KTM’ s LC4 is hardly a new kid on the block but the Austrian company has just upped the ante big-time. The stunning single’ s power curves are better than ever, despite running cleaner and getting the Euro5 + tick. The latest iteration pumps out a whopping 79hp! And the upgrades don’ t just cover what is under the shrouds. Dig a little deeper and the new KTM 690 Enduro R( and the tarmac-hugging SMC R) reveal an electronic suite that will be the envy of many. Bling like cornering-sensitive ABS and traction control take pride of place, with the SMC R having a new trick up its sleeve – a supermoto specific mode that will allow you to, well, supermoto the rear while still running ABS up front – lean angle sensitive ABS that is. The Enduro R gets a nifty Dynamic Slip mode that actively works out allowed wheelspin in the situation, rather than losing that ability when you need it most. Only available in Rally mode, it is the very latest wizardry from the electronics department and, with the new TFT screen, brings a level of sophistication not normally associated with singles. So with around half of the engine internals new or upgraded, along comes a welcome reprieve in maintenance as well. Oil and filter changes kick out from 10,000km to 15,000 and owners will love that valve clearance checks go from 10,000km to 30,000km intervals. Wrapping the new model are new ergonomically improved bodywork, sleek and comfy, and if you want to go further, there are the now expected upgrades to electronics should you wish to pay the fee. This, in the SMC R’ s case, is the likes of adjustable wheelie control and launch control from a track mode option. On the dirt, there are rally accessories galore. So the‘ orphan’ as it looks on paper, as nobody else seems to want to challenge the sultry single’ s success, has emerged from the chaos ready to tackle our world in its own unique way.