New bike for newer rider, tight trails

I’m pretty new to dirt riding and am looking for some advice on purchasing a new bike. The quickie background is my son (14 years old now) started riding last year on an XR100. The bike was fine for him to learn on but too small. Earlier this year we bought a new XR250 that both of us could use. I enjoy riding the XR250 and am seriously considering buying another one this fall. However, before I do, I’m trying to consider my other options.

Both bikes will be used for tight trail riding in Michigan. My son is already a better rider in dirt then I’ll probably ever be. I’ve been a street rider for years with a lot of miles under my belt but the dirt is still rather new. However, I’m enjoying riding the 250 a lot and see it as a sport I will continue with for a long time.

I’m only interested in a four stroke and also do not want a really tall bike since I’m about 5’6”. At this point my riding will be in Michigan but can possibly see some trips out west down the road. A friend of mine who does a lot of riding and racing told me I should check out the KTM 250EXC four stroke at our local dealer. It was rather obvious the improved components, etc. that come standard with KTM along with a higher price. I really like the estart and the fact the local dealer seems much better then any of our Honda shops. With reading two articles in the current issue of REV, it sounds like the KTM 450 EXC might be easier to handle on tight trails then the 250 because of the power characteristics. They both are the same weight, size, and suspension. Somewhere on the internet I read that the KTM 4 strokes are not designed to run for long trail riding and that the valves should be adjusted every 15 hours (huh?).

So, any thoughts on if I’m being stupid to even consider the KTM? Is there something else maybe more appropriate that doesn’t have a 40” seat height? I wish I could test ride several bikes including both flavors of the KTM and the XR400. Thanks for any insight and sorry for such a long first post.

Thanks for all the detailed responses. Yes, I was thinking it made more sense to get my son the new bike. However, after he has had two new ones in less than a year, I think it is my turn. If I do decide I want an XR250, then I'll consider keeping the one we have and letting him get something else.

That being said, I'm still really interested in the KTM. I'm going to be next to another dealer tomorrow (Grand Haven, MI) so I'm going to talk to them and get a little more insight into some of my concerns.

I'll also look into the WR250F but think it is just too tall for me.

Finally, Woodsy, is there a website for the CCC? I would like to get more info and probably join. Sounds like a good way for me to get more involved in the sport.

With the KTM, it will take several deep pockets. :silly:

That being said, if I would really be happy with it then it would be worth it to me.

Well, I'm more confused then ever (my wife didn't think that was possible).

I still have a strong pull for the KTM's, just seem so much more refined then the offerings from the big 4. However, the more I read hear and on KTMTalk, the more concerned I am about maintaining one. Frequent needs for both valve adjusts and oil changes are a concern along with that neither seem that simple to do.

My son's buddy just got a CRF450 the other day. Hope to be able to ride it next week. I saw him ride it briefly the other night and it looked like a kid doing drivers ed with a Ferrari. Scary.

I am going to be checking out Honda's website on September 13th when they are suppose to have announcements for upcoming products. Maybe some major updates to the XR's???

I do appreciate the link to CCC which I'll join and the suggestion for the Ludington dealer Woodsy.

Yup, I think it is doubtfull Honda will have any major XR changes other then the new CRF230 replacing the XR200. If they do announce something, it won't be until an '04 model at the earliest and I need something sooner then that.

So, the more I read and here, the closer I am to thinking the 450EXC. Considering weight, estart, seat height, etc., sounds like the closest to my wants (hard to call them needs).

Just wanted to put an ending post on this thread to say I did buy another bike last week. Since I received a lot of advice from others here I wanted to share what I ended up with and how things are now working out.

So, I bought, drum roll please.....

A 2003 KTM 450EXC and absolutely love it as does my son. I'm more satisfied with the bike then I ever thought I would be. I really like the ergos, great suspension (I had the dealer add 1" spacers to lower it and revalve the fork), tons of power, and of course the estart.

Even though I'm a novice dirt rider I'm really comfortable with the bike. The power is very controllable and can be ridden slow. However, when you want the power it is always on tap. Now I just need to work on my skills to take better advantage of the great bike.

Thanks again for everyone's assistance.