Posts
17
Joined
5/6/2017
Location
Jacksonville, FL, USA
Edited Date/Time
5/17/2017 4:14pm
I've been looking mainly at the XR400, due to its reputation as needing nothing but oil and air stuff. I rode dirt a LOT from age 13-19 (riding GA power line trails on a Suzuki DS185, which I probably changed the oil on like once ever two years), but I have only had a few street bikes since then.
However, since I'll mostly be riding trails, with perhaps a few tracks for fun (like 2-3 times a year), I was wondering about the possibility of any 250T options. I'm looking at used, 2000-2008, models.
The problem is that I'm fat--285lbs at 6'. Are there any XR400-like 250T bikes that are almost as bulletproof AND a good bit lighter? Or will I need 400-450 to haul me around? I'm 45 and don't plan on doing anything crazy--I also don't want to do much other than changing oil and air. I know with street bikes, at 30-35, I was the guy who loved the lightweight Ninja 250 while others were riding SV650s (because I could throw them around--of course, I was 185# back then).
However, since I'll mostly be riding trails, with perhaps a few tracks for fun (like 2-3 times a year), I was wondering about the possibility of any 250T options. I'm looking at used, 2000-2008, models.
The problem is that I'm fat--285lbs at 6'. Are there any XR400-like 250T bikes that are almost as bulletproof AND a good bit lighter? Or will I need 400-450 to haul me around? I'm 45 and don't plan on doing anything crazy--I also don't want to do much other than changing oil and air. I know with street bikes, at 30-35, I was the guy who loved the lightweight Ninja 250 while others were riding SV650s (because I could throw them around--of course, I was 185# back then).
The Shop
DeCal Works Huge Plastic Inventory of UFO and Polisport kits.
Luxon 4-Post Bar Mounts
$189.95 - $239.95
Free shipping: VITALMX
Any year from 2006 to 2017
Put stainless steel valves in it and ride forever.
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Evidently a group has leased a ton of land, and they have like 10 miles of trails just south of Mandarin. Also, I think there are some trails like 45 minutes west of me down I-10 (near Osceola).
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So the CRF450 isn't a bike that needs anything besides oil and air? I don't know why I thought they were more high-strung than that (needing a new top or bottom every 40-50 hours).
Oh wait...fat guy?
Kawasaki KDX 200
Oh and don't let the weight thing keep you from the bikes. I see a guy at a local MX track out there putting around on an older Suzuki DR400 , and he's about 5-10" tall and well over 450lbs......and you know what?....he's having a blast. That's what counts!
In those years, the first alloy frame 250/ 450 WRF were pretty darn reliable and easy to ride.
https://jacksonville.craigslist.org/mcy/6063506136.html
There's a 2006 and 2009 CRF450 that are both nice, at $2600 and $2800, but I just think those will be a bit too much bike and need a bit too much maintenance. The 2009 looks almost new (he says "low hours").
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Harry Backmon: Yeah, once I discovered the River City Dirt Riders, I knew I needed to get another bike. Now that I'm getting older, I'm remembering trail-riding as probably the thing that made me most happy in life. I've got some tailbone issues, but I'm going to wear 5 pair of bike shorts if I have to, to get back to riding. Where there's a will there's a way.
Pit Row
But for your budget and needs, that XR400 would be tempting. Rebuild the top end, respring it for your weight and it will run for another 20 years and need nothing but oil changes..
Ktm 300:
https://jacksonville.craigslist.org/mcy/6085858020.html
I pay $39.00 AUD a week for my RMZ. Compare that with hiring a bike for the weekend which costs around $200.00 AUD, plus a deposit. For around $50.00 a week you'll have a NEW bike at your disposal 24/7. Ride it once a week and you'll be getting good value for your $$.
Life is short. Especially for someone who's over weight.
Tell the Mrs it's for weight loss and cardio. Your health is worth every penny you'll spend, and then some. It'll cost less than a gym membership.
If you work hard, you deserve it.
KTM 300's are a 2T tractor. If you go new, a Beta 300 is another excellent option. Better option IMO.
I've owned 4 different XRs since I was a kid ( and I had the same one you are looking at , an 02 XR400 ) and I think you will be really happy on it.
The track part of riding won't be as great, but for trails and other off roading, you won't regret it.
Post a reply to: Bullet-proof reliable dirt bike for a fat guy?