The KTM 700 Rally Factory was unbeaten for six consecutive years but the Austrian firm presented the new 690 Rally last year and in its first participation in the World Raids…
The new KTM 690 Rally was built in from scratch in 2006 with a very precise objective: to aid the work of the riders and mechanics in all ways. The KTM engineers made a bike that was not only easy to ride but also one where the engine was easy to repair and with easy access.
One of the most important characteristics that the Team Repsol KTM riders will experience on this bike for the Dakar 2008 is the sensation of lightness that they will perceive. It is 8kg lighter than its predecessor, however, almost as important as this weight loss is is the fact that it has also had its weight redistributed. The weight has been moved towards the rear and downwards on the 690 Rally, varying the centre of gravity in such a way that the riding sensation has become much more precise. These two changes have brought a better level of agility and handling on any terrain.
The chassis is another strongpoint on this bike. The KTM 690 Rally uses a trellis structure, this changes the way that the shocks are absorbed as well as the manner that they are transmitted to the rider. This is noticed above all at high speed, because this chassis bends less and is more stable than the previous one. Something similar happens on sand with the throttle wide open; the rear end moves much less and so it is easier and safer to ride. On the other hand, on more technical zones (either with stones or very soft) its great agility continues to aid the rider because even though the bike is more stable at speed it has not lost any of the technical agility needed when required.
The engine is continues to be a single cylinder 4 stroke, although the displacement is a little smaller than on its predecessor. The insides on the KTM 690 Rally were reduced a little, and so it has been modernised quite considerably. The stroke was reduced so as to get the engine to increase the revs quicker. Moreover the transmission was varied, adding a sixth gear so that it can go more easily in zones where peak power levels are needed.
The engine position on the chassis was also changed. Now it is mounted from below and fixed by two metallic brackets making it easier to assemble and take apart. To change the engine on the KTM 700 Factory Rally the whole chasssis had to be taken apart, along with the radiator, etc; now though all this is not necessary, and so time is gained as was seen in the Dakar 2007.
Continuing with the philosophy of simplifying thinngs as much as possible, the 690 Rally has a new position for the battery, the fuses and all the electrical connections. They are no longer at the front, next to the GPS, and are now under the seat. The latter is also mounted on a structure that includes the rear fuel tank, where the two emergency drinking water tanks are also found, obligatory in case of isolation.
The KTM 690 Rally that will be ridden by the Repsol KTM riders, Marc Coma, Jordi Viladoms and Gerard Farrés, is a tried and tested and well-developed machine. In 2008 it will arrive in Africa after just two years of use, with an enviable history: two world titles thanks to Marc Coma – 2006 and 2007 – and a victory in the 2007 edition of the Dakar thanks to Despres.
KTM 690 Rally 2008
Type of engine: Single cylinder, 4 stroke. 653.7cc. Liquid cooled. Electric start.
Transmission: 6 gears. Multi-plate clutch bated in oil, hydraulic operation.
Chassis: Chrome molybdenum trellis. Aluminium handlebar Ø 28/22mm. Seat height: 980mm.
Suspension:
Front: WP USD Ø 48mm.
Rear: WP Monoshock.
Travel front/ rear: 300 / 300mm.
Brakes:
Front: Disc Ø 300mm.
Rear: Disc Ø 240mm.
Tank: Approx. 36 litres
Weight: Approx. 162kg.
