Do motards qualify for the dirt forum?

[Ducky_Fresh]

Cause I just saw this and it got me thinking...

http://adcache.cycletrader.com/5/8/0/40538580.htm

I want that lil beast!

- Everett

[JoeBar]

Originally posted by Ducky_Fresh
Do motards qualify for the dirt forum?
Yup!

Originally posted by Ducky_Fresh
Cause I just saw this and it got me thinking...

http://adcache.cycletrader.com/5/8/0/40538580.htm

I want that lil beast!

- Everett
Carefull. $3K for a 125 is not cheap! I hope you weight less than 160 lbs... ;)

[Butch]

geez. 125? I guess it could put out thirty hp at a million rpm.
But hey, put nobs on it and get dirty!

[ro-monster]

I like the Subcategory: Sportbike bit. :laughing

Motorrad! MZ makes some cool stuff!

It really isn't cheap though; MSRP on those things is $3195. But I still want one too! I'd love to have a little motard that was so tiny I could treat it as a toy. Besides, I could get to work on a thimbleful of gas.

And now I'm afraid the apocalypse is at hand -- Ducky and I actually like the same bike.

[Max Smiley]

somebody suggest a sweet little 4-stroker that I can moto-ize and plate for the street. height challenged here so them big bikes just don't cut it but a 50 is just too small to dice in traffic with.

[sworde21]

Carefull. $3K for a 125 is not cheap! I hope you weight less than 160 lbs... ;) [/B][/QUOTE]

I payed over 5g's for my 125 did i get ripped?

[JoeBar]

Originally posted by sworde21
Carefull. $3K for a 125 is not cheap! I hope you weight less than 160 lbs... ;)
I payed over 5g's for my 125 did i get ripped?
Can't compare, yours is a 2-smokes... The MZ SM is a 125cc 4 strokes and delivers less than 13 HP.

Check it out:
http://www.motorradna.com/MODEL-125SMINFO.HTM

Fun article on 2WF on the MZ
http://www.2wf.com/articles/bike_tests/E5392DA9-0AB9-4211-B03C-6EDC3B1976E0.asp

http://www.2wf.com/images/upload/IMG_4430.jpg
http://www.2wf.com/images/upload/IMG_4424.jpg
http://www.2wf.com/images/upload/IMG_4427.jpg

[sworde21]

Ohhh I see, shows you how much i know about motards, learn somethin new everday. thanks jobar

[DRZ]

Motards rule! They belong in all forums:thumbup:teeth

[Ducky_Fresh]

Seriously. Motard looks so FUN! But it doesn't look very practical unless you live near twisties.

Taking the freeway on that to get to the Wall would suck ass crack.

But goddamn it'd rail on some of the turns. Wonder if you took it to a trackday would it pass tech?

Oh and Power : Weight ratio is still pretty decent. That bike probably weighs like 175-200#'s and pumps out 13hp? Not so bad. Insurance would be dirt cheap too!

- Everett

[ro-monster]

Originally posted by Ducky_Fresh
Taking the freeway on that to get to the Wall would suck ass crack.
You can't legally ride that bike on the freeway anyhow. It has to be 150 cc or over.

But then, most motards are a lot bigger than that baby one.

[ro-monster]

Originally posted by Max Smiley somebody suggest a sweet little 4-stroker that I can moto-ize and plate for the street. height challenged here so them big bikes just don't cut it but a 50 is just too small to dice in traffic with.
C'mon, Max, if I can ride a bike with a 33" seat height, so can you! There are quite a few bikes out there that are already that low, or can easily be made that way.

Why not get something that's already street legal and ready to go? Like this Black Panther. (http://www.motorradna.com/MODEL-BLACKPANTHER.HTM) Niiiiiice kitty. *purrr*

[DRZ]

Originally posted by ro-monster
C'mon, Max, if I can ride a bike with a 33" seat height, so can you! There are quite a few bikes out there that are already that low, or can easily be made that way.

Why not get something that's already street legal and ready to go? Like this Black Panther. (http://www.motorradna.com/MODEL-BLACKPANTHER.HTM) Niiiiiice kitty. *purrr*


Cool kitty:teeth It even comes in a 2" lower version:thumbup

[Ducky_Fresh]

That's one of the sickest motards I've seen around..

I read JoeBar's post of pix, but are any others motard ready from the showroom floor? Price on that thing isn't really THAT bad, but wonder how MZ's are to repair? :confused

- Everett

[Max Smiley]

thanks for the link ro! me likes :teeth

any other suggestions too? are there light kits for a gas gas? can those be plated ok? I don't know squat about this market.

[astrocreep]

The market for "street" Motards are slim pickins! Mz is new to the U.S. market and the Black Panther uses and old aircooled Yamaha motor. Ultra reliable but a little lacking in power IMHO. There are other choices out there. KTM has a lc4 640 supermoto for the street and is a very good choice! There was one on craigslist used for 4500 bucks if I had the doe I would have picked it up! This bike is more up to date than the MZ. Husky has a street motard also but I've only seen one on the street it was sweet and fast but they are a rare breed.
As far as plating issues in CA if the bike would be an offroad model but it needs to be green sticker reg to get a street license for it after you dump anouter 700 bucks for a lightning coil and lights...Red sticker bikes can not be street registered.
I saw a guy race that lil MZ at my last motard race in mini moto. The bike looks killer and would be perfect for a girl or a teenager.The bike has very little power and would bore you too quickly for the price.
Max I would sugest a KTM supermoto...the seat is low and has very good power and is a real super Motard....

