2016 YZ450F or KX450F for Taller Rider?

twotwosix
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twotwosix
Edited Date/Time 7/3/2017 2:38pm
I am about to pull the trigger on a new bike and I am pretty torn on what to go with. I'm 6'2" 220lbs, fit and in shape, ride MX only, local Pro, 25+ A/B speed. I am a weekend warrior these days and I struggle with arm pump some since I really only ride 2 times a month. Last year I rode a 2014 YZ450F briefly and although it felt a little big, it was fast and the forks were very supple. I recently rode a 2016 KX450F and liked it pretty well. That was the first air fork I didn't hate. Last month I spent 2 days on a 2017 KTM 450SX-F and fell in love. I was really blown away with how well the bike suited me and even without setting the sag or changing fork air pressure, I was immediately 99% happy with it. It just did everything right and felt so light and fast. At my height and weight, I am pretty sensitive to suspension and I need a good bit of power. The KTM just surprised me. The #1 thing I want in a bike is great forks. So now I have a dilemma on my hands! I was planning on spending $6,000 on a 2016 KX450F or YZ450F, but that KTM might have converted me. I can't find a 2017 KTM 450 near me for less than $9,000 though. I just for the life of me cannot decide if the KTM is really going to be worth a 1/3 more money for me. My heart tells me to buy a 2016 YZ450F and send the suspension off to FC or Enzo and call it a day, but I did like the ergos on the '16 Kawi and that '17 KTM was super impressive. Literally can't make up my mind. Wish I had all 3 back to back to ride on the same track...

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RoflCopter726 5/12/2017 12:42pm
5/12/2017 12:42pm
Pretty sure the Kawi has adjustable footpegs to give taller riders a little more standing room.
280driver
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280driver 5/12/2017 12:50pm
5/12/2017 12:50pm
And the Kawi has adjustable bar mount locations to add more reach for taller riders as well.
Markee
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Markee 5/12/2017 12:52pm
5/12/2017 12:52pm
I'm 6'2. Rode both last week. Was in the same boat. Personally the KX turns unreal and its the cheapest. The bike I did ride had the spring conversion which was nice. The YZ was very fast but turned like a tanker ship.

I bought a new bike Monday, was neither. 2017 KTM 250 sx to replace my 2013. I learned that I don't mind going fast, what I didn't like was going that fast with that much weight, specially that YZ, good lord. You'll need that KYB SSS when you can't turn or stop and blow over the berm, i'm joking but not really, It turns like shit.

mattyhamz2
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mattyhamz2 5/12/2017 12:54pm
5/12/2017 12:54pm
I'm 6'2 and 205lbs. I love my 14 YZ. I had my suspension done by Enzo and its even better than before. I haven't ridden the new ktm or kx, but sitting on them both, they felt really compact. Didn't really care for that feeling much. Not to say I couldn't ride either bike just as well as my yz or better, but as you know, comfort plays a major roll.

If your heart is saying YZ, go YZ and send your suspension to Enzo.

I think you'll be happy with which ever you decide to get.

The Shop

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twotwosix
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twotwosix 5/12/2017 12:56pm
5/12/2017 12:56pm
Markee wrote:
I'm 6'2. Rode both last week. Was in the same boat. Personally the KX turns unreal and its the cheapest. The bike I did ride had...
I'm 6'2. Rode both last week. Was in the same boat. Personally the KX turns unreal and its the cheapest. The bike I did ride had the spring conversion which was nice. The YZ was very fast but turned like a tanker ship.

I bought a new bike Monday, was neither. 2017 KTM 250 sx to replace my 2013. I learned that I don't mind going fast, what I didn't like was going that fast with that much weight, specially that YZ, good lord. You'll need that KYB SSS when you can't turn or stop and blow over the berm, i'm joking but not really, It turns like shit.

Haha! So you just said screw it and got a 2 stroke again. Love it!
twotwosix
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twotwosix 5/12/2017 12:57pm
5/12/2017 12:57pm
mattyhamz2 wrote:
I'm 6'2 and 205lbs. I love my 14 YZ. I had my suspension done by Enzo and its even better than before. I haven't ridden the...
I'm 6'2 and 205lbs. I love my 14 YZ. I had my suspension done by Enzo and its even better than before. I haven't ridden the new ktm or kx, but sitting on them both, they felt really compact. Didn't really care for that feeling much. Not to say I couldn't ride either bike just as well as my yz or better, but as you know, comfort plays a major roll.

If your heart is saying YZ, go YZ and send your suspension to Enzo.

