LC4 Reliability and build quality
 

Hi KTM Freaks,

Planning a new venture and need some info if there are any obliging LC4 640 owners out there.

We are considering using KTM's for bike tours in a Eastern European country where the going can be pretty tough. How do KTM's stack up against the Jap competition i.e Suzuki DR's, Honda XR's, etc. Regarding spares and servicing we have contacts with the main KTM importer for proposed country. Big advantage is that KTM spares and purchase price is lower than Jap equivalent because of high import tarriffs applied to non EU countries.

Opinions and thoughts welcomed.

Cheers,

Dicky

Hi Dicky,

I would say it's a very good choice, but then I would ;-). If I could think of one word to describe a KTM, it would be 'strong'. Think engine, frame and suspension.

Yes there are niggles & issues, but as long as you are aware of them, you keep and eye on them as part of your maintenance (which is part of looking after the bike anyway), you will be fine.

You don't win the Paris-Dakar without a good package. And riding a KTM is an experience not to be missed.

Read through the posts and you'll find out what to keep an eye on and what modifications to make.

Good luck
James

Hello Dicky,
the overall components are higher quality then most Japanese brands. some past models have had problems with the bearing behind the clutch, this is not all but some, it has been corrected in the last 2 years I believe. go to www.ktmtalk.com look for 4stroke or dual sport columns, search bearings for more info.

One advantage you would have is plastic prices are far less the japanese brands. for the price of a rad/tank side scoop for a klr650 you can buy 2 side panels and a fender or 2.
You might consider the LC4 400, no longer made. I have one, great bike, you would think reliablity would be excellent since the engine was designed to be a 640. It has great power (ride one) it'll do 150KPH. not the wheelie machine that the 640 is (DAMN!) but it doesn't vibrate very much either so for your guests a real plus. Buy the comfort seat ($90euros or so), the stocker is like a block of cement, also it has a high seat height, will your clients be comfortable with a tall bike? you can find lower links at www.emigracing.com I haven't used them but heard good of them on www.ktmtalk.com

one other advantage of using KTM is most customer would view them as top quality (they are) .

I have several bikes including an LC4 400, KLR650, DRS350, since I bought the LC4 the KLR and DRS are going to be sold, the LC4 is a blast.
Post where your tours are and your decision, Good luck!
Mike

I have a brand new 2003 KTM 640 Adventure, and I love it. The problem you might have is the hight, I wonder if anyone shorter 6 feet can get safely on the bike and reach the ground. It would also be worth it to look for a more comfortable seat.