Newbie question

Dirtless79

Member
Nov 11, 2003
4
0
Hey folks. I'm considering giving up my streetbike for a dirtbike in the spring. Why? Too many close calls on the street - I've been lucky; I don't want to press my luck. Anyway, I love the two-wheeled machines to death and hate to give it up. I'm also an avid mountain biker, so I figured why not combine what I enjoy. So, a few questions:

New or Used?: I know streetbikes get flogged, but I think it's 10x worse when factoring in debris, sand, and water. Is it even worth considering someone else's machine to save a couple thousand?

What size engine?: Well, not an exact displacement, I just know there are 125, 250, 400's, etc. I just want an estimate. I would like to get into trail riding - you know, just kind of exploring the terrain, go out for a few hours during weekend, escape the world for a while - all that stuff. But power is good.

What's a reliable brand?: I love my Honda. It's bullet proof and I feel anything Honda makes is an excellent choice. But I am open to ideas to sway me either way.

Other resource on the web? : I have a long road ahead of me before the bike market gets hot again in the spring, so I am going to dedicate a lot of time towards info gathering.

Thanks all! Hope I can contribute in the long run...
 

gwcrim

~SPONSOR~
Oct 3, 2002
1,881
0
Well since you like Hondas, the XR line are excellent trail bikes. Personally, I'm partial to 2 strokes so I'd suggest looking into a KDX or maybe a KTM. If you're an adrenalin junkie, the 2 stroke might provide a better fix.

A used dirtbike can be an excellent value. But you need to be patient and shop around for one that's been well maintained. But if money isn't an object, a new one is nice.
 

mdkuder

Who me?
LIFETIME SPONSOR
Feb 4, 2001
538
0
If you go for the KTM check out the MXC line as it is more of an all purpose bike! As far as 2 or 4 stroke, do you want a nitrous hit (2 stroke) or a tractor like pull (4 stroke), the 4 stroke will be more forgiving. Good Luck
 

Dirtless79

Member
Nov 11, 2003
4
0

Well, the motorcycles I've had were all 4 strokes, so the two stroke would be an interesting departure.
 

drk98

Member
Mar 30, 2002
358
0
The KDX and the 200 or 250EXC(or MXC) are your 2 strokes and a XR200, WR250 are the four strokes(unless you want a dual sport which you don't; believe me). I think you'd have more fun on a 2 stroke but you should ride them if you can and get one. Remember the 2 stroke dead line is 2006 so I'd take the expirience.
 

Dogman5

Member
Jun 20, 2003
85
0
Me personally, I would also reccomend a 2-stroke. The powerband on the things are just insane, and every little thing about them I fall in love with. I love the KDX 200 2-stroke power. Its really something you should consider.

But then again, Diffrent strokes for different folks.
 
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