Go for the 500, it will be very similar to the 350 but with just more power. The 690 will be very different off road and not as much fun. I've had all 3 of those bikes.

 

Perfect thanks for that, is the 500 a massive step up power wise or does it handle the extra power well, I’m assuming it’s better on road with the extra grunt?

 

Is it a step up but you can adjust the gearing to suit. The 690 is also a step up but it doesn't handle anything like an exe off road. If you want to keep a good off road handling experience the it has to be a 500. I'm my opinion the 690 is not a serious off road bike, but it all depends on what type of riding you want to do.

 

As above, definitely the 500. A 690 on any sort of enduro would be hard work for many reasons. The 500 is just a 350 with a bit more oomph.

 

Or a 300cc 2-stroke? Light with loads of power and a lovely smell?

 

You ignored the road element of the question.
The 690 is a great road/trail bike but the first off road bike I ever rode was a 500 at an Ady Smith day back in 2009, when I was 55 and I loved the weight and easy torque. Just as well as no-one would swap but I didn’t care.

 

I’ve had all three also, and what I’ve found is the best al rounder is the 690!

it depends on your riding really, and age!, if your doing the tet, there is loads of road sections and the 350-500, are good for short sections but not long bits!, if your carrying luggage for multi days the 690 is better, but the others will do it!

I’ve done some really hard stuff on the 690, that would have been easier on the 500 , but the bike still made it, no problem!

if you van the bike around and don’t do long road sections, it’s the 350-500
If your doing loads of road it the 690!

hope that helps , just my opinion 👍

 

I've had a 525 and currently have a 690. Basically both are good, but both compromise somewhere. You will have to pick where you want that compromise.
Pick the compromise where you would be happy not enjoying it. So, if you really love off road and can put up with tedious noisy road sections, go for the 500.
If your off road isn't daft techy stuff, and there will be a fair bit of road, go for the 690.

Back in May this year a mate and I did 7 days round Corsica - on and off road. I went on my 690, he was on his 450. Both were fine, both of us had an amazing time. It was slightly harder in the difficult sections off road for me, but then I cruised the roads more comfortably. Really depends on where you want the easy and enjoyment. The 690 is harder to rescue out of ditches and turn around when you get stuck.

Its a personal choice only you can make.

If you are very fit and stupid, you could do and Enduro on the 690, but it would not be fun.