Need Some Advice - Bike ST kit

[snowbikekits.com]

I'm trying to find a decent bike to set up a ST kit - mostly for Midwest riding and maybe a trip or two out west. This will be a demo bike for customers.

I'd like to stay under $3k or right around there - as I'd like to get it set up with a Rekluse and if needed lights for under $4k.

Options that I have found locally:

'07 KTM 450 SXF - has Rekluse already

'09 YZ450F - has rekluse already

'10 RM450 - Pretty much stock

'06 Honda CRF450x

'08 Honda CRF450x

'11 KX450F - I've ridden 2012 kawis and liked them would the '11 even be close?

Attractive thing about the hondas is that they are titled and I could ride them in the summer.

Any thoughts / inputs / warnings or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Rush44]

The 11 KX450 is the same as the 12/13 except for a few minor differences:

1. The 11 has actually .5 HP more on the top end due to some cam changes for 12/13. Not even noticeable difference in power delivery.

2. The 11 has a wider body style. In 12 they thinned up the seat and the frame a bit.

3. 11 does not have the chip swaps like the 12/13 BUT has the same computer settings. So if you find a local dealer they can program the chip setting you want into the bike. I had mine set to what would be the white chip on the 12/13's.

I actually prefer the 11 over the 12/13 since I'm a bigger guy. It seemed to fit me a lot better and I didn't get the "sitting on a turned 2x4" feeling like I got when I rode by buddies 13 around for half a day while he checked out my Rekluse.

 

[snowbikekits.com]

Thanks for the info Rush44. How are they for starting?

 

[Rush44]

Easiest starting 4 stroke I've ever rode..... well, except for the estart SXF of course . 3 kicks when cold, 2 max when warm usually 1.