I think you'll be happy with which ever you decide to get.
That's what everyone keeps telling me, follow your gut! But that KTM just really threw a wrench in my plans!
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DB97 5/12/2017 1:17pm
5/12/2017 1:17pm
I'm 6' 170 and the new kawi is really good feeling. I did have problems with the stock forks even after revalve it was harsh but would still bottom and mine blows the fork seal instantly now not sure what's going on. I noticed today Pro Circuit came out with a spring conversion that you can also add air to might be worth a look. I ended up getting a good deal on A kit suspension and obviously the bike is amazing now.
fullysicmate 5/12/2017 1:37pm
5/12/2017 1:37pm
Get the ktm or you will always be thinking what if, you only live once. Keep looking you will find one cheaper.
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kkawboy14 5/12/2017 1:48pm
5/12/2017 1:48pm
6'1",the Jc feels comfortable, the yz feels small
mxjon454
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mxjon454 5/12/2017 11:05pm
5/12/2017 11:05pm
twotwosix wrote:
I am about to pull the trigger on a new bike and I am pretty torn on what to go with. I'm 6'2" 220lbs, fit and...
I am about to pull the trigger on a new bike and I am pretty torn on what to go with. I'm 6'2" 220lbs, fit and in shape, ride MX only, local Pro, 25+ A/B speed. I am a weekend warrior these days and I struggle with arm pump some since I really only ride 2 times a month. Last year I rode a 2014 YZ450F briefly and although it felt a little big, it was fast and the forks were very supple. I recently rode a 2016 KX450F and liked it pretty well. That was the first air fork I didn't hate. Last month I spent 2 days on a 2017 KTM 450SX-F and fell in love. I was really blown away with how well the bike suited me and even without setting the sag or changing fork air pressure, I was immediately 99% happy with it. It just did everything right and felt so light and fast. At my height and weight, I am pretty sensitive to suspension and I need a good bit of power. The KTM just surprised me. The #1 thing I want in a bike is great forks. So now I have a dilemma on my hands! I was planning on spending $6,000 on a 2016 KX450F or YZ450F, but that KTM might have converted me. I can't find a 2017 KTM 450 near me for less than $9,000 though. I just for the life of me cannot decide if the KTM is really going to be worth a 1/3 more money for me. My heart tells me to buy a 2016 YZ450F and send the suspension off to FC or Enzo and call it a day, but I did like the ergos on the '16 Kawi and that '17 KTM was super impressive. Literally can't make up my mind. Wish I had all 3 back to back to ride on the same track...

Besides that 9000 price tags ktms still go through parts like crazy and those aint cheap either. As good as ktm is, they still dont have the same quality as a jap bike. Just my opinion.
fullysicmate 5/12/2017 11:27pm
5/12/2017 11:27pm Edited Date/Time 5/12/2017 11:27pm
twotwosix wrote:
I am about to pull the trigger on a new bike and I am pretty torn on what to go with. I'm 6'2" 220lbs, fit and...
I am about to pull the trigger on a new bike and I am pretty torn on what to go with. I'm 6'2" 220lbs, fit and in shape, ride MX only, local Pro, 25+ A/B speed. I am a weekend warrior these days and I struggle with arm pump some since I really only ride 2 times a month. Last year I rode a 2014 YZ450F briefly and although it felt a little big, it was fast and the forks were very supple. I recently rode a 2016 KX450F and liked it pretty well. That was the first air fork I didn't hate. Last month I spent 2 days on a 2017 KTM 450SX-F and fell in love. I was really blown away with how well the bike suited me and even without setting the sag or changing fork air pressure, I was immediately 99% happy with it. It just did everything right and felt so light and fast. At my height and weight, I am pretty sensitive to suspension and I need a good bit of power. The KTM just surprised me. The #1 thing I want in a bike is great forks. So now I have a dilemma on my hands! I was planning on spending $6,000 on a 2016 KX450F or YZ450F, but that KTM might have converted me. I can't find a 2017 KTM 450 near me for less than $9,000 though. I just for the life of me cannot decide if the KTM is really going to be worth a 1/3 more money for me. My heart tells me to buy a 2016 YZ450F and send the suspension off to FC or Enzo and call it a day, but I did like the ergos on the '16 Kawi and that '17 KTM was super impressive. Literally can't make up my mind. Wish I had all 3 back to back to ride on the same track...

