We have several members who own KTM dual sport motorcycles, so it's about time we had a thread dedicated to them.
Last month I purchased my second KTM. The first was the 350 EXC, and while I liked it a lot, it did not have the power character that I wanted. I'm on the large side, and I like to ride in the lower RPMs, so instead I should have gone with the larger displacement 500 EXC-F. The combination of larger piston and longer stroke gives it the power character that I want. So last month, I pulled the trigger and bought a 500 EXC-F.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Katoom/i-vzkBxtL/0/dcd3878b/XL/Before%20%282%29-XL.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Katoom/i-2MH7Bwx/0/197076a8/XL/Before%20%283%29-XL.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Katoom/i-FSFbWk9/0/b9438d8d/XL/Before%20%284%29-XL.jpg)
I've never been very good at single track or enduro hare scrambles, but this bike is certainly capable of that. But I intend to use this bike as a dual sport, which means that the seat must be more comfortable and the gas tank must be larger than 2.0 gallons.
First, I changed the stock seat for a complete Seat Concepts seat. I also have an Alaska Leather dual sport seat cover, for those longer days in the saddle.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Katoom/i-tLjJvRr/0/32c5be24/XL/Mods%20%281%29-XL.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Katoom/i-ssL5xtr/0/911542d1/XL/Mods%20%282%29-XL.jpg)
Next, I swapped the stock 2.0 gallon tank out for a 4.5 gallon IMS tank with the KTM 90-degree fuel fitting. I ordered a Profill fuel filter sock from Australia, but it has not arrived yet.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Katoom/i-2vw855z/0/fdd95600/XL/Mods%20%283%29-XL.jpg)
I added 20mm risers and Tusk handguards, using BRP threaded bar inserts for extra durability. I also added dual sport mirrors and a RAM mount for my GPS, and changed the throttle tube for a G2 Throttle Tamer.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Katoom/i-PWs9Jbn/0/36cc71d4/XL/Mods%20%284%29-XL.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Katoom/i-Q3FCH3T/0/0d07a51e/XL/2019-04%20KTM%20Mods%20%2810%29-XL.jpg)
I removed the screen at the end of the muffler to improve the air flow a bit. Other owners complain of exhaust heat buildup because the exhaust is too closed off. I also added a Giant Loop heat shield for my soft luggage.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Katoom/i-bsS9tq8/0/68fb4515/XL/Mods%20%285%29-XL.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Katoom/i-Nsfx5vx/0/767c455b/XL/Mods%20%286%29-XL.jpg)
Lastly, I added an Acerbis skid plate and some neoprene Shock Sox. I also changed the orange frame protectors to black.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Katoom/i-2BsSSLz/0/8225a3f9/XL/2019-04%20KTM%20Mods%20%2812%29-XL.jpg)
Only thing I have left is to put on some proper tires. I have a Pirelli Scorpion Rally for the front and a Motoz Arena Hybrid for the rear. I have the Tubliss system to install also, when I change the tires.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Katoom/i-MrCWzhz/0/8c27de9c/XL/2019-04%20KTM%20Mods%20%2813%29-XL.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Katoom/i-ZK4GD4D/0/84e01853/XL/2019-04%20KTM%20Mods%20%288%29-XL.jpg)
I have that Pirelli on the front of my 690 and love it!
Let me know when you want to get the KTMs together to let them play!
(https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-hFqnGNh/0/a7b8af12/L/i-hFqnGNh-L.jpg)
I wasn't too keen on the new KTM body style when they updated in '17, but that '19 model looks really good!
I really love my 450. I know I've switched dual-sports several times, but this is what I was upgrading towards each time.
I added the G2 Throttle Tamer and switched gearing from the original 13/52 to 14/47 to tame the revvy nature of the 450 and drop rpm's on the road (without really sacrificing capability in the woods). I removed the Throttle Tamer the other day and took it for a trail ride... ??? Big difference! I'm going to leave it off for now as I've gotten more used to the power/throttle since I started riding it. Having the Rekluse and riding a gear higher also helps.
I added the GlobeTrottin' rack to mine before the CO trip last year. It only weighs 5 lbs., but really helps mounting luggage without relying on the fender and minimalist subframe on these bikes to support the weight. It also keeps mud from getting between the luggage and fender/side panels and ruining the plastics.
