Dirt Bikes for the new dirt rider...

[Mr Sunshine]

So I've been tossing around the idea about getting a dirt bike for awhile but I figured I'd ask you guys what bike you think one should get for the inexperienced dirt rider. I can throw the bike around with the worst of them out on the road course but never been on the dirt.

I've thought about picking up a dual-sport (drz400s) for maximum flexiablity but I've also thought about just a pure dirt bike. My worries are finding good enough riding areas around here were a pure dirt bike can legally go. One thing I know is that I'm not going to be into motorcross tracks for sometime (if ever). I'm mostly thinking single track or whatever trails.

So what would you guys recommend a dirt noob?

[tarheel]

Where to start?

I assume since you roadrace you have a way to haul a dirtbike. If I remember correclty you have a small enclosed trailer.

Dual Sports are cool, however, they are very heavy. If you are planning on riding trails they can be a handful. I have friends who ride DRZ400's and the like, but they are very expereinced and skilled off road riders. Not to mention being able to find that good balance in tire choice. KTM makes a very good, durable and reliable dirt bike. Not sure if you still can, but you used to be able to buy KTM's E/XC line with a plate since they come from Austria. May want to look into that.

If you go dirt only, not interested in MX...than I would suggest a Honda XR250, Yamaha TTR or WR 250 (or comparable model) Again, you used to be able to make some of these models street legal. I know the law has recenlty changed but may want to research it further. A good all around MXer is the Yamaha YZ 250. Great bike and motor although it's a two stroke. There is a big push for 2 strokes to be banned or sold for competition use only.

One of the few good things about living on the "East Side" of the mountains is the abundance of riding areas. I have no idea of what the Seattle area offers, however, I do know that there are alot of really cool and neat places throughout Washington they are within an hour or so from just about anywhere. Close enough for a day trip anyway.

Give ma a call if you want to talk more. Way to much info to cover by typing.

509-930-7354

[Mr Sunshine]

I assume since you roadrace you have a way to haul a dirtbike. If I remember correclty you have a small enclosed trailer.


I used to...just recently sold it but I'll be getting a bigger trailer over the winter.

Thanks for the info.

[Ex Presidente]

Hey Chris -
Funny you mention this. I have had a couple different bikes, and my favorite (at least until I pick up my new KTM) has been my WR250F. That bike was awesome! Let us know when you get the bike and we'll tear up Tahuya!
Luke

[Mr Sunshine]

Hey Chris -
Funny you mention this. I have had a couple different bikes, and my favorite (at least until I pick up my new KTM) has been my WR250F. That bike was awesome! Let us know when you get the bike and we'll tear up Tahuya!
Luke

Will do. Sorta depends on if I switch over to a SV650 next year or not. If I do then some money will have to be sunk into the new bike instead of a dirt bike.


So what makes the KTM the bike of choice?

[Ex Presidente]

I've never ridden one, but from what I understand the bike is perfect for the woods. Which is probably mostly what you'll be riding around here! The bike is just perfectly set-up for the woods and trailriding!

[Mr Sunshine]

I've never ridden one, but from what I understand the bike is perfect for the woods. Which is probably mostly what you'll be riding around here! The bike is just perfectly set-up for the woods and trailriding!

Gonna be selling that Yamaha? :)

[Hypnotiq]

My WR250f should be arriving soon. ;)

[bridgetowned]

yo thatman,
go w/the drz400sm & get dirtbike wheels for it. much better setup & package as far as suspension compared to the s model & if you ever decide you want to motard, you're already set up to do so. the money to modify an s model to motard type set up would be pretty excessive.

paid 4k for this 03 w/620 miles on it. looked new

http://i.pbase.com/g4/07/616807/2/64536033.BN58bHtL.jpg

realized my error sold the drz-s @ same price in about 7 hours via craigslist & paid 5k for this 05 sm w/300+ miles on it
http://i.pbase.com/g4/07/616807/2/64837611.sautdbPU.jpg


oh?? if you are only getting it for dirt & trail riding, go w/a real dirtbike instead of dualsport, weight would likely become an issue; my 2 cents

[Ex Presidente]

I sold the WR a couple of year ago when I bought my house!

I'll probably pick up the KTM sometime this week!

[tarheel]

KTM's friggin rock. I have owned 3 of them. From the E/XC to the M/XC. Alot of my friends have them. They are basically indestructible.

Luke...where/what is Tahuya?