KTM 500 for scouting and hunting?

[Waddi]

I had a KTM 250 XC-W a few years ago. Toying with the idea of getting another bike. I’m an okay rider with a bit of experience in single track and have a couple hare scrambles under my belt.

I want something road legal that can cruise on FS roads and connect pavement to dirt. I also want something I can romp on when I feel the need. As much as I love 2 strokes they’re not the answer for riding on the road for more than a couple minutes.

Anyone use the orange or white 500s for scouting and hunting? Or are they too cumbersome? I’d be doing 60% FS Roads 20% county roads with 65MPH speed limits and 20% moderate single track

 

[Steve300xcw]

Those bikes are legit, and will most likely be my next purchase. Be perfect for what you're wanting to do.

 

[WesternSlopeStyle]

I own a 2024 500 EXC-F, and while I really like the bike, if I were choosing again, I’d probably go with a 450 XCF-W. The 500 feels somewhat underpowered in stock form unless you install a new ECU or reflash the OEM unit. The 450 revs faster and feels more responsive, whereas the 500, with its longer stroke, delivers smoother, more tractor-like power. I’d recommend looking at 2024 or newer models, mainly because of the updated closed-cartridge forks.

 

[Waddi]

I own a 2024 500 EXC-F, and while I really like the bike, if I were choosing again, I’d probably go with a 450 XCF-W. The 500 feels somewhat underpowered in stock form unless you install a new ECU or reflash the OEM unit. The 450 revs faster and feels more responsive, whereas the 500, with its longer stroke, delivers smoother, more tractor-like power. I’d recommend looking at 2024 or newer models, mainly because of the updated closed-cartridge forks.

The reason I’m more attracted to the 500 is because of the tractable power, wheel spin and single track can be a handful. I’ll probably get something a little older like a 2018 or so, it’s a secondary hobby for me so I don’t want to spend too much on a new bike.