- Joined
- Feb 28, 2003
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- Huntsville
- First Name
- Scott
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- Friday
Re: IF I were to get a dirt bike, what should I get?
If you aren't planning on riding single track trails or doing jumps on dirt tracks, I really don't see the point in a full blown dirt bike. Any 400-650 sized DS bike would be fine. IF you start getting into technical two track, like say rough jeep trails, some of the 650s can be a handful and something like a 400/450 might be easier, even though the 650s will do it.
What I like about my 530 EXC is that is is essentially the same bike as the 450 EXC, but with a slightly different stroke than the 450 (I think another 25mm maybe?). The result is a bit more bottom end, so I don't have to rev it like the 450. However, it still weighs the same. I also like that the suspension is fully adjustable. I had a KLR 650. The difference between it and my 530 is light years! I just wish I could upgrade from my 530 to a newer 500 for the FI. I get tired of messing with the jetting for the carb.
Pretty much any bike you get will be under sprung for your weight. They are set up from the factory for 180 lb riders (or thereabouts). You might not think it makes a big difference, but if you get the right springs, oil, and damping settings for the suspension for your weight (with riding gear), it makes a world of difference!! It is not that expensive and worth every penny. I would not even think about engine/exhaust mods before doing the suspension.
If you aren't planning on riding single track trails or doing jumps on dirt tracks, I really don't see the point in a full blown dirt bike. Any 400-650 sized DS bike would be fine. IF you start getting into technical two track, like say rough jeep trails, some of the 650s can be a handful and something like a 400/450 might be easier, even though the 650s will do it.
What I like about my 530 EXC is that is is essentially the same bike as the 450 EXC, but with a slightly different stroke than the 450 (I think another 25mm maybe?). The result is a bit more bottom end, so I don't have to rev it like the 450. However, it still weighs the same. I also like that the suspension is fully adjustable. I had a KLR 650. The difference between it and my 530 is light years! I just wish I could upgrade from my 530 to a newer 500 for the FI. I get tired of messing with the jetting for the carb.
Pretty much any bike you get will be under sprung for your weight. They are set up from the factory for 180 lb riders (or thereabouts). You might not think it makes a big difference, but if you get the right springs, oil, and damping settings for the suspension for your weight (with riding gear), it makes a world of difference!! It is not that expensive and worth every penny. I would not even think about engine/exhaust mods before doing the suspension.