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Hi Guys, was thinking of getting a KTM150 as my main smoker and my RM for special occasions
I was looking at spending 2500-3000k on a used one which will get me a 2012-2014/15 model
I’ve been racing mx for 20 years so know what to look for in a used bike
Just wondering from a techicnal point of view what year to go for and what issues/updates the 150’s has over the years
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12 or 13. CC forks, linkage shock. 13 has the updated fender.
Very good bikes, just make sure the throttle cable is the update screw in, and check the subframe where the plastic touches. The airbox will rub right through the subframe with high hours
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Agreed get a 2016 + The chasis and engine is much better then the 2015.
You can find one for $3,000. Just keep your eyes out.
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Thanks for the advice, I’m about 85kg and almost in the 40+ class so the 150 will have that bit of extra power over the 125
Seems like a 16+ is the one to go for, I’ll have to keep my eyes peeled and see if one comes up
Was there a major suspension upgrade during the life of this bike??
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I think the new generation (16+) chassis is much more agile and has better front end traction but the older generation (12-15) has it's benefits also.
Older motor design is more durable (newer ones have had issues with gearbox and exhaust valve) and the motor uses different bore and stroke on the 150 SX which allows the motor to rev further than the new design which uses only larger bore on the 150. Older generation uses also Keihin PWK AS carb which is much better carb than the current Mikuni in my opinion.
On the minus side older generation KTM's (12-15) has tendency to swap rear end with stock linkage. Pro Circuit linkage makes the rear end feel much more planted and is good investment for these bikes.
Also with high hour bikes you want to check swingarm side to side movement and motor mounting points clearance. If there is any extra clearance add shims between the motor mounts and swingarm pivot point. If the bike vibrates excessively the problem is usually caused by the loose engine mounts.
https://www.vitalmx.com/forums/Moto-Related,20/Shimming-the-KTM-Swingarm,1315052?exclusive_forum_user=false&page=2
https://www.vitalmx.com/forums/Tech-Help-Race-Shop,42/KTM-125-Engine-Bolts-Loose,1335375
Here is a link to my 2013 150SX build:
https://www.vitalmx.com/forums/Bike-Builds,46/2013-KTM-150-SX-resurrection,1335004
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2016 has 4cs fork and 2017 + has AER air fork.
2016 has the better carb. A lot of people with 17, 18 switch to the 16 carb or a Lectron. I have a 2016 with JD Jet kit and it’s runs amazing!
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