The 690 is more like the KLR. I'd rivk it in a heartbeat.
For more rugged and better performing off road but less road friendly (still tagged, a requirement when riding spot to spot in the desert/Moab/etc), the 500/525/530 are a lot lighter and more purpose built. Note these are all 500 cc bikes, KTM just changed the name up.
I went with a 530 that fell in my lap for pennies and has proven to be indestructible. Its been to death valley, moab, the high desert, AZ, etc and I can;t say enough about it.
No matter which way you go, you'll appreciate the bike for than any of its jap competitors for many reasons!
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=15899.msg194637#msg194637