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No love for the 990 anymore?

TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-14 07:58:00 UTC

Seems to be no love for the old 990 SD on here anymore..... everyone selling up to buy the new 'electronic' 1290

cdlabate

cdlabate

2014-01-14 08:16:00 UTC

Negative troop!

AGRO!

AGRO!

2014-01-14 10:00:00 UTC

I have owned my 990 Superduke for 9 years, still loving it.

bic_bicknell

bic_bicknell

2014-01-14 10:25:00 UTC

I won't be buying a 1290 as I just dont like all the dumb down electronics just makes for more crap to fail.
I just don't get why manufactures think we need this crap?

TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-14 10:27:00 UTC

Spent two hours cleaning the road salt and grim of mine last night. Love this bike after 6 years - no thought of changing!

Been out this morning in the cold and wet, sliding about on summer tyres without TC or ABS.

The new 1290 changes nothing for me really, so far the threads on this bike are very uninteresting read as most of the posts are by people who haven't ridden the bike and so are no more informed than the previous 12 months of speculation and no one seems to like it when the journos criticise the less than well thought out electronic package. With a few notable exceptions I wish all those that actually own the bike would try to write something about what it's actually like to ride and own rather than just use expletives to wax lyrical about the power and torque, (to probably justify the £12,000 they just shelled out).

What I really want is for one of the old hand forum 990 members to get one and give us a real assessment of the two bikes. I'm sure that the 1290 is so many light years ahead of the old bike in many ways. But in the real world, on British roads what difference does all that power and torque really make to the enjoyment of riding and hooning about? I really want to know. Is it worth at least double/triple the money compared to buying a well sorted 990?

I'm still trying to get a demo ride sorted at the local KTM dealer but so far they don't have one available yet. Not when I last checked anyway.

MADDOG53

MADDOG53

2014-01-14 10:28:00 UTC

Post missing.

CEREC1

CEREC1

2014-01-14 10:50:00 UTC

990 will be a modern classic that will be known to be ahead of it's time, they stll don't look "dated" to this day.

shadowman

shadowman

2014-01-14 10:55:00 UTC

I'm not stumping up £14K for a 1290 and then another £1500 for an exhaust then watch it depreciate when KTM realise it's overpriced.
Whatever you might think about the new BMW it's going to make KTM look at their pricing and that will only mean a drop in price. Not list price but "Special offers".
Sticking with my 990

Aphex

Aphex

2014-01-14 11:07:00 UTC

Some guy posted quite a long road ride 1290 vid up recently which I enjoyed watching a lot.

Bike was well ridden, is clearly fast and looked like a hoot but all the time I was thinking the overall experience looked much like a nice fun 990 ride.

In a real world road thrash the difference would be made by the person sitting on the bike, not the bike itself. Yes there is some pleasure in owning a new shiny thing, more power can in some limited circumstances = more fun but if it's light, fairly well sprung and fitted with working brakes then anything over 100 RWHP should be enough to plaster a grin on the face.

Unlike some here I don't get emotionally attached to machines but I really enjoy the SD as a boys toy and I would only replace mine with a 1290 when they become cheap enough to do so without significant pain and only then out of curiosity / the desire to refresh and not because I expect a quantum leap in riding enjoyment.

Bic - if you ever decide to flog yours to get a 1290 I would be interested as it's the closest to my ideal that I have yet seen.

Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-14 15:23:00 UTC

Nope, I've rode my 990 daily for 2 years. This is the only bike that I still get excited to ride, even if it's just down the street to get lunch from work. I think this is one bike I'll be keeping. I've always heard the perfect amount of bikes is x+1 anyways.

Lowrance

Lowrance

2014-01-14 15:29:00 UTC

I'm pretty sure it's on track that the 1290 is going to come into it's own. You can do go to jail speeds with ease on the 990 as I almost found out last year

Exitman

Exitman

2014-01-14 15:39:00 UTC

As Bic stated...the new bike is most likely light years better than the 990, probably in every conceivable way with the possible exception of MSRP. Will that translate to a more enjoyable rie on the road? Probably not as you can only go so fast before you are a danger to yourself and others as some of the videos that have been posted up by new owners clearly show (there is a time and a place to go fast on the street and 100mph in the middle of a city is not it...disaster waiting to happen really).

The real attraction of the new supernakeds to me is the additional power for the track. I will not go any faster on the street but would like the extra poke out of the corners and down the straights on the track to shake those pesky sportbikes so I don't have to do it all on the brakes and in the corners. Best of both worlds.