mxjon454 wrote:
Besides that 9000 price tags ktms still go through parts like crazy and those aint cheap either. As good as ktm is, they still dont have...
Besides that 9000 price tags ktms still go through parts like crazy and those aint cheap either. As good as ktm is, they still dont have the same quality as a jap bike. Just my opinion.
Does your opinion come from experience? I did think the same thing in early 2000's but they have changed a lot. As for quality of manufacture the ktm wins easily. Jap bikes are like coke bottles, while they are perfect everytime they are nothing special. Ktm are like a showpiece, machined finishes and attention to detail.
fullysicmate 5/12/2017 11:29pm
5/12/2017 11:29pm Edited Date/Time 5/12/2017 11:31pm
twotwosix wrote:
I am about to pull the trigger on a new bike and I am pretty torn on what to go with. I'm 6'2" 220lbs, fit and...
I am about to pull the trigger on a new bike and I am pretty torn on what to go with. I'm 6'2" 220lbs, fit and in shape, ride MX only, local Pro, 25+ A/B speed. I am a weekend warrior these days and I struggle with arm pump some since I really only ride 2 times a month. Last year I rode a 2014 YZ450F briefly and although it felt a little big, it was fast and the forks were very supple. I recently rode a 2016 KX450F and liked it pretty well. That was the first air fork I didn't hate. Last month I spent 2 days on a 2017 KTM 450SX-F and fell in love. I was really blown away with how well the bike suited me and even without setting the sag or changing fork air pressure, I was immediately 99% happy with it. It just did everything right and felt so light and fast. At my height and weight, I am pretty sensitive to suspension and I need a good bit of power. The KTM just surprised me. The #1 thing I want in a bike is great forks. So now I have a dilemma on my hands! I was planning on spending $6,000 on a 2016 KX450F or YZ450F, but that KTM might have converted me. I can't find a 2017 KTM 450 near me for less than $9,000 though. I just for the life of me cannot decide if the KTM is really going to be worth a 1/3 more money for me. My heart tells me to buy a 2016 YZ450F and send the suspension off to FC or Enzo and call it a day, but I did like the ergos on the '16 Kawi and that '17 KTM was super impressive. Literally can't make up my mind. Wish I had all 3 back to back to ride on the same track...

mxjon454 wrote:
Besides that 9000 price tags ktms still go through parts like crazy and those aint cheap either. As good as ktm is, they still dont have...
Besides that 9000 price tags ktms still go through parts like crazy and those aint cheap either. As good as ktm is, they still dont have the same quality as a jap bike. Just my opinion.
Which parts do they go through like crazy? I have 50hrs on mine and I've only changed oil, air filters and tyres. I bought spare levers, they cost the same as yamaha spare levers?
DimitrieSep 5/13/2017 1:17am
5/13/2017 1:17am
The ktm will throw a lot of wrenches at ya if you buy one.. buy a Jap
motoXracer971
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motoXracer971 5/13/2017 7:17am
5/13/2017 7:17am
I've always been partial to Honda or Yamaha, and had a few Suzukis in the past too. I bought my '16 KTM 450 new and outside of tires/sprockets/chain/grips I've not had to replace anything due to wear. I ride at least once a week, sometimes more. The ONLY complaints I have are the stock 4CS forks ('17s are AERs so no issue for you) & the stock spokes in the rear (think that was fixed for '17 too). I scoffed at the price initially but I'm sold on KTM/Husky on the next go around too. Quality bikes IMO

+ E-Start is cool...and the hydraulic clutch is nice

nascarnate326 5/13/2017 8:49am
5/13/2017 8:49am
I just got a KX250F. Lowered the footpegs and moved the bars to the forward holes...made a massive difference. Cant believe more manufactures don't include this on their bikes. FYI I am 6'4'' 210. This is one of the features that sold me on a Kawi.
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centralcalmx 5/13/2017 10:58am
5/13/2017 10:58am
I'm 6'4" just dumped my 2016 KX450f in favor of the 2017 Honda.
Zero fit issues for me on thT new bike.
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chrisgg90 5/14/2017 7:43am
5/14/2017 7:43am
I'm 6'2 and have a 2016 Kawa 450. I bought the bike purely for the ergonomics of it. I have rode KTM since 04 but felt they were just becoming a little cramped for me as I move around the bike a lot when riding. The kawa is a great fit for me with the pegs in lower position I still run standard bars and bar mounts in the rear position. I had to change to spring forks as they felt harsh on small bumps but blew through the stroke on hard landings bottoming out. I do love the bike, but miss my KTM's. I noticed the KTM seems a little taller this year ? How did you find the ktm fit when riding being 6'2 my biggest issue is the transition from sitting to standing as my legs feel really bent at the knee on the ktm compared to the Kawasaki.
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mxb2 5/14/2017 7:54am
5/14/2017 7:54am
centralcalmx wrote:
I'm 6'4" just dumped my 2016 KX450f in favor of the 2017 Honda.
Zero fit issues for me on thT new bike.
What bike you like. Better?

Pit Row

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JBecker 72
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JBecker 72 5/14/2017 8:27am
5/14/2017 8:27am
6'1" 180 Vet B rider and I recently got a 16 KX450F and am very happy with it. My main reasons for buying it were the good ergos, low weight, and excellent handling. Very happy with my purchase so far. I moved the pegs down and the bar mounts forward, but running the clamps reversed. Pretty impressed with the forks so far, and my other bike is a 13 YZ250 that's setup for my weight and speed.

