Posts
6250
Joined
8/15/2006
Location
Cornland, IL
US
Fantasy
165th
Edited Date/Time
12/30/2015 3:27pm
Ok, here's the deal. I've barely ridden at all this past year, but I don't want to get out of MX. My current bike, a 2010 CRF450, is close to the end of its life without a rebuild. I've always wanted a 500AF and told myself it would be mine when I turned 25, but here I am at 27 yet to pull the trigger. I feel like my options are as follows: spend around $1000 and just freshen my bike up, sell it and buy a decent used 250 2 stroke, or spend about the same money and have my bike turned into a 500AF with mostly new parts. I'd like to get a little back into racing, maybe a few times a year, but MX has definitely taken a backseat to other hobbies and interest. How comparable to a 450 is a 500AF? I enjoy playing with big power/torque, can you tweak the 500 to act as torque as the 450 without being too pipey? Also, I assume I would have to revalve my suspension to go with the 2 stroke?
See if you can trade it in.
First off, how much experience do you have on a 500, to begin with? That's a huge part of the equation. If you have none, or close to none, I'd say don't do it. That's a lot of motor, if you aren't familiar with it, this could be your worst spend ever. There is no doubt, the 500 will be harder to ride than the 450, even in the same chassis. I could go on and on about this, pointing out the negatives. If you strictly want a bike that will be an absolute thrill ride, and don't care about lap times, then pull the trigger. Metaphorically speaking, wait 'til you do that on the AF.
The 10 is a decent chassis, but it will still have the handling it did as a 4 stroke, nothing will change that. There are a couple of places that sell kits to do this swap, and guys on FB who offer their services as well. It will cost a decent buck to get a conversion done, don't kid yourself. However, finding a good guy is worth every dime, because using a cheap shop means huge disappointment. Let me know if you want to get more info, I can get you onto the CR500 Conversion on FB, assuming you have a page already. A guy from Illinois does conversions, cranks out all the parts himself, quality stuff. Google M-Works, guys name is Mike. Another guy in Ohio, just do your homework. If you use MPS, don't tell me, and don't ever speak to me again. Lol You've been warned.
Lastly, don't expect an AF to turn you into the next Ricky Carmicheal, ain't going to happen. They are just a blast to ride, and they command respect and attention. Fun factor goes through the roof, though. Isn't that why we ride?
The Shop
if MX isn't your main hobby why waste $$ on an expensive bike that is more of a novelty? everyone complains about these bikes vibrating and being nearly un-rideable after 15 minutes..regardless of who makes them.
your 450 is a better bike for everything except make drag racing or riding in the dunes
Bullshit. Stop assuming that POS Service Honda built for Pastrana, which he said he couldn't keep together, is "everyone". My AF vibration is non-existent, and I can ride 30 to 40 minute motos on it. I get off because I'm tired, not because it vibrates.
for some it doesnt bother them..for others..it does
Doing it again, I'd get an early 2000's 250 chassis and (for me) the 250 flywheel in the 500 motor made it much better for moto. It felt like a 250 that you could loop out in 4th just by twisting the throttle.
They're super fun but clearly not for everyone.
over kill.....
Hes not the original owner.
Its polished to a mirror finish on frame full engine and cases and swingarm and damn near everything.
Its a looker. Pulls a 12 paddle hooker no problem.
It pulls lots of attention as well.
It is wicked fast. Most are afraid of it and barely tickle the throttle.
It will skim desert whoops at 95 MPH.
Its not a bike for nancies. Pastrana is a fuckin stud.
Did he even touch the whoops?
She can warm it up for you. Everyones happy!
Pit Row
here is my race a week ago
https://youtu.be/PgvSR1RgQyY
Post a reply to: Who here owns/or has ridden a 500AF?