(https://pbase.com/kwb377/image/168754764.jpg)
Full dualsport-touring load (normally I just carry a Wolfman 303 Rolie with tools/tire plugs/inflator)...
(https://pbase.com/kwb377/image/167886275.jpg)
Quote from: Nice Goat on May 06, 2019, 09:54:56 AM
I have a Pirelli Scorpion Rally for the front and a Motoz Arena Hybrid for the rear.
I really love the Arena Hybrid. I think I've got @ 2200 miles on mine so far, and I'd say it's at probably 40% tread left and still has a somewhat rounded profile and no torn or chunked knobs at all. I consider that excellent wear for a soft, woods oriented tire that sees a lot of 70+ mph pavement. I've never had any want for traction with it.
I'm currently using a Tractionator I/T on the front, but will probably go with a Pirelli Scorpion Rally or MT21 next. The Motoz front didn't really disappoint and I've got 2500 miles or so on it, but the knob wear went to crap at about the 50% mark and traction is sketchy now.
Got my tires and Tubliss mounted. Adjusted the throttle cables to take up some slack. Ordered a few plastic pieces in white to break up all that orange.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190507/239f90ef52656784079557f325c4cda9.jpg)
Checked my books to verify mileage on the Motoz's.
Front has 2100, rear has 1600. No chunking or tearing of knobs whatsoever. With the Tubliss, I run 7 lbs. in the rear regardless if I'm doing pure dirt or dual-sport, and 11 lbs. in the front.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190507/d93bb0bd2f4d2766e1546b4e643ca674.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190507/dd44a4d093b4396ba53ca4ddae3390a2.jpg)
I plated this one several years ago. Currently running a Shinko MX216 Fat Tire on the front and a Kenda Trackmaster II on the rear. We need to get all the orange kool-aid together for a Dual Sports ride
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33916299488_025e5f46fb_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/TF4Udh) (https://flic.kr/p/TF4Udh)
congrats Glenda, you finally got the holy Grail !
I rented this 500 last year in Idaho for the IBDR, put about 1250 miles on it, what surprised me is how luggable this bike is, it's not real particular about the gear you are in.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/IDAHO/i-kWdbTSF/0/56e9e245/X2/untitled-4-X2.jpg)
Quote from: Gam on May 09, 2019, 06:46:52 AM
...what surprised me is how luggable this bike is, it's not real particular about the gear you are in.
To me, that is the biggest difference b/w the 500 and the 350, and the main reason that the 500 suits my riding style better.
Swapped out a few orange pieces for white. Also made some spacers for my Giant Loop tie down brackets and mounted the GL Coyote bag.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190510/19728f2bebe47899888b78dbd5ad7363.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190510/165a8cfd0abde71d98fa1ae10cdef8e6.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190510/ed949ea813056e1f48669fc7296d1bfd.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190510/ba12141f5501ec509025a93df2ed9acb.jpg)
if yall go for a shakedown, holler, ok ? i have a tweety bird stock exhaust now, so you'll not suffer those obnoxious backfires anymore.
(still smells like rotella tho)
Ironically, the same day Glenn posted pics of his new bike I had just ordered some new plastics to spruce up the 450.
KTM mildly updated the plastics styling between the '12/'13 models and the '14 - '16 bikes. I ordered a newer set of shrouds and matching side covers. I also went with the newer fender and headlight mask design (fender required an adaptor). This fender is much stronger than my previous version.
Due to the different headlight/mask, I also had to order a different Baja Designs LED headlight. Ordering a new light and selling the old one was cheaper than ordering just the adaptor separately.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190516/b99c847edcbcbe337a7edaad4c0a9568.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190516/36e86e845b1409adf0bd0ae5213b3947.jpg)
Between Kevin & Glenn I'm salivating over this "coming soon" thread!
