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Hello gang and FM family. I need input on KTMs. Last Fall I sold my 2006 KTM 450 EXC. I'm not very smart, at times, but I was at a point where I thought off-roading riding, not to mention Hare Scrambles, was no longer in my future. Gibber wisely advised me to NOT sell it. Of course, I didn't listen to him and now I'm kicking myself. Well, I think I'm back into it and so I've been hard on the search for another great condition, older 450 or 530 EXC. I know there will be a bunch of you out there recommending I go to a 2-stroke. That's not completely out of the question and I have been offered to try one out for a lap around Milford this weekend. However, I'm probably going to stick with a big 4-stroke. I like them and it's all I've ever ridden. That EXC was my first KTM, however, and I'm still not completely keyed in to all the makes and nomenclature regarding the different models. Help needed.

In my search I came across a very nice looking, low mileage, well maintained, good price 06 450 XC model. Besides the lights and speedo instrument on the EXC model, I'm wondering how different I may find the XC to be from my EXC. I have read everything I can find online regarding the differences between the XC, XC-W and EXC models. I believe I understand that the XC has a close-ratio transmission (still 6 speed, though) compared to the wide on XC-W and EXC. The XC has a shorter stroke/wider bore. Also, I'm reading about the suspension being stiffer on the XC model. I think the main concern for me might be...is the suspension adjustable enough to soak up the roots and rocks? I really had the EXC set well for this. Remember, I'm not that fast and a more plush suspension is good for me.

http://www.moto123.com/motorcycles-spec ... year2=2006

Please provide your input and opinions regarding a comparison of the XC and EXC models.

I appreciate it and I'll see you at the entrance gate to Milford in a few days. Sounds like I should bring my rain gear.
Chad

Chad,

It is good to see you back in the mix. I plan to be at Milford Saturday working on fence then racing Sunday. I only hope it is not a mud fest.

I don't know much about those bigger bikes or even KTMs older than 2009 but I thought that the XC was supposed to be the compromise between the SX (Motocross) and the XC-W (Woods). I do believe you are right on the transmission. It would seem to me with a little tweaking you could easily make the XC perform just fine in the woods.

Now about that 2 stroke thing! I know why you like the big 4 stroke. You can lug it like a tractor then hit the gas and have all the power you need. You don't have to shift much because of that.

You really should at least think about a 300 XC-W 2 stroke. Those of us who ride them fondly refer to them as a 3-Stroke. The 300 is a 2-Stroke that performs like a 4-Stroke. You can lug it all day long, tractor up or thru just about anything then get on the pipe and hope you can hang on. The 300 is lighter than the big 4-Strokes, easier to maintain and cheaper to fix. The XC and XC-W have electric start (which is not the most reliable but there are fixes for that) and the W is perfect for the woods. The XC is good too but the open chamber front suspension on the W tends to be considerably more plush.

I know there are a few of them out there for sale and if you wanted to ride my 300 Saturday you are welcome. Just keep in mind, once you do you may very likely be hooked!

Last I knew Brian Schendt had a nice one for sale. Not sure if he still does but I can find out if you're interested.

See you this weekend.

Gibber,
Thanks for the input and offer to try out the 300. Dan talked to me last weekend and shared some of the same advice about the 300. Between you and him I now have two offers to give it a try this weekend. I'll have to take you guys up on that...after you race. You nailed it about the big 4-strokes and what I like. Tractors and powerful. Sounds like the 300xc-w would be a good fit, as well.

And from now on, I'll listen a little more closely to your advice. Dang, does that 700 club have any idea what a wise, profit-like kind of guy they'll be competing against this year!?
Chad

Chad, you are far too kind. I fully expect to get my clock completely cleaned. But I promise I will not be making it easy!

If you like the power of a 4 stroke stick with it. Gibbs hates 4-strokes, they keep passing him. I wouldn't compare my bike to a tractor. Tractors are slow.