The 2008 990 Adventure and 990 Adventure S represent a significant entry into the large-displacement adventure touring motorcycle segment, renowned for their robust engineering and capability in both on-road comfort and off-road performance. Building on a strong heritage in off-road racing, these models feature a powerful V-twin engine delivering substantial torque and horsepower, complemented by long-travel suspension and high ground clearance, making them ideal for enthusiasts focused on long-distance travel and demanding adventure riding. The 'S' variant typically offers enhanced suspension components, further emphasizing its off-road bias.
This English-language owner's manual provides essential guidance for operating, maintaining, and performing basic troubleshooting on your 990 Adventure. It covers critical systems including the engine, chassis, and electrical components, detailing routine maintenance tasks, owner-level service procedures such as oil and filter changes, and explanations of dashboard indicators for issue diagnosis. The manual is designed to empower owners and technicians to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the motorcycle, covering general operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel, and ignition systems, as well as suspension, steering, wheels, tires, and brakes.
Model:
990 Adventure / 990 Adventure S
Segment:
Large-displacement Adventure Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking off-road capability with on-road comfort for long-distance travel and adventure riding
Competitors:
BMW R1200GS, Honda Africa Twin, Yamaha XT1200Z Super Ténéré, Triumph Tiger series
Offroad Focus:
Spoked wheels, long-travel suspension, high ground clearance, upright riding position
Engine Performance:
V-twin engine known for strong torque and power delivery
Variant Differentiation:
S model typically features higher specification suspension and components
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Engine:
General operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, starting system
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering, wheels, tires, brakes
Electrical System:
Battery, lighting, instruments, switches, fuses, starter system
Controls:
Throttle, clutch, brakes, gear shift, ignition switch, dashboard indicators
Routine Maintenance:
Pre-ride checks, lubrication points, chain adjustment, tire pressure checks
Owner Maintenance:
Oil and filter change, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug inspection, coolant checks
Troubleshooting:
Basic diagnostics for common operational issues, dashboard warning lights explanation
Depth:
Owner-level operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting
Searchable Text:
Yes (typical for well-digitized PDFs)
Printability:
Yes (user can print for hard copy)
Compatibility:
All Windows & Mac versions
Required Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip
Engine Type:
V-twin, 4-stroke, DOHC, 8 valves
Displacement:
999 cc (999 cm³)
Bore X Stroke:
98 mm x 66 mm
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
Approx. 115 hp (85 kW) @ 9,000 rpm (subject to regional variations)
Torque:
Approx. 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 7,000 rpm (subject to regional variations)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel injection (electronic throttle control)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Oil Type:
SAE 10W/50, API SJ or higher, JASO MA certified motorcycle oil
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.6 liters (2.7 US qt) with filter change
Transmission Type:
6-speed, sequential claw-shifted gearbox
Clutch:
Wet multi-disc clutch, hydraulically actuated
Final Drive:
X-ring chain 5/8" x 3/8"
Length:
Approx. 2,240 mm (88.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 920 mm (36.2 in) (handlebar width)
Height:
Approx. 1,450 mm (57.1 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 195 kg (430 lbs) (990 Adventure), Approx. 191 kg (421 lbs) (990 Adventure S)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified for motorcycles, but payload capacity is a consideration.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20 Liters (5.3 US gal)
Front Wheel:
Spoked: 2.50 x 21" (990 Adventure), 1.85 x 21" (990 Adventure S)
Rear Wheel:
Spoked: 4.00 x 17" (990 Adventure), 4.25 x 17" (990 Adventure S)
Front Tire:
90/90-21 (tubeless)
Rear Tire:
140/80-17 (tubeless)
Brakes Front:
Dual 300 mm discs, radially mounted 4-piston Brembo calipers
Brakes Rear:
Single 240 mm disc, 2-piston caliper
ABS:
Optional or standard depending on market and specific model variant. Typically disengageable.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, turn signals
Instrumentation:
Multi-function LCD display with analog tachometer, speed indicator, warning lights
Dashboard:
Multi-function LCD display providing speed, RPM, fuel level, gear indicator, clock, odometer, trip meters, and warning lights.
Traction Control:
Not typically featured on the 2008 models as standard. Available on later iterations.
Usb Charging:
Not integrated from factory; aftermarket solutions common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 km (4,600 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact details)
Air Filter Service:
Every 7,500 km (4,600 miles) or sooner in dusty conditions
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 7,500 km (4,600 miles)
Coolant:
Mixture of distilled water and ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (approx. 50/50), KTM recommends Motorex Coolant M3.0
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Early models and some later ones could experience fuel pump issues; manual will detail checks.
Water Pump Seal:
Potential for leaks; manual covers inspection and replacement procedures.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or loose connections in certain areas can cause intermittent issues; manual highlights common check points.
Manufacturer:
KTM Sportmotorcycle AG, Austria
Heritage:
KTM has a strong heritage in off-road racing (motocross, rally raids) which informs its adventure motorcycle design.
Predecessor:
The 990 Adventure evolved from the earlier 950 Adventure model, introducing fuel injection and other refinements.
Production Period:
The 990 Adventure platform was produced roughly from 2003 (950) through 2013, with the 990 designation active for much of that period.
Manufacturing Location:
Austria (primarily)
Adventure Bike Accolades:
The 990 Adventure series consistently received positive reviews from motorcycle publications for its off-road prowess and versatility in the adventure touring segment.