I gots me one of them there katoom dual sporty machines
(https://i.imgur.com/oiZo5qi.jpg)
PSA: Summer is here y'all. If you're hot they're hot. Take care of your KTM Dual Sport and keep them cool.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0YogFIcpSEaTvG0xgFa4tpKJyLjPOVEL2Q1X466kELtdKHflirmFGKYMLKCcpOuVBkWS7-iZHHejOLMitS42lgdpGbvvu20pCKVwfGmcEPHeNYFxuSZivcrBjzn4naT_bgU2jMYELsXCE99LKGnOC7ZKp7ixzwXYvLT1196h_swX3L76YjzOQJjjLp6jRabEDgALh6S3ONyO41IsZOxDLH8bsAOD9ZnW9A93QAe60T2lbV4L42fBEW7V_zOEd82mbz_CWj5CinCJ7zxWYgX5HEpXoiM3dPfJ3NyUY5KhprqN1jqfu6sT1vQJ3LWpi9_JoyZdsGPWHXD5ohRVG8z7NZXb_Gi8DHOpBHlUlxyd7p8KdrKxLMBcpgr-9kw2Qfs7yatGf63A8sreUlQgVCONMx2mnI2r0zdG1VVTSz0iTUiIE5zQou81X1Q6bKHiBphsrDnw-Xp-eVhPRwXXrlKg3FEqBy_RJ0sh7gEVyUrmDQy68czRNbOXblg0ZrcYB3Zm2E4WtRCUCcmaXoiZqUBQYEbTXbzJsEL2AOdihE1Z1bcGMyrjrcv-nojr6hrFQL7sPR4uhZHnoZjgYWTtbMt5zEQNW_BsH4rlX4g9f2BC-wNRygBOeGHyxpu1s5iuMFvf8ghtA1VEojwhk_CzUteFCsnu2-Ta0UmS=w830-h938-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IYHiJx3sxrdHoNfhH0k9yG8Hl039JEJMVQ9cZgDUfv9kCsO9d04XIkt1vex9aPB44fKeYJHDuH8446c3XbMgActtgJLWimRwsU8KpmVYJSGsr_h1njaxF3a_j7hRjDJjdl4s_4vY7gXOXr7k7sYjCQurrVRKObCjDgeG79mz8TuQPzZugb998oPjDu6rJmqYJDY-u-02pDaNOGppWeehcFd1oAgH8qzUJO5TbkNEYLuKp6VsRwJ6SO1o_nv_yeOmegQ4WBmDxZSR5iV7-qPXrXj4RYlR0Fh8fxGkJAugyjrgZ6ySuzEWBmOxGHWIzbjVmm7BhFtn8qXXEJqwGz8vHudCLRMoLHBvdwnCME8kgKUWG7lahaBgFu3kR7mQ-dcN_-oqXK7BZJRubcteR8mWKkC1NOXNlZ91E_zNGQ7USna5QMi1S8r0C5-2o0XE7YtwFeltSuqsQ3dxIVxoK_vuPvC2pFs8Pqxjbd1tDdkzxjh6S8n35lt2jPKEpclSCUUYO3GNJgEky_LG9xRPVgkOBtzHQknRyx5dor2ZOq47oXfupN5dx0bEySBAMbpLSj20zNuzekRdEZvPF36ibqvzK8nVlwqhP2aFSk5p_sHstJfNQxG5TXixxlrGq3pwGVF-F-wdlx2_x3jgDrSK0toUKV3ftThfHxLi=w637-h690-no)
Don't forget to drain them out after they cool down!
(https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-8ghFX8Q/0/79fdfb81/L/i-8ghFX8Q-L.jpg)
I parted ways with the KLR. 790 Adventure S with a high front fender, akropovik and Kenda Big Blocks. I was looking for an Adventure R, but you can't find one, but I am happy with this.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/KTM/i-9shhGps/0/d5915c87/X2/IMG-2146-X2.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/KTM/i-4GLG4QL/0/4d7361cb/X2/IMG-2147-X2.jpg)
^^^^^^
Quote from: Gam on August 24, 2019, 06:26:25 PM
I parted ways with the KLR. 790 Adventure S with a high front fender, akropovik and Kenda Big Blocks. I was looking for an Adventure R, but you can't find one, but I am happy with this.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/KTM/i-9shhGps/0/d5915c87/X2/IMG-2146-X2.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/KTM/i-4GLG4QL/0/4d7361cb/X2/IMG-2147-X2.jpg)
That 790 is SEXY!!!
Quote from: Gam on August 24, 2019, 06:26:25 PM
I parted ways with the KLR. 790 Adventure S with a high front fender, akropovik and Kenda Big Blocks. I was looking for an Adventure R, but you can't find one, but I am happy with this.
Very nice, Gam!
