Segment:
High-performance off-road motorcycles (Motocross and Enduro)
Competitors:
Yamaha YZ/WR series, Honda CRF/CR series, Suzuki RM/RMX series, Kawasaki KX/KDX series during the same production years.
Vehicle Focus:
Known for their powerful engines, agile handling, and competitive racing heritage. SX models are motocross-oriented, EXC models are enduro-focused with lights and wider gear ratios.
Benefit:
Essential for owners and mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair these specialized motorcycles, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Covered Years:
2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Typical factory service manuals for this era range from 300-600+ pages)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, diagnosis, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system
Transmission:
Gearbox inspection, repair, clutch operation, lubrication
Electrical:
Ignition system, lighting, charging system, battery, wiring diagrams, starter motor
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (forks, rear shock), steering, wheels, hubs, spokes, bearings
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system (front and rear calipers, master cylinders, lines), brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin specific to models/years), fuel pump, fuel tank, fuel lines, jetting information
Bodywork:
Plastics, seat, fenders, fuel tank cover, graphics, mounting procedures
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, valve clearance adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault finding trees
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, assembly, and installation
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic charts and flowcharts for electrical and mechanical issues
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and tolerances.
Type:
Four-stroke, single-cylinder (liquid-cooled)
Bore X Stroke 250:
Typically around 72 mm x 60 mm (subject to specific model year variations)
Bore X Stroke 400:
Typically around 84 mm x 72 mm (subject to specific model year variations)
Bore X Stroke 450:
Typically around 95 mm x 63.4 mm (subject to specific model year variations)
Bore X Stroke 525:
Typically around 95 mm x 72 mm (subject to specific model year variations)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 40-60 HP (depending on displacement and model year)
Torque Range:
Approx. 35-50 ft-lbs (depending on displacement and model year)
Carburetor Type:
Keihin FCR (Flat CR) series carburetors, typically 39mm or 41mm depending on model and year.
Ignition Type:
Digital CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) with variable ignition timing.
Typical Seat Height:
High (approx. 37-38 inches / 940-965 mm, depending on model and suspension setup)
Dry Weight Range:
Approx. 230-250 lbs (104-113 kg), depending on model and displacement.
Fuel Capacity:
Typically around 2.5-3.5 gallons (9.5-13 liters), depending on model (SX vs EXC).
Classification:
Off-road competition and recreational use. No DOT or NHTSA ratings apply.
Braking System:
High-performance hydraulic disc brakes (front and rear) with stainless steel braided lines common on later models.
Protective Gear Recommendation:
Manual will emphasize the critical importance of wearing appropriate protective gear (helmet, goggles, boots, gloves, body armor).
Oil Change Frequency:
Typically every 10-15 hours of riding or annually. Manual will specify exact intervals based on riding conditions.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Recommended after every few rides, or more frequently in dusty conditions. Detailed cleaning and oiling procedures provided.
Valve Clearance Check:
Typically every 40-60 hours of riding. Critical for engine performance and longevity.
Engine Oil:
Typically a high-quality 10W-50 or 10W-60 synthetic motorcycle oil meeting JASO MA standards. Specific grades will be listed in the manual.
Transmission Oil:
Often shares engine oil, but manual will confirm capacity and specific type if different. Some models might have a separate gearbox oil.
Coolant:
A 50/50 mix of distilled water and a quality motorcycle antifreeze/coolant (ethylene glycol based). Specific KTM part numbers or equivalent may be recommended.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 hydraulic brake fluid. Manual will specify.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, piston rings, valve guides, wheel bearings, steering head bearings, swingarm bearings, chain and sprockets, fork seals.
Specific Concerns:
Early models might have potential issues with certain engine components or electrical connections; the manual provides diagnosis and repair procedures for these.
Reputation:
KTM has a strong heritage in off-road motorsports, particularly motocross and enduro, often referred to as 'Ready To Race'.
Development:
These models represent KTM's evolution in the four-stroke off-road segment, building on earlier designs and introducing advancements in chassis and engine technology.
Manufacturing Location:
Austria (KTM Sportmotorcycle AG)
Motorsports Success:
KTM models of this era achieved significant success in various off-road racing disciplines, including AMA Supercross, Motocross, and GNCC (Grand National Cross Country).
Industry Perception:
Highly regarded for their performance, handling, and durability in demanding off-road conditions.