My God! What have I done?

[HomeMadeSin]

I went riding yesterday. Before I get into that, a little history:

My last bike was an '84 CR250R. Before that an '83 XR200R. Rode woods, trails, and raced occasionally in enduros. Sold the CR when the buds starting riding in favor of chicks and bought a car instead.

Then, 15 years of moto-celibacy:college, marriage, child.

Now, back to yesterday. I ride my '96 CR500R for the first time on dirt. :scream: At first, I thought my eyes were bigger than my juevos. I'm still not sure. Now I understand where the flaws per se are: abrupt powerband and wheel spin. But when it connects, there's no greater thrill than a big bore 2-stroke.:p

Now here's the question(s):

Is it possible to tame this beast? Maybe not tame it, but at least learn how to finesse the output? I hope I can learn quickly, as my arms must've stretched a couple of inches....if it continues, I'll have to change my name to Knuckedragger....:D

 

[Anssi]

Originally posted by HomeMadeSin
Is it possible to tame this beast? Maybe not tame it, but at least learn how to finesse the output? I hope I can learn quickly, as my arms must've stretched a couple of inches....if it continues, I'll have to change my name to Knuckedragger....:D

I was in almost the exact same situation you are in (started riding a CR5 after a 10 year break). Riding the bike in tight sandy places is probably the easiest way to get used to the power delivery.

You could also pick up a KTM 520 SX that has the smoothest power delivery of anything and reasonable power, although not as much as the 2-strokes.

 

[Hogwylde]

There are the usual tricks to change the power hit of big bore 2 strokes (flywheel weights, differnt pipes, different gearing, etc), but......having been in you situation also (KX 500 after 20 years on a street bikes) I'd suggest changing your name to Knuckledragger and have FUN!!!!

Just ride the thing....get used to the power. learn when/how to get on the power and when/how to get off. power CONTROL is the key!!!!

 

[LWilson250]

I know how you feel and I'm just on a KX250! I would sugest a gripper seat to keep you planted.

Have fun with the new scoot.

Lee W.

 

[Senior KX Rider]

Hogwylde is right, ride it and get used to it. It will get better with more saddle time.:)

 

[wardy]

answer...............

talk to mr Gorr here on this board he has made 500's tame to the point that it has a ton of power but it just rolls on. AJ, and Thorman75 both have had these 500's at one time or another they can affirm how managable they can made to be!

welcome back!

wardy

 

[HomeMadeSin]

Yeah, the control is what I'm worried about. On jumps, I'd either not juice and land front first, or goose it and land on the rear.

I can't wait to rip it again!!!!!!!!!:p