Vehicle Segment:
Dual-Sport / Adventure Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Adventure riders seeking off-road capability and long-distance comfort.
Key Competitors 2003:
BMW R1150GS, Triumph Tiger, Honda Transalp, Yamaha TDM
Engine Layout:
Powerful V-Twin LC8 Engine
Suspension Type:
Long-travel, adjustable WP suspension
Fuel Capacity:
Large capacity fuel tank for extended range
Off Road Bias:
Significant off-road prowess compared to many competitors
Engine Systems:
V-Twin LC8 Engine, Fuel Injection, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch Operation, Gearbox, Final Drive (Chain & Sprockets)
Chassis Systems:
Frame, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Wheels, Tires
Braking Systems:
Front & Rear Disc Brakes, Hydraulic System
Electrical Systems:
Battery, Charging System, Lighting, Ignition Switch, Instruments, Starter System, Fuses
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Filters, Fuel Injection System
Exhaust System:
Mufflers, Catalytic Converters (if applicable)
Cooling System:
Radiator, Fan, Coolant, Thermostat
Routine Maintenance:
Oil & Filter Changes, Air Filter Cleaning/Replacement, Spark Plug Checks, Chain Adjustment, Tire Pressure Checks
Inspections:
Brake Pad Wear, Brake Fluid Level, Coolant Level, Suspension Seals, Tire Condition, Fastener Torque Checks
Troubleshooting:
Common Issues, Diagnostic Steps, Fault Finding for Engine, Electrical, and Mechanical Systems
Operator Controls:
Handlebar Controls, Dashboard Indicators, Riding Modes (if applicable)
Safety Features:
Operation of ABS (if equipped), Pre-ride Checks
Accessories Installation:
Guidance on fitting official KTM accessories
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive owner operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting guidance.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 75° V-Twin, four-stroke (LC8)
Bore X Stroke:
98 mm x 62.4 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Claimed Horsepower:
98 hp (73 kW) @ 8000 rpm
Claimed Torque:
95 Nm (70 lb-ft) @ 6000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Keihin throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 octane (RON)
Oil Type:
Fully synthetic motorcycle oil, SAE 10W-50 recommended (refer to manual for exact spec)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with anti-corrosion additives (refer to manual for exact spec)
Transmission Type:
6-speed, constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-disc clutch, hydraulically operated
Final Drive:
X-ring chain, 17/42 tooth sprockets (typical)
Transmission Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific grade (often shared with engine oil, but verification is crucial)
Length:
Approx. 2200 mm (86.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 900 mm (35.4 in)
Height:
Approx. 1390 mm (54.7 in)
Seat Height:
Approx. 880 mm (34.6 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 260 mm (10.2 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 199 kg (439 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to manual (typically around 400 kg / 880 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
22 liters (5.8 US gallons)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1560 mm (61.4 in)
Front Wheel Size:
21 inch
Front Tire Size:
90/90-21 (typical, Tubeless Spoke)
Rear Tire Size:
150/70-17 (typical, Tubeless Spoke)
ABS Availability:
Optional on early models, standard on later iterations (check specific bike)
Braking System Type:
Dual 300mm disc brakes front, 240mm disc brake rear
Braking System Manufacturer:
Brembo calipers (typically)
Lighting:
Halogen Headlight, LED Taillight
Instrumentation:
Digital display with analog tachometer, warning lights
Instrument Cluster:
Analog tachometer, digital LCD for speed, odometer, trip meters, clock, fuel level, gear indicator (on some later versions).
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System available on some models, with potential for deactivation.
Charging Port:
Typically a 12V auxiliary power socket for charging devices.
First Service Mileage:
1000 km (600 miles) - Critical for engine break-in.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5000 km (3000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Check:
Every 5000 km (3000 miles) or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 10,000 - 20,000 km.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (Refer to manual for exact specification and change interval)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 2.2 liters (refer to manual for precise quantity)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, wheel bearings, chain and sprockets, rear shock absorber seals.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Early models could experience fuel pump issues; manual will detail checks.
Water Pump Seal:
Potential leaks from the water pump seal may require attention.
Starter Clutch:
Some owners report starter clutch issues under heavy use.
Ktm Brand Focus:
Off-road racing and performance motorcycles
950 Adventure Introduction:
Launched in 2003, marking KTM's significant entry into the adventure touring segment.
Lc8 Engine Development:
The LC8 V-twin engine was developed for performance and versatility.
Manufacturing Location:
Austria
