ktm 950
 

Regarding reliability/build of LC8 generally its excellent mines done has 5000ml in a few month and been off roaded ,sunk in a peat bog etc and appears fine. However some things that need checked

1)torque of front sprocket nut should be 60nm but mine and a mates was 35nm

2)lower bolt on clutch piston housing near front sprocket bottoms out before fully tightening as its 5mm too long

3)spoke nipples corrode badly ktm replaced them with different type on warranty no question.

Other mods include binning the cat /silencers,lighter alloy pipes saving 6kg weight,re jetting carbs & lifting needles one notch. block off magnetic carb dampers result; bucket load more torque and pulls very strong& clean from 1500rpm much more usable power (full write up in used bike guide in jan 04) seat currently being reupholstered to improve its comfort.

ps; anyone know how to improve the high beam on these cos there rubbish

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[This message has been edited by Grant Johnson (edited 18 November 2003).]

Nice bike. I'm getting one for a 6mth tour of europe and nth africa this summer, can't wait. "magnetic caburettor damper" ?? I'm guessing this is the epc? For brighter lights you could get some bright halogen bulbs or fit one or two of those micro driving lights from piaa or hella. have a look at www.piaa.co.uk/ The HID conversion is the ultimate.
There are loads of 950 owners over at www.advrider.com ,go into the big mean nasty forum and do a search on 950 lights.
cheers.

LC8er thanks for the reply looked at both your suggested links very interesting.re the magnetic carb damper its part of the secondary air system and prevents full power at lower gears to prevent wheelspin. when blocked off it gives far better acceleration from pull away. just for your info this is without doubt the best bike in this catagory that is currently available and certainly the most fun bike I have ridden in years. you will love it. the only problems are carb icing in colder climates and i am working on a cure as im off to nordkapp in 2004. the other is the tyres can be lively if pushed too hard especially in the wet they are very poor; but dunlop are bringing out d207's in the spring that will fit for more grip when fast road riding is your thing.

Bridgestone have also released the bt45 in the right sizes as well, Seem like a good choice for the road or for winter. Cheers.