KTM990 throttle snatch?

[ducatijim]

Hey guys, need some of your valuable advice, took the 990 away to the 'naki over the weekend to do a few gravel adventures and I discovered its 'achilles heel' - throttle snatch!
I had noted this around town riding, and also when riding over very rough/uneven tar surface, but it is sooo bad when trying to punt along at less then a modest pace on the gravel, that I had 'pangs' of regret over the GS!( Throttle snatch = feels like power is delivered via an on/off switch!)
Now before I get lambasted for not doing my homework...I have surfed our sister sites, and tried=

1) 2 bar warmup from cold
2) 2 minute idle-up from warm
3) introduce excessive slack into throttle return cable
4) latest ecm program ex factory
5) pulling my hair out.

None provide a lasting or reliable relief. Next ideas include=
1) G2 throttle cam( $100 ex US)
2) Power commander ( $ many 100s ex US + huge loss of economy)
3) GS?
This is only a fuel injection issue and will not affect the 950 I belive, but there are many 990's around and you all cannot be putting up with the issue I have? Please help out a desperate convertee........................

[NordieBoy]

There shouldn't be any loss of economy from a power commander unless you want it.

Isn't there a guy in the vendors section doing dyno tunes/remapping of euro bikes?

[cooneyr]

Rode the demo 990 Adv at the Capital Coast Adv Ride for about 10km and this drove me nuts to the point of only ever wanting to own a 950. Spoke to a couple of the other 990 riders and the G2 cam seems to be the most common response with others talking about free flowing pipes (Akrapovic's :drool::drool::drool:) and using the factory ECU/ECM setting for the free flowing pipes. I don't have any links anymore but there is stacks of info on the web about this (somewhere). Alternatively try talking to a few of the dealers i.e. Thunderbike, AMPS etc - they must have dealt with this.

Cheers R

[vifferman]

Wouldn't taking out the slack be better than putting it in to the cable? One of the fixes for the same problem on VFRs is to take out all the throttle freeplay. Another one is to disable the O2 sensors (with or without adding a Power Commander), as there is a momentary hesitation between when the EFI runs in 'closed loop' mode and in open or mapped mode. If you disable the sensors (using a resistor), the EFI is fooled into never running the super-lean closed loop mode when running at small/closed throttle settings. This stops a bit of jerking when you are on/off the throttle.
The other thing is learning to ride with the light-switch nature of EFI: you learn to use more clutch at low revs, and adjust your riding style. It takes a while, but you will get used to it.

[young1]

At the first service of mine AFC motorcycles in Palmy fixed it up with a modification to the throttle, not sure what they did but it is perfect now.

[warewolf]

Recently a dealer-type fellah said to me that most of the complaints they get about snatchy throttle boils down to the rider not having enough throttle control - often because they've just upgraded from a sluggish bike to a new one with efi and a crisp throttle response.

Vifferman is on the money.

[buzzard]

I have not had any problems with mine in 22,000km....until my last service. The dealer didnt tune it properly and I had to take it back as it was running really hairy. Now the fuel economy worse and i am getting surging between 3k and 4k and some snatch in low gear. Its going back next week for a retune!

[Devil]

Remove all freeplay from the throttle. This goes for any bike, not just the KTM. This should help.
Silly little things to check, hows your chain tension?

Then head for a KTM dealer, they often have other fuel maps they can put on the bike, without having to go for a power commander.

[DMNTD]

Then head for a KTM dealer, they often have other fuel maps they can put on the bike, without having to go for a power commander.

Yep...had a few "snatching" issues with both my SD and SD-R which were immediately rectified as soon as the correct map was installed.

[ducatijim]

Remove all freeplay from the throttle. This goes for any bike, not just the KTM. This should help.
Silly little things to check, hows your chain tension?

Then head for a KTM dealer, they often have other fuel maps they can put on the bike, without having to go for a power commander.


Thanks, but came from the 'remove all free play' to where I am now. It was logical to cover the 'range' of freeplay don;t you think? More FP is better but not good enough!

[ducatijim]

Recently a dealer-type fellah said to me that most of the complaints they get about snatchy throttle boils down to the rider not having enough throttle control - often because they've just upgraded from a sluggish bike to a new one with efi and a crisp throttle response.

Vifferman is on the money.

Dude, thats what they WOULD say isan't it!??

Me....come from a sluggish bike???......a K1200R?......you gotta be a joker!

Actually the KR was a bitch too, for the 1st 20000km of its life.....didn't matter what new program they threw in, that is until I got the last 1: v12, and she is like a little baby untill YOU ask for it!!, then look out....but now real lineal in the delivery.

Thanks for the implication, but I'm not a noob, have had over 36 years to practice my throttle control!

[marks]

my xt660 was like this at slower speeds due to super lean fuel injection settings for emissions reasons. It totally spoilt low speed pottering to the point where I used to slip the clutch going from off throttle to on throttle just to smooth things out. The more I richened things up by lying to its ecm the better it got. If there is a setting for performance exhausts - would that be worth a try as it should richen things up a bit?

[Devil]

Thanks, but came from the 'remove all free play' to where I am now. It was logical to cover the 'range' of freeplay don;t you think? More FP is better but not good enough!

Okeedokee, but still go to the dealer. There a few versions of the fuel maps, you might find the update fixes the problem, as DMTND mentioned with his SuperDuke.

[warewolf]

Dude, thats what they WOULD say isan't it!??Only if they were slimebags, which they aren't. They are pretty straight talkers and quite happy to call a spade a spade. It wasn't in response to a 'request to fix' from me, it just came up in conversation. Just throwing the idea in to the mix, keep an open mind.


None provide a lasting or reliable relief. Next ideas include=
1) G2 throttle cam( $100 ex US)The G2 cam merely reduces the leverage of the twistgrip on the throttle cable, particularly at small throttle openings. This fix is frequently recommended for the hard hit of my 200 2-stroke when it comes 'on the pipe' in the midrange. It requires more twistgrip travel to get the same pull on the throttle cable, thereby smoothing out coarser inputs.

[Tony W]

At the first service of mine AFC motorcycles in Palmy fixed it up with a modification to the throttle, not sure what they did but it is perfect now.

DJ, this looks like the easiest sure-fix so far.

(iou 2 cents)

[ducatijim]

Only if they were slimebags, which they aren't. They are pretty straight talkers and quite happy to call a spade a spade. It wasn't in response to a 'request to fix' from me, it just came up in conversation. Just throwing the idea in to the mix, keep an open mind.Well, I guess thats 1 up to me.....phoned the useless twats this morning....'oh no...never heard of it, bring it in (300km) and we will have a look'!!!!:argh:

The G2 cam merely reduces the leverage of the twistgrip on the throttle cable, particularly at small throttle openings. This fix is frequently recommended for the hard hit of my 200 2-stroke when it comes 'on the pipe' in the midrange. It requires more twistgrip travel to get the same pull on the throttle cable, thereby smoothing out coarser inputs.
Cheers Wolfie, I am conversant with how it works, and I TOO ride a modern 200 2 tanger! Anything you can add concerning a fix to the snatchy throttle response on my Ktm990 that I didn't cover in my opening thread? Oh, and anyone who was questioning my throttle hand ability....no I do NOT use/need a G2 on my 2tanger!

Seems that a re-boot of the '08 ecm program combined with the G2 may be the only real hope? Or go back to the twats and trade it back on the '08 orange bike I turned down............hahahaha....doesn't that piss me now!!!

Big thanks for the imput guys.:rockon:

[NordieBoy]

Cheers Wolfie, I am conversant with how it works, and I TOO ride a modern 200 2 tanger!

I thought it was a KDX200?

