Welcome to the latest generation of the legendary KTM LC4 single-cylinder powerhouse! Still as bulletproof and hard-hitting as ever, but updated from the previous generation with new clutch and stator covers, an all-new crankcase, an improved oil delivery system, and – most importantly – more performance.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 KTM 690 SMC R: STOP GROWING UP.
Introducing the 2026 KTM 690 SMC R…
The KTM 690 SMC R obliterates the competition, proving itself as the undisputed king of its class. Providing the rider with agile handling, best-in-class power, and rider focused ergonomics, the KTM 690 SMC R embodies the notion of READY TO RACE with 110% dedication to its craft. From sliding into corners, power-wheelies over crests, and hard blasts through tight mountain passes, the King of supermoto for the street is on the attack.
2026 KTM 690 SMC R – Stop Growing Up!
The KTM 690 SMC R has long been the benchmark in the Supermoto world, and for 2026, it’s been sharpened even further. A new, aggressive design wraps around the frame, emphasizing KTM’s race-bred DNA. As with the KTM 690 ENDURO R, the updated LC4 engine delivers increased performance and efficiency, while refined suspension tuning enhances road feedback and agility.
Riders now get a host of tech upgrades, including a full-color 4.2” TFT display, upgraded switchgear, and lean-angle sensitive rider aids like Cornering ABS and Cornering MTC. Selectable Ride Modes and customizable ABS Modes ensure that the bike can be tailored to every riding style—from city backroads to full send at the track. Seamless smartphone connectivity is available via KTMConnect.
Both bikes benefit from a full range of KTM PowerParts and KTM PowerWear, allowing riders to personalize their machines and gear for maximum performance and style, taking full advantage of the world’s most ferocious single-cylinder platform.
2026 KTM 690 SMC R Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
Combining three racing disciplines into one, SUPERMOTO is arguably the purest form of motorcycle competition. Not only does it demand the very best of riders, but it also breaks the mold of what is physically possible. Get ready to experience the ultimate in tire-smoking slides, white-knuckled power wheelies, and peg-grinding lean angles.
RAISE THE BAR: KTM UNVEILS THE 2026 KTM 690 ENDURO R & KTM 690 SMC R
Sharper Looks. Smarter Tech. Same LC4 Attitude.
2026 KTM 690 SMC R Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
PLUSH PERFORMANCE
Adjustablity
Finding the perfect setup when attacking tight apexes is easy, thanks to the KTM 690 SMC R’s fully adjustable suspension, brake and clutch levers, and footrests – not to mention a complete PowerPart catalog filled with performance and style enhancing add-ons.
INFOTAINMENT
TFT Display & Connectivity
A 4.2″ H42 TFT dashboard takes prime position ahead of the rider, featuring a unique, specially-designed user interface to suit the compact screen size. Made from bonded glass, the TFT screen also boasts a special coating and polarization to reduce glare and increase visibility in all lighting conditions. Riders can also access music, incoming calls, turn-by-turn navigation, and Ride Modes via the dashboard – complete with a USB port for device charging duties.
READY TO SHRED
Bodywork
With an ergo triangle specifically designed to cater to everything from fast corners to casual commutes, the KTM 690 SMC R boasts aggressive, slim bodywork. This has been perfectly styled to allow for easy transitions between riding on the street and the odd dirt section. The bodywork is also made from proven, flexible, and long-lasting PP plastic material that is better suited for supermoto and aggressive riding.
POWER HUNGRY
Engine
Welcome to the latest generation of the legendary KTM LC4 single-cylinder powerhouse!
Still as bulletproof and hard-hitting as ever, but updated from the previous generation with new clutch and stator covers, an all-new crankcase, an improved oil delivery system, and – most importantly – more performance.
PICK YOUR POWER
TRACK MODE
Unlock even more customization and ability with the optional TRACK Mode. Thanks to the full color TFT display, riders can use TRACK Mode to toggle additional settings like Launch Control, Anti-wheelie Mode, a slip-adjuster, and Motor-slip regulation at the touch of a button.
BRAKE YOUR WAY
SPORT ABS
Optional SPORT ABS allows riders to be more aggressive on the brakes before ABS intervenes. While ABS functionality remains active on both the front and rear wheels, ABS intervenes a little later, allowing rides to brake harder, with rear-wheel lift-up intervention reduced to allow for harder, more precise braking maneuvers.
LIGHT UP THE DARKNESS
LED Lighting
Equipped with a powerful LED headlight and LED indicators. Not only do these work when the world becomes dark, but they also provide improved visibility when navigating busy traffic or misty road conditions.
