Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Technical, Bike forums > KTM Tech
KTM Vibration KTM Vibration
Register FAQ Calendar Today's Posts
KTM Tech KTM Tech Forum - For Questions specific and of interest to KTM riders only.
Photo by George Guille, It's going to be a long 300km... Bolivian Amazon

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by George Guille
It's going to be a long 300km...
Bolivian Amazon



Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 12 Jan 2007
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: New Zealand
Posts: 22
KTM Vibration
Hi,
Can someone tell me please is the vibration problem in the Adventure 640 the same as the 640 LC4 or is the 640 LC4 better?
I'm considering buying a KTM but this vibration issue puts me off.
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 12 Jan 2007
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: NorthVancouver Island
Posts: 137
The vibration varies on the LC 4 engine from bike to bike. I own an Adventure and while the vibration is higher on this bike than others I've owned it's really no bother. My last bike {KLR] had less felt vibration, yet it used to numb my hands. On my KTM this doesn't seem to happen. I would suggest to take the bike for a testride before you buy and not just around the block, go for a good jaunt and try it off pavement. Keep in mind that a new LC 4s vibration will smooth a little after break in.
Last edited by Island Hopper; 13 Jan 2007 at 03:29.
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 13 Jan 2007
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Dec 2000
Location: Redbourne, UK
Posts: 98
Smile vibes
Hi - I've got a 640 Adventure and when I did my first long ride on it (used, but with only 800 miles), I very nearly sold it straight away because of the vibes - my forearms went numb and everything! However, during running in it got progressively better and after another 1000 miles of riding the vibes were back in the 'normal' realm for a bike. Since then, I rejetted it and fitted the SXC silencer and hardparts airbox cover and now I'd go so far as to say that it's quite smooth. Of course there is an element of just 'getting used to' the bike as well, but overall between running in and working on the breathing, it's simple to make it ride really quite nicely. They're lovely bikes in almost all other ways (IMHO!) so I reckon it's worth the effort.
Cheers,

Andy
__________________
AndyBee
(04 KTM 640 Adv 'Naartjie'/11 KTM 990 Adv 'Tsumeb')
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 15 Jan 2007
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: New Zealand
Posts: 22
Thanks for your feedback.
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 7 Mar 2007
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Homeless and loving it!
Posts: 11
Yeah I got a 2001 Duke II LC4 and the vibes are pretty good. Nowhere near as smooth as the GSX I used to own, but i did over 1000kms in one day on this bike without problem.
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 15 Mar 2007
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Switzerland
Posts: 108
Talking
You get used to the vibes... eventually. At least you know the bike is still alive as long it vibrates

Seriously, the Adventure does vibrate even if some people say that more recent models are better than the older ones (mine's a 99) it WILL vibrate. There's a few things you can do, get the saddle rebuild, handlebar weights, etc. which will help a lot. My first long run was a disaster (3000km in 3 days) and I thought my buttock's broken or something. Ever since I had the saddle twice rebuild and never had a problem down there again. I've even ridden the Nullarbor in 4 days and all 3 of us, bike, me and the bottom, survived w/o any probs.

The vibes are clearly a downside of the KTM but I'd never exchange the (off road) capabilities and the rough character for a bit more comfort. Just my 2 Rappen...

Also, do a forum search, there's a few threads about the LC4 vibes already.

Cheers, Jiri
__________________
Ride Your Dreams
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 16 Mar 2007
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Tomahawk,Wisconsin
Posts: 222
You never feel the vibes off road. I am convinced they aid the rear wheel traction.
My bike has a sweet spot at about 55mph or 4200 rpm and I try to ride there.
The Competition pipe also seems to help with vibes just a little but don't go crazy with jetting.

I stay off the super highway. Secondary roads are perfect.
Stop every hour or so and take a break. I do on any bike.
You aren't beat up at the end of the day by the vibes or rough roads.

