“
the KTM is really good
value for money for
several reasons – count
the fully adjustable
suspension, a slipper
clutch, ride by wire
technology and
traction control
Tracktion Motorcycles yard in Christchurch, I
knew which colour option I liked – the orange
and white. I was keen to get going as I was
being run through the bike’s features.
I felt quite comfortable straightaway despite
the high-ish 855mm seat height, which is around
35mm more than the F700GS on which I could
get my feet down flat on a standard suspension
setting. It was a bit of a stretch to get my feet
down but then I realised the walking boots I was
wearing didn’t offer as much elevation as my
off-road ‘moon boots’. I hadn’t worn those as I
was unsure of the roominess of the gear lever
placement, so I figured this was a temporary
problem. Working through it later, my off-road
boots will fit and, with 200mm of clearance,
there will be some adjustment in the suspension
if needed. If I really feel the need, KTM offers a
lowering kit.
Setting off, I liked the torquey feel of the
engine, the smoothness of acceleration and
the feeling of confidence I had trickling around
town and negotiating tight off-camber corners
up in the hill suburbs. The riding position was
comfortable, the bike had a good presence in
traffic, and it was really well balanced. I felt
comfortable on it and found myself thinking
about some of my favourite back country
places around the South Island. I came back
from my test ride with a smile on my face...
it was an easy decision.
I agree with my husband, Garry, that the KTM is
really good value for money for several reasons
– count the fully adjustable suspension, a slipper
clutch, ride by wire technology and traction
control. But in the end, I’ve bought this bike
because I think it is the one I will enjoy riding
round the back blocks the most, and because
it has the clearance and capability to stretch
me as a rider.
I’ve signed up for adventure rider training with
Chris Birch – the KTM will be an awesome bike
on which to sharpen my skills and better get to
grips with the physics of off-road riding. Beyond
that, I’m looking forward to riding with friends
or heading down a gravel road just to see what
is hidden away at the end.
KIWI RIDER 107