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Is the KLX a good bike?

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Posted by: BigGreyS---------------------

Just wondering who has one and if they would buy it again? Well, would you?



Posted by: Jim Ferguson---------------------

I had a KLX last year. I thought it was a great bike. It's a trail/ off road bike. I wanted to do more MX and I'm heavy at 205 lbs.
I did the usual modifications with the new head pipe making the most difference. Low seat height, easy to start, very easy to ride.
I did see one guy ride one on a MX track very well. Excellent for a new rider.


Posted by: penguin---------------------

I have had 3 of them and am contemplating buying number 4. . I only sold my last KLX because I got laid off and needed the money. The KLX is one of the most underrated dirtbikes on the planet and gets a bad rap from a lot of people. It is a little heavy and down slightly in power compared to the new generation of 4strokes, but it has enough power to hold its own in 90% of the trail situations you will encounter. For anybody over 160 lbs it needs to have stiffer springs front and back, but lots of bikes need that. If you are vertically challenged(short legs) it is an excellent choice. You can remove the factory restrictors from the muffler, airbox and crankcase breather and gain about 4hp for free. If you put a pumper carb and oversize headpipe on, the bike is transformed. The only bug in the mix is the KLX can be a bitch to start when hot or after a fall. A hotstart valve helps this problem. There is an excellent owners group at http://www.planetklx.com/, which has a lot of tech tips and a newsgroup that has a lot of knowledgeable people to answer questions. The KLX is an excellent bike with a couple of warts that can be easily fixed. I would highly reccomend it.


Posted by: Boozer---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by penguin
The KLX is one of the most underrated dirtbikes on the planet and gets a bad rap from a lot of people.


you took the words right out of my mouth, thats spot on. i used to have one, and now i don't think ive ever ridden a dirt bike that handles as well as the KLX300. I would have one over a modified XR any day!


Posted by: JimmyD2---------------------

I bought my KLX in March of this year after being bike-less for 15 years. I am VERY satisfied with my bike. I've had a chance to ride a number of other types of bikes as well (CR250, XR400, RMX250, etc...) and wouldn't trade mine for any of them. It is perfect for the type of riding I do - trail riding.

The advantages as I see them:

1. Lightest bike in it's class (XR,TTR,DR,DR-Z) I don't consider the KLX to be in the same class as the YZ-Fs, WR-Fs, CR-Fs, KTMs, etc. - in both the intended purpose and price range.

2. Easy to ride. Smooth power delivery (and plenty of power for me) and great handling

3. Upgradability (Is that a word?) This bike can get mean if you start talking to Stroker!

4. Reliability - except for the reported idler gear failures. (I haven't changed mine yet.)

This bike in stock condition is not gonna take you to many SX or freestyle championships, but you can ride it on the trails all day long on one tank of gas and still be ready for more... Like Penguin said, go to www.PlanetKLX.com and sign up for the KLX Yahoo! group. Tons of info there.


Posted by: gooby---------------------

hell ya, penguin and jimmyd said it all just had to say my klx has to b the most fun of any rec toy i own or have owned.stock or make it a bully it's a great bike. dc p.s. jimmy get that idler gear out of there


Posted by: Mark Parsons---------------------

The KLX300 is a great bike! I was planning on getting a new CR450, but everytime I come back from a trail ride on my KLX I'm grinning ear to ear. It is very user friendly and mine always starts easy hot or cold even after a fall (starting technique is key though). A very under rated bike. People that don't have them don't realize what a good bike they can be (with a few, mostly inexpensive, mods).


Posted by: Boozer---------------------

i like to ride hills, really steep hills, and this is one area that i thoght the KLX was suffering in. i found my old bike liked to lift the front too easy when on the really steep stuff, and when you are constantly shifting your weight back and forth, it can sometimes catch you off guard. did anyone else experience this on their KLX? this is one area the my WR250F is much better, but like i said, the KLX corners better!


Posted by: MacMan---------------------

Very,very good bike in every respect!!!!


Posted by: MCassle---------------------

Had mine since they became 300's in 97, wouldn't trade it...and it's pretty much stock engine wise, with the cv carb. I'm having a hard time parting with 500 dollars for the pumper.

It lacks power for me lately, being 210#'s, but I think that keeps me out of too much trouble, gotta go back to that day job you know...

matt in Clovis


Posted by: BigGreyS---------------------

Thanks for all the information. Not only does that bike sound good. I think it looks awsome.