[Max Smiley]

I went to see the LC4 off CL yesterday. just too freaking tall in the saddle. clutch felt soft but cable probably needed adjustment. I'd like one of those easy pull levers too. is the 400 version shorter? I'll stop by scuderia for some info (where the lc4 came from originally too). I know there are factory low seats available or go see that jeanine the seat girl (or use my switchblade :p ). this is just for toolin' around the city really so absolute power not important. but I don't want to get run over in traffic neither!


that SM125 < $2900 sounds ok for city bike! brand new too. if only you can get that deal locally not from FL!

ktms look cool

http://www.stusbikeshed.co.uk/images/ktm_rf.jpg


passing on the outside? :teeth

http://www.stusbikeshed.co.uk/images/outside2.jpg




> so let me get this straight, a green sticker off road bike can be street plated once install a DOT light kit and upgraded stator to run them? that's it? no b.s. about calif emmissions etc.? aren't all the new bikes red sticker now? confusing.

[JoeBar]

Max,

Check these tests out:

LC4
http://www.2wf.com/articles/bike_tests/5A386E4C-48CC-4F84-8F8B-4D199DAE4A07.asp

Duke II
http://www.cycleworld.com/xp6/CycleWorld/tests/1201_qr_ktm_duke_II.xml

Also KTM is launching new SM/street hybrids this year in Europe, starting with the 950 Duke.
http://www.motomag.com/essais/ktm/pho/duk09a03g.jpg
http://www.motomag.com/essais/ktm/pho/duk09a01g.jpg

[JoeBar]

Originally posted by Max Smiley
clutch felt soft but cable probably needed adjustment.

Hehehe... KTM's have hydraulic clutch, easy and no adjustment! ;)


Originally posted by Max Smiley
so let me get this straight, a green sticker off road bike can be street plated once install a DOT light kit and upgraded stator to run them? that's it? no b.s. about calif emmissions etc.? aren't all the new bikes red sticker now? confusing.
No, not all new dirt bikes are red sticker. My 03 KTM EXC is green sticker. Japanese manufacturers chose to sell the race/high performance dirt bikes with high performance carb settings. Result, CRF450F, YZ450F, WR450F,... are red sticker bikes. KTM chose to sell race/high performance dirt bikes with low emission carb settings. Result they get a green sticker but they run lean and badly need to be re-jetted.

FYI, a complete kit including e-line stator, Baja Designs lights etc... can be pretty expensive (up to $1K) and that does not include the new wheels/brakes/tires. Check the Baja Designs Web site: http://www.bajadesigns.com/

[ro-monster]

Originally posted by Max Smiley
I went to see the LC4 off CL yesterday. just too freaking tall in the saddle. clutch felt soft but cable probably needed adjustment. I'd like one of those easy pull levers too. is the 400 version shorter?
:laughing The LC4 that I sat on was just tall enough that I couldn't lift it off the sidestand once I got on -- not enough leverage with one tiptoe down! I didn't wanna try too hard, lest I drop a bike that didn't belong to me. But I'm sure that with a little creativity I could ride it.

I thought they had a regular cable operated clutch though. I've heard that the cables are prone to breaking at inopportune times (not that there's such a thing as an opportune moment for your clutch cable to break).

Here are some other motards I drool over; some of them are a little shorter too.

CCM (http://www.ccm-motorcycles.com) makes some nice bikes. I don't know much about them though. Does anybody have more information?

The Husqvarna (http://www.husqvarnausa.com/index2.html) motards are nice too, especially the 610S, although I've been told it's a rather high-maintenance beastie.

[JoeBar]

I would say go with KTM or Husqy since you have a dealer next to you in Santa Cruz. You can buy a lower seat for the KTM and probably lower the suspension a bit since you are not going to do big jumps and you're pretty light ;) :teeth

[Max Smiley]

are there lowering dogbones for the rear?
if raise the forks they will hit the handlebar & brackets.

I couldn't get it off the sidestand neither, just too tall, and barely on both my tippy tippy toes when the PO held the bike up. this is not ideal at all though off road I can see how you'd want the extra ground clearance.

will think about this more.

[JoeBar]

Originally posted by Max Smiley
are there lowering dogbones for the rear?
if raise the forks they will hit the handlebar & brackets.

Max, you can probably get shorter springs!

:infrandom

[hooliganrider]

this is for all the people that are interested in building or buying
a supermotard.
the European motards are nice but very expensive.
most being 8000. to 15000. and some are not very dependable.
just try and find parts here in the USA, it's a joke.
this is why i chose a Japanese bike.
1 parts
2 very reliable
3 price
if anyone is thinking or is building a motard and needs help or
info.
you can PM or email me.

[Max Smiley]

cool, cool. I will keep looking at bikes and try to learn more. right now there is a quasi-legal plated "99 KTM for $3,5k and a full on street "98 KLR for $3k that sound interesting but I feel too crappy to go out and see them. don't want to rush into this neither. that's about the target budget, unless I sell my RZ. with the market as is bottom feeders won't be offering much :( I should just start using it. :confused

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by Max Smiley
cool, cool. I will keep looking at bikes and try to learn more. right now there is a quasi-legal plated "99 KTM for $3,5k and a full on street "98 KLR for $3k that sound interesting but I feel too crappy to go out and see them. don't want to rush into this neither. that's about the target budget, unless I sell my RZ. with the market as is bottom feeders won't be offering much :( I should just start using it. :confused

Max
yes you do not want to get stuck with a piece of junk. take your
time and shop around.

