KTM 640 LC4 running in procedure

[AlanHolt]

Hi, can anyone recall the running in procedure for the LC4 640? I should get it back next week after a rebuild and i need to plan the running in before my first group of bikers arrive for a tour starting on the 19th Sept. I haven't run in a new or rebuilt bike engine since the 90's

[Richard Simpson Mark II]

Most important thing with a big single is to avoid piston rock.

Don't lug the engine (don't over-rev either), but lugging does the most damage.

Let the rpm rise and fall within the centre band of the rpm, with gradual small excursions up the rev range to perhaps 75% of the red line. Go up and down the box, and avoid constant speed and throttle openings.

Best way is to ride around country lanes etc, where most of this is natural.

Keep an eye on the oil level: oil consumption is likely in the first few hours as the rings bed in.

Letting a cold engine tick-over until working temperature is reached isn't necessarily a kind thing to do: it will warm up quicker if it is in a 'light load' condition. As soon as it will run without excessive choke/rpm you should ride away.

[bowber]

As Richard said, make sure it's warm and ride in the middle of the rev range.

Steve

[AlanHolt]

Thanks guys. Parts should be here in a couple of days, then he has to build it up. Its a one hour ride back from the dealer to my girlfriends, but we will take the scenic route and do as much running in as possible on that day.