LarsKTM

Does anyone have any tips or suggestions for a "short" rider? I am 5'7'' and have trouble reaching the ground on my 2001 KTM 520EXC. Is there any way to lower the bike so my feet reach on the trails or start the bike? (i.e. suspension adjustment, cutting the frame, carving the seat out) - I think I am after 1.5 to 2.0 inches max. Thanks KTM fans! -Lars

Raven and Kawidad - Thanks both for the replys. I did purchase the bike and rode it this weekend. I am worried I made a mistake with all the friggin power this thing has - One could get hurt on it pretty easy. I am planning on riding trails with my 10 year old son - at reasonable speeds. The noise seems to sound loose gears when riding slow in 1st or 2nd gear. The noise is not a "Whirring" sound, which there is and goes away when the clutch is pulled in - this is more of a clanking or loose gear sounding - reading what you have both seen, Cam Bearings sound logical. I took it to a local bike shop - They are not a KTM dealer, but a local shop whom I am friends with - so I know I won't get ripped off, but, they may not be all that familiar with KTM's - So if it keeps up after the bikes return, I am going to head over to a KTM dealer and get a full evaluation. Is it expensive to repair the Cam bearings or clutch on these bikes? I paid $2K for the bike - it looked in great condition for a 2001 and firgured if I needed to drop a $100 or $200 into it, it was still worth it. But the missing side stand is $120 alone (gulp!)... I can't thank you guys enough - It is great to see the KTM and Dirtbike community helping each other out. I will post whatever I learn from this situation to help others. Regards, Lars

Thanks Deano! After this first weekend, I am already feeling more comfortable with it's power. I cannot picture ever needing 5th and 6th gear. I'll check with the dealer on the cam bearings - also need to fix a coolant seal (I understand that there are two near the Cyl. head) so I guess the rocker cover will be off anyway. Might as well check it all out. Thanks again - I'll take any advice/tips and "Hey watch out for this" advice anyone wants to give. Cheers! Lars

I just purchased a 2001 KTM 520 EXC. It is my first dirt bike in...well many years. I have riden street bikes for a while and thought I could handle all the power...Man was I way off on that. This thing is a beast. I will enjoy getting used to it in the fields and trails of NJ... I ordered the manual and repair manual for it too. But in the mean time, I have a few questions for you KTM guys: 1. There seems to be a "clanking" noise coming from the crank case area. When the bike is reved up high enough it goes away, seems to only be in lower RPMs. 2. Finding nuetral standing still seems to be a challenge...is this something you just have to get used to? I had no problem finding it when I didn't want to though (ughhh)... 3. There is an after market light kit on it - but lights are out - and there is no switch (I guess they stay on all the time while the bilke is on?). I know they work..I can jump them out. If I want to re-wire them from scratch to make sure it is done right, what is the best way to do this? Should I jump into one of the wire harnesses? or go direct to Battery and add a switch? 4. I am looking for any advice or information you think is worth knowing about the bike. I appreciate any advice and help. regards... Lars