[hooliganrider]

yesterday i was delivering to a store at 23rd and Geary and a
lady, i say fiftyish came flying down the street on a Suzuki DR
supermotard. i had to look 3 times to make sure i wasn't seeing
things. she was in kind of a rush. but she told me her husband
built it for her. it had 17" white GSXR rims on it.
i just thought it was cool.

[JoeBar]

It's pretty cool to build your own motard but most people do not have the time/knowledge to do that...

What do you guys think is the best ready-to-ride supermotard in the showrooms right now?

[hooliganrider]

other then the KTM. the only right out of the box motard i would
buy is CCM cause it will either have a Rotax or DRZ motor. the
Vertemati is the bike i wanted to get. but 10300. plus tax and
lic. was a little high. plus the people i have chatted with online
that own them, told me they were having alot of trouble getting
parts. so that's the main reason i didn't buy one. all the people
i know that have the Husky 610 said they break down all the
time. Kawi is thinking about making and selling a supermotard
in 2004 or 2005. i don't know how true this is. but it would get
the Japanese going in the right direction.

[Peter]

Unfortunately, its slim pickings here in the USA for ready made supermotos. The baddest of the bad would have to be the 03 FS650 Husaberg, the Vertemati 570, the KTM 660SMC, and the Husky NOX/SM570R. These bikes however, are not widely available here. They're expensive if you can find one, and they are basically high maintenance competition bikes.

As an alternative, an XR650 would make a real nice street SM. I've seen RB929rr's XR and he did a real nice job on the conversion, with 17" wheels, 320mm brake, caliper, etc. This conversion can be done on just about any dual sport/enduro bike.

Another choice would be a KTM Duke. Kind of heavy and not a true SM but close enough for street riding. I really like my Duke but I've had a husky on order for over a year now...not sure if it will ever get here.

[DRZ]

http://www.mcnews.com.au/Testing/Husaberg/501/Husaberg_Fe501_LHF_300p.jpg
http://www.mcnews.com.au/Testing/Husaberg/501/Husaberg_Fe501_Motard_RHS_400p.jpg

[JoeBar]

Thanks guys for the great info!
Rich, how much does it cost to convert a XR650 to supermotard?

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by JoeBar
Thanks guys for the great info!
Rich, how much does it cost to convert a XR650 to supermotard?

everything i did came to 3100.00 and the bike was 5500.00 out
the door. i have it set up the way i wanted it. i think if i bought a
ready made motard i would have still changed something on it.

[hooliganrider]

when i went down saturday on my motard. the cost for repairs
was only 35.00. now if it was my 929 it would at least 2000.00.
this is another reason i started motarding.
30.00 for a bark buster and 5.00 for a skateboard wheel

[JoeBar]

There you go guys... :teeth
So ro-monster, Max, Everett, what are you guys going to get? I'd go for the KTM but that's just me ;) :teeth

[ro-monster]

Originally posted by JoeBar
There you go guys... :teeth
So ro-monster, Max, Everett, what are you guys going to get? I'd go for the KTM but that's just me ;) :teeth
Well, until I manage to save up enough money (which may take me a couple years), I'm riding my DR. :(

[ro-monster]

Originally posted by JoeBar
I would say go with KTM or Husqy since you have a dealer next to you in Santa Cruz. You can buy a lower seat for the KTM and probably lower the suspension a bit since you are not going to do big jumps and you're pretty light ;) :teeth
Did you mean me? :confused
Santa Cruz is 70 miles from my house.

[hooliganrider]

hey ro
if your bike needs any service work? let me know. oh and what
year is it?
would like to see you ride it.

[Max Smiley]

I don't know!!! :(

I like all these, even that MZ 125. the old KLR is a nice dark blue but look at that bright yellow hussie above! :) sure looks like a budget buster though but I do like new bikes. just got a pic in the email of another older DR for sale, not moto'd yet but plated and all lights. I recall another long time repeat ad for a "malcolm smith" pipe'd duke for $5.5k that seemingly never sold. I want to sit on that black panther too and make vroom vroom noises.

so hard not to be impulsive when it comes to bikes! especially new (to me) toys like this segment!


ps. where do you put the skateboard wheels? :confused

[astrocreep]

I think there is a great bike being left out in this conversation! It's the DRZ400s. Ask Joebar how it performs on a nice twisty road bonus points for it being 100% stock at the time. You can find these used for around 4 g's. If you can find an "E" model then street license it that would be another way to go. You can convert this to 17"s with the big brakes for about the same price as an xr650. Which brings up a found memory of my last race me on my DRZ and a 650L on the front straight with me walking away from it! The bike is very capable with bigger brakes and better tires with the stock wheels...cost about 4 to 500 bucks. What you need to do is work on your riding and you can even pass a CRF450 with 17's on a race track with a stock DRZ...ask me how!
Wanna get into motard cheap get a DRZ! They are not that much heavier when you take off the smog crap are proven reliable and if you need you can get parts anywhere even EBAY. Added bonus they have enough power to launch my big ass over the handle bars to land safely on my head....just make sure your wearing good gear!

[ro-monster]

Originally posted by RB929rr
hey ro
if your bike needs any service work? let me know. oh and what
year is it?
would like to see you ride it.
It's a 96, has about 33,000 miles on it. Never mind that it looks more like it's been through 133,000.

Heh, I'm afraid you wouldn't wanna go slow enough to actually see me ride.