And, as CEREC1 mentions, there are some interesting alternatives to the 1290...cheaper options that justify a closer look. I will not buy a bike (or anything for that matter) based on brand loyalty or pre-delivery hype.

soarsore

soarsore

2014-01-14 15:46:00 UTC

"There's only so much power you can use on the road - feel and enjoyment are more important to me. And once we'd swapped back and we hit some tight roads I left him for dead. The SDR is so nimble."
+1

I got schooled years ago by a bud on his Suzuki PE 175 when I was on my Husky 430 dirt bike. He jut pinned the loud handle over some mossy, slimmy rocks and left me for dead looking for traction to hook up with my 430.

Another time I was about to get passed on the street by a Kenny Roberts RZ 350 when I was on my GXR 1100. I gassed it up more only to spin the rear and drift it sideways at 80 mph, which was a big thrill, but need to change shorts after.

I sure like my SD 990 and my ADV 950. It's the correct tools for me now and don't like to think of extra electronics in control and numbing my riding.
One of my favorite bikes in my shed is my KTM EXC 300 2 smoker, down and dirty, less is more.

Exitman

Exitman

2014-01-14 15:58:00 UTC

Just about to replace or at least rework the suspension on my SDR. Also building modified tail unit.
Already had custom exhaust built, put on lovely forged ally wheels from OZ and a bunch of gorgeous CF.
Making this bike mine and won't be selling it. Love the 1290, but not enough to go through the hassle of putting my bike back to stock then facing the task and expense of 'personalizing' it.

Loved the 990 when my buddy Chad Hashmi was racing it and wanted to make one mine. And mine it will stay

SDNerd

SDNerd

2014-01-14 17:36:00 UTC

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CEREC1

CEREC1

2014-01-14 19:01:00 UTC

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Exitman

Exitman

2014-01-14 19:10:00 UTC

I had a 2010 990 SMR and traded it for a 2014 500 EXC after getting fed up with unresolved problems with the immobilizer system. I noticed there is no part designated as an immobilizer for the 1290. Of course there may be other electronics just as problematic. Time will tell. I have a deposit down on a 1290, as that insane torque is irresistible for me

I liked my SMR a lot but the engine was so-so even with tweaks. The last v-twin I had was a 2002 Honda RC51 and I always felt that the RC51 motor was stronger than the 990 motor. The 1290 will no doubt be nuts compared to the RC.

The 1290 is expensive and massive overkill for public roads, but really most open class bikes are total overkill. There is no logic or consideration of practicality in my motorcycle purchase decisions!

No. 47

No. 47

2014-01-14 19:52:00 UTC

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Reb

Reb

2014-01-14 20:17:00 UTC

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MrK

MrK

2014-01-14 20:22:00 UTC

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AGRO!

AGRO!

2014-01-14 20:46:00 UTC

No love lost here for me - aiming for 100k miles before swapping out engine.

Will be a both/and not either/or for me but still waiting for confirmation that I've won a free 1290 for the spring before spending £14k plus.

Ducati Pete

Ducati Pete

2014-01-14 20:47:00 UTC

Love my 990 and wont be letting it go anytime soon. It is by far the best bike I have owned. Touring, commuting, hooning, track days, all without a sore arse or numb hands.

The 990 is still way above my ability and at my favorite track there are guys that can circulate their SD 8 or 9 sec faster than me, so a 1290 is a complete waste for me. As it is through the corners I lose time on track, it is better technique I need, not more power.

MADDOG53

MADDOG53

2014-01-15 00:25:00 UTC

Biggest PITA I've heard is having to be at rest to set the ABS and traction control on the computer, no "on the fly" function like the BMW,,,,

ktmguy

ktmguy

2014-01-15 00:49:00 UTC

+1 on Bic comments.
Not ready to upgrade to the new one yet. Still like the looks of mine better.
Biggest turn off is the price and KTM's marketing policy. Nothing I hate more than all the hooha and no supply.
Not putting $ down for anything without have ridden it and available ex stock. I'm nobody's bank unless I get interest.

TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-15 06:29:00 UTC

No plans to get rid of my old 'original' SD either..... The new 1290 really has no appeal for me for too many good reasons,I dont even think it is nice to look at........
The price to is ridiculous, the overdone hype will sell a few in the first year of course, but it wont last...

