KTM 200 exc Right Choice?

I've come to the conclusion that any reasonable bike is the right choice. So YZ125, KTM 200, KX250, you'll love any of them to death.

I don't know that it's worth it to wait for an '03. I have a '98, and think it's the greatest thing since bread pudding. Or is that rice pudding? Pudding cups? But I digress. The point is my '98 is considered way outdated and it still works great for me. There's no hydraulic clutch, it has the first generation PDS linkageless suspension. I could care less, and I've ridden the newer ones.

I do think you'll love the 200, they're great bikes. That'd be on the top of my list if I had $$$ to blow. They are more nimble than regular 250's, but really, unless you're switching back to back, you';ll adapt to whatever you buy.

Hey Zio,
How do u like you 98' 250? Im thinking about buying a 98' KTM 250exc. On the 98's is the suspension good? Was there any recalls? How bout the power of the bike?

The only recall I know of is for the rear shock. The power is great- smooth & strong, without the "hit" of 250 MXers, but plenty of low-end grunt. I love the suspension. It's plush, but still can handle big hits (square edge bumps, ledges at 20 mph) well. It even holds its own on a track (with me, though, that means rolling anything but tables). I'd prefer the wide ratio tranny of the EX/C to my MX/C, however.

Ask for a close-up pic of the heim joint. Mine has been worn down quite a bit by the mud guard. If there's any visible wear on it, I'd question the 12-15 hours he claims. Seriously, mine has been worn down a good 1/4 to 1/2 inch. If you want I'll e-mail you a pic. Scary!!!

I've only owned mine since April, but I've put lots of hard miles on it since. All I've done is change the air filter & oil regularly. I saw that '98, & it sure is clean looking. The only thing I've added is a softer seat & some handguards. And mine also has a newer style front fender & plastic fork guards instead of boots. The only other thing I might consider is adding a hydraulic clutch.

Good luck!

KDX underpowered? Not at all. Especailly after you add a $175 ProCircuit pipe. That is one of (if not THE best) the best trails bikes made. And you can get 250 power out of the KDX220 without spending a lot of money.

The KTM likes to be revved higher than the Gas Gas 200 or KDX 200. For more technical sections these other two bikes may be better for a rider getting back in to the sport. The Gas Gas is the best of all worlds with a good bottom through top. A fully Fredette Racing modified KDX has more power than a KTM on the dyno through the rev range till the top of the curve. A modified KDX is cheaper than a Gas Gas or KTM but the chassis is superior on the euro bikes. Personally I would pick a Gas Gas 200 EC as the best choice because it gives you the best of a KDX and KTM. The KTM would be the second choice if you get fast in a hurry. The KDX is the hands down bargain. Heavy fork springs, pipe, and porting will make it a new bike and you can find them slightly used for cheap. They are all great bikes and none should be discarded from your considerations. You could also find a 250 or 300 KTM/Gas Gas. The only trade would be a little slower handling.