:shifty:

[Digitdion]

My 990 is a 07 but had a re map. I never rode it with the old mapping. Yes it is a tad snatchy but I do not find it as bad as you descride there Ducatijim. I have had to modify my riding technique a tad. Using the clutch a bit more. No drama's really. A bit trickyer when standing up.

My experience so far with this beast is that if you ride it how it wants to ridden(thats with a fistful ) it shouldn't be that much of a problem. If you are not into that use the clutch a bit more. And if that fails probably get a g2 cam or go buy a smaller Trail bike. From what I understand the G2 cam will be best for you.

I want to finish by saying that the KTM 990 is one awesome piece of engineering. Not totally perfect, wtf is?. I am continually amazed at what a finely balanced grunty bike it is in all sorts of situations. One up ,two up, on road off road. I enjoy this bike so much. It is a wonderful tool to explore new horizons in every which way.

Cheers Dion

[young1]

One more thought, that at the same time AFC fixed the throttle up I also had it geared down one on the front sprocket. It is now one awesome awesome bike, I just wish that I was a good enough rider to ride it to its true potential!

[Triwi]

My 08 990 displays the same efi 'snatch' which is unacceptable for a 'quality' bike. There is certainly an element of adapting to a new machine and learning to ride thru the issue, so you will learn to live with it. Must say that all the otherwise, fine qualities of the 990 tend to be overlooked (to put it mildly) when in a rocky, technical situation, standing on the pegs and trying to maintain a constant throttle without the body lurching back and forward thus further adding to wrist movement. Sudden spurts of horsepower are unwelcome when out the back and on your own. I have added the G2 cam (400) then shimmed the new alloy throttle tube to eliminate all play (engineers copper shim sheet). Greasing this has added a dampening effect so that the throttle now closes slowly, rather than snapping back, under return spring tension. Not a cure all for correct mapping in the first place but certainly much more rideable. Also fitted a 45 t rear sprocket which is reasonably equivalent to a 16 front which moves revs a little up for a given speed in a technical situation.
cheers
Triwi

[marks]

Also fitted a 45 t rear sprocket which is reasonably equivalent to a 16 front which moves revs a little up for a given speed in a technical situation.
cheers
Triwi

I may be completely off track here - but I thought that changing the gearing so that the engine revs higher would worsen the problem due to multiplying the torque - unless the fuel injection is better behaved at higher revs??

[NordieBoy]

I may be completely off track here - but I thought that changing the gearing so that the engine revs higher would worsen the problem due to multiplying the torque - unless the fuel injection is better behaved at higher revs??

With the lower gearing the snatching will be happening sooner, below the revs you're pulling for the technical bits now.

It's a compromise. No comparison to getting the EFI sorted properly.

[warewolf]

Anything you can add concerning a fix to the snatchy throttle response on my Ktm990 that I didn't cover in my opening thread?Make a small model of the bike and stick pins into it.

Exorcise those throttle-snatch demons!!! :scooter:

[ducatijim]

Cheers Dion, I already have 2 smaller trailbikes in the stable; DR650 & KDX200 so am not sure a smaller 1 will be any use thanks. I agree that most of the bike is quite well done but for KTM to fuckup such big time in such a critical area of just what this bike is aimed at is a little hard to take, when you consider that it seems to be fixed with the 08 model( I say as opposed to 08 MAP)?

Mike, the 16t c/s went on 2 days into ownership...sure fucks the economy on the road but= 16km/L on road at 105kph( 4000rpm).

Triwi mate, I will not learn to 'live with it' it is truely that severe that slow gravel road riding is tortureous!....not only is the 'outburst' of power hard to work with, the flipside, sudden wheel locking decelleration is also no fun!What you say makes me think that the 08 map( in the 08 bike) is also not a full fix?

This is what I have gleaned from my scouring of the sister sites; that any 1 of these fixes may suit some people(bike) and not others...so far there does not seem to be certain fix, however the G2 does get most votes along with best results ....so far.

Good to hear from some actual 990 owners, thanks for that guys.

[young1]

Mike, the 16t c/s went on 2 days into ownership...sure fucks the economy on the road but= 16km/L on road at 105kph( 4000rpm).


It would be interesting to compare how much effect the smaller gearing has on the fuel economy.

[spsduc]

Cheers Dion, I already have 2 smaller trailbikes in the stable; DR650 & KDX200 so am not sure a smaller 1 will be any use thanks. I agree that most of the bike is quite well done but for KTM to fuckup such big time in such a critical area of just what this bike is aimed at is a little hard to take, when you consider that it seems to be fixed with the 08 model( I say as opposed to 08 MAP)?

Mike, the 16t c/s went on 2 days into ownership...sure fucks the economy on the road but= 16km/L on road at 105kph( 4000rpm).

Triwi mate, I will not learn to 'live with it' it is truely that severe that slow gravel road riding is tortureous!....not only is the 'outburst' of power hard to work with, the flipside, sudden wheel locking decelleration is also no fun!What you say makes me think that the 08 map( in the 08 bike) is also not a full fix?

This is what I have gleaned from my scouring of the sister sites; that any 1 of these fixes may suit some people(bike) and not others...so far there does not seem to be certain fix, however the G2 does get most votes along with best results ....so far.

Good to hear from some actual 990 owners, thanks for that guys.

Hi Jamie, I have an 06 990s (The first of the injected models) and it was diabolical when I got it. I wondered what I had bought.
The best fix is a G2 throttle cam. It works a treat by effectively "gearing down" the first part of the throttle.
I have since had a different map installed by my dealer (Akropovic) which has smoothed things out a bit more, but buggered up the fuel range.
I have two mates with 07 990 whose fueling is better (less snatchy). They have the same map as me and haven't needed the G2, so KTM did make some improvements.

I am not new to injected bikes as I had a 916 SPS Ducati before that. This brings me to my other point...part of the reason for the "snatchy" throttle is the light flywheel and internals. The bike is super responsive. If you compare it to BMWs they have a big ol heavy flywheel which smooths things out. I experienced excactly the same thing with my Duke which had a light weight flywheel & titanium conrods from the factory and then hopped on a mates 996with a std flywheel and the difference was like night and day. The heavier flywheel was so smooth.

Blip your throttle at a standstill and see how fast the thing responds and then try the same on a BMW GS or HP2. Youll see what I mean.

It is part of the price to owning a 990. These things are built to perform.
I have no doubt KTM have not got it quite right and have been a bit slack in rectifying the problem, but I love my 990 to bits.

After 14000km it still puts a grin on my face everytime I ride it and that's why I ride.

If it's any consolation you will adapt to it.

Cheers.

[ducatijim]

10 outa 10 for that reply, give that man a hand!

Very insightful explaniation thanks, I do understand that the 990 is just a little more performance focused than say my DR, so 1 would expect it to be more like a 'coiled spring' so to speak!
As I had mentioned, my K12r had as bad an issue from new; was ready to sell her when along came a new version for the ECM and presto.....like majic, the snatch was bannished: with NO detriment to the performance whatsoever.

So the manufacturers can fix these issues if there is enough pressure on them, I am feeling that however, most 990 riders, from what I read both here and in other sites, just love to punt them like an overgrown CR500 everywhere they go? Am I right? I don't read of anyone attacking technical stuff like a 'trials' bike?....it seems to be just give her a handfull and 'sheelbwright?( I am way too small and underskilled for this approach!)

As I was wanting an 'all roads' capable, comfortable 2up, long range tourer, I am now feeling that maybe the GS was the option for me, who will not always be giving her 'a handfull'? I had hoped to do away with both my DR ( adventure) and my K12r( road/tourer) and replace them with just 1 bike to cover the spectrum of my riding( Me of all people should know that 1 bike will never do the job of 2 'focused' bikes!), and as I had always admired the capabilities and specifications of the KTM, was sure it would be very close to what I wanted. The '08 demo I rode had no issues with fuelling and I would have noticed after my issues with my K12.
Thanks again, Jamie.

