Hi,

Just an update to my feelings about the KTM. I would not agree with the person who said it's a Cafe Racer & get another bike. YES - there are some specific problems but these are far outweighted by the qualities. It does take some looking after - but as you'll generally be doing a long trip - you want to be keeping a regular check on the bike. See my separate post on checks. I would not use this as a town bike.

The positive points are a fantastic frame, strong engine & of course 'wicked' suspension - takes all bumps.

The negative points - seat (get it re-upholstered). Known problems with Clutch cable (use new Duke cable & lube as chain). Sometimes fuel pump can break & fuel hose clips weak. 2000/2001 mirrors are cheap plastic - if you drop the bike - the vibration can snap both of them off - but the replacement mirrors are like the pre '99 & strong. 2001 tank may discolour with petrol when new - but this stops after a while and is not a problem. Side Stand is weak point under full load - get the joint welded stronger. Oil change can be tricky - watch a mechanic doing it & should really be done every 5000k/3000m but I have heard of changes @ up to 10,000k but I would not reccommend it. Valves seem fine up to 10k so far, but will be checked/adjusted in a full service anyway. Something in the exhaust can sometimes come loose - this is a known problem - & makes a nice 'tinkly' sound - but does not effect running/performance in anyway. Wheel Bearings may go on older models.

Fuel consumption - fantastic - I am currently getting 60+ miles/gallon or 20+ kilometers/litre at an average 62m/100k per hour.

Regards
James

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KTM LC4 640 Adventure-R 2001

Previous bikes...
KTM Duke II 2000
Kawazaki ZX-6R 1998
BMW F650 1996
+ others...
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