Is it time to buy a Berg?

Long time reader on this site, but new to posting...

I’m on ThumperTalk, but figured this was the place to ask this question since there’s a plethora of Berg owners\experts here.

Moving on, I got trigger happy and went and bought a new 2006 Husky TC450 the other month, but haven’t ridden it, let alone started it.

I’ve been going back and forth theoretically speaking as to whether I’d be happy with this bike out in the open desert of CA where it will be ridden 90% of the time. Many Husky owners on tt.com said I can be happy….and I know the bike is awesome and extremely capable, but I want real easy starting, and higher speed capabilities.

I’m a 6 speed tranny type of guy, and the close ratio 5 speed on the TC might not do it for me.

The TC450 has been put up for sale today, and if it sells, I’ll be looking for a replacement bike, which can meet most, if not all of my expectations.

I have a few options here.

Once the TC450 sells, I’ll have up to $3500 cash available to either purchase used or make a down payment on a new one.

I’m considering the 05/06 FE550e and also a 2000 FC501 my friend is willing to sell me below market. Or a 2007 FE550e if I wait until next year when once prices come down further. (I don’t believe in paying MSRP)

The 2000 is in great shape, and maybe only needs an update or two. I can obviously pay cash for this and have 1.5k+ left over in the bank.

Or, I can pay half now, finance the rest, for a new 06 FE550e.

The older FC starts easy, but I hear the 06/07’s start amazing. The Bergs, they have a lower seat height than my TC right?

There will likely be more running costs associated with the older 2000, but can I justify the high price of buying new?

What do you guys think? Should I stick with an older Husky, like a 2002 TE570 or TE610? I'm not going with a pre 2000 Berg or 01-03...and would prefer not to get a 04 Berg either.

Just need more guidance/advice here….

Is it worth waiting for the 07's to come down on $, or can true happiness be found on the 06's?

I'm also after a great deal of realibility (same or close to a Husky), even if that means maintaining it religiously.

I think the 650 will rev a little too slow for me.... plus having a 550, it will still allow me to trail ride up in the moutains...without feeling like there is too much bike below me...

However, if it was a 100% desert, the 650 would tempt me...

RE: 550/650

Interesting feedback on the 650... however I think the 550 is an awesome balance between the 450 and 650 world.. (duh! Do the math!), but regardless.... I think the 550 can be what I need it to be.

The older FC would need a little coin, but not much to keep her or get her to be perfect....but that's anything these days.

My friend did mention he was going to try and keep it for a spare bike since he didn't think it was worth letting go, so that's good for me in the sense I still get to ride it, even though it's not mine and I don't have to pay for it. But, in the event he does sell it one day, I'll try and scoop up the cash for it...

I'll keep hunting on this site for more info... but the 550 Berg really does sound like a great bike, especially the newer ones.

Appreciate the encouragement in finding the right bike....

As a side note, someone on this site, and I won't name names, but they mentioned they had a 2005 FC550 they were considering letting go. Any feedback on this model? These are non E button right? Closer ratio 6 speed like my bud's 00FC501?

EZ.... Easy! If my pockets ran that deep I wouldn't even post the question, they'd already be in the garage...

I found a new leftover 05 FE550e..... and there is also a leftover 06 for a little over a grand more than the 05. I'm investigating all my options right now and looking for the best overall package.

Tell me, so I don't have to spend hours and hours tonight reading, is there any noteworthy difference, mechanically speaking, that would justify having the 06 over the 05?

I need realibility! Bike will not be abused, only ridden 10-20 hours a year, almost all desert riding.

I've read the 07's, the 550's that is, have an updated case, but otherwise didn't see anything else that stood out motor wise.

Any good info guys?

Thanks risky and Lubbz.....just needed some confirmation.... The 05 is roughly $6000 + shipping...

The 06 is like $7350 all said and done.... pick up incl...

I'll have to spend just a little out of pocket since I can only get 6k or so for my TC, but it should be worth it.

Just have to wait and see if the TC sells, if not, pipe dream is over for now...