Dual Sport

[FJRocket]

I considered a WR450F after looking at the DR450E's that didn't pan out. Then I read up and got a couple more recommendations on where to "start". I decided to step down and get a WR250F. 2005 model used. Good deal with a spare set of wheels, sprockets and tires. Bike is already licensed in my state for dual sport. Mostly stock, with "free mods", skid plate, rad and hand guards. Now the fun begins.

Any recommendations on getting re-started riding off road? I bought some new gear from Motosport Outlet. Don't know how to wear all that stuff, but I'm sure I'll figure it out. Any care tips on dirt bikes? Riding technique? Midwest areas to ride?

Thanks! I'm PUMPED!

 

[awryders]

Hey FJRocket try this www.advrider.com/forums/index.php?

 

[ChrisW]

The DRZ400E then convert to an S sounds like a pretty good way to go.

That's the way I went. The electric start add's 12 pounds but I wouldn't give it up. Good move going with the 250. I've considered doing the same thing, but I can't justify it. The DRZ is a great bike off-road.

Clean your air-filter, and change your oil. I try to do this every other ride, or more if I'm in dusty conditions. Get an extra air-filter, oil it, and stick it in a zip-lock bag. Keep it with your gas can if you trailer to a riding area.

Keep the valves adjusted. I've read that the new breed of mx 4-strokes require new valves every 25 hours. I think people are getting a lot more than that out of them when not racing. This another thing that's kept me from getting rid of the DRZ.

If your riding off-road, buy off-road tires. Even the best of the DOT legal tires, Pirelli's, are no match in the woods for a good off-road tire.

I run 12 to 16 psi.

Learn to patch a tube. I've seen it done in 5 minutes, it takes me a lot longer. Carry safety wire, and an extra clutch perch

Keep the air-box drain tube clean. Water won't drain out if it's clogged. They run funny when you fuel mixture is 2:2:1 fuel:water:air.

As for re-learning dirty bikes, well, just go out and have fun. Weight the outside of the seat and the outside peg in corners. Move up in the seat and hang that inside leg forward to weight the front wheel.

Watch for oncoming traffic in crowded riding area's.

Don't get discouraged that your not in shape anymore. DB's are a lot of work, but the pay-off is big.

I'm waiting til I'm 40 to start racing. The old guys are a lot more polite in turn 1.

Have fun.

 

[FJRocket]

Hey FJRocket try this www.advrider.com/forums/index.php?

Yeah, I like that one. And ThumperTalk, too.

 

[gr8eyes]

FJRocket, you are going to love the WR250F. Its a perfect trial/dirt bike. I have a 450F and love it. Works a bit in the motocross arena provided you not a huge jumper. Its light enough to flick around in the tight stuff but plenty of power out in the fast stuff.

Glenn

 

[FJRocket]

Just got home with it and took it around the estate (about an acre). I have a 28 inseam. Me thinks the sag is not set quite right for me. Matty can't touch the ground! Going to take some getting used to.

Compared to the FJR, the WR feels like a balsa wood pogo stick. With power. Should be FUN once I get used to not touching the ground, ever. Well, everyone on the TT forum says "ride it for a while, get used to it...", but I see some lowering links and fork droppings in my future. Sure as heck not going to stop me from riding it, that's for sure. Heck, I can reach the pegs just fine, so I should be A O K!!

 

[mbottoms]

Getting the Sag set properly may help.

Mark

 

[FJRocket]

Yep, I reset the sag the night I got it. Made a HUGE difference. I went ahead and cut about an inch out of the seat. Now I can touch tippy toes in shoes. I should have better reach with MX boots. Don't have to lean the bike over a bunch, or slide off the side of the seat to get off. That's what seemed to be a problem.

I'm ready to rock!

 

[JohnBryer]

Here's my choice...2001 KLR650

A pic from North GA last weekend....

 

[RonC]

Looks like we have identical dual-sports, JohnBryer!

I was lucky enough to get it used, with many of the necessary extras. I've been very pleased.

Ron