May have just picked up my next light weight dual sport. 2011 300 XC. She needs a little work. A few of you may recognize it.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/SmugShots-1/i-NPcXV9h/0/bca782e1/L/C5230FD8-AF54-457A-A794-F94B51D16401-L.jpg). (https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/SmugShots-1/i-2wPdVdj/0/6140f355/L/AB368600-79BD-4AC4-A5DE-2079DCB1E823-L.jpg)
Quote from: LawnmowerRG on September 26, 2019, 04:47:05 PM
May have just picked up my next light weight dual sport. 2011 300 XC. She needs a little work. A few of you may recognize it.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/SmugShots-1/i-NPcXV9h/0/bca782e1/L/C5230FD8-AF54-457A-A794-F94B51D16401-L.jpg). (https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/SmugShots-1/i-2wPdVdj/0/6140f355/L/AB368600-79BD-4AC4-A5DE-2079DCB1E823-L.jpg)
Very cool and yet very sad. Is this the way Andy left it or has someone else had it?
This is the way Andy left it, but someone else has had it. I did some horse trading to acquire it. I need to figure out why Andy took the motor apart. All I know is that it barely finished the last race he ran on it.
The plan is to Dual Sport it. Build your he motor for bottom end torque. I may swap in XC-W gears the transmission.
Quote from: LawnmowerRG on September 27, 2019, 10:05:05 AM
This is the way Andy left it, but someone else has had it. I did some horse trading to acquire it. I need to figure out why Andy took the motor apart. All I know is that it barely finished the last race he ran on it.
The plan is to Dual Sport it. Build your he motor for bottom end torque. I may swap in XC-W gears the transmission.
XC gears are terrible for the street. Maybe you'll get lucky and it just needs a new piston. How does the cylinder look?
Also, I don't think the XC has a proper stator for running lights. You can get a Trailtech stator with new regulator/rectifier and go full DC system instead of split AC/DC system. I have one on my Beta 300, it works great and it's plug and play.
So I have been looking. The only difference in the XC and XC-W according to the micro fish is one tooth in first and second gear. Then the final drive is different. I think I will just split the difference on the final drive ratios and leave it the same inside.
I havent found what was wrong with the motor yet but I have had time to really get into it.
Also the plan is to run a trail Tech stator and rectifier Or BaJa design. Haven't decided. Probably run a good LED head and tail light/blinkers. Maybe add a small rear rack. May go tubliss too.
Quote from: LawnmowerRG on October 24, 2019, 04:15:30 PM
So I have been looking. The only difference in the XC and XC-W according to the micro fish is one tooth in first and second gear. Then the final drive is different. I think I will just split the difference on the final drive ratios and leave it the same inside.
I have found what was wrong with the motor yet but I have had time to really get into it.
Also the plan is to run a trail Tech stator and rectifier Or BaJa design. Haven't decided. Probably run a good LED head and tail light/blinkers. Maybe add a small rear rack. May go tubliss too.
it takes about five minutes to swap the front sprocket. i used to go 12/13/14/15 depending on what was coming up next and leave the rear alone. i think i used the 13 tooth the most with the kdx wide ratio trans, just got used to hitting the pipe around 50 mph and stayed below that if i could or got used to the smoke if i couldn't. the hard part were the vibrations. sweet my toes on fire from the vibes
Finally accepted reality and bought a tougher shock spring. I'll be mounting this up soon...
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200513/d598c75eea2a8a50614f7d1d0c38a03a.jpg)
No time like the present...
With this spring, I only have to lose 20 pounds, not 50.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200513/72851d6ada62c6ece0c420a3505dd169.jpg)
I installed a JD Jetting Power Surge tuner on the 450 this afternoon.
I've been getting the occasional off-idle flame-out stall, and a lot of popping on decel. I sent the ECU to Blais Racing hoping to get an ECU remap, but they informed me that my ECU hadn't been unlocked by the previous/original owner(s) and therefore wasn't able to be remapped. My other options were the JD piggyback tuner for my stock ECU @ $220, or a complete new "tuned" (and capable of being user tuned) ECU from Vortex @ $700.
I went with the $220 option as I don't need a lot of the options the Vortex offers and the reviews of the JD tuner are highly positive.
