Converting my KTM 640 Duke
 

Hi guys, - great site, is really fuelling my desire to get out and ride.

I have a faithful KTM 640 Duke LE series 1 and would like to convert it to be able to do some bigger trips.

The frame and engine is the same, the suspension is up to it, i guess i just need new lights, tank, seat and fenders... anyone know where I can get the abovementioned items anywhere in aus? or has anyone done this before - converted a street oriented bike to an adv bike/overlander?

I bought a KTM LC4 before they released the motard version cos I just couldn't wait any longer, I then ordered a set of the earliest Duke rims from the spare parts list (the wire spoked ones) and used to swap them around a bit. Very easy every thing lined up etc. Don't really know which model is which in the Dukes so Im guessing you have spoked wheels? probably wouldn't matter though, I can't imagine the swing arm or fork spacing would be any different either way. The only issue I had was the small front wheel stood the bike on its nose a little too much, and made it a bit too twitchy, I'd imagine you may have the reverse problem? Interestingly I notice that the motards now have a different swing arm and reduced rear travel than standard LC4s, I assume to lower the back end and fix my fast steering problem - earlier models didn't have this. It may be worth investigating this as for some reason I've got the feeling that it may actually turn out to be a Duke swing arm/linkage etc In which case you may be able to swap one out to gain rear travel and speed the steering back up? the 640 models are basically parts bin specials as I see it, very interchangable, very tidy parts bin specials mind you! Hope this helps, let us know if you find anything out about the swing arms, another 640 is on my short list

Thanks Luke - yeah, i think most parts ARE interchangeable but the positioning of things like radiators etc... has changed.

The motards do have less travel out of the factory but the WP suspension is so adjustable it can be pretty much dialled back up to standard.

My main concern is the crashability of the bike at present - it has extensive and expensive bodywork and i'd rather get plastics and a bigger tank.

i'm going to leave my 17inch spoked wheels on... i see no reason why i can't use them with some more offroad oriented tyres...