[JoeBar]

Originally posted by astrocreep
I think there is a great bike being left out in this conversation! It's the DRZ400s. Ask Joebar how it performs on a nice twisty road bonus points for it being 100% stock at the time. You can find these used for around 4 g's. If you can find an "E" model then street license it that would be another way to go. You can convert this to 17"s with the big brakes for about the same price as an xr650. Which brings up a found memory of my last race me on my DRZ and a 650L on the front straight with me walking away from it! The bike is very capable with bigger brakes and better tires with the stock wheels...cost about 4 to 500 bucks. What you need to do is work on your riding and you can even pass a CRF450 with 17's on a race track with a stock DRZ...ask me how!
Wanna get into motard cheap get a DRZ! They are not that much heavier when you take off the smog crap are proven reliable and if you need you can get parts anywhere even EBAY. Added bonus they have enough power to launch my big ass over the handle bars to land safely on my head....just make sure your wearing good gear!

I think DrZ has one for sale. He's getting a KTM instead! ;)

[JoeBar]

Originally posted by ro-monster
It's a 96, has about 33,000 miles on it. Never mind that it looks more like it's been through 133,000.

Heh, I'm afraid you wouldn't wanna go slow enough to actually see me ride.

I saw your DR, it does not look that bad. Just get a giant bottle of WD40 and a pack of shop towels from your local Kragen and clean the whole bike with WD40 (plastics, frame, wheels, engine... everything) and it will look like it has 3,000 miles ;) Since you live by the ocean, do that at least once a month! There will be no rust! I do it once a week on my bikes ;)

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by astrocreep
I think there is a great bike being left out in this conversation! It's the DRZ400s. Ask Joebar how it performs on a nice twisty road bonus points for it being 100% stock at the time. You can find these used for around 4 g's. If you can find an "E" model then street license it that would be another way to go. You can convert this to 17"s with the big brakes for about the same price as an xr650. Which brings up a found memory of my last race me on my DRZ and a 650L on the front straight with me walking away from it! The bike is very capable with bigger brakes and better tires with the stock wheels...cost about 4 to 500 bucks. What you need to do is work on your riding and you can even pass a CRF450 with 17's on a race track with a stock DRZ...ask me how!
Wanna get into motard cheap get a DRZ! They are not that much heavier when you take off the smog crap are proven reliable and if you need you can get parts anywhere even EBAY. Added bonus they have enough power to launch my big ass over the handle bars to land safely on my head....just make sure your wearing good gear!


astro
i did not mean to leave out the DRZ 400. it does make a great
motard to. all the places i bought parts for my XR650 sell the
same parts for the DRZ's too.

[JoeBar]

There you go, I think DrZ is selling his street legal DRZ 400 to get a KTM... :laughing :twofinger

[DRZ]

Id sell my DRZ.

and yes Pierre if I did sell the DRZ there would be a KTM450mxc on the next truck leaving the shop you where bought your EXC:twofinger

[JoeBar]

I think that Maxshould buy your DRZ and make it a Supermotard! ;)

Ray, the next truck is probably going to haul Jennifer's and Mick's new KTMs as well... Yours wont be lonely during the trip ;) :laughing

[DRZ]

Originally posted by JoeBar
I think that Maxshould buy your DRZ and make it a Supermotard! ;)

Ray, the next truck is probably going to haul Jennifer's and Mick's new KTMs as well... Yours wont be lonely during the trip ;) :laughing


:laughing :laughing :laughing

[Max Smiley]

so it's still dirt trim not moto'd yet? I never had a suzuki before.

kinda' like this?

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/020/892/311974-dr650.jpg

[DRZ]

Actually Max it looks exactly like this;)
http://norcalcycleaccessories.com/drz.jpg

[DRZ]

and this
http://norcalcycleaccessories.com/drz1.jpg

[DRZ]

Yes Max, its still in dirt trim. To be Motarded it would need Wheels and larger brakes.

[Max Smiley]

so let me get this straight. it will need a DOT light kit & signals/reflectors and stator kit minimum to plate it? then fun stuff like the motard wheels & street tires and whatever else like big brakes and ? looks like I have to lower this one as well and cut the seat to fit. I don't care if it ends up a 1/4" piece of foam pad I have an iron butt afterall :p as long as I can shift it and stand it up etc. what do those sell for? the pic I posted was one for sale already plated etc. but looking at so many I forget which one this is let alone mileage details etc.

ps. I could still use the dirt tires on the street for a bit no problem? I like that it has them so can swithc back and forth. there are some secret dirt roads in SF! very short but they exist. hee hee.

[DRZ]

Max, mine is a 2001 DRZ400e. Electric start. It is already street legal minus turn signals. I have it registered thorugh the state of Vermont to get around the California laws. It doesnt need a stator mod since its already wired for lights. It has a headlight, taillight, and brakelight activated by the front brake master cylinder. Oh, and it has 1100 miles on it. Its like new.
If I were to sell it I would want $4200.

[DRZ]

You would probably want to get a set of dual sport tires that are street legal but worthy of dirt riding, like Dunlop 606's $130 a set.

[DRZ]

Originally posted by RB929rr
astro
i did not mean to leave out the DRZ 400. it does make a great
motard to. all the places i bought parts for my XR650 sell the
same parts for the DRZ's too.

Also like Rich was saying there are only a few bikes out there that have ALOT of Motard parts available and his XR650 and the DRZ400 are two of those bikes.