I do hope one of the reputable magazines does a subjective road and track test with the 1290 vs the old full fat 990 SDR soon, I think that would be a very interesting read.....
As for the 1290 being better on a track than the 990 I cant see it, the only real problem with the 990 at the limit is rear grip a 10mm wider rear tyre with the same direct acting shock on the 1290 with 20+ ftlbs more torque over the same fairly narrow rpm range..... hmm,mmm
Ok so thats why its got traction control but given the available side grip is not that much more than the 990 how many of those 99 ftlbs is the traction control going to let you use

jmann

jmann

2014-01-15 07:34:00 UTC

I'l probably buy one but not until I've had a good demo ride and the bike is ex stock. By that time there might be an upgrade

I'll probably keep the two 2006 Sd's but maybe turn one into a retro look cafe racer just for fun.

Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-15 07:50:00 UTC

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TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-15 07:55:00 UTC

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tripoddave

tripoddave

2014-01-15 08:11:00 UTC

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Ducati Pete

Ducati Pete

2014-01-15 09:18:00 UTC

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Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-15 09:18:00 UTC

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Ducati Pete

Ducati Pete

2014-01-15 09:35:00 UTC

Or Snetterton, Donnington, Silverstone, Brands GP and maybe even Cadwell and Oulton. I would expect a talented rider to take a few seconds off lap times back to back against 990

TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-15 10:22:00 UTC

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Ducati Pete

Ducati Pete

2014-01-15 10:28:00 UTC

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MADDOG53

MADDOG53

2014-01-15 10:32:00 UTC

Yes, but he wouldn't look Mandlebars cool.

CEREC1

CEREC1

2014-01-15 11:51:00 UTC

Whats all this talk of the 1290 not have adjustable preload?

Looks like the pics have 17mm preload adjusters and 2 twist knobs either side presumably one for comp and one for rebound?

EDIT, quick google shows it has no preload on forks? Why the fook not??? 14k bike ffs.

Lowrance

Lowrance

2014-01-15 13:06:00 UTC

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BassAgent

BassAgent

2014-01-15 13:49:00 UTC

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Lowrance

Lowrance

2014-01-15 14:39:00 UTC

Even after getting a 1290 I wouldn't be able to say goodbye to my 08.

TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-15 14:49:00 UTC

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Lowrance

Lowrance

2014-01-15 15:10:00 UTC

"Edit - Well, it is a $5K swingarm."

I still don't get ANY single sided swingarm!

bic_bicknell

bic_bicknell

2014-01-15 16:05:00 UTC

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Lowrance

Lowrance

2014-01-15 17:16:00 UTC

Yep

SDNerd

SDNerd

2014-01-15 21:10:00 UTC

Agreed that an SSS has little to do with exhaust placement ... A styling exercise.

I don't see any SSSs on Duc's GP bikes ... Yep, it's on their WSBK (1098RS, etc.) - from homologation and all that I suppose ... Who was the first to bring that fashion item along - BMW, Honda - ? Bet it goes back a long way (1930s or '40s) - like most motorcycling "features" we are all led to believe are contemporary. They just keep getting regurgitated for some reason or another ...

Ruprecht

Ruprecht

2014-01-15 21:34:00 UTC

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bic_bicknell

bic_bicknell

2014-01-15 22:17:00 UTC

The exhaust explanation is the one that has been stated by KTM's designers and engineers for the all the interviews and articles over the last years development. Whether you believe them or not is up to you. They say it was one of the first decisions they made. Anyway, I'm not defending it, although I do like it.

SDNerd

SDNerd

2014-01-15 22:30:00 UTC

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Ruprecht

Ruprecht

2014-01-16 00:21:00 UTC

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AGRO!

AGRO!

2014-01-16 01:23:00 UTC

Really your just better off doing modes on RC8.
Im thinking the RC8 is race orientated so it would have to be a better bike plus more bike for the money.
Also preload
The only down side would be weight bias by sitting up you would have less weight on the front so would probably feal a little vauge on the front end ?

Lowrance

Lowrance

2014-01-16 01:45:00 UTC

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TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-16 04:18:00 UTC

The frame /swingarm tank and seat unit on the RC8 looks so much better than the 1290SD its shocking

Ducati Pete

Ducati Pete

2014-01-16 09:22:00 UTC

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CEREC1

CEREC1

2014-01-16 10:37:00 UTC

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Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-16 10:46:00 UTC

I think it looks bad ass. Get a can, tail tidy, belly pan and flat bars on it and I'd like to rag the fook out of it. It is £2k overpriced though.

