Editor’s picks – KTM 690 Duke

With the scoop first ride of the 2012 KTM 690 Duke gracing the pages of this week’s issue of MCN, we take a look at the previous model (2008-2011) – one of the most involving rides you’ll find, with a 65bhp single-cylinder motor and the handling characteristics of a supermoto.

The 690’s LC4 single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine is the most impressive part of this bike. It’s hard to believe it’s a single-cylinder, so much better than the lumpy thumpers of old. The styling is very aggressive, it’s loaded with quality parts like WP suspension and Brembo brake, and on the right road, hairpin after hairpin, it’s almost untouchable. Overall build quality is very good from the Austrian manufacturer. Expect fuel consumption around 48mpg.

Here’s our pick of the KTM 690 Dukes currently for sale at mcnbikesforsale.com – it’s 2 years old, has only covered 1590 miles and had a full service history and new rear tyre. On sale at Northamptonshire-based dealer CooperB Motorcycles at £5194 it comes with a full PDI and warranty.  View the advert here.