KTM 990 - Manual (Page 26)

GENERAL TIPS AND WARNINGS FOR STARTING THE MOTORCYCLE
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– The tires must be designed for a maxi-
mum speed of 240 kph (speed symbol
V) and must be authorized by KTM.
– Do not exceed the respective maximum
speed for tires designed with a speed
index of less than "V“ (240 kph). A sticker
showing the maximum speed must be
affixed to the motorcycle within the dri-
ver's field of vision.
– New wheels have a smooth surface, which
means that they must be run in to achieve
full grip. For this purpose, ride the motor-
cycle carefully at moderate speed during
the first 200 kilometers with new tires,
tilting the vehicle at different angles so
that all sections are properly roughened.
Tires will not display their full grip char-
acteristics until they are properly run in.
– Wheels with a different rim diameter or
other rim width may not be mounted oth-
erwise the vehicle handling will no longer
be safe. For models equipped with ABS
(antilock brake system), the ABS func-
tion is no longer guaranteed.
– Models with ABS: The ABS is designed
to be used with the tires authorized by
KTM and works best with these tires. The
ABS function cannot be guaranteed if
other tires are used.
– Models with ABS: an incorrect tire pres-
sure will have an adverse effect on the
ABS control and driving stability and will
increase the stopping distance.
– Observe the traffic regulations, drive
defensively and trying to look ahead as
far as possible so that any hazards can
be recognized as early as possible.
– The faster you drive, the more sensitive
your motorcycle will be to crosswind and
changing road conditions. Your motorcy-
cle can easily go out of control at high
speeds.
– Choose your driving speed according to
the conditions and your driving skills.
– Drive carefully on unknown roads or on
unfamiliar trials.
– Renew the vizor on your helmet or the glass
of your goggles on time so as to ensure
optimum vision in any situation. When
light shines directly on scratched visor or
goggles, the operator will be blinded.
– Never leave your motorcycle without super-
vision if the engine is running.
Accessories and payload
Accessory parts and baggage can signifi-
cantly decrease a motorcycle's driving stabil-
ity. Please observe the following warnings.
– Never drive faster than 130 kph (80 mph)
if you have mounted accessory parts on
your motorcycle. Accessory parts can sig-
nificantly impair the motorcycle's han-
dling, especially in the maximum speed
range.
– Never drive faster than 130 kph (80 mph)
if your motorcycle is loaded with cases
or other baggage. They will impair the
motorcycle's handling at higher speeds and
can easily cause it to go out of control
– If you have cases mounted, do not exceed
the manufacturer's recommended maxi-
mum payload.
– Fasten the baggage close to the center
of the motorcycle and distribute the weight
evenly on the front and rear wheels and
on the left and right.
– Baggage must be securely and adequately
fastenend; loose baggage will significantly
impair driving safety.
– A high payload will change the motorcy-
cle's handling and considerably increase
the braking distance; adapt your driving
speed accordingly.
– Never exceed the maximum permissible
laden weight and the axle weights. The
maximum permissible laden weight is
made up of the following components:
– Motorcycle ready for operation and tank
full
– Luggage
– Driver and passenger with protective
clothing and helmet