Decisions decisions

[TooFastTim]

I've come into a bit of money and, in addition to replacing my Raga, would like to get an enduro bike. Gasser it will obviously be (otherwise I wouldn't be on these forums) but prsently there's a bunch of new or ex-demo bikes up for sale, they are an 07 EC300, '08 EC200, '09 EC300 (2 of), '08 FSR515 and an 09 FSR 450 (with extra white plastics kit).

Now, I'm not interested in doing enduros as a sport again (perhaps I'll do the occasional event) but do want a bike that will robust, friendly and versatile. Application will be social rides, organised trail rides, maybe taking it to work occasionally (60k's there) and the occassional race. So, my feelings go towards the '09 FSR450 because 4s are better at long roads.

So what's your take on that model?

 

[AZRickD]

Throw in dual sport to that mix, coupled with commuting, and I'd go with the 4T, and possibly the 515. This from a 2T guy who is contemplating the same thing (with a heavier mix of single-track racing).

 

[TooFastTim]

Throw in dual sport to that mix, coupled with commuting, and I'd go with the 4T, and possibly the 515. This from a 2T guy who is contemplating the same thing (with a heavier mix of single-track racing).

Dual sport! That's the expression I was looking for.

Yeah Rick, raced 2 smokes for years and I don't want a bike that's that abrupt in its power delivery now. rather a nice linear power delivery. The 300 might be the most linear 2 stroke on the market but it's still pretty violent. The commuting bit wins the argument for me. I think the 515 might be a tad too brutal.

Nice thing is there's a rather nice piece of riding ground opposite where I'll be working soon.

 

[roostafish]

I just read a report in Dirt Rider that made the 515 sound like a gentle giant. They seemed to prefer it to a 450 and even mentioned the manners.