Joemoto

Member
Aug 30, 2001
16
0
I am 5'10" and about 165 lbs, without gear. I am thinking of switching from a 250 motocross bike to a KDX200. I ride trails and beginner hair scrambles. Has anyone else made this switch? If so, please tell me the positives and negatives.

Thanks.
 

kipmax

Member
Aug 29, 2001
71
0
If you could ride that 250 MX'r fast, you are going to fly on the KDX :)

The KDX will not tax your stamina nearly as much as the MX bike, will give you a broader more controlable range of power.

The suspension may take a while to get used to (much softer) but unless you are riding in solid whoops and stadium jumps you will probably find you like it better.

I have a CR250R and a KDX. The CR is fun for 30 mins of all out dirt throwing but the KDX is fun all day :)
 

MN KDXer

Registered
Jun 7, 1999
194
0
A little depends on which 250 you are riding, but in general, IMO, if you can hang onto the 250 right now, consider some of these mods: Suspension mods, flywheel weight, different pipe to modify power to your preference, etc. You will be pleased with the improvement from these mods. BTW, if you're in the market for suspenders, check out trakcontrol.com . They did a REALLY good job on my bike. :)

I made the switch a year ago FROM a KDX220 w/ all the trimmings to a 01 RM250, and my race results have improved a LOT. IMO, my RM is easier to ride all day than the KDX, whether exhausted or feeling fresh. BUT, I can attest that the RM is a faster rider's machine and I easily see where the 250 motobikes are NOT for everyone.

One thing that cannot be disputed, is that a KDX is a very reliable bike.

Good luck with the decision! :)
 

kipmax

Member
Aug 29, 2001
71
0
MN KDXer,

Have you done anything with the transmission?

The biggest problem I have found with my CR is its close ratio transmission and high first gear in tight (very) woods.

While a close ratio transmission is great for sprinting from point A to point B as fast as possible it can really be a nuisance out in the woods. First gear is always a little too high for that winding, rocky climb through the trees and top gear leaves you wondering if you're going to seize just buzzing back to the truck. The gears in between are optional, as there is not much difference between them ;). On more open terrain, and with higher overall gearing (sprockets) the MX bike will gain an advantage over bikes like the KDX.

Granted, a 250 MX bike makes a great base for a woods machine. Especially for faster riders but getting all that power working in the right directions can be a bit much for the average guy just out to have fun.
 
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