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Jap MXer or KTM ? For trail riding.

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Posted by: Avena Quaker---------------------

Hi, I would like to know what do you think is a better choice for trail riding, a Jap MX bike, or a KTM bike. This is among 250 2 strokes...

If I choose a japanese bike to convert to a trail machine, I'm aware there are critical mods like suspension, flywheel weight and 18" rear wheel I must consider... we add up and the price gap with KTM gets smaller. I wonder, does it worth it ? Money is an issue in this case so thats why I'm asking..
I know ktms come stock with a lot of goodies, but someone told me, at the end of the day they will never handle or suspend like the japs... is it true ?


Posted by: Detonator---------------------

Are you buying new or used? The reason I ask is that often used off-road or trail bikes can have aftermarket goodies like handguards, skid plates, rad guards, clutch master cylinder protector (KTM) already installed, and you don't really pay for them when you buy used. Used MX bikes might have a performance pipe on board, but that's not a useful item in the trails.

The suspension issue (KTM vs. Japanese) is pretty simple. If you choose an MX bike to convert to woods/trails, you'll need a revalve ($350-500) or get forearms like Popeye. You'll also have a bike that's 2-3 inches taller than a stock KTM, which is less than ideal in tight conditions. If you're a serious racer, you'll need a revalve no matter what you buy. If you're a trail/woods rider, the suspension on a stock KTM EXC will work better for you than a stock MX bike or a KTM SX...better than'll you'll ever need.

Honestly, if it's a 250 2 stroke trail bike you're after, and you're not a racer, find a clean used KTM 200, 250, or 300 EXC and go try it. They're all good, more similar than different. You'll also get a wide-ratio transmission with a low first, tall 5th (or 6th for the 200), O-ring chain, bigger gas tanks with reserve position, hydraulic clutch, tuneable powervalve springs/adjusters, enduro computer, 18 inch rear tire, spark arrestor, and they're quiet.

I've converted Jap MX to woods, and they work well for racing. It'll take you an extra $1,000 to $1,500 and at least a month of messing with it to get it dialed. If you want simple, reliable, and inexpensive, get a used KDX 200 and do some cheap mods to it.

Good luck!


Posted by: CR Swade---------------------

Quote:
Originally Posted by Avena Quaker
I know ktms come stock with a lot of goodies, but someone told me, at the end of the day they will never handle or suspend like the japs... is it true ?


Nope, they won't handle or suspend like a big four bike. IF we are talking 02 and newer KTM, they will be better. In the case of the 04 and 05's, MUCH better, like no contest better...and that is w/ stock settings versus revalved MXer bikes. The frame geometry and suspension settings on the 04 and 05's are night and day different from the very first 98/99 PDS bikes and handle much better for trail use as well as woods/off-road race conditions. My last 2 CR's (01 and 02) had a combined total of 6-7K in mods and both were still nowhere as plush/stable/woods ready as my stock 05, plus the engines on the 200, 250 and 300 are about as good as you can get for off-road work (lots of usable power w/ great delivery).

The KTM's, as well as GasGas, are great for off-road (w/ GG being a bit heavier and harder to sell later). Plus as mentioned earlier, the KDX is still a wonderful trail bike w/ huge amounts of mods available for race.


Posted by: Avena Quaker---------------------

Quote:
Originally Posted by Detonator
Are you buying new or used?

Im sorry I didn't mention it, I'm looking for a new 05 or 06 bike.


Posted by: Dave.Smith---------------------

If money is an issue (when isn't it?) and you want a two stroke trail bike look no further than the KDX200.
If you have a really good dealer near you then consider whatever color bike they sell.


Posted by: SpeedyManiac---------------------

I think a KTM250EXC or GasGas EC250 would be perfect for you.



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