Installation took @ 45 minutes...I had to remove the seat/tank/airbox cover, route the tuner's in-line connector to the fuel injector's plug, then attach the tuner's ground to the existing bike ground on the frame. I also had to reset my Throttle Position Sensor back to stock setting (I adjusted the TPS in order to help alleviate the flame-out issue...it helped some). The JD tuner merely adds/subtracts fuel from several points in the bike's rpm range (it doesn't change ignition timing like the Vortex unit), and it came pre-programmed with recommended settings and complete instructions how to adjust fueling in the different ranges. I mounted the unit to the front side of the battery using the existing rubber hold-down strap.
I ran the bike around the yard/neighborhood with the recommended settings, and while it was better than previous, it still had some decel pop and I was able to get it to flame out a couple of times (it only happens if the throttle input, engine load and rpm's are "just right" off-idle). I went back to the driveway, pulled the seat, and added fuel via the tuner's buttons to the idle circuit and low speed circuit.
This time, the decel popping seemed to be gone and I wasn't able to get it to flame-out under the same conditions I was able to a few minutes earlier. Hoping to get an actual ride in tomorrow to see if it's cured for sure.
(forgot to take photos during the install :( )
Changed out my old clapped-out Cycra Pro Bends to some new Cycra billet handguards and shields, swapped the Double Take ADV mirrors for their Scrambler mirrors, and installed a Baja Worx windscreen.
Waiting on some hardware to come in so I can remount my rear rack. With the A.Twin gone, the KTM will have to serve as my ADV-lite bike. (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200808/6662da565d160a7785f0ed054b9ba50d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200808/f0b143f54a63a3e991b7f64d1287d7a7.jpg)
I bought the last KTM from bill at midway in Huntsville before he let the brand go for good. I'm loving it, except for the flameouts. I want the JD Jetting tuner but everyone is out of stock. Covid-19 production delays. Availability looks like mid Oct. the bike is bone stock and it's very impressive right outta the box.
Off mountain Fork near New Market.
TKC 80 tires are not as bad as I thought they would be. They work for my style riding.
Quote from: KevinB on August 07, 2020, 07:51:17 PM
Changed out my old clapped-out Cycra Pro Bends to some new Cycra billet handguards and shields, swapped the Double Take ADV mirrors for their Scrambler mirrors, and installed a Baja Worx windscreen.
Waiting on some hardware to come in so I can remount my rear rack. With the A.Twin gone, the KTM will have to serve as my ADV-lite bike. (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200808/6662da565d160a7785f0ed054b9ba50d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200808/f0b143f54a63a3e991b7f64d1287d7a7.jpg)
Holy cow, where did you get that headlight setup? I want one for my 350! Please share the source. Is it plug n play?
Quote from: Frank Smith on August 31, 2020, 05:45:58 PM
Holy cow, where did you get that headlight setup? I want one for my 350! Please share the source. Is it plug n play?
It's a Baja Designs Squadron Sport...this is the 3k lumen version. They also make a Squadron Pro and I believe one called the XL...those two are near 6k and 8k lumens if I remember correctly.
I bought mine off Ebay for @$140...price from BD is @$200.
The light comes with a OEM KTM connector...plugs right in. If you have a factory high/low beam switch (my XCW didn't) you can also get a Skene dimmer that plugs in also.
400 bucks, I'll pass for now.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/KTM-LED-Headlight-Kit-DC-2017-Up-w-o-Light-Shell-XL-Pro-Series-Baja-Designs/164221836098?epid=22038870698&hash=item263c625b42%3Ag%3AQocAAOSw6mZeztZq&fits=Year%3A2020%7CModel%3A350%7CSubmodel%3AEXC+F%7CMake%3AKTM
I read somewhere (can't remember where, so you'll probably want to research) that the '14 - '16 bikes and the '17+ bikes use the same headlight shell, just different shrouds. If that's the case, something line this would work...
https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F163844926407
Thought I would give an update on my 2019 790 Adventure. It had a recall to fix the fitting going into the rear caliper, it was too short to allow for sufficient heat dissipation, it had the "warped rotor problem", the problem is not warping but uneven wear, it bucks like a bronco when coming to a stop at a red light. I replaced the rotors with aftermarket galfer wave rotors, didn't fool with warranty. By the time I finished the MABR it was bucking like a bronco again. Bike at the shop having the whole front wheel and rotors replaced under warranty. Some people haven't been so lucky, they get the rotors replaced under warranty and when they go bad again, KTM won't do anything, other people get no results, they are told rotors are a wearable item. It has the 3 tries to start problem. When the bike is cold it usually takes three tries to start, starts the third time every time. The map is too lean at startup. Not everybody has these problems, a lot of people have no problems, but I will probably get a T700 when they actually get on dealer floors.
