Comparative Specs For Leading Mxers
Comparative specs for leading MXers
When it comes down to choosing the right competition machine for your needs, or when you’re thinking about modifying suspension or frame geometry and need to know certain specifications on competitive brands in order to make a decision, there is just no substitute for a comparative table like the one below.
In order to make the chart as meaningful as possible, we concentrated on the three most popular classes: 125, 250 and Open. On the left side of the chart the leading brands are listed with suggested retail prices and countries of manufacture.
The next few columns concern themselves with common engine specifications and gear ratios that reveal the potential versatility of these machines. In other words, some of these bikes lend themselves readily to cross-country racing or just plain cowtrailing in addition to motocross. A six-speed transmission or variable drive torque converter would be the tipoff here, especially in the big-bore classes.
Suspension is all-important on motocrossers, so we did a lot of research on the subject. Brand of components is important, as is total travel front and rear. Input in both areas is often necessary to determine potential, so we’ve included both. Complementing this are columns on frame rake and trail.
Following some common frame specifications is comparative data on tires and rims. We feel this information is particularly useful because tires and rims are areas of strong preference and constitute items easily replaced by owners or potential buyers.
Frame and fuel tank material is an indication of machine quality and is therefore something to think about. Generally speaking, chrome-moly is stronger than mild steel. Plastic tanks are more durable than fiberglass or aluminum ones. Air cleaner material is also mentioned; it’s interesting to note that oil-wetted foam is the manufacturers’ choice without exception.
All of these things influence weight. For competition use, the lighter the better. On machines we have tested, weight is listed as wet. Wet means that the bike is completely serviced and has a half tank of gas. The remaining machines are listed with dry weights. That means no oil and no gas. Gas weighs 6 lb. per gallon. Oil in the transmission and forks usually accounts for an additional 2-4 lb. For a ball park wet figure, then, add 10 lb. to the dry figure. That’s about where you’ll end up ready to race.
Finally, there’s a section on warranty. Keep in mind here that it is common practice not to offer warranties on competition machinery, so if the bike of your choice has one, it is a definite bonus.
