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So, I'm pretty set on sticking with the KLX250 now. Anybody have more input on the '06 vs. '12? I keep thinking the '06 would be the better choice to start from because of the extra travel. If the extra travel is really not that big of a deal I'll just do the suspension and big bore mods on my '12.

 

CraigT, have you thought about swapping forks with a moto bike[KXYZCRRM]
I would look for some YZ 06 and up. Helped a friend put some 06 CRF 250 forks on his 450 KTM. He seemed to like the swap as does the new owner.

 

If you ride decently rough off road then I think the '06/'07 is worth it if you're starting from scratch. It's nice to be able to use all the suspension mods from the KLX300 on that model too. If you're going to use the bike on pavement and nothing more challenging than dirt roads and easier 2-track, then it really doesn't matter. And by saying that I'm not suggesting that the '09 and later won't make a good dual sport for some serious off roading. I just think the earlier model is just a hair better candidate.

 

How do you feel about the larger spokes in the 09+?

 

Shoot, based on everything at ADVriders, you'd think that was a downgrade... KTMs are God's gift to dual sporters and off roaders according to some there.

Just sayin'...

 

If I was having problems with the spokes on the '06, I might consider it an issue...but...

I'm a mountainbiker also, so I'm very aware of wheel strength...or the lack thereof. I pay close attention to all my spoked wheels, as most all my riding is done in very rocky, ledgy terrain. I weigh 195 pounds and carry a good bit of gear on my bike on my big trip rides in the western U.S., in addition to having the 3.7 gallon fuel tank. In all the years I've owned this bike, I've had hardly any need to even tweak the stock spokes during service, regardless of the merciless pounding they've received. I've built my own MTB and dirt motors wheels in the past, and I don't really see any weakness in the '06/'07 spokes/wheels. If I recall, I think the wheels on the KLX300 and some KDX models used basically the same wheels as the KLX250 for some time...or at least the same wheel and rim build specification. Perhaps they decided to increase the spoke guage in the '09 and later because it was classified as a street legal bike...liability?...DOT issue?...who knows.

 

The question would be if the suspension mods transfer to the slightly shorter travel later forks or no. And as TNC points out - rider skills, will you use the extra suspension. Personally I'd rather have the earlier model, but not so much a need, but a preference.

At the least, the 06-07 had a decent rear fender set up on them. Just not into that "boat tail" tail light/sub fender on the newer ones, or the more complex (but more interesting) headlight nacelle or electronic instrumentation. Not sales stoppers, just personal preference. It looks good up to the stubby rear fender. A KX type would look better than having that extension that is just additional unnecessary weight and complexity.

Nor would I have the heavier spoke 09-up wheels being a stopper on the earlier model. Kawasaki had enough confidence in the smaller size that they put them on a heavier more powerful 650.

I'd think the big decider would be the fit. If the rider is better off with the shorter 09-up or if the taller earlier model makes sense. Comfort/confidence factor.

 

LOL!...I don't know, Mark. I don't have a KTM...don't necessarily intend to purchase a KTM at this point...and really enjoy my KLX. However, I think KTM might actually...to use a fictional comparison...be God's gift to dual sporters. Now, all kidding aside, what thoroughly impresses me about KTM is their consistent pursuit of developing bikes for all kinds of uses...even that crazy Crossbow car vehicle. While most Japanese companies seem to be sitting on their hands, KTM has developed some very impressive motorcycles. And while the term "dual sport" varies greatly, anyone who's somewhat serious about using their bike in some dirt while retaining a reasonable pavement application, I think KTM has probably done a better job of bridging that gap.

I've ridden for a few years with some serious off roaders who've used their 450-500 series KTM models for decently long on and off road adventure combos. I've been impressed how the "glass slipper" fragility perceived by many on these bikes just doesn't seem to hold true. And the fact that you can actually buy a street legal bike with the kind of off road prowess of these bikes is somewhat amazing...at least with the EXC models if I understand correctly. It even looks like KTM is going to widen its dual sport lineage with the likely introduction of a KTM390 street legal enduro taken from their 390 Duke engine...a 43 horsepower, less stressed engine that seems to get the job done quite nicely...and at a decent price point.

So, while a discussion like this involves a lot of speculation, preference, and opinion, I'm probably in the camp that feels that KTM might be pretty close to God's gift...LOL! With a blank check in my pocket, I might immediately head out and find a KTM690...or that imaginary KTM390 enduro if it ever comes to fruition.

 

For my uses I consider the KLX250 as a trail bike which I can ride on the road to get to more trails. It sounds like before I start putting serious money into it I should seek out the '06 since you've confirmed that is the better starting point. I think I can sell the '12 for what I bought it for so no loss there.

Thanks all for the awesome responses. Extremely helpful