[JoeBar]

Max, DrZ's DRZ is street ready. It is a dualsport if you will (street/dirt). If you want to make it a supermotard with the look and everything, you'll need to change the wheels/brakes/tires as Rich described in an earlier post. ;) :thumbup

[hooliganrider]

Max
if you buy a DRZ and want to have both a motard and dirt bike.
get a set of 17" wheels a moto-master street rotor kit. keep
you stock wheels. it will take you about 15 minutes to make dirt
ready and the same to put it back to a motard.


www.moto-master.com for wheels and brake kits.
email Paul USA

[Max Smiley]

with only 1,100 miles I would run into all that 7,500 mile Calif. snafu then :( :confused how does one lower a bike like this, springs and ? I can see myself doing silly things and doing the ole' side saddle shuffle ain't gonna' cut it. are there turn signal only kits? I don't have a deathwish in SF traffic! does it have a kickstart too? I liked that about the ktm but have to learn how to use that compression lever. no wonder I couldn't kick bap's over.

[hooliganrider]

Max
when you put 17's on the bike it will drop it about 4".

[JoeBar]

Max, like Rich said the bike will be much lower with the motard wheels on it. It does have electric start. You can keep the Vermont plates!

The first time I met DrZ was actually at Alices, he was doing the loop on his DRZ ;)

[Max Smiley]

wouldn't my insurance give me issue with the plates though? also, I'm gonna' need something I can hop on and wrestle home, truck is covered wagon so can't load the back unless it's sideways :p durn. sorry.

[DRZ]

Your right Max, insurance would probably be a problem.

Rich, do you know a way I can get the DRZ street reg. in Cali?

[hooliganrider]

it think can insurance here no matter what state your bike from

[Bad Dad]

Originally posted by RB929rr
it think can insurance here no matter what state your bike from


:confused you been drinkin????


:laughing :laughing

[DRZ]

Originally posted by Bad Dad
:confused you been drinkin????


:laughing :laughing


Marco your rotten!:laughing

[hooliganrider]

yeah
green bud

[DRZ]

Originally posted by RB929rr
yeah
green bud


I only drink that on St. Paddys day:laughing :teeth

[hooliganrider]

you don't drink it, you smoke it

and i bought a XR50 today

[DRZ]

XR50, do you smoke that too:laughing:wow


I want to ride it!

[Bad Dad]

Originally posted by RB929rr
and i bought a XR50 today

sweeet!!

Now go sign the petition for a 50's forum.

BTW, at the arenacross last night, they had the adults 50 races.....very cool!!!

[hooliganrider]

i'm going to put one of the Two Brothers big bore kit on it. and
super pro frame and Sano bombshell forks. i want to make it a mini motard.

[morthrane]

Hrm. I'm interested in the motard bit myself (although I'm kinda evil for already having an SRX600 :shhh).

Kind of a bummer about most japanese bikes though... are they pretty much all red sticker bikes nowadays?

Also... how feasible would it be for a new dirt rider to get out there on a ~400cc four stroke bike? Be nice to be able to get one of those enduro bikes (WR450??) and be able to run it as a dirt bike or with 17" wheels on the street...

(I'm a big fat bastard, as in over 300lbs, so maybe the power issue isn't nearly as prevalent :) That's not to say the one time I rode a YZ250 on the street... it scared the shit out of me :twofinger )

[hooliganrider]

all the Honda XR's are green sticker bikes and the DRZ's are to
all 2 strokes are red sticker and a 2 stroke does not make a good
street motard. a good race bike yes.

[DRZ]

My DRZ is RED:(sticker.

[hooliganrider]

that's f----d up

[JoeBar]

Originally posted by morthrane
Hrm. I'm interested in the motard bit myself (although I'm kinda evil for already having an SRX600 :shhh).

Kind of a bummer about most japanese bikes though... are they pretty much all red sticker bikes nowadays?

Also... how feasible would it be for a new dirt rider to get out there on a ~400cc four stroke bike? Be nice to be able to get one of those enduro bikes (WR450??) and be able to run it as a dirt bike or with 17" wheels on the street...

(I'm a big fat bastard, as in over 300lbs, so maybe the power issue isn't nearly as prevalent :) That's not to say the one time I rode a YZ250 on the street... it scared the shit out of me :twofinger )
I started on a YZ400F. It has been a very good beginner's bike for me because of the low end torque and wide powerband. A lot easier to ride than the 2 strokes. The WR450 or DRZ400 would be even better beginner's bikes because a lot smoother than the YZF

[rsrai]

so what will the red sticker not allow a person to do?

[951dude]

Originally posted by rsrai
so what will the red sticker not allow a person to do?

Get in the park and ride:mad

[DRZ]

Red sticker dirtbikes are not allowed by law to ride the motorcycle off road parks in the summer months. Green sticker bikes can ride all year round. My DRZ came as a red sticker bike but I can ride all year round because its street legal. Street plates will get you in the parks all year round.

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by RB929rr
you don't drink it, you smoke it

and i bought a XR50 today

mini motard in the rough

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/020/892/313569-106-0670_img.jpg

[DRZ]

Originally posted by RB929rr
mini motard in the rough

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/020/892/313569-106-0670_img.jpg

There it is, all purrrdy. Hey Rich why dont you let me come over and loop it a couple of times for ya:teeth

[hooliganrider]

Ray
i already looped it once lastnight

[DRZ]

Originally posted by RB929rr
Ray
i already looped it once lastnight


DAMN!:laughing

[morthrane]

Originally posted by RB929rr
all the Honda XR's are green sticker bikes and the DRZ's are to
all 2 strokes are red sticker and a 2 stroke does not make a good
street motard. a good race bike yes.
WR450's are four stroke bikes through, aren't they? :twofinger
I know that you (or your son?) has an XR400 motard... do you ever convert it back to dirt and use it that way?