Quote from: Gam on September 20, 2020, 12:17:31 PM
Thought I would give an update on my 2019 790 Adventure. It had a recall to fix the fitting going into the rear caliper, it was too short to allow for sufficient heat dissipation, it had the "warped rotor problem", the problem is not warping but uneven wear, it bucks like a bronco when coming to a stop at a red light. I replaced the rotors with aftermarket galfer wave rotors, didn't fool with warranty. By the time I finished the MABR it was bucking like a bronco again. Bike at the shop having the whole front wheel and rotors replaced under warranty. Some people haven't been so lucky, they get the rotors replaced under warranty and when they go bad again, KTM won't do anything, other people get no results, they are told rotors are a wearable item. It has the 3 tries to start problem. When the bike is cold it usually takes three tries to start, starts the third time every time. The map is too lean at startup. Not everybody has these problems, a lot of people have no problems, but I will probably get a T700 when they actually get on dealer floors.
Shame about the 790. Looks like it could be a great platform. Maybe ktm will get the bugs worked out.
Sent from my Pixel 4 using Tapatalk
So I was thinking of upgrading my 97 DR350 I see a local '16 KTM 450 EXC that is set up for dual sport even lowered which I would like with the back issues and short legs! I dont do any thing hard these days (no single track) .. is it way over kill for dual sport ?
I haul my Dr to most rides Thx
Quote from: Johnny Tobyone on October 19, 2020, 10:00:27 AM
So I was thinking of upgrading my 97 DR350 I see a local '16 KTM 450 EXC that is set up for dual sport even lowered which I would like with the back issues and short legs! I dont do any thing hard these days (no single track) .. is it way over kill for dual sport ?
I haul my Dr to most rides Thx
Probably a little overkill. Describe the type of riding you like a little more and well help you.
You may be better suited to a dual sport than a dirtbike with a tag. That 450 is a race ready bike that someone just added lights and tag. It's not going to be very comfortable on the street and will require more maintenance. However when you get off pavement you'll be rewarded with a fantastic offroad capabilities.
Rode trail bikes when younger Used to ride a KDX,XR back in the 80's '90s Now stuff like the Dirt Devil I like 4 wheeler wide stuff if I can find it and would do single track if it is easy and my back is up to it (61). I have short legs so that can be a problem for taller bikes I have a BMW R1200R for street so I haul the DR350 if it 30 min or more. Mind says KTM, body says KLX250 probably but if that is case I could just keep riding the DR 350 as long as I trust it.
I know the owner of that 450 and have ridden with him several times...he and I are like minded and skilled when it comes to riding. In addition to the lowering, he's installed a flywheel weight and a throttle tamer. It's a solid bike if it's what you're after.
Comfort wise, with an aftermarket seat there won't be much difference between the KTM and other 250 - 450 dual sports (KLX, DR350, etc.)
I absolutely love my 15 KTM 500. It's really similar in stock form to the bike your are considering. Same frame and almost the same engine. I tend to ride more difficult terrain than a typical dual sport would be used for. Personally if I was not going to be riding hard and pushing the limits of the suspension I would oribebky get a bike that leaned a little more towards the street. That way you can enjoy the bike more and wrench less. There is a downside in that tise bikes tend to weigh more but that weight makes them more stable at highway speeds. Not the that a KTM 450/500 is unstable, they can blast down the interstate all day if you want. Something like a DR650 can be ridden farther with less rider fatigue. In stock form they are solid dual sports. The KTM in stock form as a badass dirtbike that has to be modified ie domesticated a little for long distance dualsporting but you end up with a really fun bike. Most factory dualsport a little bit boring in my opinion. The WR250R is widely considered one of the best but it is a little bit underpowered, same for CRF250L (which I feel is heavy and underpowered).
So you have to make choice.
1. Heavy DR650 or heavy and tall XR650L dual sport with good power that can soak up some miles
2. Lower displacement dualsport CRF250L or WR250R that have nice low seat heights but are a little lacking in power. They have long service intervals and are truly meant to be ridden in the street but aren't great at interstate.
