2008 KTM 250 XCF-W for DS stuff

[Laoch]

Thoughts on using a 2008 KTM 250 XCF-W for DS rides, local back roads, etc?

[Rut Row]

why not? It's the rider, not the bike.

[Skinny-J]

I have always thought that the 250 with the 290 big-bore kit on it would make a potent woods-weapon. Then again I am a Yamaha guy and wouldn't own a KTM unless it was given to me; and then I would probably sell it since KTM motorcycles are ruining off-road riding....

I am not sure how the 250 would be for a DS bike. Granted, I think the W will have the 6 speed gear box but it might still be a little buzzy. I am pretty sure the 2008 was not FI. It might not have the low-end torque to just tool around like a KLR as I believe they like to be wrung out a little more.

Only one way to truly find out...

[Laoch]

Yeah, carbed with 6 speed. Tagged, ready to go, good price. I don't ride street much anynore, my KLX is great for that; but kinda big and heavy for some DS events. Freeride is my off-road choice. Looking for an in betweener.

[J&J]

My 2014 250 is great for woods but I would not do any street riding with it. Even with the 6 speed it's pretty wound up at 60 mph. Will it go faster? Yes but I'm not going to blow it up trying to keep up with 650s on dual sport trips like the Kentucky trail.... On the Allegheny trip I had fun running the crap out of my xrl650, 80 mph more than a few times.

For harder DS events like Michaux I might consider the KTM although I have taken the Honda twice now, for longer roads or easier DS rides like the Greenbrier it's the 650 no question. To do both maybe some day a 500 or 525exc with a big tank.

[Madizm]

probably sell it since KTM motorcycles are ruining off-road riding

??? Please explain....

[Stinson]

I have a 2 buddies with 07's and one with an 08. 08's did get an updated ring pack which lasted longer. The 07's needed rings around the 100hr mark. The bottom end in these seems to be very reliable if taken care of.

In 250 form the seem under powered to me, but I ride a 500. The big bore kit seems to be the ticket. I found the these bikes are pretty finicky carb setup wise. I will also add, that the XCF-W seems to be pretty difficult to find used compared to the XCF. How many hours are on the bike?

If you are dual sporting BETWEEN trails and not TO the trails, this is the right bike!

[Laoch]

Good info. 1500 miles, don't know hours.


EDIT: 55 hours.

[J&J]

If you are dual sporting BETWEEN trails and not TO the trails, this is the right bike!

[Boom Boom]

Change the front sprocket on the freeride when you want to DS. It will not be any more gear bound than that 250 4-stroke is.
Will give you a chance to burn out the exhaust from all your slow riding you do with it.
Big Bird hammered many a mile on his KTM 200 with the power valve detuned to the point it did not work....that would put you about the same place as your Freeride without a power valve.