KTM Dirt Bikes Forum

I own both a 2001 CR500 and a 2000 model KTM380SX.  Both bikes have tested 170+ compression.  The CR500 came with mods from FMF and my local KTM dealer has modified the 380SX (FMF Pipe, Boyson Reed + Alum cage,etc, etc..).  I guess I would have to say the CR500 puts out more raw BHP although the KTM 380SX bench tested at 56 BHP.  The Honda is also easier to start by a coupe of kicks. (At my age 44,it makes a difference-Been racing 2 strokes since 1973).  That being said, I believe the KTM 380SX is the faster bike on the track and here is why...
...Both bikes have more immediate-sudden-power-burst than the back tire can tolorate, so in an all-out drag race to the holeshoot or from corner to corner, there is NO difference between the the 380cc KTM and the 500cc Honda as you are riding both bikes on the gas cap anyway to keep the front tire down.  On both bikes precious tracion is lost as you're at the mercy of your back tread.  So, now the issue is weight.  I think the KTM 380SX wins the 2-stroke war between the Honda CR500 steel frame and the KTM 380SX with the above listed mods.  The KTM likes the outside berm; the Honda is ok with the inside track which will kill you on a big-bore two stroke if you are not careful.
Now, if weight and age are not an issue, find a 1996 KTM 550 MXC; pull the throttle back and hold it there until you see God.  

Say 'hi' to him for us!  ... but steer clear of Sir Isaac Newton - he'll probably be pretty annoyed about all of his cherished Laws of Physics you're breaking with these two monsters!

 
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Here we go again!

i personally dont think that anything would beat the new AF's around a track...

the 07 that i rode felt just like my cr250 just about 10 pounds heavier. on the berms, it has more than enough power to pull you right through with no problem.

once in the air however, i liked the 500 more than my 250...i dont know if its because the frame is a little different or maybe im just more comfortable with its ergonomics, but it was actually more flickable imo than any 450 i have ever ridden including the newer hondas with the same basic dimensions for the frame...

im not saying that theres nothing out there that could beat it, i just dont think its very likely that a 380 would...

i have never ridden one so dont take this personally or anything.

hopefully jimmy sees this thread and gets his AZZ out there to do a shootout between the two lol  

Im gonna have to go with the cr 500, just because I love the brute force of the big bores, Ive heard that the 380 doesnt have quietthe hit that a 500 does. Course I'll take my hybrid over any of them, cause it was built by me.  
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The Idle of a 500 2 stroke is Akin to the Devils Heartbeat


"Forgive me lord for I have sinned. Hit a 4th gear jump, 5th gear pinned."

lol, everytime i see you say hybird i can't help but think of you out on the track in a little honda electric car with a keg next to you with the seat belt on haha