MADDOG53

MADDOG53

2014-01-16 10:54:00 UTC

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BassAgent

BassAgent

2014-01-16 11:18:00 UTC

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MADDOG53

MADDOG53

2014-01-16 11:49:00 UTC

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bic_bicknell

bic_bicknell

2014-01-16 12:39:00 UTC

I went into P&H in Crawley today to see if they had any 1290s in but no sign of them. Didn't bother talking to any of the sales team to ask what has happened as they are usually so unhelpful and not the kind of people I really want to chat with.

But if they ever get a demo I'll will be trying to get on one to see what they're like. Hopefully on a day when the roads are dry.

Can't help thinking it's a stupid season to launch a new bike that will probably sell itself on torque alone but anyone trying to see what it rides like will not be able to really experience it properly due to shitty road conditions.

BassAgent

BassAgent

2014-01-16 13:28:00 UTC

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ktmguy

ktmguy

2014-01-17 00:47:00 UTC

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ebags

ebags

2014-01-17 03:04:00 UTC

"No love for the 990"? how about a title change to "who has sand in their vag/hates the 1290"!!

TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-17 03:48:00 UTC

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Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-17 03:56:00 UTC

No 'sand' here I just like my old Superduke

bic_bicknell

bic_bicknell

2014-01-17 06:48:00 UTC

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gringo

gringo

2014-01-17 07:14:00 UTC

100 ages of the least informative and un-engaging waffle ever. I gave up logging onto to it with any interest ages ago. Every so often I give it a quick scan and know I made the right decision. I'll wait until someone starts a new thread where they have actually got something to say based on personal experience rather than speculation and moaning about magazine articles. There's a lot of people on there who have a worrying habit of sounding like Mac bores in the pre-launch to a new fooking iphone.

Like - where's your write up on a demo ride Klinky????!!!! That's what I'm waiting for, or are you having as much luck as I am in getting hold of one. I thought Hemmel were getting a demo model in weeks ago.

Aphex

Aphex

2014-01-17 08:42:00 UTC

mr Bic, get yourself over to Valencia and you can test ride mine, sat in the garage for the last four weeks whilst im waiting to have my cast removed, another two and a half weeks left till the big cast removing day then i shall be on it and shall give an honest opinion of her against my 08 SD, RC8 and the last KTM i had the 990 smr.

Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-17 15:30:00 UTC

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MrK

MrK

2014-01-17 17:34:00 UTC

I personally like now Duke a lot, didn't test ride it yet, but I will when better weather conditions come. I would like to have one, but at the moment I cooling my head down, as I realised that I still enjoy my 990, I didn't had enough time to get bored and I also put a lot of money and time to make this bike run and look like it supposed to

wizzzard

wizzzard

2014-01-17 18:37:00 UTC

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Sabre

Sabre

2014-01-17 19:11:00 UTC

No 1290 for me. dont like how it turned out and i have no idea what i should do with all that HP to be honest.

Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-17 19:37:00 UTC

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Stupid Luke

Stupid Luke

2014-01-17 19:51:00 UTC

I'm sure my SDR will feel a bit underpowered when I jump back on but with its dodgy fueling compared to the uber smooth the 1290 is meant to be I'm sure it will still make me smile. I might drive up there just to be safe though and leave it a few days before I ride the SDR again. Besides it's not an option to buy anyways. Just need to know myself how good it is or isn't.

Viking

Viking

2014-01-17 20:16:00 UTC

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Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-17 22:02:00 UTC

Your all going to see what the new bike is capable of in comparison soon. It's on the forum already. Tead raced an SDR , then RC8, and I think a BMW too, and is now on a 1290 along with a load of the German sd series lads and is kind enough to be running a thread on it. . Plus they're still running a control Conti tyre. There's all the comparable times you'll need.

If you want UK times the 08 SDR battle times are still on TSL timing as a bench mark. My times are on Sports Timing Services for a ref for tracks the series missed out, Oulton, Anglesey, Donington National, Rockingham etc. Lingas times will be somewhere for the Oz guys. Rob and Gogos will be somewhere of the East Coast USA tracks. There's a database of lap times from 4 countries!

All you need is to hang fire for someone with half a clue to get one on track and the comparisons will come rolling in.

Jim H

Jim H

2014-01-17 22:08:00 UTC

Tead has a thread running on here too. Will make interesting reading.

scamb66

scamb66

2014-01-17 22:36:00 UTC

You guys crack me up, the 1290 Monstrosity may be perceived as the Godcycle amongst men but did the Hayabusa ever rely on 'tonics to reign in its excess?