3. KTM/Husky dualsport, which are really dirtbikes with tags
4. KTM 350 - that's a tough one to. It's basically the same size and weight as the 500 but feels lighter due to less rotating mass. It has less power but cost is about the same. You lose torque to gain a little maneuverability offroad. I believe the 500 is the better choice over this because of the torque which I has a huge fun factor and on paper should be better at highway speeds. For a less aggressive rider the 350 is probably better. Like I said, that's a tough one.
5. DRZ400S - I own one and I've had a ton of fun on it. However. It can't stack up to the KTM 500 in any category except price. You can spend double the MSRP trying to make it 75% as good as a 500. Sorry Dirty Dizzer, I'm moving on to the new hotness.
6. Honda CRF450L - this could be your answer except that they are fairly new and not cheap on the used market yet. They aren't as high strung as the KTM bikes. They have a longer service intervals, they are quiter, fairly comfortable and can do anything. You do give up some offroad capabilites and it weighs a little more. For me, these are a very desirable option if you can afford the higher price tag and don't need the extra performance provided by KTM 450/500.
I know there are others I didn't list. This are just the main players in modern bikes. Good luck with your choice. They are all good bikes. Each just is better at a different task. Be honest with yourself on how you plan to use it and you'll be fine.
As you know I recently bought a KLX250. I'm very happy with it. It's a true DUAL sport, not a dirt bike with lights. The WR250 has better performance but I just liked the KLX better. The CRF250L is a step down from the KLX IMO since it is heavier and doesn't have as good of a suspension. I think the CRF has a slightly lower seat although that didn't matter to me.
Thanks for the replies
Grass is always greener. Or Oranger!! Need to ride KTM just to get it off my mind I guess. KLX351 ?
Quote from: klaviator on October 20, 2020, 03:50:19 PM
As you know I recently bought a KLX250. I'm very happy with it. It's a true DUAL sport, not a dirt bike with lights. The WR250 has better performance but I just liked the KLX better. The CRF250L is a step down from the KLX IMO since it is heavier and doesn't have as good of a suspension. I think the CRF has a slightly lower seat although that didn't matter to me.
I don't have much first hand knowledge of the new KLX250 (fuel injected). Glad to know you are happy with it.
Are large gas tanks available now? I know that used to be a problem.
Quote from: Johnny Tobyone on October 20, 2020, 06:27:22 PM
Thanks for the replies
Grass is always greener. Or Oranger!! Need to ride KTM just to get it off my mind I guess. KLX351 ?
Norton73 has a KLX 351, I got on it one day just to see the difference between it and my KLX 250, and the difference in power is significant.
Quote from: Mulley on October 21, 2020, 10:12:50 AM
I don't have much first hand knowledge of the new KLX250 (fuel injected). Glad to know you are happy with it.
Are large gas tanks available now? I know that used to be a problem.
Mine has an IMS 3 gallon tank on it. Not sure I would have spent the money just to get one more gallon, it came on the bike when I bought it.
IMS makes a tank with the same shape as mine, but with the fuel pump inside, I'm told it only holds 2.7 gallons.
Well I bought a CRF450L. I like it so far but I will get it internally lowered. Tippy toes on the street with my 29" inseam. Rode Flint creek . Pretty smooth on the road Fairly mild in the traction mode Vortex was already on it. I added a 3 gallon tank also
I've been whining a good bit about my KTM 790..2 sets of warped rotors and it take three tries to start when cold. So KTM gave me a new front wheel, hub and all, apparently I'd squared off the front rim somewhat as well :-X .. that wasn't causing the rotor problem, plenty of people have that issue with round rims. I put a Boosterplug on it and it fires right up. I'm flatfooted on that bike at a red light, so I don't think an 890 Adventure R would be an issue, and it has a heavier crank and is supposed to be smoother off the bottom, no snatch off the bottom, the weight difference is negligible. Funny how your outlook can change :D
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Mr-b/i-zCrbPDD/0/90641d7d/X2/fixed%20KTM-X2.jpg)
Guess I will try Red for awhile :)
Quote from: Johnny Tobyone on December 14, 2020, 09:08:03 AM
Guess I will try Red for awhile :)
Very nice
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Quote from: Johnny Tobyone on December 07, 2020, 07:59:54 PM
Well I bought a CRF450L. I like it so far but I will get it internally lowered. Tippy toes on the street with my 29" inseam. Rode Flint creek . Pretty smooth on the road Fairly mild in the traction mode Vortex was already on it. I added a 3 gallon tank also
I saw on the fs webpage flint Creek is closed bc of down trees. Any truth to this?
