Yet another, what bike for first bike?

[Nick McCardle]

I'm finally going to be able to make my first bike purchase in the next couple of weeks. 20 years old, ridden a couple times and BMXed whole life, about 5'9 w/ short legs and 175lbs. Wanting something for mainly trails riding, maybe the rare track or jumps and sometimes more open areas. Also wanting to get something new so that I can make sure it's broken in properly, taken care of from the beginning, etc. However, I've not ruled out used bikes in good condition. Right now I'm leaning very much towards the KDX 200, I've been able to find some '05s for under $4k at dealers in the state. Stopped by the Honda place today, they tried pointing me towards the CRF230F- I think I'd probably want more of a bike after a few months though. I've also been looking at some used KDXs and KTM 200EXCs. Any other suggestions, opinions on the KDX and 200EXC for me? Trying to keep it as cheap as possible. What should I be aware of when looking at used KDXs and 200EXCs? Thanks in advance.

 

[Zerotact]

You'll prolly find a KDX cheaper than a KTM.. The KDX has been unchanged since '95 in '97 they came out with the 220 cc bike. I recently found out that the clutch actuating shaft that goes in to the crankcase is jut a hole in the case, this causes it to leak a bit. The bearings on the chassis ( steering stem, wheels, and suspension ) are known to go out a little early due to them not being greased well from the factory. But it really comes down to what deals you can find in you areas.

 

[xsnrg]

If you can afford one, get a KTM 200, 250, or 300 EXC. They basically come trick from the factory. If not, get a KDX200 or 220 which are great trailbikes in stock form.. The 300 EXC and KDX220 both have really good low end power for trail riding. The 200's are a little more zippy and need to be ridden on the pipe a bit (much more attention to rev and clutchwork necessary). I've never ridden a 200, but I've read hundreds of posts and that seems to be the consensus. I love the KDX220 I've been riding for the past year. Before that I was riding an older (early 90s) KDX250 which was also a great bike, but quite a bit heavier. Anyway, the Kawasaki website actually does a good job explaining the power characteristics and technical differences between the 200 and 220 KDX. Probably the most technical description of a bike I've ever seen on a Mfg'ers website.

You've definitely narrowed it down to some great bikes.