Vehicle Segment:
Large-capacity dual-sport/adventure touring motorcycle.
Target Audience:
Adventure riders, long-distance tourers, off-road enthusiasts seeking robust and capable machinery.
Key Competitors Era:
BMW R1200GS, Triumph Tiger 1050, Honda Africa Twin (earlier models), Suzuki V-Strom DL1000.
Design Philosophy:
Purpose-built for adventure touring with a strong emphasis on off-road capability, durability, and accessible V-twin power.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 75-degree V-twin (LC8) – renowned for its torque and character.
Suspension Provider:
WP Suspension – high-quality components offering significant adjustability.
Fueling Systems:
Carbureted (950) for simpler maintenance, Fuel Injection (990) for improved efficiency and emissions.
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, and specifications for the LC8 V-twin engine (carbureted for 950, fuel-injected for 990).
Fuel System:
Carburetor systems (950), EFI systems (990), fuel pump, fuel injectors, throttle bodies, fuel tank, fuel lines.
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, coolant hoses, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust headers, mufflers, catalytic converters (if applicable), mounting hardware, gasket specifications.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, gear selection mechanisms, lubrication, torque specifications.
Drivetrain:
Chain drive system, sprockets, rear swingarm, wheel bearings, torque specifications.
Suspension:
Front forks (WP Suspension), rear shock absorber (WP Suspension), seals, bushings, oil specifications, adjustment procedures, linkage systems.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, pad replacement, rotor specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, starter motor, alternator, ignition system, lighting (headlight, taillight, indicators), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.
Instrumentation And Controls:
Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, dashboard indicators, handlebar controls, throttle mechanism, clutch lever assembly.
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis construction, fairings, fuel tank mounting, seat assembly, luggage rack systems, graphics, paint touch-up guidance.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel types (spoked), rim specifications, tire sizes, inflation pressures, wheel bearing maintenance, balancing.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic trees, fault finding for electrical and mechanical issues, error code interpretation (for EFI models).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.
Engine Rebuild:
Piston ring replacement, valve adjustments, camshaft removal/installation, crankshaft and connecting rod inspection, seal replacement.
Suspension Overhaul:
Fork seal replacement, fork oil change, rear shock absorber service and rebuilding.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring harness inspection, component testing, diagnosing charging system issues, lighting problems.
Fuel System Servicing:
Carburetor cleaning and synchronization (950), fuel injector cleaning and testing (990), fuel pump testing.
Brake System Maintenance:
Brake pad replacement, caliper servicing, master cylinder rebuild, brake line replacement, bleeding.
Bodywork Repair And Refurbishment:
Fairing repair, graphic application, seat upholstery, fuel tank maintenance.
Wheel And Tire Service:
Tire mounting/dismounting, wheel balancing, wheel bearing replacement.
Depth:
In-depth, covering complete disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle components. Suitable for experienced mechanics and serious DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 75° V-twin
Displacement 950:
942 cc (57.5 cu in)
Displacement 990:
999 cc (61.0 cu in)
Bore X Stroke 950:
90.0 mm x 73.4 mm (3.54 in x 2.89 in)
Bore X Stroke 990:
97.0 mm x 67.5 mm (3.82 in x 2.66 in)
Compression Ratio 950:
11.0:1
Compression Ratio 990:
11.5:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower 950 Est:
Approx. 98 hp (73 kW) @ 8,000 rpm
Horsepower 990 Est:
Approx. 105 hp (78 kW) @ 7,500 rpm
Torque 950 Est:
Approx. 67 lb-ft (91 Nm) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque 990 Est:
Approx. 70 lb-ft (95 Nm) @ 6,000 rpm
Fuel System 950:
Twin Keihin CVK 40 carburetors
Fuel System 990:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with dual throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, min. 95 octane (RON)
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 19.0 liters (5.0 US gal)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 km (4,660 mi) or annually, whichever comes first. Check manual for specifics.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 15,000 km (9,320 mi)
Chain Lubrication Tension Check:
Every 1,000 km (620 mi) and after washing or riding in rain.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Check every 7,500 km (4,660 mi), clean or replace as needed.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-50, API SG/SH/SJ/SL or JASO MA certified. Specific KTM recommendation is for Motorex Power Synt 4T 10W/50.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.7 liters (2.9 US qt) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (shared with brake system)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch slave cylinder seal leaks, regulator/rectifier failures, wheel bearings, fuel pump issues (especially on early 990s), water pump seals.
Electrical Faults:
Intermittent electrical connections, especially at the starter solenoid and ignition coils. Check grounding points.
Fuel Delivery 950:
Carburetor jetting may require adjustment for altitude or aftermarket exhausts. Float bowl leaks can occur.
Suspension Tuning:
While high-quality, suspension may require re-valving or spring changes for heavier riders or specific terrain.