Segment:
Large-displacement dual-sport / adventure touring motorcycle.
Target Audience:
Riders seeking long-distance touring capabilities with off-road performance.
Competitors 2008:
BMW R1200GS, Triumph Tiger 1050, Yamaha XT1200Z Super Tenere (though Tenere arrived later), Honda Africa Twin (previous generation).
Engine Architecture:
Powerful V-twin LC8 engine, known for its torque and performance.
Suspension Type:
Long-travel, high-quality WP suspension, adjustable for various conditions (especially on the 'S' model).
Chassis Design:
Robust and agile chassis optimized for both on-road and off-road riding.
S Model Distinction:
The 'S' model typically features higher-spec suspension, longer travel, and sometimes different ergonomics for more aggressive off-road use.
Engine:
V-twin, 4-stroke, LC8 engine systems, operation, and basic maintenance.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system, fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, and operation.
Ignition System:
Ignition system components, operation, and care.
Cooling System:
Liquid cooling system, radiator, coolant, and operation.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust system components and operation.
Transmission:
Gearbox operation, clutch, and shifting mechanism.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (WP Suspension), adjustments, and basic care.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic circuits, pads, and levers.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, and basic electrical troubleshooting.
Wheels Tires:
Wheels, spokes, tire pressure, and basic tire care.
Chassis Frame:
Frame structure and basic component locations.
Bodywork:
Fairings, seat, and basic body panel identification.
Operation:
Starting procedures, riding techniques, fuel operation, and controls explanation.
Maintenance:
Regular checks, lubrication, chain adjustment, air filter cleaning/replacement, oil and filter change, brake fluid check, coolant level check.
Troubleshooting:
Basic troubleshooting guidance for common operational issues.
Safety Precautions:
Riding safety, protective gear recommendations, and hazard awareness.
Cleaning Care:
Guidance on washing and maintaining the motorcycle's appearance.
Storage:
Instructions for short-term and long-term storage.
Depth Level:
Owner-level maintenance and operation. Does not include in-depth repair procedures or diagnostics typically found in a service manual.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 8-valve, DOHC, V-twin four-stroke
Displacement:
999 cc (cc)
Bore X Stroke:
98 x 66 mm (mm)
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approx. 115 HP @ 9,000 RPM (Horsepower)
Torque:
Approx. 98 Nm @ 7,000 RPM (Newton-meters)
Fuel Induction:
Fuel Injection (EFI) with dual throttle bodies (Dell'Orto, typically)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON (Research Octane Number)
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-50, JASO MA, API SG or higher (synthetic recommended)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 3.3 Liters (Liters)
Ignition System Type:
Digital ignition (CDI) with dual ignition coils
Cooling Medium:
Water/Glycol mixture (50/50) - See Maintenance section for specific coolant type.
Transmission Type:
6-speed, claw-shifted, constant mesh gearbox
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-disc clutch, hydraulically operated
Drive Type:
Chain drive (O-ring sealed gold chain, 525 pitch)
Final Drive Ratio:
17/42 (typical for standard model)
Length:
Approx. 2,240 mm (mm)
Width:
Approx. 905 mm (mm) (excluding mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 1,470 mm (mm) (seat height varies with suspension settings)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,570 mm (mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 250 mm (mm) (for standard model)
Seat Height:
Approx. 860-890 mm (mm) (adjustable)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 199 kg (kg)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 227 kg (kg) (fully fueled)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly specified in owner's manual, but typically around 450-500 kg for motorcycle.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20 Liters (Liters)
Safety Certification:
CE, EPA, CARB compliance (as applicable by market). Owner's Manual provides general safety advice.
Brakes Type:
Dual front disc brakes (300 mm), single rear disc brake (240 mm), hydraulic, Brembo calipers.
ABS:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some 2008 models. Owner's manual will detail its operation and limitations if equipped.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Trellis frame made of chrome-molybdenum steel tubing.
Tire Recommendations:
Dual-purpose (on-road/off-road) tires, recommended pressures will be listed.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, multi-function display with trip meter, odometer, clock, and basic warning lights.
ABS System:
Optional ABS system with rider-selectable modes (e.g., off-road mode that disables rear ABS).
Gps Integration:
No integrated infotainment or smartphone connectivity; typically requires aftermarket GPS mounts.
Oil Filter Change:
Every 7,500 km or 12 months (whichever comes first).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 7,500 km, replace if damaged.
Spark Plug Check:
Every 15,000 km, replace as needed.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 15,000 km.
Chain Lubrication:
Every 500 km and after riding in wet conditions.
Brake Pad Inspection:
Regularly, and replace when thickness is below 1 mm.
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-50, JASO MA, API SG or higher (e.g., Motorex Power Synt 4T 10W-50).
Coolant:
50% Distilled Water and 50% Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Motul Motocool Expert).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (refer to specific markings on reservoirs).
Clutch Fluid:
Mineral oil (e.g., Magura Blood) for clutch master cylinder if applicable, or DOT 4/5.1 depending on system.
Fork Oil:
WP Suspension recommends specific oils (e.g., WP Suspension Fluid 5W or SAE 7.5).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch slave cylinder seals, fuel pump O-rings, water pump seals, cam chain tensioner (potential for noise), regulators/rectifiers.
Electrical Quirks:
Occasional issues with battery charging system components (regulator/rectifier), dashboard displays.
Engine Characteristics:
Some earlier LC8 models could be prone to excessive oil consumption if not ridden within specific parameters; careful monitoring is advised.
Fuel System Maintenance:
Periodic cleaning of fuel injectors may be beneficial, especially in areas with varying fuel quality.
Brand Origin:
KTM is an Austrian manufacturer with a strong heritage in off-road and motorsport racing.
Lc8 Development:
The LC8 engine platform was introduced in the early 2000s, evolving into the 950 Adventure, then the 990 Adventure, renowned for its potent V-twin power.
2008 Updates:
The 2008 model represents a refinement of the 990 platform, often featuring minor updates to engine mapping, suspension components, or ergonomics compared to earlier iterations.
Manufacturing Location:
Austria
Motorcycle Class Acclaim:
The 990 Adventure series is widely acclaimed as a class-leading adventure motorcycle for its performance, off-road capability, and ruggedness.
Critical Reviews:
Consistently received high marks from motorcycle publications for its powerful engine and versatile capabilities.