[spsduc]

10 outa 10 for that reply, give that man a hand!

Very insightful explaniation thanks, I do understand that the 990 is just a little more performance focused than say my DR, so 1 would expect it to be more like a 'coiled spring' so to speak!
As I had mentioned, my K12r had as bad an issue from new; was ready to sell her when along came a new version for the ECM and presto.....like majic, the snatch was bannished: with NO detriment to the performance whatsoever.

So the manufacturers can fix these issues if there is enough pressure on them, I am feeling that however, most 990 riders, from what I read both here and in other sites, just love to punt them like an overgrown CR500 everywhere they go? Am I right? I don't read of anyone attacking technical stuff like a 'trials' bike?....it seems to be just give her a handfull and 'sheelbwright?( I am way too small and underskilled for this approach!)

As I was wanting an 'all roads' capable, comfortable 2up, long range tourer, I am now feeling that maybe the GS was the option for me, who will not always be giving her 'a handfull'? I had hoped to do away with both my DR ( adventure) and my K12r( road/tourer) and replace them with just 1 bike to cover the spectrum of my riding( Me of all people should know that 1 bike will never do the job of 2 'focused' bikes!), and as I had always admired the capabilities and specifications of the KTM, was sure it would be very close to what I wanted. The '08 demo I rode had no issues with fuelling and I would have noticed after my issues with my K12.
Thanks again, Jamie.


Hi there me again. In regards your technical riding I have done two South Island Safaris on my 990 and there was some real technical snotty riding on the trail options which I completed no troubles, so don't be put off by that.
These things will go most places with the right tyres, a bit of competence and a positive attitude:)
One of the Aussie Journos on the WR250 launch at this years Safari couldn't believe my mate and I had made it to the top of one hill. He was blown away.

[Gremlin]

Just be aware that standard maps they put on from the shop may not be correct for the bike either. Most maps available are from Europe/USA, and our fuel is not the same, giving different results when chucking in one of their maps.

SM 08 is diabolical in 1st, less so in the subsequent gears, but I'm thinking a new map, filter and pipes will sort it out, plus being run in. We'll see.

[Dazza]

Not that I Adventure ride on my 07SD but compared to my 05 it's heaps better fuelling wise.:Offtopic:

[ducatijim]

Ok you guys, I know youre out there watching....I'm watching the hit counter so I know, see!
How about these questions;

1) Anyone had a DEFINITIVE result with the obscure; 2 bar from cold and 2 minute warm, uninterupted idle run-up fixing throttle snatch?
( For everyone who says yes, another says no-differant. Beats me that a 'modern' ecm system should need any such protracted 're-boot' process everytime it is started?)
AND:
2) Who has removed the upper butterflys and seen an improvement OR otherwise? ( again I wonder if a modern company could 'unnecessarily' fit these things if they are to the DETRIMENT of performance?Although I belive they are only there as part of the emissions control system-to prevent overfuelling?) This fix also had about a 1-1 better/no-better result overseas
OR:
3) There are still other processes like trying to modify the way the MAP system( is that the right one?) reads the manifold pressure, even linking the 2 together, but I really do struggle to see that we, as owners, should need to do such invasive alterations to eliminate a problem that the factory could have done in a millisecond with a click of the mouse in the right place!

Comon you owners, don't be afraid to admit that KTM may have got it wrong, lets save future owners/potential owners the frustration of banging their head against the wall!( and provide a fix for all,including those who 'don't' have a problem!)

Big thanks in advance.

[Crisis management]

You've been searching through the other forums as well, haven't you......

I have no answers Jamie, I'm too fresh to my 990 to have tried much, the only comment I have is the one the previous owner passed to me: "the akras and a remap got rid of the snatchyness"

My take on the fueling from reading widely:
There are various maps out there and some bike / rider combinations don't seem bothered, some do. The G2 throttle cams have some merit, I have some here but haven't played with them yet, as for the secondary butterflies, remapping etc, the only way to really do something with that is put it on a dyno and get some real readings anything else is speculation. Have a read of the current thread in Orange crush (ADv rider) and you find everyone has an opinion and eveyone is different..... I trust the french guy Auriel? he seems to be a reliable poster.

My limited experience with the bike is that the throttle is not too snatchy down low, it feels like my 200exc really, keep the throttle steady and regulate speed with the clutch at low speeds, I don't expect it to trickle around tree stumps at idle.

Maybe worth riding some other 990's to get a feel for them? The couple I have ridden felt the same down low so maybe yours is normal or maybe not?

Now wasn't that helpful, I'm sure you feel better already! :chase:

[Gremlin]

Does anyone know if the new 990 adventure features the latest ecu technology from ktm?

I believe the new bikes are coming out with fairly advanced features, and shortly software will be available to do more than just change the loaded map

[ducatijim]

[QUOTE=Crisis management;1766615]You've been searching through the other forums as well, haven't you......

I have no answers Jamie, I'm too fresh to my 990 to have tried much, the only comment I have is the one the previous owner passed to me: "the akras and a remap got rid of the snatchyness"

QUOTE]


Thanks for that Iain, its much as I have also generaised ! As for any opening up and free-flowing the ex and a re-map, well man the lack of fuel economy stock already jeopadises my plans for this bike = 16km/L 1 up unladen with easy throttle use. Any worse than this and it will not take us where I want to go in Oz.:argh:

[Triwi]

DucJim
You are so right that KTM should have attended to the 990 FI issue. It is not up to the owner who has just paid $23k. At those dollars it was a conscious descision not to go 1200GS instead. I waited to get an 08 model convinced that they would have attended to the prob, as they have been good at updating other issues. Not so. I have no realistic option now but to do what I can to make it more rideable in technical situations, hence a 400 cam, dampen the hairtrigger return, and yesterday fitted an ignition switch on dash to allow easier switching to hi/lo octane fuel rather than pulling wire under seat. Am interested to see if switching to low setting (retard) has any effect on throttle response.
Fuel economy is vexing. Fixed throttle cruise (up to 5000rpm) gets me easily into the 17k p l range. (1 up medium load). Any roll ons of substance above 5000 and its in the 15's. I bought the bike specifically for touring in Oz so will refit the 42 rear sprocket (17/42). I have also fitted a 2 into one collector exiting into a purpose built Neptune muffler and fitted a 5.5litre alloy tank in place of lh muffler. Better use of weight all round. I can realistically now think about 400k range - given the type of Oz touring I do which is generally the eastern areas Cairns to Melbourne up to 500k west of coastline. Sort of. No desert crossings or deep sand anyway. My riding consists of transiting at steady cruise or exploring in national parks or around country towns. All this is really saying that I'm happy the fuel economy can be acceptably controlled for my sort of work. (Mind you if I'd bought a 1200 I wouldnt have to be so aware of it.)
It does have to be said tho that the superb all round handling, comfort and wind protection I find really great. Its a natural transition to standing so sudden water crossings and dropouts , coupled with that suspension, are coped with easily. I have watched in some awe 990's on two Yamaha 3 day Adv rides, so clearly the throttle issue can be 'ridden through'
However for my version of adventure touring (laden,remote, and alone) it's a great machine flawed by that snatchy throttle and questionable fuel economy.
A great pity
Triwi

[ducatijim]

Great review thanks Triwi, very candid. I am a BMW owner already, a satisfied one at that, so gave the 1200gs a good trial;big ups to Experience BMW, but felt it 'felt' too big for a wee bloke like me. Was a stretch to the bars at full lock and the front generally felt 'detached'( like my Kr I suppose) not what you want in a multi-road bike!
All ergos, bar wind noise, are very good stock on the Kt; it is a well sorted package right off the floor.....except the efi.
I wanted it mainly to take to Oz like you, but for 2-up with gear riding: no room for xtra fuel....now my range is looking to not exceed 350km, if even do that much fully loaded. I will look at returning the 17t cs sprocket, however, she is a little out of the sweet spot in that gearing, cruising at NZ and all but NT road speeds.
Your idea to use the useless xtra muffler space as a fuel reserve is genius I must say, but as a skill-less 'sod-basher' it is way outside my abilities! and to find someone who will do this kind of work from an idea is not so easy here in the land of cows and trees!
If I can motivate to it, I will 'cam' my own throttle( us exchange rate v bad to buy G2 now), and then, if necessary, move into ripping out the un-necessary xtra butterflies: see what that does....then maybe go back to Henry @ Exp!! if that fails!!

