I have the chance to pick up a 98 KTM 250 EXC for $2,000. The bike has been raced in some enduros. runs strong. Not sure of any maintenance done on the bike. Has the normal scratches, dented pipe.
Is this a good year for the 250 and is $2,000 a good price.
I would appreciate any info. Trying to decide to go with this bike or a 200.
The price is just O.K. The '98 had rear shock issues that was a recall. The one you are looking at may have had it done. Remember the bike is a month away from 6 years old.
The previous owner was pretty heavy into enduros and I would think he had taken care of the shock issue. The age is a concern, not sure what has been serviced on the bike. No major problems with the bike though. I've taken it to Muenster two weekends with no problems. Seems like a good price for my area and I get some gear with it.
How does a 250 compare to a 200 EXC? I really like the though of the 200 being so light and easier to flick around.
Tough call off the KDX. Stay to a newer 00 or better bike. The 200 is flickable and can be set up as a workhorse but it will rev out well. The 250 will have better lowend and gear high ridability. It will be a tad bulkier and heavier 10-12 lbs I think.
Personally I rode a 200 and liked it but I found myself riding it like a 125...for me that was going fast but no where. I opted for a 300..the real do all machine IMO. :)
I have a KDX and my friend has a 98 200 exc. The exc is much harder to ride in tight woods for a novice, more like a MX 125 when compared to the KDX. But my KDX feels like a slug when I get back on it. My other buddy has a 300 exc, to me it is easier to ride than either of the 200s. May be my next bike!
I've heard alot of good things about the 300 EXC. I think it might be a little to much bike for an old guy like me. I really like the 200 EXC bikes but have never been on one just heard good things. I'm also looking at a 2000 KDX 200 w/ mods for $2000. I do a few enduros a year and trail ride with the buddies mainly. I'm thinking newer is better anyway. I would hate for the 250 to crap out on me right after I got it, but I guess that can happen with anything.
Where are you getting it? If from Wild West, be sure and ask a very important question - "Is this one of Lynn Bailey's old race bikes?" They inherited Lyle Lovett's used KTM stock and there were a couple of bikes in that group that were thrashed by one of TX's top offroad riders...
Well I finally made a decision. Picked up a 2000 KTM 250 EXC on the 4th of July. Very happy with my choice. I'm glad I went with a little newer bike. The suspension is set up pretty soft , which i like right now, but i will dial it in eventually. Bike runs great. I think it's a good step up from the KDX220 which I sold in Jan.