04 450EXC ride report.

[gnarlykaw]

ok, so the weather broke open, and the temp was above 45. I have been sitting on this bike in the basement for over a week, waiting, itchin to get it out and ride it. Ok, so, I am coming off a 01 KDX220R with ALOT of mods, and it screams, BUT, when it came to a hill, It fell short of my expectations.
First off, i flooded it when I got to the park, but with the compression release, i was able to clear it out in a few kicks. ( i ran the battery down. ) once started, it runs lean at an idle, but after awhile of running, it wasn't so bad. A JD kit will be next on the list.
:aj: THIS BIKE ROCKS!!!! :aj:
The best way I could describe it to my wife was like this:
It's like I had a cast on my legs, and not being able to do things other people could, THEN, i got my casts off.
The bike has ooddles of low end power. it was VERY crisp at the throttle. i weigh 220lbs, and stand 6ft. IT FEELS LIGHTER THAN MY KDX!!! it is VERY tractable. LOL, I was doing 70, and still had ANOTHER gear to go yet! hows that for speed! It does feel narrow, but I think that is why it feels lighter to me. The seat may be hard, but the suspension is plush, and soaks it up. Usually I have my hands falling asleep when i ride the KDX, but today, I didn't have that problem. I did quite a bit of jumping also, and my back isn't freaked like it did after riding the KDX. coincidence????
I dont think so...........
Don't get me wrong, I love the KDX still, but maybe I have moved up the ladder a notch, and this bike fits the bill. BUT, I do know, I will grab this one from home first! :thumb:

 

[tlm]

As a new owner of an 04 450 EXC, I could not agree more with your analogy. I think of it as the bike doing what I want and not having to conform to the bike's nature.

I have not found a situation where the bike could not save from a bonehead choice, I know it is only a matter of time. But till that day comes, this is the most amazing bike I have ridden. I worry that the faster I go the better it feels, is that bad?

Tim

 

[gnarlykaw]

Tim,
I felt the same way! it just feels light and agile! and the suspension just keeps on soaking it up. this bike and I have an agreement. we will together, and not against one another! with that unity, we ride well! LOL

 

[70 marlin]

Gnarlykaw, Did you get the feeling that it ran like was electric, so smooth? Even though I stepped on to a 02 Husaberg instead of a 04 KTM, she's still a RFS four stroke. And has almost the same components. (Brakes, hubs, suspension etc.) You’re so right on it's a step up. Enjoy your new bike and keep the reports coming in on future rides once you really get the feel of her.