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Author Topic: Buying a KTM 690 and riding across the country  (Read 601 times)

AKAPhoenix

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Buying a KTM 690 and riding across the country
« on: February 09, 2016, 02:57:47 pm »
Hi everyone, I'm an excited new member and buyer right now, but I feel my multi year search for the right bike is over after swinging a leg over the 690 enduro. I also think providence is at work when I found a good used one for sale a mere 30 min from my family's house in WI, however that's where I need some assistance. I am going to send a mechanic to look at it since I'm in AZ and then if all is copacetic I'll fly there and decide to either ship it back or ride it back... in March, 2,000 miles across the country on an unproven (to me) ride. I have a multitude of questions, but rest assured I have decent experience on two wheels and as a mechanic, so I'll be a moderately fast study on the nuances of the 690. My questions are:

1. What should I like up to have inspected before such a long journey (or would you recommend shipping [if so with which company])?
2. Is there a best route for this journey you all might recommend?
3. Is there a set of issues to watch out for on the 2014 KTM 690. I know about the seat/tank bolts and will update the substandard headlight eventually

Thank you for any time you can throw my way. I'll dream up a few more questions I'm sure...
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Philip Pino

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Re: Buying a KTM 690 and riding across the country
« Reply #1 on: February 09, 2016, 05:54:40 pm »
Phoenix, I wouldn't ride an unfamiliar bike that distance unless I had no other choice.  That being said.  If you do, I would suggest you buy a Seat Concepts seat for it.  The stock seat is not for long distance riding.  Here is a link to a very affordable tank-bolt upgrade kit and rear rack.  You'll need to have a place to carry extra fuel (Roto-Pax) for the journey. http://www.perunmoto.com,  and ktmtwins.com also has the tank-bolt upgrade kits from Rally Raid Products.



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'14, 690 Enduro R

SLAP75

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Re: Buying a KTM 690 and riding across the country
« Reply #2 on: February 09, 2016, 06:50:01 pm »
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AKAPhoenix

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Re: Buying a KTM 690 and riding across the country
« Reply #3 on: February 10, 2016, 09:45:36 am »
Thank you guys! Especially considering the simplicity of the project and the math needed to make the decision. I really appreciate the help. I may be better off getting a more upgraded, lower miles bike that's closer, considering the shipping costs are all over $600 and my $300 flight up there to make the deal happen.

I don't want to be stupid and hassle with the across country shipping when that cash can be put into upgrades that are needed for secure adventuring and hooliganism.  I checked out all three of these websites and I'll use them as soon as I know which direction I'm going.
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Proslider777

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Re: Buying a KTM 690 and riding across the country
« Reply #4 on: March 30, 2016, 07:29:39 am »
Other considerations:
1. does the seller have title in hand?
2. do a background check on the seller - I used people smart
3. consider buying new and financing to free up cash for upgrades
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Billy500

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Re: Buying a KTM 690 and riding across the country
« Reply #5 on: March 31, 2016, 12:04:03 am »
Without a custom seat or at least a thick pillow from walmart your butt would be in large pain within no time. Also the range is very short, would not want to try a cross some of the western states without an extra can of fuel on the bike.
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My Bikes Yamaha Stratoliner S, ktm 690 Enduro
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