As some of you know, I bought a 2004 KTM 200EXC last week. I originally put my money down on the 300MXC, but chickened out when I realized it had around 50 hp. So here's how my first ride went on the EXC:
Components: You get what you pay for ... the KTM has an X-ring chain, chrome pipe, digital speedo, lots of aluminum, lots all ball bearings (vs bushings), hydraulic clutch etc. It also has a $1850 price tag difference.
Weight: The KTM is light. My KDX with an FMF pipe, Powercore silencer and no kickstand weighs in at 240 with about a gallon of gas (my scales). The EXC surprised me as my scales showed 205 with no gas in the KTM. For those that don't know, the 200EXC is a 125SX with a larger bore and stroke, lights and speedo, 2 ring piston, less aggressive suspension (etc) so no wonder why it's light.
Starting: The KTM is harder to start with it's puny 125 kick starter. It's still a 1 kick bike, but you have to make sure you're in the right spot when kicking.
Power: The KTM shines here ... the power is there at all times. I feel like the KDX could have been in the ball park with some better jetting and a fresh overhaul. The KTM requires a careful throttle as it does rip.
Suspension: I know the KTM has got better parts, but unless I has landing a 50 footer, the KDX felt fine to me. I'm going to have to the KDX out again and see if I really notice a great improvement with the KTM. On the trails pleasure riding I think I prefer the softer suspended KDX (and softer seat).
I think the KDX will stay in my garage after all!
Components: You get what you pay for ... the KTM has an X-ring chain, chrome pipe, digital speedo, lots of aluminum, lots all ball bearings (vs bushings), hydraulic clutch etc. It also has a $1850 price tag difference.
Weight: The KTM is light. My KDX with an FMF pipe, Powercore silencer and no kickstand weighs in at 240 with about a gallon of gas (my scales). The EXC surprised me as my scales showed 205 with no gas in the KTM. For those that don't know, the 200EXC is a 125SX with a larger bore and stroke, lights and speedo, 2 ring piston, less aggressive suspension (etc) so no wonder why it's light.
Starting: The KTM is harder to start with it's puny 125 kick starter. It's still a 1 kick bike, but you have to make sure you're in the right spot when kicking.
Power: The KTM shines here ... the power is there at all times. I feel like the KDX could have been in the ball park with some better jetting and a fresh overhaul. The KTM requires a careful throttle as it does rip.
Suspension: I know the KTM has got better parts, but unless I has landing a 50 footer, the KDX felt fine to me. I'm going to have to the KDX out again and see if I really notice a great improvement with the KTM. On the trails pleasure riding I think I prefer the softer suspended KDX (and softer seat).
I think the KDX will stay in my garage after all!