03 KTM LC4 or 08 DR650

[Wannabike]

I took the KTM out for a spin, road only and it was so much fun it should be illegal. Haven’t been able to try the DR yet, just not sure whether to go with a new bike or a five year old bike, they are about the same price.

Bikes intended use would be mostly commuting on road with some gravel / shingle fun at the weekend. I’m used to sport bikes and have never ridden a bike offroad so nothing too gnarly. Any opinions on which would be the better bike, greatly appreciated.

[clint640]

The KTM is a great bike. I'm coming up to 50 000km on mine with no major problems. The only real upgrade from 03 onwards on the LC4 (I assume you mean the Enduro version) was some bigger footpegs in 04. But if they want near new DR650 money that's bordering on too much, the last of the brand new runout 04 LC4 Enduros were being advertised for $11.5K last year.

If you look on advrider.com in the Thumpers forum you will find enough info about the LC4 to make your head explode.

However the DR650 is a pretty good rig too, just a lot lower tech & without the extra grunt & bling suspension of the KTM.

Cheers
Clint

[Wannabike]

Thanks Clint640, the KTM is coming up to 14,000 km's and is being offered for $8500, which is only $500 short of a brand new DR650. I like the look of the KTM, but think the price is a bit steep. Decisions, decisions.

[cooneyr]

Isnt there something about a high flow head being on the 03 and later as well Clint/Warewolf?

Given your intended use the DR650 would be more than OK. If your at all on the bigger side (I'm 110kg and 6'2") you will want to have a good look at the suspension though it is probably true of both bikes.

The DR doesnt have the bling (read power and more modern tech) of the KTM but with with suspension mods there ain't many places you cant go at very close to KTM pace (unless it gets pretty rough). Other things that may or may not be necessary given how you want to ride it are a bigger tank (easy to get from the states for about $360) and a seat upgrade. There is heaps more you can do the DR's as well. Check out Nordieboys thread (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=39743)

Cheers R

[Wannabike]

This KTM has the high flow head.

Weight shouldn't be a problem, I'm about 75kg dry, I am a short arse though, 5'7". Found the KTM was fine heightwise and I believe you can lower the DR, if that was too high. Guess I need to try a ride on a DR.

[cooneyr]

This KTM has the high flow head.

Weight shouldn't be a problem, I'm about 75kg dry, I am a short arse though, 5'7". Found the KTM was fine heightwise and I believe you can lower the DR, if that was too high. Guess I need to try a ride on a DR.

If you can handle a KTM for height then a DR should be no problem. I'm pretty sure the standard height DR is lower than the the 640's. The DR can be lowered using the factory built in features. Shock is piece of cake to put in lower position, forks need to be disassembled but the likes of Dirt Action Service on Saxon Street (DAS) can do it pretty quickly.

I'd give you a spin on my DR but it is currently at DAS getting 3rd gears replaced (some of them have developed a whine but current thinking is that it is an assembly problem not a design flaw - will know more in couple of weeks) and a new shock spring and revalve.

If the KTM is in good nick (better be for that price) and your even half keen on one then given your weight I'd go the KTM. You wont have to play with the suspension on the KTM where as the DR will be OK but never quite as good (in more ways than the suspension).

Cheers R

[clint640]

This KTM has the high flow head.

Weight shouldn't be a problem, I'm about 75kg dry, I am a short arse though, 5'7". Found the KTM was fine heightwise and I believe you can lower the DR, if that was too high. Guess I need to try a ride on a DR.

The KTM is set up for a 70kg rider, I'm around 75 like you & with a 1 or 2 clicks stiffer all round the suspension is great.

Definitely go for a test ride on a DR, you might like the lower seat & smoother motor, but the moment you start thinking: 'Well, if I just upgraded the suspension, & put a better pipe on it for some more power, & maybe one of those digital dash thingys & some stronger handlebars...' give yourself a slap & go buy the KTM :-) (beat 'em down on the price a bit though!)

Cheers
Clint

[twotyred]

Thanks Clint640, the KTM is coming up to 14,000 km's and is being offered for $8500, which is only $500 short of a brand new DR650. I like the look of the KTM, but think the price is a bit steep. Decisions, decisions.

Some shops still have the DR at summerfest price of $7995... there are three shops on trademe listing at that price

[PLUG]

sounds like it could be Lemans's old KTM you are looking at ... PM him & check out if it is ... he will be able to fill you in on it's history ...

[Crisis management]

Wot Clint said.......
I looked at swapping my DR for an LC4 and only decided not to as I wanted to put the money into an off road bike. Apart from the vibrations, the KTM is far superior all round and I would certainly buy one given a fresh start at adventure riding.

However, you need to decide that for yourself, so go ride a few bikes!

PS. I would expect to pay $7500 for that year LC4, given my research of a couple of months ago.

[far queue]

Weight shouldn't be a problem, I'm about 75kg dry, I am a short arse though, 5'7" ... I believe you can lower the DR, if that was too high.You're the same weight and height as me. My DR is still at the stock height and I haven't bought any aftermarket bits for the suspension. Although when I 1st got it I found the suspension to be all soft and bouncy, so took it in to Dirt Action who adjusted the rear end correctly for me, and also fitted some spacers to the front end to stiffen it up a bit - it was MUCH better. The stock suspension was fine for sealed and gravel roads, but wasn't up to the rough stuff at pace until after the adjustments. We're coming up to 5 years together now and I'm still very happy with it.

I haven't ridden a KTM so couldn't comment on how they perform.

[Wannabike]

Thanks for the advice guys, food for thought.

[pampa]

Wot Clint said.......
I looked at swapping my DR for an LC4 and only decided not to as I wanted to put the money into an off road bike. Apart from the vibrations, the KTM is far superior all round and I would certainly buy one given a fresh start at adventure riding.

However, you need to decide that for yourself, so go ride a few bikes!

PS. I would expect to pay $7500 for that year LC4, given my research of a couple of months ago.

Hi, what were your sources? I've been looking and can only see a couple in Tardme both dealer, one for 8.5k '02 and another 10.5k '03. It doesn't look all that cheap to me (well 02 would be ok). They're a bit scarce as well not many on the market at a given time.

Thanks

[AllanB]

There is nothing like the smell of a new bike :hug:

[Crisis management]

Hi, what were your sources? I've been looking and can only see a couple in Tardme both dealer, one for 8.5k '02 and another 10.5k '03. It doesn't look all that cheap to me (well 02 would be ok). They're a bit scarce as well not many on the market at a given time.

Thanks

Private sellers; I prefer not to use dealers unless backed into a corner, surrounded by rabid sheep and someone else is paying.
The one I was considering was $7,500, 04 model with 25,000 km.

Keep looking is the answer!

[pampa]

Private sellers; I prefer not to use dealers unless backed into a corner, surrounded by rabid sheep and someone else is paying.
The one I was considering was $7,500, 04 model with 25,000 km.

Keep looking is the answer!

I agree with your description of using a dealer, just mentioned those cause were the only ones I've seen in a while and every body says in the forums that kt are cheaper than that ... but well u r right waiting is the answer :crybaby:

[nerdneh]

Thanks for the advice guys, food for thought.Check out my ad on the online trade thread,& if you require more info txt or contact me on 0272 486511. Or check P6 of DR650 owners thread on this site.