I took an interest in this thread but it seems to have lost its way. I held my own with my ropey nc30 with RR3 RWU forks - losing out only on the straights.

It's the feel that counts. Stanchion diameter, a chassis that can't cope, non progressive rear suspension, big numbers, an unjustifiable price tag & too much motor that's counteracted by a less than (reportedly) perfect electronics package seems to be what's defeating the object. It's the mismatch and these speculative excuses that don't make any sense.

Sure, I love the way it appears you sit in the bike, not on it but that's not enough. I'm not hating, I've bitched about this before, I want those who have one to be happy but I won't be surprised if someone humiliates the Monstrosity both on road and on track with a lesser machine.

If you're that worried about tyre shine, take a fooking drill and sanding pad and scrub the tyres in manually then you have no excuses. I dunno. Give me shit box any day then you know what you're capable of.

Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-17 22:41:00 UTC

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Jim H

Jim H

2014-01-18 00:12:00 UTC

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Lowrance

Lowrance

2014-01-18 00:42:00 UTC

Looks as though I've touched a nerve there Klinck. Thanks for the lecture though. I may have implied but did not state. Check your facts first buddy. I would say I've been fair. You've taken this opportunity to beat down on me with no merit. Was it the shiny tyres comment that upset you so much?

Stop whining about the weather & road conditions, all I was saying was that the 1290's features are making up for its shortfalls. If you ain't got the ability, why waste time dreaming? I would love to ride it and give a fair appraisal but as I've spent 2.5 the amount of the 1290 on litigation defending my rejection I would say I'm demonstrating the integrity you clearly lack.

I'm trying to fix this tank problem, as you have reported a problem first hand and done nothing to contribute that would make you capital hypocrite.

As for your "stating the obvious" crap, perhaps you should take the time to read things properly first & without prejudice. I never said I'm the better rider, my comment was aimed at chassis feel & feedback.

Did I really come across as hostile? Or is Herr Klinck just covering for his inadequacies by acting a prick? There are others who haven't taken a shine to the 1290 either but you haven't taken it upon yourself to persecute them have you? Whereas I have a legitimate reason to pissed with KTM. Beginning to think you're a bit of a tosser really.

AGRO!

AGRO!

2014-01-18 02:14:00 UTC

This whole forum is starting to crack me up.....

You've got old timers talking shit about threads as being useless, newbs talking shit when they have no idea what the fook they are talking about, and a moderator or two that continually act as if they haven't graduated from middle school yet.

I know it's winter and everyone is probably getting a little stir crazy but I think if we all take a step back and take a deep breath maybe this forum can return to the useful resource it once was.

Meh...fook it and fook all-yall....

BassAgent

BassAgent

2014-01-18 02:36:00 UTC

Right about now we need StupidLuke! Where are you?

TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-18 03:52:00 UTC

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Lowrance

Lowrance

2014-01-18 04:07:00 UTC

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DribbleDuke

DribbleDuke

2014-01-18 05:24:00 UTC

Wasn't refering to that guy...it was a few other posters in other topics/posts.

B Ass....you best hope our paths never cross....just sayin

Lowrance

Lowrance

2014-01-18 05:38:00 UTC

I have no fuckenmoney. If I did I would buy the 1290 and a 950 and a 390 and a 640 and a 690. I have a 990 and I like it. I rode mine yesterday to the paint store to get some color samples for a customer. What A great runabout. I have been troubled by the sick economy and with such it has helped me greatly appreciate the things that have not needed to leave the garage since the word builder became a swear word around these parts. I swore that the SD would be the last two wheeled entertainment to receive a for sale sign stuck to its side panel and so far, knock on wood, it remains. This year was the first year since all you bastards quit hiring carpenters that the term expendable income has snuck back into my pair o dimes. I will use this money to play on the wheels I have and room additions willing in the future I will start thinking about more numbers with a smile that 990 still graces my shop floor. I want an old BMW GS pre fuel injection.
I wonder if the introduction into the new SD will open aftermarket sales of removed upgrades?
We aint got no excuses for pent up frustration over weather and pissy ass attitudes. The weather has been good enough to start fires in campouts and ride our SD's any time any where. The trouble seems to stem from not having an SD to ride.