Posted by: KLX300A5L---------------------

Buy the KLX,its'a great trailbike. Lightweight,handles great and very smooth tractable power that does NOT wear you out. And at a very affordable price.


Posted by: wayneg---------------------

The only downsides I had with my KLX were the hot to start woes, and footpeg clearance. Otherwise a top bike.


Posted by: ziggypop---------------------

I don't know what they are like to ride but somebody has one around here and has passed me in the tight stuff twice now that guy can haul on that little thumper, and I'm on a KDX which is no slouch in the tight stuff!!!


Posted by: Uechi45---------------------

I have a '99 and my son has a '97. We have tried to find something better but cannot. We have ridden bigger bikes (KTM 520) and can run circles around them in the tight stuff. More power only means getting tired sooner, more wheel spin, and more apt to have the bike get away from you. Like I said, for the money and type of riding we do we can't find a better bike. Try it, you'll it!


Posted by: Marklx---------------------

It's a great trail/desert bike. I just sold mine to buy a motocrosser ('02 RM250 ) so I can give a little feedback on differences. When out on the trails with the klx, you can relax and get away with lots of sloppy stuff and make it. Very forgiving motor, and with a few $, the suspension works great in the tight stuff. If you want to go fast, it won't surprise or hurt you.

Thing is, I kept ending up on tracks, and the klx isn't terribly happy there. Had it working pretty well, and could do some serious speed on tight tracks, but it wasn't happy on faster tracks/big jumps. The lack of ground clearance and smooth power delivery just didn't work right on a track. Thus my decision to go with an mx'r. If I could've kept it, I would've, but spousal pressure sort of clinched the sale decision.

If you're comfortable with the need for a 4s trail bike, I don't think the value or performance of the KLX can be beat.

Mark
If trails are what you like, and the bike fits, you won't be disappointed.


Posted by: DougRoost---------------------

I bought mine in February after being out of dirt bikes for a long time. As Penguin and others said, you can't beat it for the money. Coolest part is you can ride it stock (but do the free mods since they're, well, free) and then amp it up as your skills improve. As someone on the KLX email group said, this bike will easily take you to a competitive B+ rider.

The only other thumper I'd consider is a KTM 400 E/XC, which is twice the price. Even that doesn't have a perimeter frame. That's saying a lot for the KLX.


Posted by: dejacky---------------------

why not recommend the 2002 yz250f? Great bike, easy to ride, no?

-dejacky


Posted by: DougRoost---------------------

MCassle, if you still have a stock displacement engine you can get a Mikuni 33mm pumper carb kit for just $325. Got my White Brothers kit from MX South, a DRN sponsor, and highly recommend it if you want to give your KLX some real snap. If you do, make sure you have the Stroker headpipe since what goes in must come out...


Posted by: DougRoost---------------------

The KLX is bulletproof and handles great. Regarding the 250F's, there have been way too many reports of broken cranks on these machines. In addition, to get the power out of the 250F you have to ride it like a 125 2-smoke. However, if you want to ride MX tracks on a 4 stroke then the 250F would be a better choice since it has the suspension for it (but if doing that then why not just get a 2-smoke?).

Contrast that with the KLX, which has smooth power from low to mid range, right where you need it doing offroad and trail riding. Not many people know it, but the KLX redlines at 11,500 RPM -- not too shabby. Way underrated and undermarketed by Kawasaki.


Posted by: MCassle---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by DougRoost
MCassle, if you still have a stock displacement engine you can get a Mikuni 33mm pumper carb kit for just $325. Got my White Brothers kit from MX South, a DRN sponsor, and highly recommend it if you want to give your KLX some real snap. If you do, make sure you have the Stroker headpipe since what goes in must come out...


That's exactly the problem with getting the pumper: it's just not the pumper by itself, but a whole host of expensive mods...such as headpipe...and who can have a new headpipe without an aftermarket exhaust? How about that hot start kit that is recommended with any pumper carb on this bike, etc. After it's said and done I've blown aorund 800 easy.

Word I get off of the KLX list is that the Mikuni is not the carb of choice anymore, the 35mm Keihin F.C.R. is now recommend by Stroker...who knows. All I know is that it's enough money for a down payment on a new bike.

