Looking at a KDX, had a question.

[lancewert]

Ever since I started riding I always liked the KDX's. My riding buddy had one and I was always impressed on trail rides. I have recently been on the hunt for a KDX200 and found a very nice 2002 KDX200 for 1500obo. WOW, that's perfect (especially in communist California with the post-'03 red sticker crap). I also found a 1998 KTM 200EXC for 1900 in equally good condition. I'm pretty sure I am going to go for the KDX but wanted more input on this subject. Any information will be appreciated, thank you.

 

[KDX200Kev]

Buy the KTM it is much better. Now whose selling that KDX? :laugh:

 

[KDX200Dad]

I have a 2004 KDX200 and I love it. Very fun, reliable and flexible. I don't have any experience with KTM so I don't know what to say about how it would compare to a 200EXC. If you haven't already seen it, there is a web page dedicated to the KDX line, has lots of great info. This forum won't allow me to post the URL, just search for "JustKDX". It is hosted by dirtrider.net and has an associated forum you can post to.

I don't think you can go wrong with a KDX200.

 

[ebeck]

The KTM is better but that depends on the reference point. a Formula 1 car is better than my truck but I would not want to drive an F1 car to the grocery store or haul bikes with it.

Basicly the KTM is a race bike and then KDX is better suited for "normal" riding. If you are a recreational rider and race once in a while for fun get the KDX.

If you need a dedicated race bike, absolutly get the KTM.

There you have it.

 

[lancewert]

Awesome. KDX it is.

 

[duke]

I own a 99 KDX200, and like you, I am fraught with having to live in the socialist regime of California. With a few mods, the bike can satisfy most all your riding needs, short of attacking an egg carton style SX track, be it in the tight trails of Hungry Valley or the open spaces of the desert. Its easy to ride, yet can be ridden aggressively and is pretty durable and long lasting with sensible care. Any and all questions about the model can be answered on this forum, though there are others. However, you will see the same basic names and faces as found here

 

[RuffTrane]

My buddy rides a '97 ktm 300exc and I ride a 1990 kdx 200. Every year when we strip the bikes down my buddy has a lot of trouble getting parts for his '97 and the parts seem very expensive in comparison to my kdx. Even with my old 1990 I can usually get the parts I need at a good price from our local dealer (online if unavailable through the dealer). Make sure you have a good dealer close to where you live for emergencies no matter which one you buy. Take a look online at the big ol auction site that starts with an "E" to see if the make and model you want has readily available parts. Also, look into the cost of maintenance/parts/modifications. It really adds up over time and does depend on the make and model you have.

p.s. I've ridden both and overall for tough trail riding I liked my modified kdx better. It's bullet proof, fast and reliable! ;)

 

[ridejunky]

You can't go wrong with either one at those prices if they are in as good of shape as you say. The kdx can take a pretty good amount of abuse and neglect and keep on ticking, can't vouch for the 98 exc. I guess 2t's are unfashionable in hippie land. If the tree huggers give you a hard time for riding a 2 smoke, throw them a guitar and a couple of J's and they will forget about you and start singing Lennon tunes.
Peace dude!

 

[KI4CPE]

Buy the KDX for sure. I have a 2003 KDX200 and it has been a very good bike. I have had the bike for 2 years and have had NO PROBLEMS. I have the FMF pipe and FMF power core 2 silencer. It has very good, usable power. I have dropped the bike pretty hard (I ran over a Lab dog), but the bike started up the next time I was able to ride again. Buy the KDX. Shane, KI4CPE

 

[Dakota Kid]

I have a 02 KDX 200 and an 02 KDX 220. Both are great bikes and if the bike is in good shape, $1500 is a great price and you probably will never loose money on it. I tried a newer 200 EXC recently and felt it was an awefully cramped seating position and I am only 5'8". I like the ergonomics on the KDX much better. The EXC also wanted to be ridden full bore almost always were the KDX just lets you run any speed and rpm you want!

 

[danfree]

I was in the same boat as you. 2002 KTM 200 and 2005 KDX 200 for about the same price. For my experience level (beginner), even the KTM forum highly recommended the KDX. Apparently many KTM riders got their start on a KDX. I took their advice and have no regrets. However, if you are experienced and plan on doing suspension and engine mods for racing or even aggressive riding you may save money in the long run by just getting the KTM. Once you get on that upgrade train it is hard to stop.

 

[sjp]

Definitly depends on age and use. ( and $ budgeted to fix up)

The KTM 200's usually have to be ridden aggresively 100% of the time to get the most out of the engine and suspension.

Parts can be pricey... power valve and front forks not a lot of fun to work on.

The KDX is a lot more forgiving at the end of a 2 hour Hare Scramble race. With some minor aftermarket mods the bike really can make some serious power for a 200.

Lots of aftermarket parts all over the place, lots of information on a couple of KDX forums and really a simple bike to work on.

Currently racing Hare Scrambles with my '02 in the Senior B class, even took a class win with it.(There was a lot of orange on the starting line)

If for some reason you don't like the bike it will be a lot less trouble to resell. Good luck. Give the KDX a try.

 

[chabat]

Fredette likes them =]

 

[waftycrank racing]

I have an 89 KDX 200 and it is still going strong parts cheap very durable. My friend has a KTM 250 EXC and is quite expensive too maintain recommend the KDX as a good all round bike. Racer she is not but will keep going with very little attention