TRF Forums

I've no doubt this question has been asked a million times already, so surely once more wont offend anyone

I wish to buy a road legal trial bike, mainly due to my geographical location living on the edge of Yorkshire Dales.

I have a R6 road bike which I've had from new since passing my test in 2007, I'll probably put it on my list of toys to sell. In 2007 I passed my bike test and sought the advice of forumites on which bike to get as a first road bike as you can imagine a R6 didn't get too many recommendations but I ignored all advice and bought it. to be honest though I've largely had a pleasant experience but never entirely felt at home on a racing bike.

So now for a trail bike, I have no idea which one, I just wish to give it ago as I honestly think it'll be my cup of tea, budget wise I plan to spend maybe up to 5-6k on a bike, I'm much happier just jumping in the deep end like I did with my R6 rather than dip my toes in the water with something cheap etc.

I quick perusal of EBay would suggest that some like :- 2010 KTM EXC Enduro/Supermoto (road legal) 450cc.

Anyway I'd appreciate any thoughts.

Personally I would spend £3K-£4K max rather than £5-£6K so you can make sure you like it and also not worry every time you drop it!! You could get a really good KTM for that. 450 always a good choice but a 400 is excellent and will handle better as you get used to trail riding. Husaberg is also a great choice - made by KTM, often slightly cheaper but in some ways even better! 390 is amazing -I have one and it is fantastic. Power and handling will beat almost anything and much more than you need.

This is a really good one I think at a main dealer in Northern Ireland - don't let distance put you off, he is exceptional dealer and trustworthy. I got a bike from him shipped to UK no issues and all as promised. Think £4K would do it.

http://www.htmoffroad.com/10-husaberg-fe390/

Hope that helps

get yourself along to your local TRF meet and see what they are riding. Bigger bikes for the road work or lighter bikes for the muddy trails.

Otherwise spend a couple of grand on a TTR250, ride it for a season then buy what everyone else is using or what you fancy and get your original investment back ( More or Less). a KTM 450 is not necessarily the best bike for the type of lanes and is almost certainly not the best to start on. A Fair compromise would be a KTM 400.

enjoy

Thanks guys for the straight forward advice, I think I'll be more inclined to ride the narrow twisty roads of the dales (hence importance of road legal) rather than the muddy tracks.

Already its clear that you seem to get a lot for your money in this field of bike pursuit.

wow really like the looks of the HUSABERG bikes.

Or a Husaberg 390!!

KTM EXC 350F..... check out the reviews on the forum. Seems to be the best allrounder

i,m happy with my BMW G450X and there are a couple for sale around the £3k mark.

Ask 10 different people and get 10 different answers.

Surprisingly no mention of Jap machinery yet

I will always recommend WR250f They are road legal, and if you're staying on lanes, they are more that sufficient

yamaha TTR 250