One of these days I'll just take a second out on my house and get the 365 makeover :D

matt in Clovis


Posted by: penguin---------------------

Gee Matt, I don't know which list you have been reading. The FCR is no longer favored by Stroker for a stock displacement KLX. And they are now offering the Mikuni 36mm pumper again, when I talked to them last week they said that they had been having too many starting problems with the FCR, and I can verify that, since I have tried every carb available for the KLX. If you look at all the newer 4strokes they all come with an oversize headpipe stock, and the stock silencer with the butt plug removed works just fine. I can still buy a KLX, modify it and have less money invested than if I bought a brand new YZF. Half the fun is modifying a bike into something tailored just for me. I would do that with any bike I bought, I just prefer to do it to a KLX. to each his own. You still can't beat the fun per dollar ratio on the KLX.


Posted by: TONYKX---------------------

I had most of Japanese thumper in the past twelve years,My worst one was
the KLX,Have to spend a lot money to keep up with other bike.The stock form
is the good beginer bike or all day trail riding.Not my type of thumper.
Tonykx


Posted by: penguin---------------------

you would have been able to keep up if you just twisted the throttle a little harder If you get the technique down the KLX is a lot faster than people think. If you ride MX I might believe you, the KLX is not good for that. For tight technical terrain you can keep up with just about anything on 2 wheels. I have owned 3 of them and am getting ready to buy number 4, and I never felt like the bike was a snail.


Posted by: Boozer---------------------

has anyone fitted a quarter turn throttle assembly? my friend did to my old KLX and it totally changes the way the bike feels. Give it a go if you haven't done it to yours!


Posted by: BigGreyS---------------------

Many replies on this subject. The KLX sounds like an outstanding trail bike. I am still looking but if I go for a trail bike it will either be a KLX or a KDX. The KLX sound like a great bike for the wife to start out on. Definatly will keep it in mind. Thanks.



Posted by: wayneg---------------------

If you don't have enough money then you can stick a different carb on without too much hassle. I stuck a carb off a '88 XR250 on my KLX, which I got from a wreckers for NZ$20 (with our exchange rates US$325=NZ$750=ouch!). It fitted straight on, and once jetted it gave much the same power as the CV carb, without the hot starting problems.


Posted by: Asrith---------------------

So what do we think of the WR250F? My friend is looking at geting the KLX or the Yamaha WR250F. Saving money is obvious, but what about overall? This bike seems real competitive.


Posted by: scar tissue---------------------

[QUOTE]Originally posted by MCassle
[B]

That's exactly the problem with getting the pumper: it's just not the pumper by itself, but a whole host of expensive mods...After it's said and done I've blown aorund 800 easy.


If your smart you probrably saved alot more than that on the purchase price. Both new and used. prices on the KLX are a lot lower than the others.

Back to the first question, I get a new bike about every year.

I love my KLX 340 with all the goodies, It's the best all around bike I've ever ridden. Yes there are better bikes in individual catagories. But a modified KLX does pretty well in all catagories, and cost less to buy so you can modify it and still be money ahead with a great biike.


Posted by: DougRoost---------------------

Yep, agree with Scar tissue. You're going to end up modifying any bike you buy. Many of the same mods you'd do on a KLX you'd do on a WRF, too (bars, exhaust, skid plate, etc). On a KLX you probably want a pumper carb down the road. On a WRF you probably want the YZF seat/tank combo immediately (which costs as much or more than a Mikuni carb!).

But KLX's haven't had problems with broken crankshafts like those 250Fs, nor overheating. Both can be difficult to start when hot but the 250Fs are worse (Yamaha even provides a starting video now!).

In the end you're dollars ahead with the KLX since the cost of entry is so much less. The only reason I'd see to do a 250F is if you're racing MX against 125 2-strokes. Even then I think I'd rather have a YZ125.


Posted by: Boozer---------------------

i sold my 98 KLX 300 and bought a WR250F (standard with YZ seat/tank). I like it alot, and wouldn't sell it to go back to the KLX.
Dougroost, have you ridden one of these bikes? i was a bit shocked when you said you would rather race a 125.
The thing no-one has mentioned yet is that spending the dosh on your bike doesn' t really increase the value of the machine when time comes to sell. So you might spend a heap on your KLX and feel great because it still costs less than a WR, but its pretty much dead money.


Posted by: penguin---------------------

any money you spend, on any dirtbike, for any kind of go fast goodies, is dead money when it comes time to sell. The only way to come out is to take all the goodies off, put the stock parts back on. and sell them seperate from the bike. You need to have kept the original parts to do this, of course. Let's all just be thankfull that we can choose any kind of bike we want to ride in the dirt, and realize , the perfect dirtbike for you is not the perfect dirtbike for the next person.