Originally posted by JoeBar
I started on a YZ400F. It has been a very good beginner's bike for me because of the low end torque and wide powerband. A lot easier to ride than the 2 strokes. The WR450 or DRZ400 would be even better beginner's bikes because a lot smoother than the YZF
Yeah, but can the WR450 or DRZ400 get street registered, after all the baja designs junk and extras? Seems kinda wasteful to get a bike that I'll only use twice a month at the most...

What kind of older dirt bikes are there that would fit this "niche"? Street registerable (with work), 400-500cc four stroke? Is a 650 kinda big and awkward for true dirt riding? :confused

[volks057]

Dam Rich any room left in that garage? So how about a swap out on the motor one of my buddies is all into these you can stick a 110cc motor with a 4 speed and a cluch in there...also a supercharger avalible (no joke!) Great little bike hope you learn how to keep the front end down, 50's can be a handful! Let me know if you need help choosing parts, some of the guys I know race these and know what works and what breaks, happy to ask around if you want.

Not the same year, but one of my favorites for motivation on your project.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/020/892/314098-untitled.gif

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by volks057
Dam Rich any room left in that garage? So how about a swap out on the motor one of my buddies is all into these you can stick a 110cc motor with a 4 speed and a cluch in there...also a supercharger avalible (no joke!) Great little bike hope you learn how to keep the front end down, 50's can be a handful! Let me know if you need help choosing parts, some of the guys I know race these and know what works and what breaks, happy to ask around if you want.

Not the same year, but one of my favorites for motivation on your project.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/020/892/314098-untitled.gif

Zack
i'm thinking of the 124cc kit. i'm going to change the frame and
forks first. go to www.twobros.com check out all the shit they
have for the XR50R. you can put 15000. into one.
yes i'm running out room. i'm thinking of building a work shop
in the yard.

[JoeBar]

Originally posted by morthrane

Yeah, but can the WR450 or DRZ400 get street registered, after all the baja designs junk and extras? Seems kinda wasteful to get a bike that I'll only use twice a month at the most...

There is a version of the DRZ400 (DRZ400S ?) that is street legal and comes with all the light, turn signals, mirror and everything else from factory. You just need to upgrade the wheels/brakes to make it a motard. :thumbup
The WR450 is red sticker. It can't be made street legal in California :(

[Tweaked]

Hey all

Wanted to put to rest some of the rumors about the Black Panther. I've had one for two years now and run the MZ mailing list at yahoogroups.

It's powered by a world class motor originating from the Yami SR(X?) 500. It is a *very* reliable motor. It comes stock a little muffled at about 48 hp, but can be tuned up to as much as 72 hp. It is commonly raced in the singles class. The bike is heavier than the KTM and not as refined but is about $1-2K cheaper depending.
It is outstanding value for the money, but at the same time, you do get what you pay for. I have a few nits about the bike, but many of the components it comes with are outstanding.

One of the biggest drawbacks for me, a daily rider, is the lack of easy sidebag options. I don't like the switchgear, cheap-cheap. Motorrad MZ basically stinks with support and their outlook in the US is highly suspect. Don't hold your breath for their help. Fortunately, most of its parts are parts bin and can be found on other bikes. There is a growing cross-referance database on the MZOG site.
Most of the complaints I hear about stem from poor dealer setup and knowledge and lack of distributor support. Dealer issues are not a problem at Scuderia however.
Otherwise the suspension is outstanding with Paoli forks(fully adjustable) and WP shock. Grimeca brakes are strong. I sometimes lust for the lower weight of the KTM, but the price is a factor. For $5K OTD I got mine, the BP is a good bike.

[Max Smiley]

hi Tweaked :welcome to barf!

great info.
pls. give a shout in the newbie section too, thanks.

I been finding some info behind the scenes though still no closer to scoring my first bike. the budget keeps moving around on me :toothless

[morthrane]

Originally posted by JoeBar
The WR450 is red sticker. It can't be made street legal in California :(

Ok... so what about older bikes?

[JoeBar]

Originally posted by morthrane
Ok... so what about older bikes?
Dirtbikes manufactured BEFORE January 1, 1997 get a green sticker. For more info, go to this link (http://ohv.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=1235) .

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by RB929rr
mini motard in the rough

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/020/892/313569-106-0670_img.jpg

OK, i just ordered a BBR super pro frame kit, a SANO/bombshell
fork kit W/disc brake and a TBS exhaust system for the XR50R.
in a couple of weeks i will have the wheels built.

[JoeBar]

Can't wait for the pics! :banana

[Bad Dad]

Rich, do you ever go to Stockton for the motard races there?

I got a buddy who's racing a 50 down there along with his bigger motard!!

I'm gonna go and check it out when they race.

[volks057]

Those are some hardcore parts for the 50 that frame/fork combo is awesome. Definetly going to be the terror of the neigborhood on that..

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by Bad Dad
Rich, do you ever go to Stockton for the motard races there?

I got a buddy who's racing a 50 down there along with his bigger motard!!

I'm gonna go and check it out when they race.

i will be checking out all the motard races this year.

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by JoeBar
Can't wait for the pics! :banana

i can't wait for the parts. frame and forks 4 to 6 weeks.
exhaust Wed.

[Bad Dad]

Originally posted by RB929rr
i will be checking out all the motard races this year.

make sure you post here when they are near!! Some of us have no clue when that stuff is.