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Paul333 5/14/2017 11:45am
5/14/2017 11:45am
I have never ridden a YZ450F but at 6' 0" I can tell you the KX450F's are damn tall. Move the pegs to the lower position and bars to the forward and I seriously doubt you will feel cramped. I actually thought mine was too tall so I installed a Pro Circuit linkage and slid the forks up in the clamps to level it out. I also shaved my seat down 1/2".

A 6' 0" rider should not have to tip toe on one foot on the starting gate.

My 2015.5 KTM was better but not by much.
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phatfi20 5/16/2017 7:06am
5/16/2017 7:06am
I personally like the fastway evolution III footpegs. I think they are the only ones on the market where you can lower the pegs a half inch back and half inch down. You can also move the bars forward on the Yamaha. Lowered pegs are keyfor comfort if you are taller. Lowers center of gravity also.
centralcalmx
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centralcalmx 5/16/2017 7:26am
5/16/2017 7:26am
centralcalmx wrote:
I'm 6'4" just dumped my 2016 KX450f in favor of the 2017 Honda.
Zero fit issues for me on thT new bike.
mxb2 wrote:
What bike you like. Better?
While I did not dislike much about the Kawi I feel the Honda just does everything a bit better.
The Cornering is much better and I had changed clamps etc on the 16 Kawi.
The mid range pull on the Honda is great.
i am really not a brand loyalist so I will be open to something new in 19.
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mxb2 5/16/2017 7:32am
5/16/2017 7:32am
centralcalmx wrote:
I'm 6'4" just dumped my 2016 KX450f in favor of the 2017 Honda.
Zero fit issues for me on thT new bike.
mxb2 wrote:
What bike you like. Better?
centralcalmx wrote:
While I did not dislike much about the Kawi I feel the Honda just does everything a bit better. The Cornering is much better and I...
While I did not dislike much about the Kawi I feel the Honda just does everything a bit better.
The Cornering is much better and I had changed clamps etc on the 16 Kawi.
The mid range pull on the Honda is great.
i am really not a brand loyalist so I will be open to something new in 19.
Good info, thanks
centralcalmx
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centralcalmx 5/16/2017 7:33am
5/16/2017 7:33am Edited Date/Time 5/16/2017 7:34am
I ran the protaper platforms with low cleats



z

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twotwosix 5/16/2017 8:19am
5/16/2017 8:19am
I found some good deals here locally after being patient. Still can't quite pull the trigger though. Found a 2017 KX450F with an FMF 4.1 system and 22 hours on it for $5,400 and a 2016.5 450SXF FE for $7,600 with 11 hours on it... I'm going to bum a couple more rides on some buddies bikes next weekend to hopefully make up my mind.
twotwosix
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twotwosix 5/16/2017 8:20am
5/16/2017 8:20am
centralcalmx wrote:
I ran the protaper platforms with low cleats z[img]https://p.vitalmx.com/photos/forums/2017/05/16/195555/s1200_IMG_9498.jpg[/img]
I ran the protaper platforms with low cleats



z

What offset clamps are you running? 16 or 17? 2017 has a different linkage stock...
twotwosix
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twotwosix 5/16/2017 8:23am
5/16/2017 8:23am
centralcalmx wrote:
I'm 6'4" just dumped my 2016 KX450f in favor of the 2017 Honda.
Zero fit issues for me on thT new bike.
mxb2 wrote:
What bike you like. Better?
centralcalmx wrote:
While I did not dislike much about the Kawi I feel the Honda just does everything a bit better. The Cornering is much better and I...
While I did not dislike much about the Kawi I feel the Honda just does everything a bit better.
The Cornering is much better and I had changed clamps etc on the 16 Kawi.
The mid range pull on the Honda is great.
i am really not a brand loyalist so I will be open to something new in 19.
I like the 2017 Honda. Rode it for like 5 laps real quick earlier this spring, but I liked the KTM better for 7-8 grand.
centralcalmx
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centralcalmx 5/16/2017 4:58pm
5/16/2017 4:58pm
centralcalmx wrote:
I ran the protaper platforms with low cleats z[img]https://p.vitalmx.com/photos/forums/2017/05/16/195555/s1200_IMG_9498.jpg[/img]
I ran the protaper platforms with low cleats



z

twotwosix wrote:
What offset clamps are you running? 16 or 17? 2017 has a different linkage stock...
I put the 17 complete linkage on my 16 so that got updated.
I believe 21mm offset



twotwosix
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twotwosix 6/1/2017 7:42am
6/1/2017 7:42am Edited Date/Time 7/3/2017 1:27pm
I always hate when people never reply with the result of their threads, so here you go lol. Went with a YZ450F. Suspension is going off to Enzo next week and I have an exhaust, bars, sprockets, plastics and graphics on the way. Excited to be back on a blue bike!! Haven't raced one since my old 09 YZ450F.


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