I tend to wonder if the almost 'silence' on this subject means I have touched on a sore point that most owners won't publicly confess to? I did expect MUCH more imput on this....there are a hell of a lot of these things out there??

[warewolf]

no room for xtra fuel....now my range is looking to not exceed 350km, if even do that much fully loaded.Try a Safari Tank, pricey but should do the biz: Safari Fuel Tanks: KTM (http://www.rvaqualine.com.au/page.php?sId=12). Might be cheaper ex-USA.

KTM 950/990LC8

Litres: 40
Colours: Orange, Black or Translucent White
Fits: 950 & 990LC8 models - please specify when ordering
The amazingly small increase in size, given the huge increase in capacity, comes from the fuel being held low over a wider area.
Includes: Fuel caps
The two tanks replace the stock ones, plus the fairing shrouds. The glovebox is retained, and the black skid panels on the base of each tank are easily and cheaply replaced if damaged in a crash.


Cost: AUD $1,694.00 (inc GST)



http://www.rvaqualine.com.au/sitefiles/Product/File16_1.jpg

[young1]

Jamie have a ride on my some time, I don't notice anything that you talk about, all AFC did was fix the throttle. They have sold a sh!t load of 990s now (including a 990S to a friend of mine here last week), maybe ring Brendan there and ask him?

[ducatijim]

Jamie have a ride on my some time, I don't notice anything that you talk about, all AFC did was fix the throttle. They have sold a sh!t load of 990s now (including a 990S to a friend of mine here last week), maybe ring Brendan there and ask him?


I understand what youre saying Mike, I am WELL aware that this problem is not in ALL 990's, no question, and I also suspect that the degree of issue is vairable. My selling dealer is NOT interested in a fix - there is no problem if you listen to them!( In fact, I have been waiting 2 weeks for them to come back with KTM NZ's take on this!!!!) So I would doubt some other dealer, who has no obligation to me or my bike, would be even remotely interested: you do these people an injustice to indicate they have any interest in anything other than making money and trying to keep their existing customer base intact.
The ONLY dealer( and I have dealt with many now...TOO many in fact!) who I found ever gave a damn was Exp BMW ( Henry Plowright) in Kingsland.....top people who look after their customers very well....I had some serious issues with both of the Bm's I have owned and you know what? They NEVER told me that they had never seen it before/heard of it before. And they always fixed it too!
No Mike, it is going to take a 'homer' to get on top of this problem, but hey, so glad you have a 'good' one mate!

Wolfie....Safari tanks? You used one? I have fitted one to my DR....a bloody aweful fit: would not part with $2K for that lump of plastic!
I only wanted around 400k range, if I was doing a safari again, I would have a Dakar or GSa with the big tanks ex factory!

[warewolf]

Wolfie....Safari tanks? You used one? I have fitted one to my DR....a bloody aweful fit: would not part with $2K for that lump of plastic!Not used one myself, but never had any feedback on them either, apart from in magazines where the reviewers were always happy.

[ducatijim]

Colin, on the dr, which only effectivly has 1 bolt on point for the tank, the fit was rubbish....need a pinchbar every single time you fit/re-fit the tank to make the bolt hole align !
Indicators strike the tank at each full-lock of bars.
Found out later that a reflector mount on each side of lower t-clamp was quietly erroding the tank each time full loc was used.

I feel that when you transpose those issues over a tank as complicated as the 990 one, there is too much margin for error in the fitment, would be differant if one was dealing with the supplier or his agent, but when you buy via the web, well, buyer beware!

Otherwise, a most excellent product.

[buzzard]

Hi, I have an 06 990, one of the first couple brought in to NZ. Ive done about 24k on it and have had no real throttle snatchiness until recently. Sure I have had to be cognisant of its sensitivity relative to other bikes but I have not found it too bad.

However I recently had it serviced and the throttle is now snatchy and surges between 3k and 4k. Fuel economy has also gone downhill and I am getting about 30-40km less a tank than i was (previously got around 17l per k and now get around 14.5l). All pretty unsatisfactory. I think it is to do with the new mappings that may have been uploaded, as previously i have been running on the stock mapping. I have just (yesterday had another tune done so am yet to see if economy has changed).

Does anyone know a mechanic (in Auckland) who knows these machines and tune them well? I know that John at Amps used to do a great job but left for greener pastures at Haldanes.

cheers

[ducatijim]

Thats interesting to hear. I was getting around 19k/l on the 07 map, but have dropped to 16k/l now the 08 map is loaded. I could easily imagine sub 15 with spirited riding!!
I too would like to know who is a good man to keep(get?) these bikes operating to their best.

[Crisis management]

So, how did you get on with the angle grinder DJ?

Are we now sourcing a new throttle tube and parts for throttle bodies????


FYI, my 06, mapped for the akras got 280 out of one tank then 350 out of the next :blink: both with similar running conditions....14 to 17.5km/l without any obvious change, and yes, I was measuring carefully and I'm still running the 17 tooth (cause I can't get the bloody nut off to change it!!!)

[ducatijim]

So, how did you get on with the angle grinder DJ?Spectacularly!

Are we now sourcing a new throttle tube and parts for throttle bodies????
I used to build small flying models, this was a cake walk Iain!!


FYI, my 06, mapped for the akras got 280 out of one tank then 350 out of the next :blink: both with similar running conditions....14 to 17.5km/l without any obvious change, and yes, I was measuring carefully and I'm still running the 17 tooth (cause I can't get the bloody nut off to change it!!!)Just when I think I'm getting traction, you go and blow me right outa the water don't ya Iain!!


Job done. Initial brief test( its raining here!!) indicate a marked improvement-I now have a gradual 'decceleration' action available on my right wrist...imagine that!!!:done:

Will do more exhaustive investigation and report back.

[buzzard]

i should also say that despite the fuel problems and throttle snatch i have expereinced recently i wouldnt change the bike. It is bloody awesome. Filtering through the Auckland rush hour traffic is a breeze and the bike is big enough to scare most of the car drivers out of the way. Those that dont move.....wel that why we wear boots with steel caps isnt it?

[ducatijim]

.................................................. ..........:niceone:.............................!

[Crisis management]

.................................................. ..........:niceone:.............................!

Con- bloody- gratulations............



I hope

[Gremlin]

Does anyone know a mechanic (in Auckland) who knows these machines and tune them well? I know that John at Amps used to do a great job but left for greener pastures at Haldanes.
Gavin at AMPS has left as well, and he was the main KTM mech there.

I would give Triple X Moto a ring, sure, my bike goes there, but they also run a fleet of adventures for motorcycle hire, so I would imagine they know them inside out.

[cooneyr]

.................................................. ..........:niceone:.............................!

