Segment:
Adventure Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking off-road capability, long-distance comfort, and robust performance.
Key Competitors:
BMW R1150GS, Triumph Tiger, Honda Africa Twin (though earlier models).
Engine Type:
Powerful V-twin LC8 engine known for its torque and versatility.
Design Philosophy:
Dual-sport capability combining on-road comfort with off-road prowess.
Primary Coverage:
Engine Mechanical and Systems
Secondary Coverage:
Fuel System (Carburetion), Ignition System, Oil System, Cooling System
Estimated Pages:
Not specified, but typical factory service manuals for this era and complexity are extensive (likely 300-600+ pages)
Type:
Official Factory Service / Repair / Workshop Manual
Language:
English (Assumed, standard for official KTM manuals)
Format:
PDF Digital Download
Engine Mechanical:
Cylinder Head, Valves, Camshafts, Pistons, Connecting Rods, Crankshaft, Bearings, Seals, Lubrication System (Oil Pump, Oil Pan/Sump), Timing System (Gears, Chain/Belt if applicable)
Fuel System:
Carburetor Overhaul and Adjustment, Intake System, Fuel Lines
Ignition System:
Ignition Timing, Spark Plugs, Ignition Coils (though often covered in electrical section)
Cooling System:
Radiator, Fan, Coolant Hoses, Oil Cooler (if applicable)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Change, Spark Plug Replacement, Air Filter Service, Valve Clearance Checks/Adjustment
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete Engine Teardown and Reassembly, Cylinder Head Removal/Installation, Piston/Rod Replacement, Crankshaft Rebuild
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures for Engine Performance Issues, Noises, Leaks
Technical Specifications:
Torque Values, Clearances, Gasket P/Ns, Fluid Capacities, Recommended Fluids
Depth:
Comprehensive Factory-Level Repair and Rebuild Information, Including Machining Specifications and Component Tolerances
Engine Type:
V-twin, 4-stroke, Liquid-cooled (LC8)
Displacement:
950cc (approximate, exact for 2003 model)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 65.0 mm (typical for LC8)
Compression Ratio:
10.3:1 (typical for LC8)
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 98-105 HP (claimed)
Torque:
Approx. 94-100 Nm (claimed)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (Twin Keihin CVK, 38mm typical for early models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 95 RON minimum
Length:
Approx. 2250 mm (typical)
Width:
Approx. 860 mm (typical)
Height:
Approx. 1340 mm (typical, without mirrors)
Seat Height:
Approx. 880 mm (adjustable to 860 mm typical)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 250 mm (typical)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 192 kg (typical for 2003 model)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 210 kg (typical, with fluids)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
22 liters (approximate, with reserve)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is typically assessed differently than automobiles)
Braking System:
Hydraulically operated, dual front discs, single rear disc. (ABS was an option on later models, likely not standard on 2003).
Suspension Front:
Upside-down telescopic forks, 48 mm
Suspension Rear:
Monoshock with adjustable pre-load and rebound damping
Frame Type:
Steel trellis frame
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km or annually, refer to manual for exact specification.
Valve Clearance Check:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km, refer to manual for exact specification.
Engine Oil Type:
JASO MA, API SG/SH/SJ or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (depending on climate). Specific KTM recommendation is crucial.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.2 - 3.5 liters without filter change, 3.5 - 3.8 liters with filter change. Refer to manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50% mixture with distilled water.
Transmission Oil Type:
Refer to manual, often shared with engine oil or specific gear oil.
Common Complaints:
Some early models experienced minor electrical gremlins, fuel pump issues (though less common on carbureted models), and occasional water pump seal leaks. Carburetor synchronization can be critical for smooth running.
Preventative Measures:
Regular adherence to service intervals, proper fuel quality, and attention to intake sealing are recommended.
Manufacturer:
KTM (Austrian manufacturer, known for off-road racing heritage)
Introduction Year:
The 950 ADVENTURE was introduced in 2003, marking KTM's significant entry into the large-displacement adventure touring market.
Subsequent Models:
Evolved into the fuel-injected 990 ADVENTURE and later iterations with ABS and other enhancements.
Manufacturing Location:
Austria
