I posted this in the New Members forum but was told to bring it here, so I will.
Hey everyone. I've been riding on the street/track for a while and recently several of my buds are trying to get me to get a dirt bike. I'll be honest, I don't know the first thing about dirt riding, although I hear riding on the dirt will build your skills alot faster than strictly street riding. So, now I'm considering getting a dirt setup.
Mostly this will be for trail riding and just bashing around a friend's land (acres and acres of backwoods), don't think it'll have to be street legal but if it is I won't complain. Also, I don't want anything too...big...to start out. 450's are probably too much. I'm 6'1 ~190.
I always thought that most dirt bikes were 2 stroke, now I see that most have become 4 strokers. When did this happen? I'd rather not deal with the hassles of a 2 stroke, where can I find a cheaper 4 stroke (used is fine)? If I go buy say, an '01 bike, how will I tell if it's a 2 or 4 stroke bike (are certain lines/types different?). Of the big 5 (I'll call KTM part of the 5), what is their 2 stroke line and what's their 4 stroke line?. What's the most hassle free maker? I'd like it to be gas and go if at all possible.
What gear do I need? Helmet, goggles, jersey and pants, gloves, boots, and...chest protector? Anything else? What are some of the better brands to stick with? Do I want just a jersey or do I need a jacket?
Any info will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
*edit* Didn't see this, I'll add it in:
1) your physical size: 6'1 ~190.
2) How physical / aggressive are you: 6-7/10
3) what do you plan to ride: Trail, fields, maybe an MX once or twice but not often. And probably not on the road.
4) Do you have any riding experience: Yes, 1 1/2 years on the street/track.
5) Do you think you will race? Wouldn't mind giving it a whirl after a while.
6) Are you mechanically inclined and will you be doing your own bike work? I could do it but I'd prefer it easy.
7) Do YOU have a preferance to a brand/ motor choice (2 or 4 stroke)? I've heard 4 strokers are easier to maintain and you don't have to do the gas/oil mix, so 4 stroke for me.
8) Do you have a dealer close by your home that you might use and what brand(s) does he carry? Every major brand is nearby (4 japs + KTM). Don't really have a preference. Probably prefer used.
9) How much ($) do you plan to spend on a bike? Not a ton, hence the used. I just got married so $$ isn't overflowing.
10) Do you live in California? No
11) Your age? 24
12) Anything else that you think would help form an opinion:
Not really.