper clutch, which is crucial for aggressive riding. It helps prevent the rear wheel from locking up during hard downshifts, giving you more confidence when you're pushing the limits. For 2022, the engine also features a new cylinder head design and larger intake valves, contributing to that refined power delivery and overall performance. It’s also equipped with dual ignition, which optimizes combustion and reduces fuel consumption and emissions – pretty neat, right? The fueling is managed by a Keihin 46mm throttle body, ensuring precise fuel injection for smooth throttle response. The exhaust system is also designed to complement the engine’s character, providing a satisfying growl that lets everyone know you’re around, without being obnoxious. The entire package is designed for maximum fun and engagement, making every ride feel exhilarating. The engine's character, combined with the bike's lightweight nature, is what truly defines the 690 SMC R's performance envelope. It's a bike that encourages you to play, to explore the limits, and to simply enjoy the raw sensation of riding.

Chassis and Handling: Dance on the Edge

Now, let’s talk about how this beast handles, because that's where the 2022 KTM 690 SMC R truly shines. KTM has equipped this machine with a lightweight Chrome-Molybdenum steel trellis frame, which is super rigid yet incredibly light. This is the foundation of its razor-sharp handling. Coupled with a die-cast aluminum swingarm, the chassis offers fantastic feedback and stability. It’s designed to be flickable, agile, and incredibly planted when you're leaning into corners or scrubbing speed. The suspension setup is, as you'd expect from KTM, top-tier. Up front, we have WP APEX 48mm open-cartridge forks with adjustable compression and rebound damping. These bad boys offer a massive 215mm (8.5 inches) of travel, allowing you to tackle bumps, kerbs, and even the occasional off-road excursion with confidence. They’re designed for serious abuse and provide excellent support. At the rear, you’ll find a WP APEX shock absorber, also fully adjustable, providing 215mm (8.5 inches) of travel and a progressive linkage system. This setup gives the bike that signature supermoto feel – planted, responsive, and ready to change direction in an instant. The ergonomics are also spot-on for supermoto riding. The high seat and wide handlebars put you in an aggressive, commanding position, perfect for controlling the bike with your body and reacting quickly to the road. The 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel are standard supermoto sizes, wrapped in sticky Bridgestone Battlax rubber, providing immense grip. Braking duties are handled by Brembo, of course. Up front, there’s a 320mm disc with a radially mounted four-piston caliper, and a 240mm disc with a single-piston caliper at the rear. These brakes are powerful and precise, offering excellent stopping power and modulation, essential for supermoto antics. The bike’s overall weight is also a crucial factor in its handling prowess. Tipping the scales at just 147 kg (324 lbs) dry, it’s incredibly light, making it feel effortless to maneuver. You can dive into corners with conviction, change lines mid-turn, and flick it from side to side with minimal effort. This lightness, combined with the sophisticated suspension and strong brakes, makes the 690 SMC R an absolute joy to ride on twisty roads. It’s a bike that encourages you to lean, to slide, and to have an absolute blast.

Technology and Electronics: Smarter Than Your Average Thumper

Don't let the aggressive, raw supermoto look fool you – the 2022 KTM 690 SMC R is packed with some seriously clever electronics. KTM has integrated a suite of rider aids that enhance both performance and safety, making this bike accessible and enjoyable for a wider range of riders. Leading the pack is the Cornering ABS system. This isn't your average ABS; it’s designed to work even when you’re leaned over in a corner, preventing wheel lock-up and keeping you upright during braking. It’s a massive confidence booster, especially when you’re pushing the limits or encounter unexpected situations. You even have the option to switch it off completely for track days or when you want to slide the rear. Complementing the ABS is Lean-Angle Sensitive Traction Control. This system monitors the bike's lean angle and adjusts the engine power to prevent rear-wheel slippage. It’s incredibly smooth and unobtrusive, letting you accelerate out of corners with confidence, even in less-than-ideal conditions. For the truly adventurous, there’s Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) and Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC) with optional Rider Modes. These modes allow you to tailor the bike's characteristics to your riding style or the conditions. You can choose from modes like 'Street' and 'Sport' to alter the throttle response and traction control settings. But the real showstopper here is the Supermoto ABS mode. This mode allows the rear wheel to lock up intentionally for controlled slides, while still providing ABS intervention on the front wheel. It’s pure supermoto fun, allowing you to slide into corners with flair, just like the pros. The bike also features a full-color TFT display. This crisp, clear screen provides all the necessary information at a glance, including speed, RPM, gear position, and all your electronic settings. It’s modern, intuitive, and looks fantastic. You can even connect your smartphone via Bluetooth to manage calls and music through the display – pretty slick! The Quickshifter+ is another fantastic addition, allowing for clutchless upshifts and downshifts. This makes riding incredibly smooth and engaging, especially in traffic or when you’re really hammering it. KTM’s commitment to integrating advanced electronics without compromising the bike's raw supermoto spirit is truly commendable. These systems aren't there to 'ride the bike for you,' but rather to enhance your experience, boost your confidence, and allow you to explore the bike's full potential safely.

