The KTM 690 Enduro R and KTM 690 SMC R both receive updates for 2026, most of which are shared between the two. Updates include changes to the engine to meet emissions regulations, minor tweaks to the chassis, and some new rider aids and tech.
The LC4 693cc single-cylinder engine is about 50% changed from the previous iteration, according to KTM. It gets a new clutch and stator cover, a new crankcase, changes to the oil system, an optimized airbox cover and air boot to eliminate the need for a secondary air system, a new fuel pump with increased pressure, and updated valve timing. A new exhaust features a relocated catalyst to create a more compact muffler.
Service intervals have increased from 10,000 km (6,214 miles) to 15,000 km (9,321 miles) for oil changes and from 30,000 km (18,641 miles) to 60,000 km (37,282 miles) for valve clearance.
While the chassis of both bikes remain mostly the same, KTM made a few minor changes. The frame’s overall stiffness has been improved across all loads to improve rider feel, and suspension has been updated with new settings. The Enduro R also gets new fixation points for a centerstand and a new standard skidplate. The bikes feature new graphics as well.
There’s quite a bit of new or updated tech, and it’s all accessed through the redesigned and illuminated switchgear and the new 4.2-inch TFT dash with smartphone connectivity through the KTMconnect app. Ride modes include Street on both bikes, Sport on the SMC R, and Offroad on the Enduro R. Optional modes include a Rally mode (includes Dynamic Slip Adjust, Motor Slip Regulation, and a slip adjuster) for the Enduro R or Track mode (includes Launch Control, Anti-wheelie Mode, Motor Slip Regulation, and a slip adjuster) for the SMC R. Both bikes also get new LED lighting.
Cornering traction control and cornering ABS have been updated, and traction control can be completely turned off. The SMC R comes with Supermoto+ ABS, updated from previous Supermoto ABS, which allows riders to slide the rear wheel into corners. The SMC R also gets Sport ABS, which allows the rider to brake more aggressively before ABS intervenes.
Instead of Supermoto+ and Sport ABS, the Enduro R gets Offroad ABS, which disengages the ABS on the rear and limits ABS on the front. Rear wheel lift and cornering detection are disabled in this mode. Additionally, the Dynamic Slip Adjust that comes with the optional Rally mode is a new feature that automatically adjusts the allowed wheel slip based on traction, reducing the traction control intervention when extra wheel spin is needed.
Pricing for these two models has not yet been announced, but we’ll update the post when MSRPs are available. Visit the KTM website for more information.
Check out more new bikes in Rider’s 2026 Motorcycle Buyers Guide
This Article First Appeared At ridermagazine.com
