kdx 200 or kdx220

I was in the same situation a few weeks ago. I got 98 kdx200 and needed to get another kdx for my nephew. Kinda wanted a 220 simply because I already had 200. But $400 for 16 more cc's and o-ring chain? Dirtrider kdx shootout said that stock vs. stock, the 200 was a better buy, bike. However, with few mods, pipe and carb, and reeds, etc. the 220 was a force to be reckon with. I got a used 04 200 off of the e-word auction site just because of excellent cond. and price. But for your riding I would say the 220 would be the better choice. Part of me still wishes I got a 220 but nephew is thrilled with the 200. Both are dang good bikes. Don't know if I've been much help. If all else fails, flip a coin!!! And if you don't like the result, make it the best out of three!!! :laugh:

Stock for stock I'd take a 200 over a 220. Even if you add bolt ons (pipe, silencer, reeds, etc) to both, the 200 will be on top hp wise (which is what you need in the dunes!). You have to spend the money on a bigger carb and porting to really give the 220 an advantage. I've owned both a 96 KDX 200 and a 2003 KDX 220. I was disapointed in the hp of the 220 till I got it all modded up.

If you like to ride a bike like a 125, then the 200 is slanted more that way. If you like more torque and grunt, then the 220 is for you. Of course aftermarket add-ons can force either bike out of their origonal realms, but the main differences are in the porting of the cylinder and the carb.

For the $$, I'd go with a 200. It has a standard 35mm carb for the high end, and good low torque as well. For around 100 bucks, you can change the rear sprocket to a 51 tooth, and get a DID 110 link chain for more torque (also get a 13 tooth front sprocket so you have the entire old factory set on reserve for more top speed if you want). The FMF Gnarly woods pipe will add more low and tons more mid RPM power if you're not happy with that mod. So now we're talking probably still under $4000 for a bike I feel you'd be happy with. 125's lack the low that the 200 or 220 has...

My KDX220 is excellent in the tight woods. The power is setup to pull from low rpm and have a decent mid range, but it falls off the pipe quickly on top end. With a rev pipe, bigger carb, and porting the top end is much better. The 220 has more horse power potential due to the extra cc. But it cost money to trade low end for top end.
Dale