Wanted: beginner's trail bike

[Caesi01]

ok, here I go again. Finally gotten a few things sorted.
Signed up fully to the TRF: hurra! can't wait to get going and meet some of you on a ride out.
However, first things first: Need to sort out a bike for myself and a friend (who I will get to sign up to the TRF as well)

I was thinking:

200cc and up (it has to be capable to get me to the lanes and back, from SE London)
Electric start
Road legal
Low maintenance
I'm 1.8m; my mate 1.76m
Budget up to £2k (realistic?)

Preferably, we would like to get identical bikes just for maintenance and parts purposes. But it's not a must.

[mudeevee]

What bike for a new trail rider...........

https://r.tapatalk.com/shareLink?url=ht ... are_type=t

[Caesi01]

thanks for that. great read and helpful, esp. reg the Hondas. Would have taken them as an easy workhorse that does everything. but then again, that's why I turn to the experts for advice.

have sourced a ktm 400 exc 2002 plate for £2k , but located in Wales.
i guess it's a no then

[Dominic]

Bikes in wales are often ex-race bikes, but even if they are not, they still take a thrashing as there is a lot of hardcore riding to be done in Wales.

For 2k you should be able to get a 4-stroke KTM in reasonable condition, however have you budgeted for gear (boots, armour, clothing), basic tools and ongoing maintenance costs?

[Caesi01]

I budget £2k just for the bike. am good on gear.
Do you guys insure FC or TP only?

Been reading quite a few good things about the 400 exc of that period (RFS engine).

The other find is serow 225 04 plate for £1600

[Dominic]

The Serow has a loyal following and reputation for reliability and all-round ability. At 1.8m though you may be too tall/big for it? I don't know, just a thought.... I've never ridden one but I am pretty sure they have a much smaller 'cockpit' than the average dirtbike.

Personally I would take an RFS-engined KTM over the Serow but I am completely biased towards cool orange bikes.

Give the AJP a second thought... many rave about them.

[Caesi01]

Will do. thanks for the help.
I might just bite the bullet and get the KTM and have it picked up