Any quick comments on the KTM 520 EXC before I buy?

[Macstar]

Hey ya'll

There's not much info on the internet or in KB on the KTM 520 Exc (early 2000s). I'm pretty serious about picking one up tomorrow and was wondering if anyone may be able to give their 2 cents on any common positives and negatives of the bike. In particular, if they require more maintanence than other 4 stroke singles and if parts are reasonably priced. Cheers.

[clint640]

The RFS KTMs are probably among the most reliable of the high revving MX & Enduro 4 strokes. Maintenance will have to be fairly frequent, oil changes every 1500km or so I would expect, but that applies to all similar gear.

I've found KTM parts to be pretty good, they're often cheaper than the equivalent bit on a jappa.

Cheers
Clint

[Oscar]

I'm with CLint.
Any modern 4 stroke MX/Enduro bike will require frequent TLC.
The thing with KTM's is you get quality stuff on them.
Unlike the Jap equivalents there is no need to buy aftermarket shocks, mufflers, handlebars or stuff like that.

[rogson]

As above - maintain it and it will be fine.

My only reservation would be lack of a cush drive if its going to be getting a lot of use on the seal. However, I'm sure you could get one (i.e. a rear wheel with one) for it.

[Macstar]

Cheers fellas, It's a super deal @ $4k but after speaking to a KTM mechanic the bike is probably ready for its first engine overhaul which could cost up to 2K. And yeah a rear rim and tyre and suddenly my awesome deal has hit $7k...

Damn it!!!! I think I'll have to pass this on this one as the pennies won't stretch that far.

[Macstar]

There's a 2000 Dr350 for sale in Akl (also approx 4K) but you can't really compare the two bikes together (KTM 520 and DR350).

Ah, the highs and lows of buying a bike eh?!

[buggsubique]

There's an 06 dr-z 400 on Trade Meh for $5k. Off road only though, but would be a steal at that price if it is as mint as it looks. http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=121006560

[warewolf]

Cheers fellas, It's a super deal @ $4k but after speaking to a KTM mechanic the bike is probably ready for its first engine overhaul which could cost up to 2K. And yeah a rear rim and tyre and suddenly my awesome deal has hit $7k...That's where the LC4 is better, it is a less-stressed trail bike engine and has the cush drive. But still has all the usual KTM fruit in the chassis and running gear.

Dunno that I'd stress about the cush-drive hub. In fact if it were me, I'd grab it and later get some motard 17" wheels for frequent road use.

KTMTalk.com (http://ktmtalk.com/) is a great resource.

[warewolf]

the bike is probably ready for its first engine overhaul which could cost up to 2K.Which is another reason I went 2T for my performance bike.