Hoping things have improved but also hoping that will post on here so others can benefit from your investigations. Sounds like there is a cheap back yard bodge (or two) that works well.

Cheers r

[ducatijim]

Hoping things have improved but also hoping that will post on here so others can benefit from your investigations. Sounds like there is a cheap back yard bodge (or two) that works well.

Cheers r

Yes Ryan, there are a number of free and very easy fixes that can be DIY'd, but apart from Buzzard, who is very happy with his wee snatch, and CM ( who I have PM'd) there are, apparantly, no other 990's in NZ with any throttle problem! So we can close this thread down :done:

Cheers all. j

[NordieBoy]

there are, apparantly, no other 990's in NZ with any throttle problem!

Especially as the 990 comes with a subscription to KiwiBiker in the glovebox :D

[Crisis management]

Brief update.....
I finally got around to pulling the throttle apart and found I already had the G2 200 cam fitted to my bike so that may explain why I find it controllable. In the interests of science I fitted the 400 cam (the softest start version) and am very pleased with the result! A lot easier to control from start off and at low speeds a lot less of the on/off power delivery. I did a 500km ride around Coromandel yesterday and noticed the reduction in tension in my right arm. Previously I was concious of the throttle all the time and now it's just one more part of the bike, not "the" part.
It is still a bit of a handfull at just off idle in slippery surfaces due to the fact that any throttle gets 20hp trying to turn the wheel but once past that point I now have fine control back to the throttle.

Consensus:
Modify the throttle "cam" to slow down throttle movement, well worth doing. :banana::banana:

[ducatijim]

Well done Iain, glad to see I am on the right track.....I was wondering if I was in a paralell universe for a while.

For those 'lurkers' out there......you can save, currently, around US$206 with a file!

BUT WAIT....THERE IS MORE:

I'm just home from a majic 2 day rotation of the East Cape on the Kt. I did lots of hiway, LOTS of tight windies, ventured down some of my favorite gravel sections( yeah I know....you just can't imagine where I mean eh?), with fast sweepers in ballbearing finish, super TIGHT knarlie shit in larger fit( rox that is...), generally a BROAD range of surface and skill level.

RESULT: Pirelli Scorpions SUK bigtime off seal: weight the front a bit and you can cope; on the seal they are the deal! Oh wait, you wanted to know 'bout throttle snatch didn't ya??

Well, I fuckn fixed it totally!:done: NO problems at all, no pissing around with the dinasoric 'KTM start-up fuck around'....oh no, just hit it and ride it!!

Fuel economy? Is total shit. 14.6 - 16km/L, no better or worse than before my conversions. Looks like if this bitch is going to Oz with me I will be forced to try and lever on an Aqualine. Bloody INEFFICIENT motor/EFI system but there you go.....you pays yur monies ya takes yur chances!

Had a great time, just love that area!:Punk: See ya's!!!!

[Crisis management]

Good to hear Jamie, did the secondaries removal affect the overall performance, thats on my list for later this week? For reference the difference between the G2 100 and 400 at the start of the action is about 3mm, so probably (I don't have a stock throttle) about 4mm notched out of the original cam....how's that compare with your experiment?

I have to agree about the MT90's as well, I was finding it hard to load up the front enough to gain traction....time for TKC's.

Just out of interest, as you're a similar size to me, how do you find standing on the 990? To get the front to work I have to apply a lot of weight (what there is) over the bars and I can't say as the ergo's really work.
The pegs are too high and the bars too low, I've started a thread on ADV and have had a bit of good feedback there if your interested..in Orange Crush.
Suggestions with merit so far seem to be wider pegs (more leverage) and bar risers. More experimentation to come! :woohoo:

[young1]

Suggestions with merit so far seem to be wider pegs (more leverage) :

Wow at last we are past the throttle snatch ha ha.

I have put new tyres on my bike, I have replaced the rear with what came standard and on the front I have put a TKC, this seems to be a common fix. I now have more confidence on the loose ball bearing type surfaces. I also stand up on the loose stuff, that gives me more confidence as it puts more weight on the front wheel.

However when I stand I am very conscious that I am on the outside edge of the footpegs so I do plan to get wider pegs. Have you see this write up on ADVRIDER - http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=339722

He has put on wider pegs.

Ian if you are getting wider pegs keep me in mind as happy to order with you.

Mike

[ducatijim]

Good to hear Jamie, did the secondaries removal affect the overall performance, thats on my list for later this week? For reference the difference between the G2 100 and 400 at the start of the action is about 3mm, so probably (I don't have a stock throttle) about 4mm notched out of the original cam....how's that compare with your experimentThat sounds like it may start 'camming' a bit L8r than my set-up. Overall performance is now very snappy( apart from where I had the problem - sportsbike like!)

I have to agree about the MT90's as well, I was finding it hard to load up the front enough to gain traction....time for TKC's.Michelin Desert or T63 for me... you can stick anything Continental....they are shit tyres on other appliations ie tractor or car tyres!!

Just out of interest, as you're a similar size to me, how do you find standing on the 990? To get the front to work I have to apply a lot of weight (what there is) over the bars and I can't say as the ergo's really work.
The pegs are too high and the bars too low, I've started a thread on ADV and have had a bit of good feedback there if your interested..in Orange Crush.The bars are too low for standing attack, unless you are 4foot fuck all! Personally I will not change anything except the front tyre....I'm a lazy little prick who likes to stay on his fat arse.
Suggestions with merit so far seem to be wider pegs (more leverage) and bar risers. More experimentation to come! :woohoo:

I will not be using this bike for its intended purpose, it will mearly be a 1/2up ALL TERRAIN( Multi strada) tourer for here and in Oz( + Aqualine!)....I have a very well sorted, dedicated adventure bike that will walk over the 990 in all but hiway work, so why would I bother and have the unpleasant task of humping a behemoth bitch like this around tight knarly trails? I belive it would need a much 'bigger' man than me ( + skilled also!!!) to be able to be comfortable/capable off formed roads on a 990.

[ducatijim]

Wow at last we are past the throttle snatch ha ha.

Mike

Nice one Mike.

Glad ur so well fuckn sorted.

Thats just the attitude thats prevented a good discussion of the topic:nono:

[Crisis management]

Thanks for the feedback guys, it's all appreciated....time to buy some tyres and fiddle with stuff it seems!


I will not be using this bike for its intended purpose,.........etc

For my sins I am commited to one bike to do everything (except trail rides) so will need to make the 990 my sports bike and adventure bike, it does the sports bit ok but I need to practice the off road part of the adventure biking a bit more and get it set up so I can extract some of the performance its capable of.
DJ, thanks for the link, I will have a look at that tonight.

Oh well it looks as if I will just have to suffer through the trials of spending time and money on the bike! :2thumbsup

[ducatijim]

[QUOTE=Crisis management;1778662
Oh well it looks as if I will just have to suffer through the trials of spending time and money on the bike! :2thumbsup[/QUOTE]


I suffer with you Iain. I am finding myself getting harder to please the more bikes I go thru( Good thing its not women eh!!). I seriously belived the KTM brand to stand for a well sorted machine: you know, top knotch components in a focused package, the kind you buy and ride!

So I am naturally let down by KTM that they left a small but significant chink in their otherwise superb well engineered bike.

I have solved the 'deal breaker' problem.

I will bite the bullet on the tank issue and fit an Aqualine while in Oz.

I tested screen heights with your suggested coroboard mock-up and tonight fitted the KTM 'touring screen'....the xtra height suits my stunted stature and gives me a 'peacefull' work enviroment.

Tyres....well they don't last forever so its no issue to change at the next new fitment is it?( Take the advice of one V. Rossi.....fit something you REALLY like and trust to the front.....and something round and black to the back!!).:niceone:

[dino3310]

Thanks for the feedback guys, it's all appreciated....time to buy some tyres and fiddle with stuff it seems!