Posted by: DougRoost---------------------

Boozer, I have not in fact ridden a WR250F, nor does it appear I will be. Which is a shame since at one point I thought I wanted one. The great suspension, power, and relatively light weight sounded ideal on paper. And they looked so sexy on the showroom floor when I checked them out. But here's why I won't be riding one anytime soon. First, I have a couple riding buddies who had YZ250Fs and was going to ride them -- but they've all sold them! Second, Yamaha faithful like to talk about the KLX's weak idler gear, but for $85 and a half hour's time that's solved, while the 250F crankshaft failures are a serious issue. Thus, since my friends have all sold theirs and since I don't want to go anywhere near this crankshaft defect, I'm skipping over the 250F.

Several of my riding buddies have WR400/426Fs and they all love them and have kept them (though one is moving on to a KTM RFS). The 400/426Fs seem to be easier starting and haven't had the broken crankshafts like the 250Fs. I am going to take a turn on a WR426F later this month and can't wait. Again, haven't personally ridden them yet but I ride with these guys and have been observing first hand. Thus, for whatever reason, the 250F guys are all moving on while the rest of us are more content.

I have of course ridden 125 2-smokes, and the handling and slimness of the KLX was so similar that I was hooked. I also liked the KLX's lower seat height compared to the blue bikes (I'm 5'8"). The KLX has been enough bike to keep me very happy and help my skills improve -- with minimal total investment -- until I can afford the KTM RFS (which also gives e-start). Which was penguin's point, that there's no such thing as a perfect bike for everyone and it's great to have choices.

The point I was trying to make that started this was most of the mods people do to these bikes they'd do to any bike. You have to admit this is true -- handlebars, pipes, mufflers, suspension setups, and miscellaneous cosmetic/ergo things are personal mods and part of enjoying the hobby. I again agree with penguin that the only way to get your money back out of these mods is to return the bike back to stock and sell the aftermarket goodies separately.


Posted by: JMarsa---------------------

Hi, I'm the guy 'Asrith' mentioned earlier in the thread. I'm interested in more comments like 'Boozer's'. I sat on a KLX at a dealer the other day and it seemed very much like the KDX 200/220's I've ridden. About the only thing that really turned me off on the bike was the "valley" or "dip" the seat has just before the tank. I'm 6'2 200lbs and I could tell that although my weight would be just slightly past the centerline of the rear spring most of the time (which put me about 2" from the end of the seat) that the "valley" would certainly cause me to be cramped whenever I slid forward. So I looked into tall seat kits (Stroker has one) to remedy this.

My dilemma is this: It seems that I'll have about 1K in mods (tall seat, pumper carb, idler gear, and shift star kit) without even touching the suspension vs. what seems to be no other "mandatory" (meant lightly) mods to a '02 WR250F other than avoiding the crank failure feature.

Any thought's?

--JMarsa


Posted by: penguin---------------------

with a little shopping around you can piick up a very clean 1 or 2 year old KLX and put $1000-$1500 in it and still be $1500-$2000 less than a YZF250. It all depends on what you want to do with the bike. I would do the suspension, seat and the idler gear, then ride the bike and add hopup parts to the engine as money and familiarty with the bike dictated. The stock KLX is a very competent trail bike and enduro mount with just the suspension mods, and carburetor and exhaust upgrades make it a surprisingly good woods weapon for amateur class competition. I presently have a KDX220 and my previous KLX would hold its own against the KDX in most situations. That being said, I like my new bike, but I am going to be looking for a clean used KLX to use as a backup. When I purchase my next KLX, it will be my 4th, I like the bike that much.


Posted by: zio---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by penguin
...If you look at all the newer 4strokes they all come with an oversize headpipe stock, and the stock silencer with the butt plug removed works just fine....


So, where do you put that now? Jk penguin....

Hey Matt, where are you riding that KLX? Miami Creek? What bikes have you ridden before the KLX, and how do they compare for the areas you ride in? I'm bikeless now, but can't stop shopping while I save my money. Last bike I owned was a '00 CR250, which never quite felt at home on the trails (Hollister Hills, Clear Creek, Miami Creek, and hare scrambles throughout N. CA). I'm currently sold on kTm 200's or 300's, but have yet to ride one extensively, and have always been curious about those KLX's (thanks, penguin, for opening my eyes here on DRN). Only 4 strokes I've ridden are an XR600 & XR200. The XR didn't seem to have much mroe power than my CR (hard to determine since power delivery was sooooo different), and the XR200 was pretty darn weak, though I had a lot of fun on it at Hollister.

