Discussions and Questions The - Page 83
Is the KTM 250 XC-F worth the high maintenance costs?
15 January 2025 08:01
The costs of maintenance are overstated. It’s not much more than a Japanese bike if you follow the manual.
Why does the KTM 250 XC-F have cold start issues?
15 January 2025 08:01
In really cold climates, the problem is worse. If you live in a place where it’s warm, you probably won’t notice.
Which one is the better all-rounder, the XC F or the EXC F?
15 January 2025 08:01
EXC-F is the clear winner. It’s already set up for varied terrain, and you can still race it if you like.
How does the KTM 250 XC-F measure up against Japanese competitors?
15 January 2025 08:01
Average riders can benefit from Japanese bikes being a more forgiving setup. Skill is rewarded, and mistakes are punished, on the KTM.
Is the KTM 250 XC F too much bike for a beginner?
15 January 2025 08:01
It's overkill for a beginner. It is a poor choice for someone just starting out because of the cost and maintenance alone.
Is the KTM 890 Adventure’s stock seat comfortable enough for long-distance touring?
15 January 2025 07:42
The stock seat locks you into one position, and that shape of the seat is not comfortable over time. A lot of help comes from an aftermarket seat with a flatter profile.
What is the KTM 890 Adventure like when ridden two-up with a passenger and luggage?
15 January 2025 07:42
All of this is managing expectations. If you are used to a Gold Wing, you will be disappointed. With a passenger, however, it does just fine compared to other middleweight ADV bikes.
Is all that extra cost worth it for the KTM 890 Adventure R over the standard model for mostly street riding?
15 January 2025 07:42
It’s worth the R just for the looks. Plus, you never know what kind of terrain you may want to tackle. It is better to have the capability and not need it than to need it and not have it.
Where does the KTM 890 Adventure sit in terms of reliability compared to Japanese alternatives such as the Yamaha Tenere 700?
15 January 2025 07:42
The T7 is undoubtedly more bulletproof. My Tenere hasn't skipped a beat, while my buddy's 890 is on its second trip to the shop for electrical gremlins.
Do the KTM 890 Adventure's high-tech electronics improve or hinder the ride?
15 January 2025 07:42
The ABS and traction control have gotten me out of more than one situation. It definitely makes riding the bike more confident to push the limits of the bike.
Will the decision to cancel the KTM 490 Adventure push more riders toward the 390 or 790?
15 January 2025 07:35
Honda’s 500 range or Kawasaki’s 650 adventure bikes might be snatched away from some of KTM’s customers. They seriously needed something in that middle segment.
If the KTM 490 Adventure was released, how much would you be willing to pay for it?
15 January 2025 07:35
Not more than $7,000. But at the end of the day, it’s still just a middleweight bike. There was anything more, and you're in 650cc territory from other brands.
What would you want to see on the KTM 490 Adventure to make it unique?
15 January 2025 07:35
I would really like to see a more sophisticated traction control system that still allows you to go as hard as possible off-road but does not interfere too much.
Is the KTM 490 Adventure a dead duck?
15 January 2025 07:35
Honestly, I'm not surprised. The 790 is not much more expensive, and the 390 Adventure is already a capable bike. Otherwise, the 490 would have been caught in this strange no man's land.
How would the KTM 490 Adventure compare to the Honda CB500X?
15 January 2025 07:35
If I were going to tour, the CB500X would probably be better, but if I wanted to navigate technical bits and pieces, the KTM would do the job better. Depends on your riding style.
What does the lower seat height of the KTM 390 Adventure X do to its off-road capability?
15 January 2025 07:02
It has a lower seat height that is very good for building confidence off-road, especially for beginners. If you need more clearance, you can always add a taller seat later.
Is the KTM 390 Adventure X a better daily commuter than naked street bikes in the same price range?
15 January 2025 07:02
It’s the perfect commuter for me. It's comfortable, can take any road condition, and I don't worry about scraping the bottom on steep driveways or speed bumps.
Does the KTM 390 Adventure X make the trade-offs worth it when compared to the standard model?
15 January 2025 07:02
Not worth it in my opinion. Cornering ABS and traction control are those safety features that really could save your bacon if you’re not the most experienced of riders. It would be more than worth it to pay extra for peace of mind.
How does the KTM 390 Adventure X fair as a long distance tourer in comparison to its competitors?
15 January 2025 07:02
I’ve toured on both the X and the standard 390 Adventure. The X is honestly what I prefer for long trips. The money saved can go towards good luggage, and the simpler dash is less distracting.
Is the lack of electronic aids on the KTM 390 Adventure X better for new riders to learn on?
15 January 2025 07:02
Absolutely! Without TC and cornering ABS, you learn to develop a better feel for the bike's limits. It’s the difference between learning to drive a manual or an automatic.
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