It's a bit high considering what you're getting. None of the Japanese dual sport offerings are really that great when compared to some of the euro competition. You're paying more than "proper" dirt bike price for a sub-par, heavy dirt bike.

The Japanese dual sports have not been updated in any significant way in years. They have better tech available, they just are worried about the market share not being worth the investment... and they're losing ground to other brands because of it.

 

Well, I guess my math only works best in my "world" - perhaps not in reality. ( I'm working on that..) But here goes -

MSRP on 16 WR250R is $6,690 ($7k with TTL in my world.)

2015 KTM 350 EXC-F is $ 9,999
2015 KTM 500 EXC is $10,199
And my KTM/Husky dealer runs sales on these from time to time - usually another $500 off..

So, to me, half the bike outta be half the price - putting the WR250R at about $4999.99666666666666666666666666666666666666666666 66666666......

 

Was going to comment on the prices in Canada, but it looks like Yamaha actually lowered the MSRP this year as it's just under 6999 CAD now. You yankees could come up here and buy them for 33% off with how bad our dollar is right now. That's a hell of a deal.

http://www.yamaha-motor.ca/products/...up=MC&catId=13


KTM canada won't even list prices but last I checked an 350 exc-f was over 13,000 CAD

 

WOW.. 33% off (Due to currency exchange rates.)
Spread the word -
THE YANKEES ARE COMMING !

 

Anyone want to make a road trip to Canada? I found a Honda dealer up there with a ton of left over Honda stuff, CRF250R for 4400 USD, XR650L for 4400 USD. They had tons of left over new stock.


Current rate is .75 USD for a Canadian dollar!

 

Problem is most dual sport riders won't pay the price for a comparable Japanese dual sport. You want KTM value in a Japanese bike you now will pay within $500 of a KTM price. That is evidenced by the pricing of motocrossers. They are extremely close to each other and the Japanese bikes are on par in every area, the Yamaha YZF450 is currently still the top pick when one has to be chosen, but all are good.

I've asked a number of riders in the ADVrider forum and all say if they pay KTM prices they want a KTM. I doubt the Japanese manufacturers are oblivious to this point. That is why the WR250R is what it is, they have a bike $2500 less than a somewhat comparable KTM (since KTM doesn't have a 250 dual sport). Like the low buck CRF, they built the WR to a price point where it is better than all the other Japanese bikes, but not at a price point where it would hit head to head with KTM since the manufacturers realize it won't sell at that price.

So you decide, do you want a cheap bike, heavier bike with non-adjustable suspension in the CRF at $4500, a lighter more woods ready adjustable suspension bike in the KLX (when it was still available) at $4200, or the higher buck hotter performing WR250 at $6700.

Or for another $3000-5200 you can save 40-60 lb, get better suspension, 100cc more in a KTM 350EXC which comes in at $9700.

Is it any wonder the CRF is currently the best selling? Those buying it don't need a KTM or don't want to pay the extra or have the money to do so. Somewhat the same with the WR250R which is definitely the hot Japanese bike over the past few years now and not all that shabby when compared to the KTM for value.

 

I can buy 2 new KLX250s's for 1 new KTM. Not everyone needs a race bike. KLX250s does everything I need and want it too. KTMs are attention ****** when it comes to maintaining them and need engine rebuilds often at 10k miles. They're a fine bike ok, but not everyone needs a 60k corvette when a 25k Miata will do just fine. Another point, KLX250s is way prettier and sexier in red and black than KTMs pumpkin orange.

 

Yeah, But those KTMs, Beta's and Husky's, etc, require a lot of maintainance. Like new top end every 80 hours, clutches don't last, etc. But they are a lot more bike, lighter, very powerful, suspension, etc. They are competition bikes right off the showroom floor. If I could afford to still own and maintain them, I would. I no longer race, and on a fixed income, so for my joy riding, they just aren't practical for me anymore. That's how they differ. I honestly don't think you should compare the Euro Enduro bikes to the Dual Sport bikes. They are in a different league and shouldn't be compared. They are competion enduro bikes, not Dual Sport bikes, period.

 

Ahhh Werloc, no one is comparing competition euro enduro bikes to dual sport bikes...
It's all dual sport vs dual sport buddy - KTM EXC's are dual sport bikes... And, KLX876, I'm not sure a WR250R is "somewhat comparable" to the 350 EXC - For instance, have you an idea of the HP difference..? Nearly double...

OH, they're unlocking my door - I get to go outside today !

 

I'm not trying to argue for KTM's and euro bikes. it's a tempting segue and I get the appeal, but lets focus on dated japanese tech.

The frame on the 2014 klx250 is the same frame used on a 1994 KDX 220... I'm not asking for a 40+ hp, 220lbs time bomb (KTM). I'm just saying the jap bikes have been woefully neglected because they don't deem the market share to be worth the investment.

The DRZ is in the same boat. It's essentially the same bike as it was 15+ years ago. The WRR and CRFL are the only recent changes to shake things up. The CRFL has an updated motor and does exactly what's advertised right out of the gate - the problem is there is next to nothing you can do with the suspension or engine. Not great for compromising off-road enthusiasts geared towards dirt bikes more than street bikes.

The WRR has a lot of goodies and tech, and it's a reasonable price compared to the euro bikes. It's deadly reliable and everything else about it is pretty good. They can ask a higher price because the competition doesn't meet the same niche as it.

Would just be nice to see some minor improvements to the KLX in terms of weight or power, or suspension. Just because it does everything most people need it to do right now doesn't mean they should just give up on it and keep it the same for 15 years.