One last question- Clawsons, or Wilsons?


Posted by: MCassle---------------------

Hey Zio, I used to live in Bakersfield, so I'm used to riding at Gorman, Ballinger, various desert, Clear Creek, and I do some riding in Nevada around the Carson City area (best riding area out of those mentioned). I'm a family guy w/ 3 kids so I don't quite have the resources to have multiple bikes, or even blow a few thousand on the KLX to customize it...I envy you guys that can!

I hate all the bike shops in Fresno, I deal thru the local KTM shop in Bakersfield or, lately, just order stuff online.

Always looking to hook up for a ride, let me know when/where & I'm there.

matt in Clovis


Posted by: scar tissue---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by JMarsa
. About the only thing that really turned me off on the bike was the "valley" or "dip" the seat has just before the tank. I'm 6'2 200lbs ... that the "valley" would certainly cause me to be cramped whenever I slid forward. So I looked into tall seat kits (Stroker has one) to remedy this.
--JMarsa


Jmarsa.

If you really must know, I'm 6'3" 225lbs. and ride a KLX 340. That cramped feeling is easiest to fix on the klx.(somebody actually makes parts for it) You , as I do should feel cramped on most bikes. ( except larger open bikes. XR650'sor ktm 520. With the KLX I have the tall seat foam, 1 1/2 inch extended swingarm, stroker modified susp. and linkage, and bar risers. My seats' pretty flat now and I'm not cramped at all. Of course you don't have to do all of this. You just can.


TO ALL:

As to the debate betwwen the YZ/WR 250F and the KLX. I've ridden both the YZ and the KLX , Haven't ridden the WR. and liked both bikes. Honestly, money not being an object, I would buy the yz250f. It was just alot of fun to ride. I thought it was going tobe under powered, but it wasn't. The WR has wider gear ratios and I assume would bog down the motor for us big riders. (additionally, if money wasn't an object broken cranks and engine rebuilds shouldn't matter. ) I like my KLX and once modified, really have no complaints. In fact, since money does amtter to most of us. I wouldn't trade it. Just my $.02


Posted by: RippinXR---------------------

Having spend some time on both a wr250 and a modded klx I can honestly say the yammie is a better machine. My buddies klx which I've spent several long rides on is excellent and I love riding it, stroker suspension, 36mm pumper, header, it is a great tight woods bike. However the wr250 is awesome right out of the box and the crank failures get more press out here than in the real world. I like to hate yamahas but was way impressed with the power, weight and handling of this machine right of the showroom floor. IMO, yamaha wins this match. However I wouldn't hesitate to recomend a klx to anyone. I agree with many of the original posts, a very underated bike.


Posted by: zio---------------------

Matt- so you're happy w/ the KLX in those areas, huh? That's good to know. And I'm new here, from Santa Cruz. So I haven't spent much time at either shop, only at Wilsons where I almost bought a kTm. Didn't care much for the sales staff. $600 or so for "set-up"? Forget it. I'd rather buy a crated machine. The salesman said they did most of the necessary new-bike setup stuff, like tighten all bolts/spokes, etc... lube bearings, swingarm etc... but $600? :silly:


Posted by: JMarsa---------------------

RippinXR, scar tissue,

Thanks for the replies, your (and others here as well) input is just what I was looking for. Still undecided though...


--JMarsa


Posted by: DougRoost---------------------

Check out this review that just came out: http://www.off-road.com/dirtbike/2001dec/klx300/. Good article on some of the points we've made here on the KLX. At the end they talk about pumper carbs, though you should also know that rather than spend $500 for an FCR you can get a Mikuni pumper carb kit from Stroker or White Brothers for $325 -350.


Posted by: akc1955---------------------

I bought a 2000 KLX after twenty years without a bike and did the mods mentioned here: Stroker headpipe, pumper carb, idler gear, quicker throttle, revalved forks, hot start, etc. I really enjoyed the bike the first year, but then as my skills returned I felt that it was holding me back. My buddies were riding WR400 and 520E/XC four strokes and perhaps I was trying to compete with the big dogs too much. Anyway, I sold it and bought a KTM 300E/XC which was much more fun and capable right out of the box.

