Guys, help me on a 350X decision

[Dirtcrasher]

I sat in class today browsing the Want Ad and said to myself " Why keep a dirt bike you don't ride?" I've got a nice 89 KDX200 but it's an event to ride it. What I mean is that it's quick, wants to jump and likes to stay on the pipe. I know it's not a CR250 but I've come to the conclusion that I enjoy ATV's and ATC's. I've always wanted a 250R but like a strret bike I just know I'll be an idiot on one so I don't buy them- its good to know your limitations!. On the other hand I've ridden 350X's and they seem like I can cruise around on a wheelie all day or ride aggresively. So what year do I want? There's a nice 85 for 1500$ but I thought maybe an 86 is better? Is there an 87? And lots of you guys seem to snap the frame somewhere - where do I check?? What breaks, strips - etc. I know the obvious motor noises, bearings, suspension checks but you experts are my best source. Give me the spots to be aware of on that model and your year of preference if you could please. Thanks guys!

[lushatc200x]

those bikes are all round great. they are durable,fast,and powerful. my friend rolled his down a hill and the thing bounced over 10 foot in the air and rolled over 20 times down this monster hill . all that happened was his six pack rack bent a tad and his plastics flew off. thats durability right there. it can out run a 400ex ive seen that happen. ive seen it pull out in 3rd and do wheelies.

[NOS_350X]

the common missing parts on them are the brakes front and rear headlight, taillight, grab bar,heat guard on pipe
there is no sugnificant changes between the 85 and 86 just the color never herd of anyweak spots in the frame

[86waterpumper]

man I can't believe you don't like the kdx...I wouldn't get rid of mine for anything...I ride alot of woods and that thing is awesome, feels very mild compared to my buddies kx. The 350x is a great bike too, it's best to just have both HEHEH...

boy I am sick to death though of hearing people say that there are no signifigant changes between the 85 and 86 350x's that is pretty much a load of crap. Aside from the obvious color changes there were MANY more updates. Just to name a few, stronger rims w/ billet inserts, stronger rear carrier, better steering stem bearings, easier kickstarting/decompression, different cable routing, the engine had better top end oiling, different cam and top end design, mods to the lower end to prevent crankshaft windage, the 86 fender compound was less brittle, and on and on. However don't pass up a good deal on a 85 because of that they were great machines, but it is worth it to get a 86 if they are only slightly more.

[Kilborg]

There were many differences in the 86 model, all of which make it a better overall machine. The 85 is still fine, but the 86 is improved.

[86350X]

The frame cracks in the rear near where the grab bar mounts,,, right next tothe seat grommets,, it is actuallt wels=ds that crack and it is fairly commonon any 350x that has been wheelied a lot,,,, its a very easy fix though,,,, you can weld right on the original welds and if its done right you cant even tell..

[Dirtcrasher]

Hmm, so the 86 sounds like the way to go. Keep the reviews coming! Thanks

[Dirtcrasher]

Hey Howdy whats your take on the 350X's? I"ll bet you have a couple of each. Do you see any shortfalls in the 85?? Seems to be alot more of them here in MASS for about 1100$ to 1600$.

[Howdy]

I personally like the 85's over the 86's. mainly because of the Red Plastic. I do know of many differences and weaknesses in the years. Most of which are listed already. In my opinion you will be happy with the power from either year. If you like the looks of a 85 and the updates of a 86 then you can swap out the plastic.

Bottom line is any good "RUNNING" and looking 350x is a good machine.
I hope that helps.
Howdy

[HemiChallenger71]

The years are about the same, the 85' have some better features than the 86's and the 86's have some better features than the 85's. It's minimial stupid stuff like a main jet size, how the clutch cable is routed, and the rear caliper mounting (yet the caliper's are the same). One thing to watch out for is low oil levels, and a reversed oil filter, or if the machine has sat for a long time (watery oil). It does a lot of damage to the heads (I know I had one with this problem). If the bike doesn't seem faster than a 400EX or just doesn't run quite right don't get it because it's probably the head damage. Mine ran like a champ, then I raced a 400Ex and lost bad because my head was pucked up. The frames just below the seat like to bend and crack, look under there too. The fork seals are a common thing too, and dont forget the front and rear axle bearings...