The 2023 KTM 690 SMC R is one of those bikes that doesn’t take itself too seriously—until you twist the throttle. Built around KTM’s powerful 690cc single-cylinder engine and lightweight chassis, the SMC R brings a ton of character and supermoto fun to the street.

The 693cc LC4 single-cylinder engine puts out strong, usable power with plenty of low- and mid-range torque, making this bike incredibly responsive around town and an absolute blast on twisty roads. The 6-speed transmission and ride-by-wire throttle help keep the power delivery smooth and controllable, while KTM’s electronics package adds two riding modes, lean-angle-sensitive traction control, and cornering ABS for extra confidence when you need it.

Handling is where the SMC R really shines. The lightweight chassis is paired with fully adjustable WP XPLOR 48 front forks and a WP XPLOR rear shock, giving you the suspension control you’d expect from a bike built with supermoto riding in mind. The large 320mm front brake provides serious stopping power, while the 17-inch wheels and street-focused tires make the bike quick to turn and easy to toss around.

The riding position is tall and upright, giving you excellent visibility and plenty of leverage over the bike. It’s narrow, aggressive, and built to be ridden with a little attitude. At the same time, the SMC R is street legal and perfectly capable of handling everyday riding when you’re not looking for an excuse to find the nearest set of corners.

With its lightweight design, big single-cylinder punch, premium WP suspension, Brembo braking components, and modern electronics, the 2023 KTM 690 SMC R is a seriously fun machine. If you want something that feels completely different from the average street bike and puts a smile on your face every time you ride it, the SMC R is hard to beat.