Dirt bike Gods: a question...

[junkmanjoe]

Why should i not buy a 2005 KTM 450EXC.

are there any known issues, or just basic services to be done.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=227075


JMJ

[cave weta]

I am here....

450/525 EXCs are the bomb! things to watch for....
side stands snap like carrots
carb breather tubes need to be re routed to stop water on deep crossings.
they only carry a cupfull of oil so, change every 10 hours - or 5 if racing.
The swingarm will hold water- drill drain holes.
they will over heat in the summer- ride them properly.
lower shock bearing has no lube point- strip and lube every 20 hours.
Chain has to run very loose- do not overtighten
Enjoy the best bike on the planet for exploring, cross country, enduro!

[browny]

they are nice bikes. brilliant suspension and brakes

[junkmanjoe]

if it happens it wont be used for flat out raceing but more bush trails, , beach trail exploring,,and the odd jump if im keen...:facepalm:

JMJ

[Ocean1]

450/525 EXCs are the bomb! things to watch for....
side stands snap like carrots... Check
carb breather tubes need to be re routed to stop water on deep crossings.... Check, since replaced them all too
they only carry a cupfull of oil so, change every 10 hours - or 5 if racing.... Check, oil cooler in the pipeline too
The swingarm will hold water- drill drain holes.... OK, good to know
they will over heat in the summer- ride them properly.... Or, if you're not capable then get a fan kit :yes:
lower shock bearing has no lube point- strip and lube every 20 hours.... Does now
Chain has to run very loose- do not overtighten... Check
Enjoy the best bike on the planet for exploring, cross country, enduro!

Certainly a damn sight better than it's pilot.

[cave weta]

Certainly a damn sight better than it's pilot.

I loves my EXC!
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[Ocean1]

I loves my EXC!

I was refering to mine. :yes: It's only fault seems to be doing what I tell it to.

What do you think of the 530s dude? Seems to be quite a few detail changes, is there substantial differences?

[cave weta]

I was refering to mine. :yes: It's only fault seems to be doing what I tell it to.

What do you think of the 530s dude? Seems to be quite a few detail changes, is there substantial differences?

The side stands dont snap when you use them!
slightly better waterproofing of the seat to air box join
that is all I see

[junkmanjoe]

where dose the stand snap, is this an area that should be looked in to before it goes bush...

are the older motors ok, i also have a 625, and a big fat 950.. just want a small bike to go hurt my self on...

JMJ

[Ocean1]

where dose the stand snap, is this an area that should be looked in to before it goes bush...JMJ

They break at the base of the single-sided "clevis". Can't think of a better description. I couldn't think of a reinforcing technique that might help either, prob just be careful and keep an eye on it.

I made what amounts to a copy of the original in stainless. It won't break but you can see where the load will bend it if I'm not careful where I park. :third:
A better system would have a full clevis like every other bike ever built.

are the older motors ok, i also have a 625, and a big fat 950.. just want a small bike to go hurt my self on...

JMJ

Haven't had mine apart beyond the outer cases and barrel, the pistons have a nice deep skirt and they're supposed to be pretty bulletproof downstairs.

If the water pump hasn't been done yet you'll need to pull the cam cover to change it but it's no big deal and the kit's an upgrade so you won't need to next time.

Edit: mine uses about 100cc of oil every tankfull of gas, (13L). Doesn't worry me and I believe that's not unusual for 'em.

[Katoomer]

I've broken a few of the pre 07 stands too. Be careful parking the bike .If the stand sinks in and the bike goes over it puts alot of leverage on the pivot.