It wasn't mentioned but with Metzler Saharas the machine will stay with anything in the corners.
My friend on Adventurerider just called this bike the "Desert Camel".
That about says it all.
Bill
'02 640 Adventure.
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 16 Mar 2007
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Poland
Posts: 20
Vibration on LC4 SXC and LC4 Adventure ?
Is the vibration on LC4 625 SXC the same as on LC4 640 Adventure ?
I consider to buy the lightest 625 SXC version – for everyday use and install a big tank for long trip. On SXC vibration definitively are noticeable (now have Yamaha XT). Is the level of vibration the same on SXC as on Adventure, Is the engine (source of vibration) identical (I mean balancer/ shaft)?
One more question. There is 25 kg difference between SXC and Adventure. Where is this 25 kg?
Michal
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 25 Mar 2007
Laromonster's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Stavanger,Norway
Posts: 112
Quote:
Originally Posted by michal4 View Post
Is the vibration on LC4 625 SXC the same as on LC4 640 Adventure ?
I consider to buy the lightest 625 SXC version – for everyday use and install a big tank for long trip. On SXC vibration definitively are noticeable (now have Yamaha XT). Is the level of vibration the same on SXC as on Adventure, Is the engine (source of vibration) identical (I mean balancer/ shaft)?
One more question. There is 25 kg difference between SXC and Adventure. Where is this 25 kg?
Michal
Most of the extra weight is the fuel tank, fuel tank support brackets, fuel pump and the fairing bracketry
__________________
Laromo \ '02 KTM 300 EXC "Jake"
'05 KTM 640 ADV "Fatman"
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 6 May 2007
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Posts: 2
Quote:
Originally Posted by michal4 View Post
Is the vibration on LC4 625 SXC the same as on LC4 640 Adventure ?
Michal
Yes, and No. On the SXC, you will feel more vibes because the bars are not rubber mounted as on the Adv. Also, the Adv has rubber inserts for the footpegs, and a much wider and softer seat.
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 17 May 2007
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: May 2007
Location: Turkey
Posts: 59
I have an LC4 640 Enduro (which is the stripped version of Adventure) and it vibrated badly with stock setup. But after rejetting the carb., changing exhaust and removing SAS, vibration decreased considerably. Also, added some weight to handlebar and changed grips but i think they didnt make much difference.

Ozgur
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 29 May 2007
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Perth
Posts: 13
Slow thread this one, but like the last guy says you won't recognise the bike after a few ks and a few mods. Mine has around 4000kms on it now, jetting etc done. Its a different bike. Yes there are vibes, but nothing that interferes with the enjoyment
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 30 May 2007
Caminando's Avatar
Moderated Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: DogZone Country
Posts: 1,218
Unhappy
Quote:
Originally Posted by kiwitoby View Post
Hi,
Can someone tell me please is the vibration problem in the Adventure 640 the same as the 640 LC4 or is the 640 LC4 better?
I'm considering buying a KTM but this vibration issue puts me off.

From the answers you got this bike seems to be absolutely hellish for vibration. And this is the Company which was afraid to back the "Long Way Round" because they feared their bikes wouldnt make it.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 5 Jun 2007
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Perth
Posts: 13
Quote:
Originally Posted by Caminando View Post
From the answers you got this bike seems to be absolutely hellish for vibration.
Not sure thats exactly what they do say. It vibes, but properly set up and run in its more than acceptable for a reasonably high performance single cylinder motorcycle that can go to places many cannot. Its not a Gold Wing.

The Long Way Round? zzzzzzzzzzzzzz...
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 10 Jun 2007
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Vancouver Island
Posts: 6
Quote:
Originally Posted by Caminando View Post
From the answers you got this bike seems to be absolutely hellish for vibration. And this is the Company which was afraid to back the "Long Way Round" because they feared their bikes wouldnt make it.
My take on that is KTM didn't think Charlie and Ewan would make it. Not the bikes.
__________________
"If everything seems under control, you're just not going fast enough." - Mario Andretti. -
Reply With Quote
Reply

« Previous Thread | Next Thread »

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Vibration on acceleration WINGNUT XT Yamaha Tech 5 30 Aug 2006 14:15
Lowering - Vibration? Forsellini Kawasaki Tech 2 30 Jul 2006 17:59
Vibration damage rpalmen Photo Forum 3 4 Sep 2003 05:15
Vibration jlmorg KTM Tech 0 4 Dec 2002 08:23
ST1100 handle bar vibration captkerk Honda Tech 2 11 Jan 2002 04:30

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

HU Event and other updates on the HUBB Forum "Traveller's Advisories" thread.
ALL Dates subject to change.

2024:

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

HUBBUK: info

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

Your ad could be here, on EVERY page of the HUBB, or the whole website, or as many as you like!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.



All times are GMT +1. The time now is 17:54.

Contact Us - Horizons Unlimited Motorcycle Travellers Website - Archive - Privacy Statement - Top