For my sins I am commited to one bike to do everything (except trail rides) so will need to make the 990 my sports bike and adventure bike, it does the sports bit ok but I need to practice the off road part of the adventure biking a bit more and get it set up so I can extract some of the performance its capable of.
DJ, thanks for the link, I will have a look at that tonight.

Oh well it looks as if I will just have to suffer through the trials of spending time and money on the bike! :2thumbsup

i know the feeling mate, its certainly a big change from throwing the smaller DR's around but ya gotta love those extra pony's on the road.
with all this extra size and weight i'm certianly learning some respect in regards to bike set up.had quite a few butt clenching moments on the metal,
but injoying every moment, still miss the little fun bike though.
are you on for Cary's coro ride?

[Crisis management]

Tyres....well they don't last forever so its no issue to change at the next new fitment is it?( Take the advice of one V. Rossi.....fit something you REALLY like and trust to the front.....and something round and black to the back!!).:niceone:

TKC80 going on the front as soon as Cycletreads get one in! Be interested in your take on the touring screen I have the Cee Bailey (BIG screen!! have a look at my profile pic) which I took off as I still got buffeting and have been using stock until now. I'm going to look at cutting it well down and see if I can get my head into some clear air that way. Experiments start next week with lumps of cardboard....just after the secondaries removal.


i know the feeling mate, its certainly a big change from throwing the smaller DR's around ........
are you on for Cary's coro ride?
It certainly is a learning curve, I sometimes wonder why I don't just stick with what I know, the upside is that 160 plus on the gravel is very comfortable and I can hit 500kms without really getting knackered.
I just need to work out how to punt it fast enough around corners to keep up with everyone else.

Coro ride? I'm not going for the weekend but might do saturday as long as I can spare the time around here.

[ducatijim]

TKC80 going on the front as soon as Cycletreads get one in!Another good reason to use Michelin: they are popular and AVAILABLE when you want them!! Be interested in your take on the touring screen I have the Cee Bailey (BIG screen!! have a look at my profile pic) which I took off as I still got buffeting and have been using stock until now.I think that thing is just too BUSY....what with an xtra wing thing and the HUGE lip......! I'm going to look at cutting it well down and see if I can get my head into some clear air that way. Experiments start next week with lumps of cardboard....just after the secondaries removal.


It certainly is a learning curve, I sometimes wonder why I don't just stick with what I know, the upside is that 160 plus on the gravelIs this wise oh great one? Mr farmer on his old 28,with 8 huntaways, rounding that slight rising bend ahead may not share your BRIEF enjoyment of the afternoon? is very comfortable and I can hit 500kms without really getting knackered.The well set up DR is a comfortable mount well toward 1000km/day....and more relaxing to ride off the seal....very little 'muscling' required to go where you want!
I just need to work out how to punt it fast enough around corners to keep up with everyone else.This is not the best criteria on which to base ones riding Iain.
Coro ride? I'm not going for the weekend but might do saturday as long as I can spare the time around here.
We should get together some time and have a good 'thrash out' Iain!!!( verbally I mean!!)

[Crisis management]

Settle Jamie, I appreciate your words of warning but I only ride to suit the conditions / visibility and I always ride my own ride, there's always someone faster and slower than me.

The dumb stuff I save for the trail bike!

[buzzard]

Its great to have more 990 owners on the forums.

AMPS have sorted some of the tuning but i think it will be for a trip to Triple X moto. Even though I dont really have a problem with the throttle snatch I may get on and give it a shot after what you guys have said about it.

I too need more time offroad on it to be comfortable, but with two little kids that aint going to happen anytime soon. So for now it is a commuter with the realtively frequent out of town weekend trips.

You'll see me around auckland most days on the big grey 990.

Cheers

[Dazza]

God you Guys are a pack of whingers, I'm more than happy with the snatch that I've got to play with :msn-wink: I'd be pissed if I didn't have any snatch :niceone:

[Bass]

God you Guys are a pack of whingers, I'm more than happy with the snatch that I've got to play with :msn-wink: I'd be pissed if I didn't have any snatch :niceone:

Well, if that's it in your avatar, you must be easy to please.

[Dazza]

Well, if that's it in your avatar, you must be easy to please.No it's not & no I'm not !

[Gremlin]

AMPS have sorted some of the tuning but i think it will be for a trip to Triple X moto. Even though I dont really have a problem with the throttle snatch I may get on and give it a shot after what you guys have said about it.
Triple X Moto also work closely with Brett Roberts, should Dyno Tuning be required, as he has the dyno, they have the software

[Digitdion]

I totally agree With a few things boys. To much whinging(ha Ha) and what a kick arse bike indeed. I have so much respect for the 990 indeed. I am taking it slowly and getting to know how best to ride it(talking about on the gravel and dirt). Am picking up the pace and starting to get her a tad loose.What a great machine

[Crisis management]

God you Guys are a pack of whingers, :

I know this is a pisstake but maybe this thread can be a useful local resource for 990/950 info rather than degenerate into penis waggling.
Reality is the 990 isn't perfect, there are a lot of improvements that can be made eg:
Fueling, including the bloody throttle snatch and secondary butterflys,
Fuel tanks & range (yeah right)
Screen design,
Suspension setup,
Seats and footpegs,
Bars & risers,
Tyre combinations.

How about we all admit the Kaboom is a bike not a mechanical marvel and like the KLR and DR will respond well to improvements to suit the individual.

Make this work for us rather than alienating each other with off the cuff comments.


Buzzard, if your anywhere near Hillsborough give me a yell if you want to compare notes on the 990 (I also need some undamaged anthracite body panels).......

Iain

[Dazza]

I know this is a pisstake
Iain
Fark your onto me:doh:. You hit it in the head, certainly a good source of info. I was out on my favourite twisties yesterday ( I know not on a Adventurer,but basicaly the same engine) riding it how it was supposed to be ridden & thinking a couple of times god this throttle is snacthy or is it just me being a rough bastard,(I know, not the same senario you guys are talking about), you certainly have to have your wits about you all the time. With 54000k's on both SD's combined, every time I go/come back home from a ride I'm think fuck I :love:this machine :niceone:

[dino3310]

a little of topic but shit, i had a looksey and a sit on the 950 enduro and fark i want one it felt sooooooo good, i couldn't take it for a ride cause i wouldn't wanna give it back and hopping on the DR just wouldnt be the same.
What an awesome bike.

[NordieBoy]

Combine throttle snatch with a stick shift then :D

[buzzard]

Crisis Management - I am based in the city but live in Howick. Happy to chat anytime.

My 990 is off the road at the moment as the oil/water pump shat itself and starting sucking radiator coolant into the engine. AMPS are currently waiting on parts.

[ducatijim]

My 990 is off the road at the moment as the oil/water pump shat itself and starting sucking radiator coolant into the engine. AMPS are currently waiting on parts.

Oh joy.....................................:weep:

.....ya gotta luv em....

[sparker]

Have only done 2000km on new 2009 adventure.Found same problem with fueling replaced the throttle with a tamer throttle from ktmtwins.com not cheap but made a real diference. Also took out all throttle play and keep the chain as tight as possible as there seems to be a fair amount of drive line free play.Not perfect but much better.Fuelling isn't great on part throttle on many FI bikes just the KTM is so responsive and the throttle hair trigger it makes it seem worse. Hopefully get better with mor KMS. Still love it .Did New Plymouth to Kawhia along the coast grat fun.

