Dirt_Dad
Well-Known Member
Founding Member
2011 Site Supporter
2013 Site Supporter
2014 Site Supporter
I understand. I've had more Yamaha bikes than any other brand by far. Of the at least 12 Yamaha bikes I've owned 8 of them have been different XT models from the 225 to four different Teneres. I'm firmly a Yamaha fan. So it was a lot for me to overcome the attitude of "KTM is the best bike you can ride if you have a mechanic back in the tent."Ktm is just doing the software side of the electronics a lot better than yamaha imho.
If i could get a bike with the power/weight and software of ktm but the reliability of yamaha, i would never ride anything else.
I took a chance with my current S model. Perception of high maintenance, questionable reliability, and that chain drive all put big road blocks in the way, but a low entry price made it worth the risk. 6000+ miles later the bike has shattered all expectations, been flawlessly reliable, made me forget about any concerns, and even adjusted my attitude about the chain.
I know 6000 miles is very little, and time will tell if it continues, but the bike has taken riding to a whole new level for me. I can not say I'll never ride anything else, but my hesitation about considering a KTM has (for now) evaporated.