BassAgent

BassAgent

2014-01-18 05:48:00 UTC

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Lowrance

Lowrance

2014-01-18 06:17:00 UTC

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bic_bicknell

bic_bicknell

2014-01-18 07:38:00 UTC

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TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-18 08:07:00 UTC

I've spent the last week having an hour or two in the garage giving my bike the best clean and fettle it's had for several years. The weather is so bad here that even I can't face going out in it. Roads flooded round my area now, yesterday they were well over the top of the car wheels getting the kids to nursery. There is no bike in the world that could cope with a ride out there at the moment.

3. Still trying to find a nice set of after-market rear wheel adjusters that are more accurate than the OE stuff. At the right price, well made and black, (NOT ORANGE!!!)

4. I need to get my rear shock off and get the spring re-powder coated as all the orange paint has started to flake off badly. It looks like an old tractor suspension - the worst victim of several British salty winters. Black it will be then. The only token orange left on the bike will be the rev counter graphics. Actually last night I was checking out whether I could replace the red kill switch with a black replacement because I don't really see why the switch needs to be red. Why are they?!!!

5. After convincing myself that I am now permanently happy with clip-on handle bars I need to find a way to remount my Scotts damper so that I can dispense with the risers it currently attaches to. Need to do a drawing of a component with the right holes and thread so that the damper can be fixed directly onto the top triple clamp and then also get it machined up along with the frame bracket modified to suit. I also maybe will look at getting a handle bar mirror because riding about with no mirrors at all does make for a lot of having to crane your neck round all the time and it's not good for motorway riding. (I just don't like the way they stick out and ruin the way the bike looks)

6. One day I will find some carbon wheels that I can afford!

7. Long term I'm still planning to work on a cafe-racer version of the SD. I want to start with a one-off aluminium tank, get rid of the tank fairings look and create a more retro single seat set up. Along with this I wanted to have a go at getting a short single silencer and loose the twin underseat pipes. Still looking for an old RC8 tank to see if that's a possible starting point but need to find one at the right price.

8. Maybe I will buy another 990 to do this project on. Like Dribble says I expect that there will be a gradual increase in parts coming onto the market this year which may open up opportunities. Over the years I have bought nearly all my parts through ebay or this forum but the last few years there has been virtually nothing for sale - the market has been really sparse for anything interesting. I still look everyday though.

Keeping busy!

The Gin Reaper

The Gin Reaper

2014-01-18 08:19:00 UTC

I am toying with the idea of doing a higher compression 1060cc overbore on mine once all the details are sorted

BassAgent

BassAgent

2014-01-18 08:22:00 UTC

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TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-18 08:37:00 UTC

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The Gin Reaper

The Gin Reaper

2014-01-18 08:39:00 UTC

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AGRO!

AGRO!

2014-01-18 08:50:00 UTC

Lowrance said,, B Ass....you best hope our paths never cross....just sayin Lol

BassAgent

BassAgent

2014-01-18 09:02:00 UTC

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TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-18 09:16:00 UTC

yep I have read and digested all that info in the past, there are problems but they are possible to resolve, 104mm is the limit at which you can keep the pistons the same weight as stock and the other important thing is not to increase the maximum rpm, within those limitations reliability should not be an issue, the base gasket problem seems to be mostly with bikes that are tracked on lowered gearing and run at maximum rpms, having much stronger cylinder studs than the KTM SDR ones made is easy, custom base gaskets can be made to.....
as i said i am still toying with the idea but it is doable

AGRO!

AGRO!

2014-01-18 09:16:00 UTC

Hey Bass you still got your speed triple?

TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-18 09:21:00 UTC

Post missing.

Ducati Pete

Ducati Pete

2014-01-18 09:53:00 UTC

Post missing.

BassAgent

BassAgent

2014-01-18 10:02:00 UTC

Post missing.

Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-18 10:11:00 UTC

Post missing.

AGRO!

AGRO!

2014-01-18 10:36:00 UTC

You dudes need to kiss and make up! Or is that being gay?
From what I see on super duke net we are all mates thats why this forum is so successful.

Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-18 10:51:00 UTC

Post missing.

BassAgent

BassAgent

2014-01-18 10:56:00 UTC

This threads getting too gay for me

AGRO!

AGRO!

2014-01-18 11:25:00 UTC

x2

TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-18 12:36:00 UTC

Post missing.

Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-18 13:14:00 UTC

Post missing.

TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-18 13:20:00 UTC

Post missing.

BassAgent

BassAgent

2014-01-18 14:14:00 UTC

I think Russ is foaming at the butt with lots of hurt.

TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-18 14:29:00 UTC

Post missing.

Ruprecht

Ruprecht

2014-01-18 14:31:00 UTC

No love at all by the look of it.

Today I went and checked out a few bikes with a mate of mine who sold his 990 Superduke a few months back.
It was in the wake of an $800 speeding fine and just prior to the birth of his third daughter, but he regrets it now.
Planned on getting a supermoto for fun at legalish speeds. Ended up buying an SV1000S for a song, but was still reminiscing about taking the Superduke out for a test ride, monoing everywhere and buying it on the spot.
I don't think the 990 Superduke is about to lose it's cult status.

DribbleDuke

DribbleDuke

2014-01-18 15:42:00 UTC

Cult Piction.
Fook me if we dont need a little time out around here. Everyone to the corner.
They have a saying that what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. I think that if someone posts about something on another site it should stay on that site. That said I also think that some post here would be better on other sites. There is a thread on another popular KTM site that has plenty of room for bullshit. just type in the search engine OOOOOSH and add to your hearts content. Dont worry its filled with a few regulars from here so you wont feel too much the outsider.

BassAgent

BassAgent

2014-01-18 16:28:00 UTC

Post missing.

Lowrance

Lowrance

2014-01-18 19:18:00 UTC

Pretty much says it all....

bic_bicknell

bic_bicknell

2014-01-18 21:28:00 UTC

Here's a pic of my SRD spring shame...

Ducati Pete

Ducati Pete

2014-01-18 21:32:00 UTC

I always say that the state of a man's rear shock spring gives a lot of insight into the man in general.

Bic, you've gone down in my estimation.

Very sad.

Reb

Reb

2014-01-18 21:34:00 UTC

3. Still trying to find a nice set of after-market rear wheel adjusters that are more accurate than the OE stuff. At the right price, well made and black, (NOT ORANGE!!!)

Bic, have a look at CJ Designs. They claim their adjusters are stronger than OEM, in black and $79 the pair.

lobster

lobster

2014-01-18 21:38:00 UTC

Well, the emergence of the 1290 might bring me back into the SD fold.....
On a hopefully, heavily discounted 990R! If KTM go the same way as they did with the RC8 there should be some bargains to be had.
Incidentally I have since got shot of my RC8 and am currently noodling around on a CB1300, which I reckon I'll hang onto, but a cheap 990R to go with it, sounds like a plan...

AGRO!

AGRO!

2014-01-18 21:50:00 UTC

Post missing.

Stupid Luke

Stupid Luke

2014-01-18 21:54:00 UTC

Post missing.

Stupid Luke

Stupid Luke

2014-01-18 21:55:00 UTC

Post missing.

TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-19 02:31:00 UTC

Post missing.

TLS_Russ

TLS_Russ

2014-01-19 02:55:00 UTC

Post missing.

BassAgent

BassAgent

2014-01-19 03:09:00 UTC

Bic...is it time for you to pick up a wet bike

scamb66

scamb66

2014-01-19 03:12:00 UTC

Just for the record, the hate is a one way street for me because I <3 you all

DribbleDuke

DribbleDuke

2014-01-19 03:28:00 UTC

Post missing.

81forest

81forest

2014-01-19 05:10:00 UTC

One is smaller than Three ?

bic_bicknell

bic_bicknell

2014-01-19 06:48:00 UTC

I love this thread. I am still a newcomer to the 990, so I am not even remotely tempted by the 1290. Weather sucks here so I've been spending all my time in the dirt on my 450 EXC, and to be honest, wishing I had a 200 XCW to be even lighter and smaller in the single track. Better to be a mosquito than an elephant, but maybe that is a bad analogy for the Super Dukes... or is it? For the guys who know how to ride these bikes on a track, I can see the appeal of the beast. For me, I have not even unleashed half of it yet.

As always, I love the passion this bike inspires in the characters who ride it. Carry on, then.

Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-19 07:36:00 UTC

That SDR shock spring was bought second hand about four years ago from an ex Battle guy who used it for a season, (I think he actually won that year). He also had reworked with new internals and shims and it had been used and adjusted frequently, (as you would expect), so there were always a lot of marks and scratches round the screw adjusters and collar. I think the spring paint had already got a few cracks starting when I got it so this is just four years worth of winter salt doing it's business - no amount of cleaning and washing can stop this once the damp gets under the paint.

