KTM 990 Adventure S - 2008 Specifications and Reviews

The 2008 KTM 990 Adventure S is a full-featured adventure touring motorcycle designed for experienced riders seeking genuine off-road capability combined with long-distance comfort. Powered by a 999cc V-twin engine producing 97 horsepower and 95 Nm of torque, it excels at tackling challenging terrain while remaining highway-capable. This model is best known for its excellent balance of performance, versatility, and KTM's renowned dirt bike engineering heritage.

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General information

CategoryEnduro / offroad
Year2008
ModelKTM 990 Adventure S

Engine and Transmission Specifications

ClutchWet multi-disc clutch, operated hydraulically
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
StarterElectric
Fuel controlDOHC
Valves per cylinder4
Fuel systemInjection
Bore x stroke101.0 x 62.4 mm (4.0 x 2.5 inches)
Compression11.5:1
Torque95.00
Power96.55
Stroke4
Engine typeV2
Capacity:999.00 ccm (60.96 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,570 mm (61.8 inches)
Seat height920 mm (36.2 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight199.0 kg (438.7 pounds)

KTM 990 Adventure S dimensions and frame

Exhaust system2 x premium steel with three-way-catalyser
Rear brakes diameter240 mm (9.4 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. ABS
Front brakes diameter300 mm (11.8 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc. ABS
Rear tyre dimensions150/70-18
Front tyre dimensions90/90-21
Rear suspension travel255 mm (10.0 inches)
Rear suspensionWP monoshock PDS with hydr. spring preload
Front suspension travel250 mm (9.8 inches)
Front suspensionWP USD
Trail119 mm (4.7 inches)
Rake (fork angle)26.6°
Frame typeTubular chromoly space frame, powder-coated
 
 

Speed and acceleration

Power/weight ratio0.4852 HP/kg

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Fuel capacity22.00 litres (5.81 gallons)

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

96.6 hp
Peak Power
3.8s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track40%
City55%
Cornering72%
Daily Riding60%
Touring82%
Passenger65%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to intermediate and experienced riders who are comfortable with a tall, torquey adventure bike.
PurposeDesigned for long-distance adventure touring with genuine off-road capability, blending highway comfort with rugged versatility.
Rider FitTall seat height and substantial wheelbase demand reasonably long legs and confident handling of a bike that feels big at low speed.
CharacterA muscular V-twin adventure machine that rewards a relaxed, commanding riding style over both tarmac and gravel.
Not Ideal ForNot ideal for short riders, absolute beginners, or those seeking a light, flickable city commuter.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2008 KTM 990 Adventure S Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 920mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with cannot reach comfortably on the 2008 KTM 990 Adventure S, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and a slightly forward riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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