[sparker]

Have only done 2000km on new 2009 990 adventure but found same problem really sensitive throttle response. Only need to hit bump in road hand moves a couple of mm and bike lurches even harder on gravel. Replaced the throttle with a tamer throttle from ktmtwins.com made a real difference ,slowed down that first bit of the throttle action. Also took all the slack out of the throttle and the chain. As there seems to be a fair amount of drive line slack in the transmission. Seems much better like this although not perfect especially at low revs and small throttle openings. Have found this on other FI bikes just more so on the KTM as its so lively.Did New Plymouth to Kawhia the other day via Marakopa great ride and loved the KTM not perfect yet but better.

[Crisis management]

Good to hear you're enjoying the Katoom, I used the 400 cam on the throttle plus a 16 tooth front sprocket and that made a significant difference to the snatchiness. The only time I have trouble with it now is in marginal traction conditions or when going slowly in 1st gear, my solution is to set the throttle at say 2k and use the clutch, slipping that to maintain control. This seems to work until you get a bit of lurch and accidentally jerk the throttle open!

Next weeks plan is to remove the secondary throttle "flaps" as part of a service and then rerun the 15 minute FI initialisation...if I don't blow it up, I'll let you know how that goes. :blink:

[ducatijim]

That should do it Iain,also, I have found a 'brake' or friction device on the thro tube is good- I have a 'cruise control' device I got from Oz and it is great to apply some friction in tight or town conditions just to stop unwanted 'blips' on the sensitive throttle.

[warewolf]

The only time I have trouble with it now is in marginal traction conditions or when going slowly in 1st gear, my solution is to set the throttle at say 2k and use the clutch, slipping that to maintain control. This seems to work until you get a bit of lurch and accidentally jerk the throttle open!Try putting your thumb on the switch block to anchor your throttle. That should avoid the bump-jerk stuff.

[tri boy]

Got to ride the ex Kiwi Rider 990 for a brief squirt today. Cheers Oscar:yes:
I could see how real slow maneuvering on them might be a bit tricky. (Seems a bit too tall geared, and the throttle response was noticeable but.................

Oh the grunt the fecking thing has:woohoo:
Harden up you lot:bash:
Or I will make ya pootle around on a scrambler:scooter:

(Wish I hadn't ridden it now, I bloody want one:crybaby:)

[jcsh]

I've had my 08 990 for 9 months now and 10000km. I did some research on the throttle snatchiness thing as I found it annoying at 50ks in town and downright horrible on on-off riding in the dirt. The first thing I did was change to the 91 octane fuel map and that improved things markedly. Power is slightly down but theres still masses, and i often ride 2 up with luggage in a 'spirited' fashion ;-)

Thunderbikes told me that they had a factory fix which involved filing the throttle cam, this has improved things again. I'm not too bothered about the throttle response now, its very manageable, which considering where it started from is a BIG improvement.

I laos cut down the screen and bent it backwards as per ADV rider threads - its a lot better. I've found the buffeting is all but gone now.

Cheers
James

OH BTW - does anyone know where I can get a front scorp for a reasonable price - I can fit it myself so mail order is ok.

[warewolf]

Bullion Motorcycles (cycletreads nelson) is good for tyres.

[Oscar]

Got to ride the ex Kiwi Rider 990 for a brief squirt today. Cheers Oscar:yes:
I could see how real slow maneuvering on them might be a bit tricky. (Seems a bit too tall geared, and the throttle response was noticeable but.................

Oh the grunt the fecking thing has:woohoo:
Harden up you lot:bash:
Or I will make ya pootle around on a scrambler:scooter:

(Wish I hadn't ridden it now, I bloody want one:crybaby:)

Yeah, they need lower gearing, I found that my 950 was much more usable with one tooth difference on the countershaft.

The 990 needs a slightly different riding technique to the 950, I found. On gravel you can ride it like a ye olde big two stroke - shift up and grunt it out of the corners. Easier on the throttle and not as much wheelspin.

[jcsh]

Bullion Motorcycles (cycletreads nelson) is good for tyres.

Clive's a great guy but he cant get these tyres very cheaply unfortunately..

[warewolf]

Clive's a great guy but he cant get these tyres very cheaply unfortunately..Can anyone? They are Pirellis after all. The pricing on some dirt Pirellis in Filco today was scary. Clive said some months ago that tyre prices were going to head northward with a vengeance.

[jcsh]

Can anyone? They are Pirellis after all. The pricing on some dirt Pirellis in Filco today was scary. Clive said some months ago that tyre prices were going to head northward with a vengeance.

We need to get around the NZ distributor model somehow, these tyres are way cheaper abroad. The NZ distis are gloving us... Surely someone does grey imports of tyres..? No?

[jcsh]

Yeah, they need lower gearing, I found that my 950 was much more usable with one tooth difference on the countershaft.

The 990 needs a slightly different riding technique to the 950, I found. On gravel you can ride it like a ye olde big two stroke - shift up and grunt it out of the corners. Easier on the throttle and not as much wheelspin.

I put a one tooth smaller front sprocket on mine and it improved its low speed manners measurably.

BTW I'm putting my 990 up for sale soon if you know anyone thats interested... almost exactly one year old, 14.5k kms Black, a few farkles such as carbon fork protectors, orange master cylinder covers etc. I've got my eye on a supermoto.

[warewolf]

We need to get around the NZ distributor model somehow, these tyres are way cheaper abroad. The NZ distis are gloving us... Surely someone does grey imports of tyres..? No?yes, no, and dunno.

With the rise of internet shopping crossing geographical boundaries, local legislation has not caught up. (This has always been a problem with ICT in general, as it advances at a meteoric rate whereas governments move at a glacial pace.) Not only is purchasing accessible, but previously ppl were much more ignorant of overseas pricing.

It is not a level playing field. Businesses have heaps of taxes and overheads that a private importer bypasses and/or is exempt... the most obvious being GST not payable below $50, and some sellers happy to lie on the forms to keep it below that even if it isn't. The local businesses are not ripping anyone off.

A guy in Aussie (on advrider.com) tried to import a pallet of adventure tyres that were super cheap in the USA. AFAIK it didn't happen because freight & compliance costs pushed the price per unit too close to (or over) what the local dealers were selling for, despite the purchase price in the USA being something like 40% of the local price.

(but this is all Off Topic)

[Waihou Thumper]

I put a one tooth smaller front sprocket on mine and it improved its low speed manners measurably.

BTW I'm putting my 990 up for sale soon if you know anyone thats interested... almost exactly one year old, 14.5k kms Black, a few farkles such as carbon fork protectors, orange master cylinder covers etc. I've got my eye on a supermoto.


what price will you have in mind James?
;)

[jcsh]

what price will you have in mind James?
;)

Well I've been advised by Thunderbike's (my local KTM servicing dealer) owner John Fitzwater, yesterday, that $18.5k would be the right price, but I'm happy to take $500 less for a quick sale as the SM might have gone by the time I wait for the higher dollars. Are you interested or know someone that is? Its still got a whole years warranty left BTW ...

