Help me choose - 2013 KTM 350 EXC or 2012 Husky TE 310?

I am getting a new street legal dual sport but I can't make a decision between those two. I think I have already ruled out the big bores because this bike will see a lot more trails than streets. Also I would like the ability to add a rekluse later and not burn it up.

Both bikes have great reviews! It seems that handling is slightly more in favor of the 310. I am coming from a CRF250R which is completely MX, so either one is heavier / harder handling than what I started out with. But in 2012 both are rave reviewed for their usable power, FI bug fixes etc. And both require removal of some emissions crap to unlock their full capabilities.

Price is in favor of the Husky by a couple grand. Dealer rebates for 2012 models. No 2012 KTM 350s available anywhere. But resale is definitely in favor of the KTM. The Husky has a weird swingarm design that removes suspension travel from the chain and improves wear/traction. KTM's 350 design is much easier to work on. Both bikes have good warranties (6 mo for both. I heard in one case a year on the Husky). 2012 seems to be a magic year for revisions for dual sports.

I can't decide! I am going to be right by Donnell's today --- I may bite the bullet at lunch. The Cyclezone dealer never called me back to accept my deposit or the deal would be sealed last weekend already.

Did anyone else watch Obama's acceptance speech last night?

From what I have ready and talked to the guys at Donnell's as well as my mechanic is Blue Springs, they are all talking up the Husky. There is actually some drewl left on the seats from my last trip in there too, I think!....LOL

Obama gave a speech?....LMAO

I ended up with the TE 310 today at about 2:30. The entire office had bets going this morning as to when I was going to purchase. Haha. $8900 out the door configured with bark busters, all emissions stuff removed and uncorked, skid plate, radiator guards, dirt style rear fender, rekluse EXP 2.0 and 54 month warranty. $200 less than the base price of the KTM 350. And street legal!

The 310 feels pretty light! The recommended mods are an Acro exhaust and 12 point injector but those can wait a bit. I have a feeling this thing will be at least as fast as my 250R was although modestly heavier. But I was going for fun trailbike first, streets/enduro second. It will see its time in the dirt. And this bike has a starter and headlight =) Fun fun fun!

Pics tomorrow maybe? It's pouring right now.

Better put the Rocktober Fest 2012 trip to Disney, OK on your calendar the last weekend in October.

New bike pic.



Sounds like one I can't miss. In that case, hope Greg brings some Disney Moonshine!

I got to make a batch and will bring looking forward to pic of new bike and why would I watch an Obama speech lmao.

Very Nice Looking Ride Mark.

I think we have more than one member bringing some of that Apple Pie Moon Shine to the Rocktober Fest 2012.

Wow, I just noticed that tree in the back ground......nice groomed trails too. Only rode it once with BikeJunkie....But, super nice place to ride for sure!

I sent the Husky to obedience school. It now has the Rekluse and JD jet EFI box. Rides a lot better but still has a stumble in the off-idle from the EPA tuning. Junk! I have a TXC ECU and 12 port injector on order that supposedly lights these things up pretty well. I may throw a 47 tooth sprocket on it for trail riding. But it does okay on the road now at least.

VERY NICE, I would love to have a street legal bike, I have quite a few trails around my place I could ride straight to then ride home

Great looking bike

Sounds like you will have that thing super tuned Mark....Awesome!

Cool on the right track.