No problem. I can pretty much say that almost everything i know about the KDX i learned from people on this site. The KDX200 is essentially the same from '95 to '02 with some minor mechanical and cosmetic changes. I thought that the fmf torque pipe (KG-35) on my bike when it was a 200 worked well. Yes - it did drop off a little on the top end.
But now ....
My engine now has been bored to 225cc and ported by Eric Gorr. I still have the KG-35 pipe on the bike & intend to keep it that way for a while - so far i love the way the bike pulls - it has tremendous power down low (say "tractor) and seems to be much better in the over rev department. I may experiment later with other pipes & needles. BTW: I also have had my carb modified by RB-Designs (do a search). I am currently running 152 Main, 42 Pilot, CEK needle on clip #3. Air Screw about a turn out.
Glad to hear that you did check your linkage bearings. Sorry about your discovery but hey - now you are more informed. In short time there won't be much on the bike that is a mystery to you.
Keep asking questions - you will find many of the guys on this site extremely helpful.