Segment:
Dual-sport / Adventure motorcycle segment.
Target Audience:
Riders seeking long-distance travel, off-road capability, and robust performance. Technicians maintaining these motorcycles.
Competitors:
BMW R1200GS, Honda Africa Twin (earlier models), Yamaha Super Tenere, Suzuki V-Strom.
Brand Philosophy:
KTM's 'Ready to Race' heritage applied to adventure touring, emphasizing performance and off-road prowess.
Model Strengths:
Powerful V-twin engine, excellent suspension, agile handling for its class, rugged build.
Engine:
Comprehensive engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication.
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, maintenance, lubrication, shift mechanism.
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, forks, rear shock absorber, swingarm, steering head bearings, wheel bearings, suspension adjustments.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinders, pads, discs, ABS (if applicable).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, starter, alternator, lighting, instrumentation, ECU, sensor troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, fuel tank, pressure regulator.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipes, mufflers, catalytic converter (if equipped), lambda sensors.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairings, panels, seat, fuel tank cover, mounting hardware, ergonomics.
Wheels And Tires:
Tire specifications, wheel mounting, spoke tensioning, wheel bearings.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug inspection/replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, fault finding for common and complex issues across all systems.
Engine Rebuild:
Piston removal/installation, cylinder head service, valve adjustment, crankshaft and connecting rod inspection.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, multimeter usage, sensor testing.
Suspension Servicing:
Fork seal replacement, shock absorber servicing, linkage lubrication.
Brake System Maintenance:
Brake fluid flushing and bleeding, pad replacement, caliper service.
Component Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for disassembling, inspecting, servicing, and reassembling key components.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic information, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 75° V-twin (LC8 engine)
Displacement 950:
942 cc (57.4 cu in)
Displacement 990:
999 cc (61.0 cu in)
Bore X Stroke 950:
98 mm x 62.4 mm (3.86 x 2.46 in)
Bore X Stroke 990:
101 mm x 62.4 mm (3.98 x 2.46 in)
Compression Ratio 950:
11.5:1
Compression Ratio 990:
11.5:1
Horsepower 950 Approx:
98 hp @ 8,000 rpm
Horsepower 990 Approx:
105 hp @ 7,500 rpm
Torque 950 Approx:
95 Nm (70 lb-ft) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque 990 Approx:
100 Nm (74 lb-ft) @ 6,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery 950:
Carburetor (Keihin CV, 40 mm)
Fuel Delivery 990:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with twin injectors per cylinder.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (min. 95 RON / 91 AKI)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 22 liters (5.8 US gallons)
Safety Certification:
CE, EPA, DOT (depending on market, typically meets relevant safety standards).
ABS:
Optional on some 990 models, switchable or defeatable ABS system.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake with premium calipers (e.g., Brembo on some models).
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight and indicators (depending on variant).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or annually, check manual for specifics.
Valve Clearance Interval:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles).
Chain Maintenance:
Regular cleaning, lubrication, and tension adjustment every 500-1000 km (300-600 miles) or as needed.
Engine Oil Type:
Fully synthetic motorcycle oil, SAE 10W-50 or 10W-40, API SG/SH/SJ/SL/SM, JASO MA/MA2. Check manual for exact spec.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.6 - 2.8 liters (2.7 - 3.0 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based, permanent antifreeze for motorcycle cooling systems, usually a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (check manual for specific recommendation).
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (if hydraulic clutch, check manual).
Common Complaints 950:
Carburetor synchronization issues, potential cam chain tensioner noise, occasional starter clutch wear.
Common Complaints 990:
Fuel pump relay issues, minor electrical gremlins, potential stator failure (less common than some other brands).
Maintenance Tips:
Regular inspection of critical fasteners, proper chain lubrication, thorough cleaning after off-road use.
Brand Focus:
KTM is renowned for its off-road racing heritage, translating this expertise into high-performance street and adventure bikes.
950 Introduction:
The 950 Adventure was introduced in 2003, setting a new benchmark for powerful and capable adventure motorcycles.
990 Introduction:
The 990 Adventure arrived in 2006, featuring an upgrade to fuel injection and a slightly larger displacement.
Variants:
Includes models like the Adventure S (long-travel suspension) and SE (special edition).
Manufacturing Location:
Austria (KTM Sportmotorcycle AG)