Starting Off; Shifting, Riding; Applying The Brakes - KTM 125 SX 2018 Owner's Manual

8 RIDING INSTRUCTIONS
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Pull the choke lever out as far as possible.
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Press the kick starter robustly through its full range.
Info
Do not open the throttle.
8.3

Starting off

Info
The plug-in stand must be removed before riding.
While riding, the side stand must be folded up and secured with the rubber band.
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Pull the clutch lever, shift into first gear, release the clutch lever slowly and at the same time open the throttle gently.
8.4

Shifting, riding

Warning
Danger of accidents If you change down at high engine speed, the rear wheel blocks and the engine races.
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Do not change into a low gear at high engine speed.
Info
If you hear unusual noises while riding, stop immediately, switch off the engine, and contact an authorized KTM workshop.
First gear is used for starting off and for steep inclines.
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Shift into a higher gear when conditions allow (incline, road situation, etc.). To do so, release the throttle while simultaneously
pulling the clutch lever, shift into the next gear, release the clutch lever and open the throttle.
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If the choke function has been activated, deactivate it after the engine has warmed up.
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After reaching maximum speed by fully opening the throttle grip, turn the throttle back so it is ¾ open. This will barely reduce the
speed but fuel consumption will be considerably lower.
– Always open the throttle only as much as the engine can handle – abrupt throttle opening increases fuel consumption.
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To shift down, apply the brakes and close the throttle at the same time.
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Pull the clutch lever and shift into a lower gear, release the clutch lever slowly, and either open the throttle or shift again.
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Switch off the engine if running at idle or stationary for a long time.
Guideline
≥ 2 min
–
Avoid frequent and longer slipping of the clutch. As a result the gear oil, engine and cooling system heat up.
–
Ride at a low engine speed instead of at a high engine speed with a slipping clutch.
8.5

Applying the brakes

Warning
Danger of accidents Excessively forceful application of the brakes blocks the wheels.
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Adjust application of the brakes to the respective riding situation and riding surface conditions.
Warning
Danger of accidents A spongy pressure point on the front or rear brake reduces braking efficiency.
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Check the brake system and do not continue riding until the problem is eliminated. (Your authorized KTM workshop will be
glad to help.)
Warning
Danger of accidents Moisture and dirt impair the brake system.
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Brake carefully several times to dry out and remove dirt from the brake linings and the brake discs.
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On sandy, wet, or slippery surfaces, use the rear brake mostly if possible.
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Always finish braking before you go into a bend. Change down to a lower gear appropriate to your road speed.
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Use the braking effect of the engine on long downhill stretches. Change down one or two gears, but do not over-rev the engine.
You will have to apply the brakes far less frequently as a result and the brake system will not overheat.
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