Help Rot Box pick a different bike.

[Rot Box]

Hey fellas, I think I’m going to part ways with the 2008 KLX450R today if this guy doesn’t back out. Been a really good bike for my needs but I’m just ready for a change.

What should I get next?? I’m not covering long distances anymore but I am still getting out quite a bit. I’ve slowed down a lot in my age too haha. Really thinking a 300 2T would make me happy? Been a long time since I had a 2T!

Needs? ~60 miles range on fuel. Electric start on a 4T, Street legal, Probably take it on the annual dunes trip. Lots of single, two track, open desert and fire roads. Chasing the younger generation around too. I enjoy a variety of everything and a 450 does a good job of that but the weight is getting to me a little.

I like weird/unusual bikes (My favorite ones have been ATK’s) but I’m not sure I want to get into something that’s dated and hard to get parts for. I don’t know that I need a bike that costs more than about $4k either and I’m happy to pick one up that needs a little love. Not brand loyal but KTM has bit me hard twice in the past—gasp! Haha

So far I’ve looked closely at the TM, Beta and Sherco 300’s but they’re a little out of my price range. Thought about converting a YZ250 to fit my needs but it would take a some moneys and I don’t know what I’d do about a headlight…

Watcha think? Ideas would be appreciated 😎

Andrew

 

[Gravy]

So, no bike will give you 60 miles without a desert tank. Especially a 300.
If I want to do some road miles a 2 stroke isn't really it. However, if you only want a plate for a quick jaunt, then I firmly believe a 300 is the best all around bike. Strange to say it but if I only raced, I'd be on a 350, but since I also have to maintain ($$) a bike I put 100+ hrs on a year and enjoy riding everything -I've been on a 300 since 2014.

If you want lights, narrow your search to a KTM 300 XCW or a Husqvarna TE300. My preference being the Husky since I like linkage much more than PDS.

Bikes are so much better than they used to be, and fuel injection is an absolute game changer. I do think $5500 is probably a more realistic budget since you'll want post 2017 for the counter balanced motor and post 2019 if you'd like fuel injection (on a 300).

 

[Rot Box]

Thanks! So road miles would be few and far between mostly just connecting trails and such. Ok with a desert tank too as long as it’s not a giant ball buster like the one I had on my 20 Husqvarna haha.


I may need to up my budget 🤔

 

[Tonkaman]

I agree with Stratton, I think the 350 is the ultimate all around bike. The single biggest negative being maintenance of a 4 stroke, especially a used one.

I’ve been heavily contemplating selling my bike, so I can find my kids next bike. It fits some of your criteria. It’s a 2016 Beta Xtrainer 300 registered as street legal. Heavily modified, low hours.

good: in your budget, unique bike, street legal, cheap to maintain, nimble as a bulky goat.

Cons: the steep steering angle and short wheelbase make it a bit too nimble in the sand or at top of 6th. Obviously not great at pavement but great for connecting trails.