KTM 950 Adventure

[805gregg]

I'm looking for a large dual sport bike to replace my KLR, anyone have a KTM?
How do you like it ?, what about reliablity and parts?

[sherob]

I know lddave has a KTM... you might give him a ping ;)

[lddave]

I'm looking for a large dual sport bike to replace my KLR, anyone have a KTM?
How do you like it ?, what about reliablity and parts?

I had a KLR and I do not miss it.
Reliablity for me has been great I only have 18,000 miles on it thought. The dealer replaced the left tank because of a paint run and the bottom of the skid plate because of a crack, bottom items they found during the first service.
Parts have not been much of a problem butt then I have only needed consumables like oil filters.
The stock seat is as comfortable as a vinlyn covered 2 x 4. I have a Russell and a Mr Ed's Moto seat both a vast improvement over stock.
I removed the cataylst from the mufflers and raised the pilot needle 1 notch higher.
As far as maintence the oil and filter changes are a major ***** if you follow the shop manual, which comes with the bike. There are 3 screens and 1 filter to check or replace. The filter costs around $ 7 and the screens are reuseable.
The safety lip on the rear rim makes tire removal from the rim difficult butt this winter a alluminum burr with the router will solve that problem.
The only gripe I have with the 950 is the fuel range, I am use to a 400 mile range with my other bike and the 950 is close to 200 miles.
If the 950 had not been so tall I would have bought another one for my wife instead of the Vee Stum 650.

[805gregg]

Thanks Dave, I've decided since this will also be a second bike like the KLR I will probable go with a v-strom and save about $5000 over the KTM also greater dealer network.