Is it better to buy motorcycles new or used? While there is no "right" answer to this question, there are clear benefits to buying a used bike from a fellow rider, as well as some inherent risks. In this ChanceMoto post, we'll provide you with a complete guide to buying a used bike and share... Continue Reading →
2010 Ducati Streetfighter (1098) Build
Raucous, loud and brutal, Ducati's original Streetfighter is considered by many as the original "bad boy" Super Naked bike. Sales of this eye-wateringly expensive exotic ($15K-$19K USD) were slow from 2009-2012 before it was replaced with the more civilized Streetfighter 848 in 2013 (discontinued after 2015). This Chance Moto build will walk you through the... Continue Reading →
How to Get Your Motorcycle Fix in the Winter
In some places, “winter” just means shorter days and the need to wear a sweater. For others however, it means snow and salt on the roads and having to park your beloved motorcycle for several months, resulting in PMS (Parked Motorcycle Syndrome). I’m here to tell you there’s a cure. For as long as I’ve... Continue Reading →
What Happened to Mike?
I got a text message from my friend and fellow track day enthusiast Mark that Saturday afternoon. He was asking if it would be ok for a 3rd person to hitch a ride with us to Calabogie in Mark’s truck for 2 days at the track. Ordinarily, this would be a pretty straightforward answer. First... Continue Reading →
KTM 1290 Super Duke R Fore/Aft Handlebar Relocation DIY
KTM's potent 1290 Super Duke R platform features a top triple clamp with 2 possible handlebar positions (fore and aft) that are set 15mm apart. KTM recommends the front-most position for track duty but certain riders may prefer the bars closer to the rider for everyday comfort. In this ChanceMoto DIY, we will walk through... Continue Reading →
The Evolution of KTM’s 1290 Super Duke R (Gen 1 vs Gen 2 vs Gen 3)
KTM has produced 3 generations of its flagship "Supernaked" bike: the 1290 Super Duke R. Although the media has given this bike ample coverage, what's become apparent is that there are a number of misconceptions and misinformation about the differences between each generation, specifically relating to features to power output. We find ourselves in the... Continue Reading →
KTM 690 SMC Oil Change DIY
In this Chance Moto DIY, we'll be doing a detailed step-by-step walkthrough on how to perform an oil change on the KTM 690 (LC4) motor. This procedure was performed on a 2010 690 SMC but will apply to many of the 690 bikes. Tools & Supplies Required: Ratchet, extension, T20 Torx, 13mm & 14mm sockets,... Continue Reading →
Are You Riding Your Bike or is Your Bike Riding You?
We all ride for different reasons. It's one of the fascinating things about motorcycling. Some people are just passing through whereas for others, it's a way of life and important part of their identity. Ask any rider who has been in the sport for a while and they will tell you that riding motorcycles is... Continue Reading →
Leaking Fork Seal Fix: Seal Mate Plus Review / How To
Leaking motorcycle fork oil seals are a common problem. Unfortunately, there is also a common misconception that the only solution is a fork rebuild (or fork oil seal replacement). In this quick tutorial, we will show you how to use an inexpensive product called Seal Mate to remove dirt from your fork's oil seals which... Continue Reading →
KTM 690 SMC Valve Adjustment / Rocker Arm Replacement
KTM's 690 motor is a potent, compact powerplant that can be very reliable, if maintained correctly. In this ChanceMoto guide, we'll walk you through one of the most common maintenance items: how to check and adjust valve clearances. We'll also cover rocker arm inspection and replacement - another common maintenance item on this motor. Note... Continue Reading →