KDXRIDER.NET

Hi everyone,

Here is my introduction post for reference.
viewtopic.php?f=76&t=23903


I have been learning on a YZ426 motocross bike, and felt I needed something with less brutal power and more trail friendly on the rough technical stuff. After my first ride I can say that I'm super happy, the YZ will be up for sale shortly. I'm so happy that I can finally chug slowly without a flameout.

Now for the question:
I thought I had gotten to a good skill level riding deep sand with the YZ. The KDX is not very happy in that environment. Whenever I get some speed up and try to flow through a turn the bike wants to do what I can only describe as a hockey stop or a powerslide stop while skiing. Is this normal for the kdx, or do I just need to learn how to ride it?.

I ride my KDX in deep sand. Main thing I do in corners is weight far back and steadily keep the gas on.
Additional help would be make sure front springs are stiff enough for your weight and your sag is set properly, maybe a little soft.

If its stock the front end will be way too soft, especially in sand. As Grandpa said, need to spring it for your riding weight. Also keep in mind that a MX geometry is going to handle the sand and speed better than the KDX, it's all about designed purpose.

I'll take poor sand performance for what I just gained in rough trail peformace. I just need to take it easier on the whoops now too.

A lot was done to the bike before I got it, but I don't know if the springs were changed. My only experience is with an extremely stiff motocross bike, so I'm not a very good judge of how soft is too soft. At least the rocks don't bounce my front end around now.

Sand performance has always been poor (compared with how they do on other terrains) on my bikes but that's how I have them setup. I'm more worried about traction on hard pack and through rock gardens. For me it is well worth the trade off.

That said...

Proper springs are dependent upon your weight. So, unless the previous owner weighs the same as you, you need to change the springs. I have used RaceTech's spring calculator for years and have always been happy with their recommendations. Otherwise, try to find a reputable local suspension tuner than can get you set up. Yes, it isn't cheap but it is essential for good suspension response and it makes you safer and therefor it will increase your confidence on the bike. I also suggest reading up on how to do a basic setup on your suspension and what all the adjustments do for you.

Congratulations on finding a KDX. We thought you would like it.

Thanks everyone! I put my YZ up for sale yesterday afternoon right after my first ride on the kdx. The YZ was gone in two hours!!! I think I should have asked for more money.

In case misery loves company. I know the feeling. I sold a small fishing boat in same time and had about 20 calls. Oops.
Enjoy the KDX. I agree it is not probably not a great MX / sweeper bike, but it loves what it was designed for: gnarly single track with roots and rocks for breakfast.

Come on Goat, we need video of the climb!

Maybe go-pros aren’t just for kids?
I should fess up: I pussed-out and hung it up on the first step.
I have tendency to let off once I get the front tire over & where I want it. I am still too timid and have to learn to trust the back tire to bring the front down while keeping momentum.
But, we ate the rest of them like they were speed bumps at the school parking lot!

Thats the kind a trails my Beta?KTM guys try to lose me on, 10+oz stealthy flywheel weight, and Both front and rear shinko cheater tires and I CRAW right up that stuff, I love the crawl and grip of KDX< not as easy climbing as a KTM 300, but dang near close to it, my flywheel weight just keeps me chugging

I like that headlight. Where did you get it?

That looks like the Polisport MMX headlight I have on my KDX.

Side question: Do you know the specs on the Polisport MMX replacement bulb? I'm thinking on getting that light but want to swap in an LED bulb but have no idea what the bulb is...have looked on the internet a lot.

I really like the look of your bike! Nice!