XR50 ->RM65?

[motoxpress]

I am looking at setting up my kids again with bikes after a couple of years of not having them (I know - bad dad :( ). So, the last nike they had was an XR50 but the two oldest are now 10, and 9 and nothing seems to fit them as well as the 65 (pick a color). They will have to learn the clutch but that is ok as I want them to start developing riding skill and a clutch is a very important aspect to that.

So, do you think the 65 is to big a jump from not riding for over a year and only having ridden the 50 before that?


mx

 

[Jasle]

I am looking at setting up my kids again with bikes after a couple of years of not having them (I know - bad dad :( ). So, the last nike they had was an XR50 but the two oldest are now 10, and 9 and nothing seems to fit them as well as the 65 (pick a color). They will have to learn the clutch but that is ok as I want them to start developing riding skill and a clutch is a very important aspect to that.

So, do you think the 65 is to big a jump from not riding for over a year and only having ridden the 50 before that?
mx

It can be done. I dont think its that big a deal especially with them being older. If you were really concerned you can get something like a ttr90 or klx110 for a while. you can get decent ones used. They are pretty much the same size as the 65's, maybe a little less suspension and 4 stroke so the power delivery is smoother.

 

[motoxpress]

Thanks. I was initially thinking about the 110 but, I know my 9 yo is wanting to at least try racing and he enjoys umping so I think the suspension on the 110/90 would quickly start limiting him and perhaps even endanger him.

I think you are right in that it should not be a big issue. Now I just have to find a good deal so I can get the 65 and a little 50.

mx

 

[Rcannon]

I say go with the 65's. The learning curve will be steeper, but it is easier than selling the 90's or 110's after a few weeks. The suspension will not allow the kids to jump them the way they like to do anymore.

They will have less trouble with the clutch than you will worrying about it. Besides, the KX/RM 65 is a really decent bike. We have used ours to teach many forst time riders. The bike has never broken down. It has needed one top end rebuild in 3 riding seasons.

 

[Phydeaux]

If a kid wants to ride the clutch won't stop him. (or her for that matter) It's probably a lot more important to be sure that they don't get scared off by the thing being too big or the power being too much for them. I have a great "rookie rider" spot where the trails are smooth and relatively level with few obstacles so if they flop they don't get hurt and break things. After a few outings there when they've demonstrated adequate proficiency we head for the hills. Works good.

 

[gwcrim]

9/10 year old kids will outgrow a 65 in short order. I put my 8 yr old on a lowered KX85. He's growing into it very nicely.

 

[tnrider]

9/10 year old kids will outgrow a 65 in short order. I put my 8 yr old on a lowered KX85. He's growing into it very nicely.

how much did you lower it and how did you do it