However, I plan on selling the KTM this spring and buying a CRF450R or a YZ250F because it's such a drag to always have fresh pre-mix on hand! I miss the four stroke sound, feel, power, etc. and in some ways I wish I had my little Kawie back! It wasn't a very good shifting bike (false neutrals) and even with the hot start kit it would throw a fit sometimes, but I rode it much more often than my two-smoke.

Regards,
Keith Cutler


Posted by: DougRoost---------------------

Curious why you wouldn't be considering the 426F instead of the 250F, especially since that's the CRF450's main target? My guess is weight and handling. Depending on where you are in Colorado, I'm also surprised you wouldn't go with more cc's to make up for the power robbing thin air at altitude.


Posted by: akc1955---------------------

DougRoost,

You're right on target with the 426 weight issue. Also, at 5' 9" and 160 lbs, I feel like I ride on top of the 426. The 250 sounds more my size (weight wise), although my 520 E/XC friend says I'd never be happy with the smaller motor. I like riding my 300 E/XC better than his 520: it turns easier, lands much softer after jumps, is easier in tight places. Also, I'm sure that part of the equation is that I'd like something different from my buddies. That's the real strong suit of the CRF450R, although that's not the best purchase decision!


Posted by: DougRoost---------------------

akc1955, I'm 5'8" and 160lb and the high seat height on the blue bikes was not confidence inspiring to me. I've ridden a KTM 300 E/XC and was very impressed -- it's very tractable and has lots of power, though like you I wanted a thumper. Due to Colorado altitude, if I were you I'd really try and ride both the 250F and CRF450 before selling that 300 (I'm also guessing you ride MX tracks since that's what the CRF is set up for and Honda keeps denying they'll build an enduro version).


Posted by: TONYKX---------------------

One more time,KLX is a play bike.YZ250f is a race ready bike.until the green one talk to high dollars stroker equipment(don't forget e-start kit,you'll need it after modification.).If you don't like it,the blue easier to sell.
tony


Posted by: Ramski---------------------

Some KLX questions.

Anyone know if my excel wheels from my KX500 will fit a KLX?

Are the stock bar clamps and top triple clamps mounted together? If I do get one, I would like to keep the stock triples and put different bar clamps on to hold a stabilizer.

What's the deal with the IMS tank and having to use the KLX250 shrouds? This is what they say in the IMS catalog.

I have a cool picture of what looks like a KLX300 motor in a older KX250 frame. Not sure where I downloaded it, but it is one cool looking bike. I also remember seeing for sale a KLX365 with KX500 forks and a KX250 rear. I'm really itching to going back to 4 strokes and I like what I read about the KLX300. I just plan on putting different carb on along with new pipe and free mods. Thanks.


Posted by: DougRoost---------------------

The IMS tank is larger so it uses the smaller KLX250 shrouds. I was looking at this combo for mine and understand these shrouds look very similar to KDX shrouds.


Posted by: Uechi45---------------------

Quote:
Once again the KLX is a play bike

Once again TONY KX is wrong

By RM80kid on in his dad's name


Posted by: Uechi45---------------------

O.K. I wasn't going to get into this but here it is. First of all TonyKX or anybody else doesn't have the right to slam any other bike untill they have spent some time on it, not just one ride or one day. The WR250 may be a better bike in certain situations with a certain rider aboard, just as the KLX may be better in other situations. A friend of mine has a KTM520 and will kick my ass all day in the open stuff, but give me a tight woods trail on my STOCK KLX and watch out. Put Shane Watts on an XR200 and he'll kick all of our asses. Rider ability, as far as I'm concerned is 80% of the equation. I am a tournament archer and will beat most shooters with a $100.00 bow while they shoot $2,000.00 bows. I am also a skeet shooter and will beat $5,000.00 guns with my $200.00 gun. If you want to state facts about bikes, fine, but keep your unfounded opinions to yourself. The KLX is a GREAT bike. Period. By the way, I haven't had to replace the crank yet, nor do I know of any other KLX's that have. I'de rather be riding mine than telling people I have a dead one in the garage. Now I'm done.:D (anything to add Penguin???)

Submitted by me, the Dad, not the kid above.


