KTM 690 DUKE R ABS 2016

ENGINE

The latest LC4 showcases twenty-four carats of fun. With this gem of an engine now breathing more freely thanks to the standard Akrapovič slip-on exhaust, the engineers have managed to extract a whopping 75 hp (55kw) from the trademark 690 cm³ single thumper; unseen in the monocylinder motorcycle world. How it happened? They completely reworked the cylinder head, inserted a new, ultra light and extremely strong piston and connection rod, rerouted the air intake through a resonator chamber and provided the improved crankshaft with new sleeve bearings. As a result, the powerband could also be made a thousand rpm wider, which means an even more uniform power delivery, especially in the mid to high rev range. Twin ignition featuring plug-selective mapping, rock solid but featherweight internals and optimized intake and exhaust systems cultivate this massive mono to be as strong as it is smooth, assisted by an advanced ride-by-wire system which guarantees great refinement as well as low fuel consumption and emission figures. You’re green, while they’re green with envy. And you haven’t even begun mentioning upmarket goodies like a standard slipper clutch.

SECOND BALANCER SHAFT

In a free-revving firecracker like this, you want to smooth things out a bit. That’s why the LC4 serves a bonus balancer shaft, nipping annoying vibrations in the bud.

ENGINE MANAGEMENT

The electronic engine management system lives to make the LC4 shine. Twin ignition with individual mappings for each spark plug ensures that your precious fuel is always burned to perfection, irrespective of load and engine speed. And then there is genuine ride-by-wire, in other words: electronically controlled throttle valve actuation without any mechanical linkage.