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by volks057
Those are some hardcore parts for the 50 that frame/fork combo is awesome. Definetly going to be the terror of the neigborhood on that..


Zack
you should see the mini flat track i made in my yard.

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by Bad Dad
make sure you post here when they are near!! Some of us have no clue when that stuff is.

go to www.twobros.com and click on XR performance

[hooliganrider]

my wife thinks i'm F---ing CRAZY. WHY?

[JoeBar]

Rich, you are normal. Go back to your room now and take your pills, the doctor will come see you later tonight :laughing :laughing :laughing

[DRZ]

Rich, your very normal! You just need to talk to the Dr. of Cycleology:laughing:laughing

[astrocreep]

Hey guys, did you see the supermotard race on speed channel?
It was in Paris France. It's a yearly race the called supercross? and a french word I don't know. Well the Corona DRZ SUZUKI won the race. The bike lead from flag to flag.
Just a fyi
DRZ's do rule the motard world!

[JoeBar]

Dave, was it an indoor race? If indoor it was probably the "Guidon d'or (http://www.organisation-lariviere.com/guidon/indexguidon.html)".
Stephane Chambon (who finished 3rd in World Supersport 2002 championship behind Foret and Fujiwara)
won the Guidon d'or both in 2002 and 2003 on a Suzuki DRZ.
His brother Boris finished 2nd both years too.
See some photos here (http://www.supermotech.co.uk/bercy03.htm).


Here is Stephane's DRZ. It will again carry #1 next year!

http://www.supermotech.co.uk/bercy2003/stef_bike.jpg

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by RB929rr
OK, i just ordered a BBR super pro frame kit, a SANO/bombshell
fork kit W/disc brake and a TBS exhaust system for the XR50R.
in a couple of weeks i will have the wheels built.

cancelled order for frame and forks. found something much
better.

[Bad Dad]

Originally posted by RB929rr
cancelled order for frame and forks. found something much
better.


:confused :confused

oh, c'mon!!!! Don't be like that!!! Tell us what you found!!

[jonb]

better than bbr/sano!? what the hell could that be?

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by Bad Dad
:confused :confused

oh, c'mon!!!! Don't be like that!!! Tell us what you found!!

supermotard 50's

www.hondaminitrail.com

[JoeBar]

C'mon Rich, you've made us suffer long enough... :laughing :laughing So what is it? :confused

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by stillart
better than bbr/sano!? what the hell could that be?

i don't know if it's better. looks cool

[jonb]

yeah boy!!! i saw that before, posted it in squids annonymous. cool stuff! i gotta see it ifyou pick up those wheels and slicks!

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by stillart
yeah boy!!! i saw that before, posted it in squids annonymous. cool stuff! i gotta see it ifyou pick up those wheels and slicks!

i'm going to check around and see if i can find info on
that stuff. i don't want jump into something and then
be pissed off and stuck with a bunch junk.

[Bad Dad]

are you talkin the 125 kit and the extended swingarm??

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by Bad Dad
are you talkin the 125 kit and the extended swingarm??

swingarm, wheels, forks, and disc brakes for now,
then one of the motor kits later.
i think we are going to buy another XR50R saturday.
maybe!

[Bad Dad]

have you voted here yet???

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=21554

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by Bad Dad
have you voted here yet???

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=21554

i voted

[DRZ]

Rich, that is the SHIT! F/R disk brakes, motard wheels:thumbup

[DRZ]

Originally posted by JoeBar
Dave, was it an indoor race? If indoor it was probably the "Guidon d'or (http://www.organisation-lariviere.com/guidon/indexguidon.html)".
Stephane Chambon (who finished 3rd in World Supersport 2002 championship behind Foret and Fujiwara)
won the Guidon d'or both in 2002 and 2003 on a Suzuki DRZ.
His brother Boris finished 2nd both years too.
See some photos here (http://www.supermotech.co.uk/bercy03.htm).


Here is Stephane's DRZ. It will again carry #1 next year!

http://www.supermotech.co.uk/bercy2003/stef_bike.jpg

Pierre, we need a drooling smiliey because that DRZ is droolishious!!

[hooliganrider]

i'm on my way out the door. going to buy another 50
right now.
bye

[jonb]

you are the original 50 nut! let me know where and how much otd, i am in themarket!

[DRZ]

Originally posted by RB929rr
i'm on my way out the door. going to buy another 50
right now.
bye

I can understand one, but two?? I dont get it. I guess so I have one to ride Rich?....YA! YOU DA MAN!:thumbup

[JoeBar]

I want to ride a 50 and drag my knees... :laughing :laughing :laughing

[hooliganrider]

i'm sick.
just bought another XR50R.

[DRZ]

Dude, what is your wife saying???:laughing

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by DrZ
Dude, what is your wife saying???:laughing

she's mad but, who cares.

no she was mad for 10 minutes.

[JoeBar]

That's what she said: :laughing :laughing

Originally posted by RB929rr
my wife thinks i'm F---ing CRAZY. WHY?

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by JoeBar
That's what she said: :laughing :laughing


:laughing :laughing :laughing :laughing

[DRZ]

So...uhh....RICH....whadda doing tomorrow after work??:wow

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by DrZ
So...uhh....RICH....whadda doing tomorrow after work??:wow

racing in my back yard:teeth

[hooliganrider]

new pipe installed

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/020/892/319867-106-0674_img.jpg

[JoeBar]

Sweeet! Is it loud?

