2006 KTM 950 idle issue and backfire

[Wheelieit]

Just picked up a 2006 950 Adventure. Battery definitely needs replacing but when I do get it started, it doesn't run very well. Around 4000rpm it backfires a lot and all the way up to 8000rpm it continues.

The bike rides ok and doesn't seem to lose a lot of power while moving. Also it will not stay running unless you rev it at a stop light. If it does quit it is very hard to get it to start again especially since the battery seems to have very little cranking power.

While attempting to start the dash blanks out and the battery clicks a bunch, as well the starter seems to grind to a stop. This is my first KTM product and so far, im not enjoying this purchase.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers,
Ryan

 

[lagbc]

Considering it's a carbourated engine, I would start with cleaning carbs, not sure if bike has been sitting for a while and when was last time it was cleaned.

Valve clearance is another item you can/should look into, just to make sure they are in spec, who knows if it has ever been done.

 

[scottbc]

#1 replace battery, you already know that it's shot.
#2 rebuild or even clean carbs. The idle circuit is probably plugged up.

Don't get down on the KTM, everything needs matenance.

 

[04klr]

you've purchased a 14 yr old bike, chances are any 14 yr old bike will need work. Did the previous owner mention that it was running like crap when you bought it? There's been many stories of the effects of ethanol in gas causing carb issues, as LAGBC asked how long has the bike been sitting, and how old is the fuel? Filters? Start with that new battery as these bikes (at least post carb models) are very sensitive to low elec. power. Not sure if the the carbatooter models have TPS thingy's, if so that operating voltage could be checked and and adjusted/replaced. likely it's the previously mentioned possible carb issues. When were the valves last adjusted?

 

[cactusreid]

I third the above motions. Or maybe it's a fourth now?
- new battery
- clean carbs after completely stripping everything out of them.- check/set float level as you reassemble.
spray all the jets and passages with aerosol carb cleaner again before you put the bowls back on. Sorry I assume these carbs have bowls and jets, but as I've done lots of carbs, but never a 9 fiddy set, I guess I should ask? make sure you have washed/blown out all the smegg-me out of all those little passages, or you will just be in there again in a few hours.
-If you don't know when or if the valves have been done, Now is the Time!
after you have done all this, you will have learned lots about your new scooter, and you will have a baseline going forward.
And confidence like that is Gold in my opinion. Enjoy your new ride.