Posts
6314
Joined
11/25/2007
Location
Athens, GA, USA
Edited Date/Time
4/27/2015 6:37am
I broke my headlight switch a few weeks ago and learned that KTM no longer makes parts for my bike (99 LC4 640). Some are still available due to stock on hand.. but the switch is discontinued. So I've decided it is time to sell and look for a newer used machine.
I mostly use my LC4 for commuting to work, occasional trail rides and rarely take it on a track.
I definitely want an open class bike but no twins or other large porkers (previous KLR650 owner, never again). The bike also has to be road legal from the factory. Converted the dirt config KLX650 to street even got a tag for it.. but months later someone at the state caught the mistake and revoked it.
I know about the XR650L.. that's a possibility and probably a little cheaper in the end. I love European bikes. So - what some other OEM dual-sport options? Budget is around 2500.
I mostly use my LC4 for commuting to work, occasional trail rides and rarely take it on a track.
I definitely want an open class bike but no twins or other large porkers (previous KLR650 owner, never again). The bike also has to be road legal from the factory. Converted the dirt config KLX650 to street even got a tag for it.. but months later someone at the state caught the mistake and revoked it.
I know about the XR650L.. that's a possibility and probably a little cheaper in the end. I love European bikes. So - what some other OEM dual-sport options? Budget is around 2500.
The Shop
Luxon 4-Post Bar Mounts
$189.95 - $239.95
DeCal Works Huge Plastic Inventory of UFO and Polisport kits.
That looks like an option, except that mine has the choke built in.
I could find an older model (pre 1987) bike and convert, since those are exempt. But that goes back to the original problem of finding parts.
Just keep the KTM. All the Japanese 650 Dual Sports a big step down. Although I will admit my buddy had a decent Honda 650L.
You can get it to work well, but at a lower level of performance. Way less power. In particular, the suspension is far inferior. They are probably more rugged, and cheaper to own though. Think of it like a Land Cruiser.
WR250s and TE610s are great, but probably around $4k. DR650s are too street oriented. About the only real DS bike that you'll be able to get for that budget is a DRz400.
You're correct, for true DS use a plated dirt bike has lots of potential headaches. The one exception might be a 525, I know some were street legal.
I agree with several of the posters here, you're probably already ahead of the other bikes with the LC4. Fixing your switch or finding someone on ADVRider is the way to go. A little detective work and you can probably find a solution for the choke. Or PM me your email and phone and I will help you.
BP
Atomic-Moto
450 is a dirt bike.
BP
I sold a WELL dialed 690SMC about 1 month ago for $7,250. That's the Motard to have. Mine weighed 293# ready to ride scale verified, had about 65 hp w/ some nasty tq, 6 speed trans, etc...
Pics for proof:
Kardy, ahh yeah, the KTMKardy days. . . . I seem to recall some pics of you motoing that thing pretty hard.
Think the consensus, that yours is better than most, works.
Love the suggestion of an RM 125 as a DS bike.
BP
Pit Row
Thanks!
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