Rest of the bike is not like this although it is showing all it's years of wear both from all year riding and track crashes and gravel scaring. I keep on top of the corrosion really and replace any nuts and bolts that get past it. There's not that much bare steel on the SD, most of the parts are alloy or have a lot of black paint finish and so far there is no peeling paint. The only place I can think of is the part that attaches one of the water cooling tubes to the radiator. That's flaking paint and gone rusty. Parts that are bare steel have all gone rusty at some time or other and I just keep on cleaning and oiling to keep it all at bay. Oil feed line running underneath left side of engine, drain bolt head underneath oil tank, exhaust studs, bolt heads on rear disc, etc. All these go rusty if left. Engine finish is perfect with no flaking or anything. But it's a bastard to get all the road grime off and keep looking clean. Maybe the grey has started to take on a yellowish tinge over the years, it's not the best of colours - one day I will do a big engine overhaul and get all the cases made black, (as it should have been as standard).

Generally KTMs are finished really well and designed for hard work and abuse. Maybe the finish is not like high-end, shiny and perfect, but they do last and are not fragile and cheap. I've no interest in shiny paint and chrome. My bikes are just hosed down and given liberal coatings of WD40 or ACF50. I like the smell of petrol and oil, not Mr Sheen and polish.

lobster

lobster

2014-01-19 09:26:00 UTC

Post missing.

bic_bicknell

bic_bicknell

2014-01-19 13:46:00 UTC

Post missing.

Stupid Luke

Stupid Luke

2014-01-19 15:26:00 UTC

Post missing.

Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-19 18:17:00 UTC

Yo Bic,

Just trolling e-bay and saw this add below. This guy is breaking his 08 SD and it has the Dymag Carbon Fiber wheels you are after.

Cheers!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/08-KTM-990-LC8- ... 0e&vxp=mtr

Jim H

Jim H

2014-01-19 22:02:00 UTC

Post missing.

Colonel_Klinck

Colonel_Klinck

2014-01-20 07:36:00 UTC

This is my local bike shop and when I was in there last week the had no SDRs or 1290s in the showroom.

oafboy182

oafboy182

2014-01-20 20:26:00 UTC

I have an enduring love for the 990. It is the only bike I have ever had with no foreseable intention of selling. In 30 years I have owned most of the latest and greatest bikes in their day, then traded them for the newest latest and greatest pretender that replaced them. I have owned faster bikes, more technologically better equipped bikes, certainly more comfortable bikes but somehow these are all my 'bits on the side'. Furthermore, my selection criteria for these 'bits on the side' is "how will it fit with my SDR?". I have spent money on the SDR until there is almost nothing left to improve, it still isnt perfect but wouldnt it be boring if it were?

Just like the naggy old, post menopausal, witch I live with; I see newer brighterbetter specced models daily and yet,I still come home to my Superduke. Long may it continue.

fewtrees

fewtrees

2014-01-20 21:22:00 UTC

990 is still an amazing bike. Swore I'd never sell my 06 but she went bang Took a while but I love the SDR now and hopefully won't ever be in a position where I have to sell her either. There is just something about them. Makes me grin like an idiot every time I throw my leg over her.

bazz21

bazz21

2014-03-06 09:56:00 UTC

i turn 50 this year so thats no big deal i hear u say but i have bloody blood disease and just copying with normal life some days is taxing for me knowing any day i could fall of the perch, so ive been saving and scrapping every cent and finally got an 08 sd 990 to me its it is a new bike and couldnt care less about any other bike just happy to be on a good day go for a ride ,it doesnt mater what u got its as long as it brings a smile to your dial alot of people take things for granted just enjoy your life for what it is and ride

scamb66

scamb66

2014-03-06 11:34:00 UTC

Well done bazz21, enjoy, enjoy, enjoy. Wishing you all the very best.

Ducati Pete

Ducati Pete

2014-03-06 15:22:00 UTC

Bazz you wont find anyone here bagging out the 990, it is still an awesome bike and heaps of fun. Enjoy.

AGRO!

AGRO!

2014-03-06 21:43:00 UTC

The original looks great and TBH, if I could add another 30 BHP by magic, I'd not want a 1290.

scamb66

scamb66

2014-03-07 05:44:00 UTC

I haven't even bothered to go and look at1290 I still think the 990 looks better.
I originally got the 990 to slow myself down and in 28 years of not being fined by the pigs I end up getting done on the 990 anyway?

AGRO!

AGRO!

2014-03-07 07:44:00 UTC

Post missing.