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Anchorage, AK
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AKmotorider
8/17/2014 2:52am
8/17/2014 2:52am
Edited Date/Time
1/10/2015 7:50am
The first thing I'd like to mention is that I've been a Yamaha guy since the day I started riding. All five of my machines are Yamaha's, dirt bikes as well as four-wheelers.
Early next year I am going to buy a brand new bike for the first time ever, and if I go the smoker route, I want to know what the KTM has on the YZ. If it weren't for the fact that KTM has been putting hard work into their new two-strokes every year, I'd take the YZ hands down; however, as much of a fan that I am of Yamaha, I am not oblivious to other manufacturer's effort.
From what I've heard, the KTM is lightyears ahead of the Yamaha. However, there are other factors to put into play: being a Yamaha rider, will I feel out of place (handling wise) on the most unique machine of all the brands? The KTM is better tech-wise and speed-wise, but that doesn't mean that I'll necessarily be able to adapt to it as well. That being said, what if they don't feel that different? What if I can adapt just fine? Questions, questions.
Next, comes performance and features. I'd like to know the differences.
What do you think? Can a Yamaha rider adapt to a KTM machine, and what exactly does the KTM have on the Yamaha in terms of technology? Thank you, this may really influence my decision!
Early next year I am going to buy a brand new bike for the first time ever, and if I go the smoker route, I want to know what the KTM has on the YZ. If it weren't for the fact that KTM has been putting hard work into their new two-strokes every year, I'd take the YZ hands down; however, as much of a fan that I am of Yamaha, I am not oblivious to other manufacturer's effort.
From what I've heard, the KTM is lightyears ahead of the Yamaha. However, there are other factors to put into play: being a Yamaha rider, will I feel out of place (handling wise) on the most unique machine of all the brands? The KTM is better tech-wise and speed-wise, but that doesn't mean that I'll necessarily be able to adapt to it as well. That being said, what if they don't feel that different? What if I can adapt just fine? Questions, questions.
Next, comes performance and features. I'd like to know the differences.
What do you think? Can a Yamaha rider adapt to a KTM machine, and what exactly does the KTM have on the Yamaha in terms of technology? Thank you, this may really influence my decision!
Having said that I've just finished running in my new yam wr450 :D back to the dark side but it was a financial reason, I'd go back to a ktm in a heartbeat when I move back home.
so you hear people say it often? Why would that be I wonder
The Shop
Don't get fooled by the more frequent updates on the pumpkin. The 06 SX was horrible while the 06 YZ was outstanding. They've been playing catch up for the most part.
Brakes are crazy good. Suspension out of the box will work good with a little tweaking and testing. Motor, well let's just say it will put a huge smile on your face. Air box set up is lame. All around they are fantastic bikes.
From everything I've read and seen (I've owned KTM's for years) everything will be better except the suspension.
Another thing that hasn't been mentioned is the tune-ability of KTM's. I bought an XC head off KTMTalk for my '14 SX, and with a quick head swap and a power valve spring change I can have a absolute woods weapon, then in about 10 minutes turn it back into a fire breathing monster!!
Pit Row
A Vertex top end for a YZ is $121 on Motorsport, and one for a KTM is $146.... Let go of all the KTM stereotypes.... They were true 10 years ago, but not anymore.
Edit: OEM parts on Motorsport for a YZ total more than $121.... So it backs me up even more.
The one that I was told, "No one has figured out yet, and just buy a set of Ohlins".
Edit: If you look on thumper talk - all of the trail riders say the WP stuff is primo. Anyone remotely fast in MX say to buy Ohlins and get away from the WP - There's a reason people are putting KYB internals and doing fork swaps on the KTM.
Also, my stance: I want a new FC350 or TC250 baaaaaaadly - but those forks worry me, and the idea of speaking 7-10K on a NEW bike, and then needing to budget 3-4K for Ohlins scares me.
I've seen good results from Enzo, Factory Connection & WP (Murietta) on the WPs.
As for the question: YZ versus SX?
My primary considerations would be price and parts/after-market product availability and the cost to get the bike where/how I want it.
If the "New" Yamaha is a bunch of $...just for their new PLASTIC? I'd by a new-left-over or REALLY CLEAN USED '09-'13 & UFO it (looks as good/better, to me...). Imagine getting a nice barely ridden used bike (Mechanically same as '15) for $4000? Then you can spend $ on your favorite goodies...many people don't have to do ANYTHING to the suspension...aka...no $ spent. I know a few guys that've simple installed stiffer springs!
Or....a New Katoom or Husky...as some have said: FAST! I've put quite a few laps on the Husky TC250. I'm a 450 rider; yet, I was able to get on the Husky and go. For me, a KTM owner...I've gotta admit: the Husky just looks awesome.
You know what you should get? WHATEVER it is that you truly want.
Good luck!
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