Design and Ergonomics: Aggressive Stance, Ready to Attack

When you look at the 2022 KTM 690 SMC R, there's no mistaking its intention. It's an aggressive, sharp, and purposeful machine, designed to slice through the air and demand attention. KTM’s signature 'Ready to Race' design language is evident here, with sharp lines, minimalist bodywork, and that iconic orange hue that screams performance. The minimalist fairings and short front fender are classic supermoto styling cues, emphasizing the bike’s agility and readiness for action. The LED headlight is sharp and modern, giving the bike a focused, determined look. The tapered aluminum handlebars are not just for show; they offer a comfortable yet aggressive riding position. They are positioned high enough to provide leverage and control, allowing you to easily maneuver the bike in tight situations and put your weight into turns. The tall, flat seat is another hallmark of supermoto design. It allows you to easily shift your weight forward or backward, aiding in controlling wheelies or slides. It’s also firm and supportive, which is good for longer rides, though let’s be honest, you’re probably not buying this for extended touring! The footpegs are positioned for a slightly forward, athletic stance, giving you good control and feedback from the chassis. The overall ergonomics are focused on the rider’s connection to the machine, promoting an active riding style. You feel like you’re part of the bike, not just sitting on it. The design is also highly functional. The exposed trellis frame, for instance, is not only aesthetically pleasing but also contributes to the bike’s lightweight and rigidity. The small fuel tank, typically around 13.7 liters (3.6 US gal), is sculpted to allow you to grip it with your knees, further enhancing control. The rear tail section is short and sharp, housing the LED taillight and minimalist license plate holder, reinforcing the bike's race-inspired look. Even the graphics and color schemes are designed to be bold and energetic, reflecting the bike's performance capabilities. Every element of the 690 SMC R’s design is geared towards its supermoto purpose: agility, control, and rider engagement. It’s a bike that looks as fast and as exciting as it feels to ride.

Verdict: The Ultimate Supermoto Toy

So, what's the final verdict on the 2022 KTM 690 SMC R? Guys, if you're looking for a bike that delivers pure, unadulterated fun on the street, this is it. It's not a commuter bike, it's not a tourer, and it's definitely not for the faint of heart. It's a supermoto, and it excels at being just that. The combination of its potent LC4 engine, its razor-sharp chassis, its top-of-the-line WP suspension, and its advanced electronics creates a riding experience that is simply intoxicating. The power is immediate and exhilarating, the handling is precise and confidence-inspiring, and the technology ensures you can push the limits safely. Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking for a hooligan machine to spice up your weekend rides or a newer rider looking for a bike that will teach you a thing or two about control and agility, the 690 SMC R is a seriously compelling option. It’s a bike that encourages you to play, to experiment, and to find the joy in every twisty road and every corner. It demands your attention and rewards you with an incredible feeling of connection to the tarmac. It’s a commitment, sure, but one that pays off in spades with smiles per mile. If you want a bike that makes mundane rides feel extraordinary and turns every journey into an event, the 2022 KTM 690 SMC R is an absolute winner. It's the supermoto dream machine that's street-legal.