Posted by: KLeeneX300---------------------

A dead one in the garage? You must be talking about me. Who told you? As for the PENGUIN, he crossed over to the dark side. Got himself a 2-smoke:mad:


Posted by: Ramski---------------------

I for one am currently in the market for a KLX. I am looking for a great trail bike that is not a handful like my 500. I've looked at the XR's, but thay are just a little too heavy. I am going to miss my 500 when it comes to those long sand washes, but will love the smooth power of a 4 stroke on the tight trails.

I was suprised how well the KLX can do in MX. I saw a guy flying on one and looked much faster than anyone on the track one day. I have seen Kelly Yancy beat a lot of good guys on this so-called girl bike also.


Posted by: penguin---------------------

Quote:
As for the PENGUIN, he crossed over to the dark side. Got himself a 2-smoke


Maybe not after this weekend. look at my post on the KLX group at yahoo. I might make my son ride the KDX and I will commandeer his YZ426.:scream:


Posted by: Boozer---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Uechi45
I am a tournament archer and will beat most shooters with a $100.00 bow while they shoot $2,000.00 bows.


i too am a toxophilite, what sort of bow do you shoot? oh, and i seriously doubt you will beat most archers who shoot $2,000 bows with your $100 bow at tournaments!
there are a few of us in here who have owned both (such as myself), and i feel that we are the ones that should be listened to. I had my KLX for almost one year, and my WR for 8 months. Who else here has owned both?
the broken cranks on the WR don't happen on every second bike. look at the post regarding this issue and there are three people who have had problems. out of every member in the world that posts here (almost 11 thousand, god knows how many YZ/WR's), only three people have had problems and its usally the first models that left Japan.


Posted by: TONYKX---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Uechi45
O.K. I wasn't going to get into this but here it is. First of all TonyKX or anybody else doesn't have the right to slam any other bike untill they have spent some time on it, not just one ride or one day. The WR250 may be a better bike in certain situations with a certain rider aboard, just as the KLX may be better in other situations. A friend of mine has a KTM520 and will kick my ass all day in the open stuff, but give me a tight woods trail on my STOCK KLX and watch out. Put Shane Watts on an XR200 and he'll kick all of our asses. Rider ability, as far as I'm concerned is 80% of the equation. I am a tournament archer and will beat most shooters with a $100.00 bow while they shoot $2,000.00 bows. I am also a skeet shooter and will beat $5,000.00 guns with my $200.00 gun. If you want to state facts about bikes, fine, but keep your unfounded opinions to yourself. The KLX is a GREAT bike. Period. By the way, I haven't had to replace the crank yet, nor do I know of any other KLX's that have. I'de rather be riding mine than telling people I have a dead one in the garage. Now I'm done.:D (anything to add Penguin???)

Submitted by me, the Dad, not the kid above.



Uechi45,you are right.U have to ride extensively to be able to to tell more on individual bike and rider ability is the factor.But most of us will ride better everday that we swing our leg on it,and we will want it more.That why I got rid mine,and happy I did it .Not a PROOF ,but honestly,that time it only me that ride Klx in the whole circuit,and wonder why nobody buy them. And now somebody told me that Suzuki will join with Kawasaki.What would will happen next ?
tonykx


Posted by: One Dollar---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Uechi45
...The KLX is a GREAT bike. Period. ...


Short and sweet and I agree. I've been riding longer than I'd like to say and I have never had as much fun on the KLX than any other bike before.

For a woodser, it is one of the best buys out there. Usually you can find one 1-2 years old with all the usual mods already done for about a grand or more cheaper than a stock new one. Then you add a few personal mods and you have a bike tailored for you that didn't kill your wallet.

I've had so much fun with mine that I decided to dual sport it so I can ride to more places with it.

If you want to race MX get a 2-smoke or RFS, The KLX is happiest in the woods.


Posted by: RippinXR---------------------

Tony KX, are you sure you owned a KLX? No e-start needed for a heavily modded KLX unless you've got a bad mechanic or your a bad mechanic. I've yet to ride a 4stroke that didn't have a ritual, and most owners have it down to a science. I start my xr first kick, most others can't in 20. BTW, Good cast with the playbike comment, you hooked a two fish on one hook.

Uechi45/RM80kid time to spend some time on a WR250. Lifes to short to get that riled about a post on a public BBS. If you'd ridden one you'd realize the wr250 is more of what you love about your klx. It's light, nimble, has the power of a modded KLX and the suspension is real good out of the box.