[Triwi]

Have had my 990 a year now and am dissatisfied that an otherwise nice machine is let down by its fueling and fuel consumption. The low speed jerkiness, only apparent when in 1st or 2nd, standing on the pegs and desparately trying to negotiate a rocky switchback without accidently applying 100 horsepower as the body whips back and forth in opposite reaction to the wrist attempting to modulate the throttle, is unacceptable. Certainly, plenty of clutch action allows progress but its tiring and hard on the bike and body. (NB 400 throttle cam fitted)
KTM seem unwilling or unable to sort the issue.
My 650 Dakar does not compare in any way to the 990 but its a relief to get on sometimes and ride with ease over a track where low speed control was required and where the 990 was a pig in comparison.
Actual fuel consumption also remains a mystery. At the completion of the recent Southern Cross Safari around NZ the total fuel consumption averaged 18.56k per litre - an outstanding result I thought. However the lowspeed running was diabolical to the point where a normal stoplight take off had me covering the clutch to avoid any missing until revs were gathered. As well backfiring commenced on the overrun at 5000 and persisted down to idle.(All this from new I might add). On return Superior (ChCh) completed the 15000 service and found 5 valves required shimming (gap too wide), throttle bodies out of synch and installed the Akropovic tune as plug colour showed lean condition. (Bike has 2 into 1 pipe with open muffler fitted prior to Sth Cross). Its a totally new machine (apart from herky jerky) and a delight to ride for the first time since new.
BUT
The first tankful (some town, some main road, some easy gravel) returned 13.3 k per litre. Accordingly in some desparation I have refitted the original gearing - 17/42. (I had been running 17/45 - roughly equivalent to using a 16t front). Acheived 15.2 k p l this time but this gearing really is a bit high I feel although the motor is running so smoothly now its coping better with the long legged 6th gear. Will persist with this for a while to get a bigger set of averages and to think about things for a bit.
So after a year of ownership I continue to be frustrated with the 'flawed genius' that is the KTM990. It comes so close to being the best bike I have ever owned but until the injection is sorted its an also ran.
Just my thoughts
Triwi

[jcsh]

Have you tried the 91 octane map setting? under the seat brown wire disconnection.. made a big difference for me
cheers
james


Have had my 990 a year now and am dissatisfied that an otherwise nice machine is let down by its fueling and fuel consumption. The low speed jerkiness, only apparent when in 1st or 2nd, standing on the pegs and desparately trying to negotiate a rocky switchback without accidently applying 100 horsepower as the body whips back and forth in opposite reaction to the wrist attempting to modulate the throttle, is unacceptable. Certainly, plenty of clutch action allows progress but its tiring and hard on the bike and body. (NB 400 throttle cam fitted)
KTM seem unwilling or unable to sort the issue.
My 650 Dakar does not compare in any way to the 990 but its a relief to get on sometimes and ride with ease over a track where low speed control was required and where the 990 was a pig in comparison.
Actual fuel consumption also remains a mystery. At the completion of the recent Southern Cross Safari around NZ the total fuel consumption averaged 18.56k per litre - an outstanding result I thought. However the lowspeed running was diabolical to the point where a normal stoplight take off had me covering the clutch to avoid any missing until revs were gathered. As well backfiring commenced on the overrun at 5000 and persisted down to idle.(All this from new I might add). On return Superior (ChCh) completed the 15000 service and found 5 valves required shimming (gap too wide), throttle bodies out of synch and installed the Akropovic tune as plug colour showed lean condition. (Bike has 2 into 1 pipe with open muffler fitted prior to Sth Cross). Its a totally new machine (apart from herky jerky) and a delight to ride for the first time since new.
BUT
The first tankful (some town, some main road, some easy gravel) returned 13.3 k per litre. Accordingly in some desparation I have refitted the original gearing - 17/42. (I had been running 17/45 - roughly equivalent to using a 16t front). Acheived 15.2 k p l this time but this gearing really is a bit high I feel although the motor is running so smoothly now its coping better with the long legged 6th gear. Will persist with this for a while to get a bigger set of averages and to think about things for a bit.
So after a year of ownership I continue to be frustrated with the 'flawed genius' that is the KTM990. It comes so close to being the best bike I have ever owned but until the injection is sorted its an also ran.
Just my thoughts
Triwi

[Triwi]

Yep tried it some time back but no discernable difference.
Although thinking about that I havnt tried with the Akra tune recently installed. Will have a play.
cheers
Triwi

[ducatijim]

Spent most of yesterday up to my axles in sand...the first 'real' adventure my 990s done....and the snatch ruined my day( amoung other things!) REALLY hard to modulate/moderate the revs in tight/loose/bumpy conditions.
Mine now gets relegated to V-strom status....all roads tourer.:angry:

As you say Triwi, piss poor from such an otherwise fine machine from a reputable company.

And before you all start, fuck braceing thumbs/ learning how to ride a '70s 2 stroke ( done that) or any other obtuse remedy>>> its a crap throttle response, plain and simple.

[Waihou Thumper]

Spent most of yesterday up to my axles in sand...the first 'real' adventure my 990s done....and the snatch ruined my day( amoung other things!) REALLY hard to modulate/moderate the revs in tight/loose/bumpy conditions.
Mine now gets relegated to V-strom status....all roads tourer.:angry:

As you say Triwi, piss poor from such an otherwise fine machine from a reputable company.

And before you all start, fuck braceing thumbs/ learning how to ride a '70s 2 stroke ( done that) or any other obtuse remedy>>> its a crap throttle response, plain and simple.

I kept the 640A and got rid of the beast....
Knew it wouldnt perform for me, going over the ski fields in Ruapehu, it wan't much fun in tighter, slower terrain, but it is a wilderbeast on the road....BUT, it is meant to be an adventure bike?.....hmmm:Oops:

[ducatijim]

, it wan't much fun in tighter, slower terrain, but it is a wilderbeast on the road....BUT, it is meant to be an adventure bike?.....hmmm:Oops:

Well said Mark....it is a truely GREAT bike on any road or track....but too hard for me on unformed surfaces.

I think you sum it up for me with that statement.

(...I guess, a little man needs a little bike eh? stick with my dr650 I think!)

[Crisis management]

A brief update, as I have finally got around to removing the secondary throttle butterflies and the final package seems to be improved.
To date we have:
16 tooth front sprocket.
400 throttle cam.
Akra's and Akra mapping
Secondary throttle butterflies removed.
I can now idle along in first @ 5km/h smoothly and (with care) get good low speed throttle control, this needs testing on some off road terrain to be sure it is effective. Removing the butterflies seems to have made the final improvement but I will reserve my opinion until I have run a few tanks through it as these things seem to change......

Only downside, a bit more induction noise.

[dmc]

There's still plenty of 950's around, changing to one isn't a bad idea if you can't live with the 990 throttle.

[BeachN]

Hey Buzzard, can you PM me and let me know where you took it. Mine is due for a service and I've heard some rumors about one of the dealers...

[Oscar]

Hey Buzzard, can you PM me and let me know where you took it. Mine is due for a service and I've heard some rumors about one of the dealers...

Having dealt with two Auckland dealers, I can highly recommend Boyds in Hamilton.

[Gremlin]

Having dealt with two Auckland dealers, I can highly recommend Boyds in Hamilton.
Did you go to Triple X? There used to be three, now there are only two dealers...

Triple X have been great for me, and they know the Adventure well, as they maintain a hire fleet.

[Oscar]

Did you go to Triple X? There used to be three, now there are only two dealers...

Triple X have been great for me, and they know the Adventure well, as they maintain a hire fleet.

Having dealt with the two Auckland dealers, I can highly recommend Boyds.

[Crisis management]

Having dealt with the two Auckland dealers, I can highly recommend Boyds.

Succinct? Burnt?

My experience has been....the previous owner used a dealer in Khyber pass religously, when I checked for all the updates that should have been done they were all ticked off but a couple of things I have subsequently fixed lead me to believe that only the paperwork was done, not the actual upgrade.
XXX I deal with for parts and they are great, but I do my own servicing so can't comment on that.

[Oscar]

Succinct? Burnt?

My experience has been....the previous owner used a dealer in Khyber pass religously, when I checked for all the updates that should have been done they were all ticked off but a couple of things I have subsequently fixed lead me to believe that only the paperwork was done, not the actual upgrade.
XXX I deal with for parts and they are great, but I do my own servicing so can't comment on that.

Burnt by both.