KTM 525EXC

[XTreme]

HERE! (http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/Article_Page.aspx?ArticleID=361)

[Shagger]

I have a ’03 525EXC the test is basically accurate except that the bike isn’t a super effective race weapon. I have modified suspension that work a whole lot better than stock and never rode the bike before jetting it to specs that my friends said were mandatory. I also installed a bash plate right out of the dealership.

The major saving grace here is the button. The CR450s I have ridden work better in every way except starting. The big Katoom even kick starts easier than the Honda. But why the fuck would you that when you can hit the button and roost before you even come to a stop in most flameout situations. I can across a boat load of spares so I’ll probably hang on to my Kaboom for a while but I may get a CR450 for racing. I grieves me that rules dictate using a 10hp more powerful 450 rather than a 250 two stroke in the same class. 10hp is hard to out ride in a fast event.

The bikes are fun and work great when riding for fun. They just aren't the sharpest tool in the box for racing.