1993 Xr200?

[xTYBALTx]

After researching many threads in the "What should I get?" forum, doing some posting of my own, and talking to learned friends, I've decided on an XR200. Now, I've set aside $2100 to get a used XR200, which seems enough to get me one as late as 2002, maybe 2003, and in good condition (I'm in Wyoming).

However, after looking through some ads, looking at prices, I'm starting to consider going with an older, cheaper model - such as a 1993. Everyone tells me XR200's are super reliable, bullet proof, fun bikes to ride around and learn on. . . but it just seems like a 1993 might be a little to old. Some maintnence here and there is all well and good, but pumping loads of cash into some piece just to get it working is not what I want in my first bike.

Would a bike as old as 1993 be worth it? She wants $1200 for it, which seems a bit high - I would think $900 to be more fair. Of course, none of you can see, hear, feel the bike yourselves; you can't tell me whether to get it or not for sure. . . but just tell me your gut instinct: do you think I should just sack up and get a newer bike (which I CAN afford), or would I be fine on an 11 year old model?

Thanks all!

 

[Pantaz]

I can't give you a direct answer on prices. Search CycleTrader.com and Recycler.com, and whatever local publications you have available.

Mechanically, there is very little difference between a 1993 and a 2003 XR. Of course, the older it is, the more mileage and wear it's probably accumulated. I typically like bikes that are 3-4 years old. That's long enough for the majority of the depreciation, but new enough that it likely hasn't seen tremendous wear.

 

[xTYBALTx]

It will have more wear on the parts, but is there any sort of 8, 10, 15, or 20 year approximate major overhaul schedule, like there is with cars?

 

[SpeedyManiac]

I have a 1999 XR200R that when I bought it wasn't in exactly great condition. The previous owner wasn't too keen on the whole maintenance thing. I don't think he ever adjusted the valves, cleaned the air filter, adjusted or lubed the chain, adjusted the cam chain or did anything besides change the oil and fill it up with gas. After a lot of cleaning and about 4 cans of degreaser, I realized it wasn't too bad. XRs are pretty much bulletproof. I wouldn't be too worried about getting a new one, although it is less likely to have as much worn parts. Also, I would tend to avoid a bike ridden by a kid, as they tend to get jumped more often (I'm guilty of this too). The last time the XR200R was changed was in 1992 or 1993 to the current design, and the same engine has been used from 1986 to 2002. Good luck and have fun.

 

[KAWA200'sRule]

Go FOR IT

If you can get a good deal on it I think you should buy it. My first bike was an '86 xr 100. I was afraid it was gonna be horrible but I cleaned the carb and got a new plug and it started first kick just about everytime. If you want some more power but still very easy to handle get a kdx. The KDX is my bike right now and I steeped up from the xr. Before you buy anything you should talk with the owner and see it hear it see her ride it or even get a test ride. Theres no reason to get a brand new bike to learn on and make mistakes and just get scratches on it. '93 isnt that old I would worry about an '82 or so dont worry about a '93. Just do some regular maintenance and it should run forever just about anyway. Good luck on your decision just have fun thats the main thing you should worry about!