KTM 690 SMC R 2021 vs. Kawasaki Z1000 2016

KTM 690 SMC R 2021

Kawasaki Z1000 2016

Overview - KTM 690 SMC R 2021 vs Kawasaki Z1000 2016

KTM 690 SMC R 2021

Kawasaki Z1000 2016

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Technical Specifications KTM 690 SMC R 2021 compared to Kawasaki Z1000 2016

KTM 690 SMC R 2021

Kawasaki Z1000 2016

KTM 690 SMC R 2021

Kawasaki Z1000 2016

Engine and Drive Train

Bore	Bore	105 mm	Bore	77 mm
Stroke	Stroke	80 mm	Stroke	56 mm
Engine power	Engine power	75 HP	Engine power	142 HP
Rpm at Max. Power	Rpm at Max. Power	7,500 rpm	Rpm at Max. Power	10,000 rpm
Torque	Torque	73.5 Nm	Torque	111 Nm
Rpm at Torque	Rpm at Torque	5,600 rpm	Rpm at Torque	7,300 rpm
Compression Ratio	Compression Ratio	12.7	Compression Ratio	11.8
Starter	Starter	Electric	Starter	Electric
Clutch Type	Clutch Type	Antihopping	Clutch Type	Multiplate in oil-bath
Transmission	Transmission	Chain	Transmission	Chain
Number of gears	Number of gears	6	Number of gears	6
Cylinders	Cylinders	1	Cylinders	4
Strokes	Strokes	4-Stroke	Strokes	4-Stroke
Cooling	Cooling	liquid	Cooling	liquid
Displacement	Displacement	692.7 ccm	Displacement	1,043 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspension	Front suspension	Upside-Down telescopic fork	Front suspension	Upside-Down telescopic fork

Suspension Rear

Shock mount	Shock mount	Deflection	Shock mount	direct

Chassis

Frame	Frame	Chromium-molybdenum	Frame	Aluminium
Frame type	Frame type	Tubular	Frame type	Double cradle

Brakes Front

Type	Type	Single disk	Type	Double disk
Piston	Piston	Four pistons	Piston	Four pistons
Technology	Technology	radial	Technology	radial, Petal

Brakes Rear

Type	Type	Disc	Type	Disc
Piston	Piston	Single piston	Piston	Single piston
Shock mount	Shock mount	Floating caliper	Shock mount	Fixed caliper

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre width	Front tyre width	120 mm	Front tyre width	120 mm
Front tyre height	Front tyre height	70 %	Front tyre height	70 %
Front tyre diameter	Front tyre diameter	17 inch	Front tyre diameter	17 inch
Rear tyre width	Rear tyre width	160 mm	Rear tyre width	190 mm
Rear tyre height	Rear tyre height	60 %	Rear tyre height	50 %
Rear tyre diameter	Rear tyre diameter	17 inch	Rear tyre diameter	17 inch
Wheelbase	Wheelbase	1,470 mm	Wheelbase	1,435 mm
Seat Height	Seat Height	890 mm	Seat Height	815 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity	Fuel Tank Capacity	13.5 l	Fuel Tank Capacity	15 l
License compliancy	License compliancy	A	License compliancy	A

Pros and Cons in comparison

KTM 690 SMC R 2021

A large, powerful single cylinder, a stable chassis, just over 160 kg of tractive weight and modern electronics for support - the key data alone suggests a lot of riding pleasure. In 2024, the SMC-R may be a little dusty in some respects and is no longer the undisputed queen of road-legal supermotos, but it can still offer a lot of supermoto fun and performance.

Powerful engine

Electronics can support safety or supermoto manoeuvres as required

Stable, fully adjustable suspension

Agile riding performance

Good ergonomics

Low fuel consumption

Great quickshifter

Old LC display and halogen headlights no longer up to date

Suspension could absorb small bumps more harmoniously

Brakes not overly sensitive

Kawasaki Z1000 2016

The Kawasaki Z1000 (2014) is a statement against the electronic trend of its time - and that is exactly what makes it special today. Its characterful four-cylinder engine, mechanical directness and uncompromising focus on the essentials strike a chord in a time when many bikes have become rolling computers. Yes, it does without modern Advanced Rider Assistance Systems and perfect wind protection. But it offers an authentic naked bike riding experience, paired with Japanese reliability and reasonable maintenance costs. The Z1000 is not a bike for data sheet junkies or electronics fans - it is a bike for people who still want to make their own decisions when rider. An honest bike with character that continues to inspire even after years and more than fulfils its role as an emotional alternative to the digital modern age.

Strong character 1043cc in-line four-cylinder

Outstanding running culture

Direct throttle response

Low maintenance costs

High reliability

Good availability of spare parts

High resale value

Balanced handling

Stable road holding

High-quality workmanship

Puristic driving concept

Authentic driving experience