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12/18/2009
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Knoxville, TN
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Beeler341
10/11/2013 6:05am
10/11/2013 6:05am
Edited Date/Time
10/11/2013 11:26am
So I am going to be purchasing a new bike tomorrow. But I can't really make a decision on the two bikes. I will be getting a 2014 in either. What's the pros and cons of both. I have been away from the sport for over and year and boy how things have changed.
Check out the shoot outs if you want some good advice. Even though some reviews have agendas and what not.
Can't go wrong with one of these....!
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I would go with the KTM. They look good imo and are reliable. According to the manual, piston change every 50hrs. Some people have over 100on one piston & rings.
Honda says, piston and rings every 15hrs.....
Concerning racing, i would say they are on the same (top) level. But, the KTM has a hydraulic clutch, the best stock brakes you can get, Excel rims,.....
2.) Never judge a bike based on shootouts
The Shop
I think it's the best handling bike I've ever ridden. Some hate the forks, I haven't re-valved them, and have gotten them dialed in to where they are good...for me. I absolutely love the bike.
The motor is awesome, the brakes and clutch amazing, love that I can just pull the airbox cover off without tools.
Why does Honda have hydraulic clutchs on there factory bikes and not production bikes?
KTM plus on brakes, clutch,horsepower,KTM hardparts accessories, chain and sprockets will last more than a month. Exhaust pipe will take a crash without bending.
KTM is worth the few extra dollars.
No doubt the Honda is what most people feel comfortable on and is a very easy bike to ride. I ride a 12 CRF450 myself, and I love the bike.
So if you're not too fuzzed about $$ suspension, motor, exhausts e.g. get the Honda.
I will however admit that my next bike, being a racer, will be the KTM SXF450.
This bike is a complete race bike, with an amazing motor and decent suspension. The brakes, hydraulic clutch and electric start are + as well. The difference is that it costs more.
So if you bought a Honda, and WOULD spend money on brakes, clutch, motor and suspension work, you should pick up the Katoom.
(I don't know how tall you are, but I am 188cm tall and felt better on the "taller" KTM.)
Everyone bitches about how much the bikes cost now, throw on that clutch and price goes up. Some people may not care about a couple hundred bucks but the vast majority of people will complain about the cost.
KTM is structured to operate as a low volume, high cost business. It's their model and it works for them and the few that are willing to pay the premiums.
If you ask me, Honda delivers an excellent product considering the size of the ship they have to steer.
Sorry for the tangent. Carry on...
From Racer X ......
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