I’m looking at my KTM 640 Adventure and it appears my countershaft seal needs replacing. My other KTM’s regularly require changing and I don’t keep my chain too tight. Why do they not last longer? I know this is probably on Adventure Rider somewhere but I’d rather post this here.

Do you find them worn or damaged when you replace them? There may be other, better quality seals available perhaps, I know for example SKF has good reputation. Maybe there is a design issue causing the leak over time, pressure with no place to escape.. I've always admired KTM's from a distance, I'm quite unfamiliar with their idiosyncrasies. The 790 has been calling me for some time but I'm not at the right time in my life for it.

Edit: that chain looks kinda neglected.. ;-)

The chain is new but is an o-ring chain. I generally only lube it after I wash it but forgot to. It was supposed to have an anti-rust gold layer but that seems to have been bull***t. I’ve owned many KTM’s and find them to be very reliable. Problems include shifters coming loose and countershaft seals leaking. That’s about it that I can think of. Top notch quality parts and generally easy to work on.