:infrandom

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by JoeBar
Sweeet! Is it loud?

:infrandom

it's not bad. i will still be able to ride it in the yard.

[DRZ]

Dude, thats sweet! I cant wait to jump in the fun:teeth I think Kelleys more excited to get a "fitty" than I am:laughing

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by DrZ
Dude, thats sweet! I cant wait to jump in the fun:teeth I think Kelleys more excited to get a "fitty" than I am:laughing


hurry up and get it.

[DRZ]

Originally posted by RB929rr
hurry up and get it.


Well I would if somebody:rolleyes didnt buy every last one at the dealer:laughing Now who could that be?:p

[JoeBar]

Ray, you're getting one too? :confused :wow

[volks057]

Some people have all the fun!
Are you going to fix both the 50's up the same?

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by DrZ
Well I would if somebody:rolleyes didnt buy every last one at the dealer:laughing Now who could that be?:p

what do they say? you snooze you lose.

[DRZ]

Originally posted by JoeBar
Ray, you're getting one too? :confused :wow

Ya Pierre, I think im going to pick one up next week:thumbup


Since I got caught sleeping:laughing :laughing

[volks057]

To fuel the fire here you go.....I think I have enough space in my garage for one of these too, I have been putting it off too long!

http://www.freestylemotoxschool.com/video50nov30th.htm

[volks057]

Oops wrong one that ones not bad but this one has him running around the whole house as a track.

http://www.bmxschool.com/50briankirtfeb222003.htm

[DRZ]

Originally posted by volks057
Oops wrong one that ones not bad but this one has him running around the whole house as a track.

http://www.bmxschool.com/50briankirtfeb222003.htm


Dude, THAT was cool! I have to check out fast50s.com:thumbup

[hooliganrider]

does anyone know if this is true?
open track days on mondays 10.00 at Stockton.

[hooliganrider]

the TBR pipe sound F---ing great.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/020/892/322288-106-0676_img.jpg

[Cascadeur]

I've been driving quite a lot of Motards.

Last year I've been competing on a KTM in the Dutch and European Championship.

What you guys say is kind of true.
KTM prices are higher than most Japanese brands.

To make a desiscion what to buy, it depends on what you are planning to do with your bike.
Honda's and Yamaha's are reliable but do not have quality shoks and brakes.
For avarage road use they'll work fine but when you really start thumpin...forget it.
Breaks start fading, shoks will be on the edge and will let you know that you want way too much from them.

Know many people who started out with a Yam, Honda or even MuZ and start rebuilding then after a couple of months.
A friend of mine is fitting a KTM 660 engine in his MuZ because the Yamaha engine in the MuZ is way Underpowerd, lets not talk bout the weight he has to carry with the MuZ.

I bought my first KTM 3 years ago and will never, never sell it!
It's a Duke II titanium with black Excel rims, other jets, modified airbox. 62 Bhp @ rear wheel.
Compared to my 'race' KTM it's a bit heavy but still, compare it to other Motards and you'll have a featherlight beast.

Here're some pics of my previous race motard a LC4 620
The new KTM 660 is still in progress...

http://www.monomaniacs.nl/mm/visuals/2002.alphen/dennis.wheelie.jpg

Here's my Van with equip and stuff
http://www.monomaniacs.nl/mm/visuals/2002.valkenswaard/cascadeurtje.biek.jpg

Attachment is my daily KTM driver.

[JoeBar]

Verrrrry niiiiiice Cascadeur! <drooool> :teeth :thumbup
I can't wait to see the pics of the KTM 660!

[afmotorsports]

If anyone is interested, I got two brand new Gianelli exhaust systems (for use with stock header) - I got one as a spare for my bike, although mine has the super expensive Arrow titanium full exhaust system. I can get you one of those too, but if I munch mine in a crash, I'm not buying it again... new baby needs diapers more than I need another ti exhaust! ;) The Gianellis do not have a spark arrestor, but they look identical to the Arrow on my bike.

PM me if you want one.

[thump]

Hi All, can I join in?

I have a 2001 KTM LC4 640 SuperMoto that I bought last July with 20 miles on it for $7k. I put 18 of the 20 miles on it on a test ride.

Yup, I modified it a little, but not much.

I added hand guards- those KTM levers are expensive!
I opened up the airbox, stripped off the eps, added a race can and rejetted.

I have 6,000 miles on it, use it every weekday to commute and ride the twisties on the weekends, rain or shine.

I've bene towed home once when I slit the rear tire on a nail and have roadside repaired it twice, both times for vibration related electrical problems.

It's strong and fun to ride- like most thumpers are.

I'm hoping to get over to Snell on Tuesday if anyone wants to look it over.

Or I'm riding with Doc Wong's class on Sunday.

Andrew

[hooliganrider]

Originally posted by andrewlesslie
What's up with Monomaniacs?

Have those guys lost interest?

Or is it just winter?

Andrew

i'm here and haven't lost interest.
i need new tires badly.

[Max Smiley]

sat on a Duke II today and it's not that bad. with low seat would be better. but still look like a dog taking piss at every red light though just to hold it up (can't always do the brake/swivel thing to hold it up but with more time? dead bust for a ticket?)

*BUT*
got on a MZ Panther and it's like perfect for me! sure, off road I'd appreciate the extra ground clearance but the 99% of the time... too bad no black panthers on the showroom floor so couldn't compare. fun so far.

[JoeBar]

Originally posted by Ducky_Fresh
Do motards qualify for the dirt forum?

Not anymore :twofinger :laughing