KTM 950 - Manual (Page 22)

GENERAL TIPS AND WARNINGS FOR STARTING THE MOTORCYCLE
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– New tires 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.
– The factory mounted tires are approved
for a maximum speed of 160 kph (100
mph). Under no circumstances should
this speed be exceeded.
– Wheels with a different rim diameter or
other rim width may not be mounted oth-
erwise the vehicle handling will no longer
be safe.
– 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 on time
so as to ensure optimum vision in any sit-
uation. When light shines directly on
scratched visor, the operator will be
blinded.
– A passenger may only ride on the motor-
cycle if passenger footrests are mounted.
A passenger footrest system is available
from your authorized KTM workshop as
an accessory. The motorcycle is already
approved for two seats.
– 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.
– 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