PEACE OF MIND
Ergonomics
Every surface the rider touches on the KTM 690 SMC R – from the tank spoilers to the cable routing near the footpegs – has been optimized for maximum performance. Ergonomically, riders have complete freedom of movement without any fear of hooking boots or uncomfortable riding positions when getting knees (an elbows) down.
TAKE A SEAT
Seat
The KTM 690 SMC R features an 35 in (890 mm) seat height with an ultra-grippy seatcover that perfectly matches its striking inmold decal set. The seat cover also boasts an SMC-R-specific texture to work with leather race suits to provide grip and uninhibited rider movement.
FIND YOUR FOOTING
Footpegs
The KTM 690 SMC R boasts footpegs with a set of shorter, slim-line profile needed for maximum lean angle. A removable rubber insert ensures comfort with street boots and helps to absorb vibrations on longer journeys.
THE BACKBONE
Frame
A little stiffer than previous generations, the KTM 690 SMC R is built around a familiar trellis frame, manufactured from lightweight sections of top-quality chrome-molybdenum steel tubing. Engineered to have high torsional rigidity for the best blend of handling, it is also specifically tuned for longitudinal flexibility to absorb wheel impact energy.
CURVED PIVOT
Swingarm
Upfront, a 43 mm WP APEX open cartridge fork with 230 mm travel keeps things in check, with adjustable compression and rebound in 30 easy clicks for easy adjustment. On the rear, any big hits are handled by a WP APEX Separate piston shock absorber with 230 mm of travel. The shock is also rebound adjustable with 20 clicks on the fly, while preload adjustment can be taken care of with a tool.
FORK IN THE ROAD
Front Fork
Maximum Supermoto control is enhanced by the WP APEX 48 upside-down fork. The split fork design developed by WP and KTM has been adapted for the KTM 690 SMC R. It is fitted with springs on both sides with separate damping functions – compression is on the left and rebound on the right-hand side. They have no negative influence on each other. Therefore, damping can easily be adjusted via the dials on top of both fork tubes, with 30 clicks of adjustment each.
SPRING INTO ACTION
Rear Shock
Upfront, a 43 mm WP APEX open cartridge fork with 230 mm travel keeps things in check, with adjustable compression and rebound in 30 easy clicks for easy adjustment. On the rear, any big hits are handled by a WP APEX Separate piston shock absorber with 230 mm of travel. The shock is also rebound adjustable with 20 clicks on the fly, while preload adjustment can be taken care of with a tool.
STOPPING POWER
Brakes
Pulling out all the stops, the KTM 390 ENDURO R is equipped with a 285 mm brake disc and Bybre caliper up front and a 240 mm brake disc and single-piston caliper at the rear. These are supported by KTM’s proven ABS technology, but this can also be disabled completely for added agility offroad.
2026 KTM 690 SMC R – Totalmotorcycle.com International Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ See Dealer USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ See Dealer CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See Dealer GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Engine
Design
1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine
Displacement
692.7 cm³
Power
79 PS
Torque
73 Nm
Transmission
6-speed
CO2 emissions
96 g/km
Cooling
Liquid cooled
Engine cylinder
Single cylinder
EMS
Keihin EMS with RBW, twin ignition
Engine oil
Motorex Power Synth SAE 10W-50
Engine stroke
4-Stroke
Chassis
Front suspension
WP APEX 48
Rear suspension
WP APEX with Pro-Lever linkage
Brake disc diameters (front/rear)
300 / 240 mm
Front brake disc diameter
300 mm
Rear brake disc diameter
240 mm
Front brake
Disc brake
Rear brake
Disc brake
Chain
520 X-Ring
Frame design
Chromium-Molybdenum steel trellis frame, powder coated
Front suspension adjustment
Compression and rebound adjustable
Silencer
Stainless steel primary and secondary silencer
Steering head angle
63.6 °
Rear subframe design
Self-supporting plastic tank
Trail
110 mm
Wheelbase
1476 mm
Suspension
Front suspension
WP APEX 48
Rear suspension
WP APEX with Pro-Lever linkage
Suspension travel (front)
224 mm
Suspension travel (rear)
240 mm
Front suspension adjustment
Compression and rebound adjustable
Rear suspension addition
Preload adjuster
Dimensions
Seat height
899 mm
Wheelbase
1476 ± 15 mm
Tank capacity (approx.)
13.3 l
Ground clearance
237 mm
Weight (without fuel)
153.5 kg
Weight fully fueled
162 kg
Wheelbase tolerance
15 mm
Front wheel diameter
17 “
Rear wheel diameter
17 “
Front wheel width
3.5 “
Rear wheel width
5 “
Wheels
3.5 x 17″; 5 x 17″
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
Posted on August 12, 2025 by Michael Le Pard
