2010 FE450 from a 2006 KTM 450EXC

Hello My Berg cousins.

I have been a loyal KTM rider/racer for a number of years but am in the market for a new race machine. I ride primarily Enduro and Cross Country events. For the last 4 years I have been on a 2006 KTM 450 EXC. I have really enjoyed this bike and we have done very well together. It is tired though and time to move on.

I am seriously considering buying a new 2010 FE 450. Local dealer has a smokin price but I am still hesitant having had no experience with Bergs.

Anybody else who has owned both bikes? How about you racers on the FE450. Does it really feel as light as they say ( while riding) because this would be one huge reason for me to buy. The KTM was also on the heavy side in the longer events but made up for it elsewhere. The Fuel injection is a huge plus as I was going to hope the 2012 450's from KTM had the FI but don't want to wait- haha. Many have told me to get the 300 KTM because of weight difference etc. and that it acts like a 4 stroke but I think I am a 4 stroke guy.

I know all the magazines love the Bergs the last few years.

I would have the suspension tuned for me ( forks and Rear spring) but am wanting to hear that I am making the right choice. Handling is the number most important thing to me. I am sure the power delivery is superb.

What do you think?

Just what I was hoping for- thanks for the comments.

CrazyTed- You are the perfect guy to ask this question because part of the consideration is whether to go FE or FX ( event though I asked about the FE in my post). The FE would be the closest to my EXC hence the comparison question. Or anyone else that offer there thoughts that have had these bikes.

First- I really haved liked the wide ratio tranny and the planted feel in corners that after springing i was able to get with my 450EXC. Having been racing now for several years and improving I have often wondered if the next bike needed to be a little more race focused than my EXC. Like the XC's or in this case the FX.

Does the front end handling of these bikes inspire the same confidence? I mean- I hear these are great handling bikes but I am hoping to know specifically if it wins hands down in cornering at speed and if the front seems as planted even in fast straights at the KTM's.

OK i am going to get "Post Creep" here - Do you Berg racers prefer the FX over the FE and what were your big reasons for the choice. I can get either at a steal and am ready to pull the trigger. I will assume the FX is certainly more moto track friendly but I am interested in Enduro and Cross Country events.

I- like your bike choices. I have followed pretty closely. I bought my 450 EXC new in 06. Sold it and bought an 08 450 XCR-W as well but could never get happy with the handling on the new chasis. Or at least that is what I thought it was-maybe it was the change in Triple Clamps to 19's that year? I really liked the motor on that bike though- It would light up for sure when you twisted the throttle. It just seemed like it did not turn as well and that I always felt I was more over the front wheel on that bike?

Anyway- sold it and bought another 06 450 - it became old faithful. Your comment on the handling on the FE 450 in regards to riding closer to the handlebars is interesting. Being 6'2" I ride more towards the center of the bike now rather than on the tank- I can get up there when I need to but is more ergonomically comfortable to ride further back when sitting if that makes sense.

I have read some comments about it being a little cramped for some riders and would really like to ride one before buying for that reason. A friend just bought a 10 390 FE so I will get a lap on that next week. Do you think I will get the same basic feel for the handling on that bike?

It is all so subjective to individual rider tastes and riding styles I know- but hearing other rider experiences I have found a valuable tool.