How long will the previous generation Bergs be viable?

I've got an '02 FX470e. Last time I rode it over a year ago, it died and had very low compression when I checked it. The same day it died, I got a job offer after 11 months of unemployment so it wasn't necessarily a bad day. :lol:

Anyway, I'm trying to get a handle on the bike now after a busy year with a new job and lots of other things taking me away from riding. As I'm looking at the bike and thinking about how much I like it, I wonder how much longer this will be a viable ride - by viable I mean available parts. I've pretty well sorted the thing out (still have an upgraded counterbalancer to install) but I never want to be stuck with a bike that will be a struggle to maintain and obtain what I need to keep it running. I've also got a trials bike which, like the Berg, will never have the factory parts inventory of a Honda. This is the drawback to enjoying niche bikes. I think they're better and more fun to ride and maintain, but require a degree of self-sufficiency and faith that the factory will continue to provide the needed goods.

So, can anyone really answer how much longer the previous generation of bikes will be viable riding options? Thanks.

RDP501 said:

That is a good question, however we have one the best sources for Husaberg parts right here in the NW - Boss Offroad in Portland. Rick had a new ignition for my '02 FE650 in stock last summer and I believe he told me that he got all the Husaberg parts inventory that KTM of Gresham had, and it seemed like they used to have a lot (I bought my first Husaberg - '96 FE501 - new from them). I sure do like my '05 FE550 and I prefer it to either of the 4-stroke KTMs I've had in the past. I was a bit leary of Husabergs when I bought my '96 FE501 but never needed to anything more than routine maintenance on it the 8 or 9 years I had it.

BTW, Gas Gas trials bikes have the best parts availability of all the trials bike out there. I own 2 of them and have never had any trouble getting parts and a couple of good sources are right here in the NW.

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True on GG parts. I also use Rick for all of my Berg parts (haven't in awhile) and Mike at the Trials Source in Boise for my GG parts, so I agree that as far as those two brands we're set in the NW. I've had a lot of bikes and this FX470 is by far the best all-around bike I've owned for woods, dunes, tracks, and any other riding I want to do up here. I'm just dreading the day I call for something and I hear, "sorry, that's discontinued." I want to bail on the bike before that happens.

Actually, I don't do all of my riding on the Berg. I save the Gasser for the truly terrifying billygoat trails. :lol:

eyspy said:

My brother can still buy parts for his 40 year old Truimph, so I don't think you will have to worry too much....

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Well, Trumpets were the Honda of their day. I think a better comparison would be finding Greeves or Matchless parts now.