Jon and Stan from Front Row GB took the KTM 690R on its maiden distance voyage, to assess its usability as a long-term project with a view of being used within the realms of international cross country events.
Joined by Ivan and Kane, the group set off with x2 690R, 530EXC and a Honda CRF.
Recent weeks have proved the 690R can be made to handle reasonably and can easily manage the stresses of intricate Hare and Hound events. Yesterday was to see how the bike felt off-road on the rough trails of Dorset/Wiltshire, plus to assess the potential of the bike being at speed for longer sections and the effects on the rider.
The engine feels as strong as ever, and for longer distances the gearing would have to altered in order to smooth the throttle response and power delivery.
The current suspension made the main impact on the riders, with harsh/stiff feedback, and really does need some alterations, or major changes to provide the subtle feel and movement needed to ride the bike all day, everyday.
With the limited suspension settings currently available, it is fairly easy to induce a tank-slapping feel, which unsettles the whole bike and eventually the rider.
The guys tested a range of suspension and generally with the bike running its current standard fuel load, there was no suspension available to work on the lighter machine. Progressing with some systems to carry additional fuel will obviously again change the reaction of the suspension currently tested, so wait out on that.
At the minute, factory front forks or 2009 EXC suspension appears to work best for enduro and general riding.
FRGB
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