Hey folks, just getting back to a dirt capable bike after 40 years off of them (cruisers and sport tourers between). Fairly well settled on a KLX 250 with a big bore kit, but the engine work might not come right away. Looking at several bikes and wanted to get some "expert" opinions.

2007 with 14,000 miles, aftermarket slip on, new plastics: $3100
2019 with 300 miles, bone stock: $4700
2018 with 1000 miles, slip on and bars, $4000 (this bike may have been ridden hard and put away wet, knowing the owner)
2018 with 200 miles, bone stock, meticulous care, but 900 miles away, $4000
2014 with 4000 miles, bone stock, 1000 miles away, $3500
or a new KLX 300 at around $5700

Knowing that the 351 kit+carb and pipe will run around $1500 (or kit+controller+pipe for EFI), what would you see as the best value? BTW, both of the distant bikes are a near a destination I regularly travel to. Is 14K miles a concern?

 

I'll add my $0.02 - and that's exactly what it's worth...

IMO, 14k for a 14 year old bike is very low. BUT, it depends entirely how it was maintained. Do you absolutely know the history of the bike? A visual inspection of other components would be a good indication (chain, brake pads, air filter, pivot points). Are you able to perform a compression test?

Personally, I prefer carbs over EFI. Easier to manipulate fueling, simpler. But I acknowledge I am probably in the minority with this opinion.

I do believe the early years (06/07) had 1 more inch suspension travel. Others may confirm/dispute.

 

Forest, I'm a bit of the mindset that I prefer the carbs as well. Seems some folks here have a well laid out "roadmap" for the carbs, even if I do go to the 351 kit. My understanding, from the reading I've done so far, is that the 06-07 had a bit more travel, but were not as adjustable on the suspension. I'll assume you are happy with yours!

 

Hmmm, that is interesting. Hoping others will be able to confirm. Mine has compression adjustable forks, and compression and rebound adjustment on the rear.

 

It's decided! Stumbled across a 2009 with 8000 miles and most of the mods I would want for dirt cheap, with fantastic mx records. Just have to drive 1200 miles for the pick up!