I'm looking at putting a timbersled on a bike. Looking at a Kx450 or a KTM450. I know the obvious pros of the KTM with the electric start but I was wondering if that's really something that is needed? Some insight from guys that have been riding them would be great thanks.
Taking the leap
- Thread starter cringle
- Start date
H
honkuscracker
Member
I just built up a 2013 KTM 450, I followed Mtn-Doo's "best all around" build. I've only had it out a handful of times but it is by far the best $ ive spent in a long time. Thanks to Mtn-Doo and Rush for your help and pm's. My buddy has a kick start and he sure is envious... Once the bike is warm it's not as big of an issue for him. If i was a really good wrench i'd look at doing the two stroke similar to mtn-doo's new bike. I'm just more of a gas-and-go rider. Don't forget to add in all of the little extras, ie; lights, heated grips, hand gurard, new pegs, exhaust, etc. i was well $800 but so far it is awesome!
I've had both
and prefer the KTM for snow hands-down. I'd agree with Rush, if you want to do both the KX gets the nod. I for one have never had luck with heated grips, rarely feel even lukewarm, maybe I have poor circulation in my hands. Otherwise I agree with the mods list -- pegs, handguards, Avid carb heat/t-stat system, a good engine guard system etc.
and prefer the KTM for snow hands-down. I'd agree with Rush, if you want to do both the KX gets the nod. I for one have never had luck with heated grips, rarely feel even lukewarm, maybe I have poor circulation in my hands. Otherwise I agree with the mods list -- pegs, handguards, Avid carb heat/t-stat system, a good engine guard system etc.
H
honkuscracker
Member
I went with A'ME heated grips btw and Acerbis handguards. Nice 'cause i can run a lighter weight glove. Only downside of the a'me grips is the $$, around $125 as i recall
M
mxracer299
Well-known member
I ran a 450 ktm last year and it worked good, kx 450 works good too, this year I built a 300 that works better than both of them but its a ton of work. If I was looking for a simple bolt on and go bike i'd do a kx, Yz or ktm 450. Between the 3 I would do a kx just because you can pick up a 14 holdover for under $6500 and the performance is right with the other two, its rider more than the bike. You're only going to get a season or two out of a bike if you ride a lot and they are worth the same when you sell them with high hours, might as well save a couple thousand dollars, just my opinion...
Thanks for all the insight. I will be using the bike for both summer and winter so i'm kinda leaning toward a kawi. Just debating on a used one or new. Hate losing so much money when buying new but would like to know how its been treated. ahhh!!! the decisions