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Quote from: terryrussell1 on December 14, 2020, 10:08:55 AM
I saw on the fs webpage flint Creek is closed bc of down trees. Any truth to this?
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Flint creek Bankhead .. open (Thanksgiving weekend when i was there) Kentuck in Talladega was/is closed ?
So much for "KTM's are race motors...they don't hold up!".
https://m.facebook.com/groups/EXCFEPERFROMANCETECHTALK/permalink/803622453843775/
My KTM 790 is on it's second wheel and third set of rotors in 6000 miles. 4000 of those miles were accumulated on two long trips. They went bad on both of those trips. Georgia like many states, exempts motorcycles from the lemon law. A guy in CT got his money back because of this in a lemon law hearing. The bike has been sitting up most of the time I have owned it. So a guy said he took a flat file to his rotors and knocked off the high spots and has been good for 13000 miles. It sounds nuts and the rotors themselves are not the problem, but I had nothing to lose so I took the new wheel off. I tried a ratchet to remove the front axle spindle nut and it would not budge. Tried a breaker bar and would not budge, tried a 250 ft/lb impact wrench and it would not budge. I finally put a 4 foot pipe on the breaker bar and broke it loose with all my weight on it. 170 lbs. x 4 ft = 680 ft/lbs. There was no Loctite on it. The caliper bolts and fork pinch bolts were completely dipped in blue Loctite. It took the impact wrench to get those out. I completely boogered out one pinch bolt and had to drive an oversized hex socket into it to get it out. I ordered new bolts several weeks ago from 2 different places, neither place has shipped. The good news is I bought a 1974 Yamaha DT 250 a couple of years ago, it has been sitting at friends house in Colorado. I have made arrangements to have it shipped. I bet it is on the road before that KTM.
Quote from: Gam on April 11, 2021, 06:20:15 AM
My KTM 790 is on it's second wheel and third set of rotors in 6000 miles. 4000 of those miles were accumulated on two long trips. They went bad on both of those trips. Georgia like many states, exempts motorcycles from the lemon law. A guy in CT got his money back because of this in a lemon law hearing. The bike has been sitting up most of the time I have owned it. So a guy said he took a flat file to his rotors and knocked off the high spots and has been good for 13000 miles. It sounds nuts and the rotors themselves are not the problem, but I had nothing to lose so I took the new wheel off. I tried a ratchet to remove the front axle spindle nut and it would not budge. Tried a breaker bar and would not budge, tried a 250 ft/lb impact wrench and it would not budge. I finally put a 4 foot pipe on the breaker bar and broke it loose with all my weight on it. 170 lbs. x 4 ft = 680 ft/lbs. There was no Loctite on it. The caliper bolts and fork pinch bolts were completely dipped in blue Loctite. It took the impact wrench to get those out. I completely boogered out one pinch bolt and had to drive an oversized hex socket into it to get it out. I ordered new bolts several weeks ago from 2 different places, neither place has shipped. The good news is I bought a 1974 Yamaha DT 250 a couple of years ago, it has been sitting at friends house in Colorado. I have made arrangements to have it shipped. I bet it is on the road before that KTM.
Damn.
Maybe the real issue is how the wheel is being installed. Sounds like someone has been happy with the power tools installing the wheel. Perhaps they are bending and tweaking everything out of alignment, causing some of the issues?
I do know you can warp brake rotors on cars if you don't tighten the lug nuts evenly. I'd remove the rotors too and tighten them back down evenly in steps.
I took the wheel off to put on a set of aftermarket rotors, that time the spindle nut started spinning when I put a socket on it to see if it fit! They had taken the front wheel off to put Kenda Big Blocks on it. When I put it back on everything was torqued per the service manual and I criss crossed around to bring the bolts up to torque, problem returned.
I thought this website was gone until I saw a link by Klaviator on Advrider. So I got rid of that KTM 790, usually when I sell or trade a bike there is a twinge of regret, not with that one, I was thrilled. I got a new motorsickle, after so many heavy bikes, I had forgotten how much pure fun a motorcycle without a lot of stuff hanging off of it could be.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Husky/i-CZ65JhQ/0/556541ee/X2/husky%202-X2.jpg)