Uechi45, your right about the rider. Our gang swaps bikes all the time the fastest guy is still the fastest guy regardless of what he's riding.

A closed mind is a terrible thing to waste. :D

Now Ramski about that heavy xr comment.... LOL

Don


Posted by: thumper1---------------------

Well has anyone else had problems with the valves? I have a klx300 98 & the valves have been adjusted twice and now need replacing. Was told it will cost 400. Is it worth it?


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

The KLX engines have notoriously poor quality valves that fail quickly when run at consistently high rpm. Replacing them with stainless steel valves is a worthwhile upgrade. www.blackdiamondvalves.com is one of the good sources for replacement valves.


Posted by: RippinXR---------------------

Valves on all 4 strokes should be adjusted frequently. Not doing so will cup the valves. Not sure what the frequency is on the KLX but I check mine a couple times a year.

It's worth learning how to do it yourself. The first time takes a little longer but after that it's easy. $400 is very high just to replace the valves, is there any other damage?

don


Posted by: thumper1---------------------

On that klx300. There was no other damage & I was wondering about that price tag of 400. myself. I was also told by the mechanic that when I replace the valves that it will only last another 2 years & will need replacing again & that is usisng the steel valves. Is he pulling one over on me?


Posted by: DougRoost---------------------

As I posted on the KLX email list, stainless steel valves can be had for WAAAY less if you go to KMPI, who was making them for Stroker, too. Apparently Kawi saved a few $$ by not using SS valves and they will begin to cup (same problem as their Ninja street bikes). KMPI is at 650-359-4704.


Posted by: scar tissue---------------------

thumper1,

yep, my valves have been replaced. But I abuse my bikes and kind of expect some maintaince problems. I believe www.stroker.com even addreses his issue with the KLX,.


Posted by: JMarsa---------------------

I'm curious what's wrong with your valves? It sounds like you have had annual maintenance on the bike (having had them adjusted twice). Is this common for four stokes? I'm looking towards a new purchase, and this is something I need to consider.

--JMarsa


Posted by: Eric82930---------------------

I have had stainless valves in my KLX for a year of dessert racing and the valves have tightened almost .020". Now I check them alot more often. I am almost to the smallest shims made for the intake side. Stroker told me that even with the stainless valves, that wear on the seats is a problem because of the incompatible metals. They said berilium valve seats would be the way to go. I have quit racing so i don't have to rev the bike as much and I'm hoping theese valves will last a while longer.


Posted by: Uechi45---------------------

My KLX is a 97 and i bought it used. Suposidly nothing has been done to the motor and i ride at least 2 times a week and the valves are still perfictly adjusted. I used to ride 2 strokes so i rev the crap out of it, so im suprised nothing has happened to mine at all after what you guys have said of what has hapened to yours.

Maby they lied and they did go in the motor and change the valves :think

By RM80kid


Posted by: BigGreyS---------------------

This post sure grew. 67 posts. Looks like I touched on a subject that had much interest. I still am interested in a KLX. The bike sounds like a good overall bike (that looks good too.)




Posted by: thumper1---------------------

I take great care of that bike. Got some mods done & kept up on maint. I ride 2 or 3 times a week, 2-3 hours without a break each ride out. Mostly sand riding. I ride hard to keep up with the wr400 but its not to hard to ride their back tire through woods and tight trails. I love the bike except for the valve problem which all in all the bike is so sweet it may be worth a little trouble...after all if you want to play...


Posted by: One Dollar---------------------

I'm not experiencing any valve problems. Have over 2500 miles on and had one valve adjustment as part of standard maintenance. Intake was right on and only exhaust was out of spec a little when they were adjusted.


Posted by: KLX4smoke---------------------

Hey, the KLX is really quite a good bike. I have never been so comfortable on any motorcycle, but then again I might be a little biased. (and i don't step foot or tire on a mx track):silly:

P.S.- If Kawi would just give us the ebutton, I bet even mx action would rave about it for a few months.


Posted by: thumper1---------------------

I am seriously considering selling the klx300. Its hard to decide cuz it does have a lot of good qualities. As long as I keep riding it hard like a 2 stroke I will be forever changing the valves. It also hurts the wrists & ankles when you bottom out. The height & power is perfect for my size!


Posted by: penguin---------------------

You should be able to stiffen up the suspension so it does not bottom out hard. I weigh 225lbs and get some serious air on occasion and with .46 front and 6.0 rear springs, my bike never bottomed hard.



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