So I’m contemplating treating myself with some proper suspension, but unsure of which would be the wisest decision, perhaps our local guru @Tman21 could weigh in, sure other members might find value in this as well.
Background: I’m currently looking for a 2020-2023 300 with the intent to ride it till the 2024 300 XCW/EXC’s land in SA. I’ve got a 2017 300 XCW (friend will be using it) and a couple 2016 500’s. I’m possibly going to get a 2024 500 around the same time.
Now, why is this relevant? In short, options…
Situation: I’d like a set of proper suspension (Fork+Shock) that I can use on my 300 (2020-2023 that I’m yet to acquire) PLUS I’d like the OPTION of being able to use it on the 2024 300, 2024 500 and 2016 500’s.
Four main questions I need help with…
Compatibility: FIRST - What would the fork compatibility (brake caliper, axle etc) be between these bikes? SECOND - I know the shock won’t fit on the 2016 if it’s a 2017+ shock, will it fit on the 2024? Probably no way of knowing yet… 300 to 500 is compatible
Can’t use the 2023 XC as an example as it has linkage.
Do I buy the fork first (Knowing it will be compatible given the XC) and wait with the shock till I have the 2024 bike?
Cartridge VS Forks: Should I go for whole forks or cartridges? Considering cost vs ease of swopping between bikes, removing for sale etc and value retention (Fork damages and cartridges probably won’t)
WP/OHLINS: I don’t have the necessary knowledge to be able to make an informed decision about paying more for WP’s pro stuff (6500/7548) and Shock vs Ohlins. Also, the new 2024 bikes will have convenient adjustability on the shock like the XC, does one wait for that to come to the Pro suspension?
Cost: When the time comes I’ll be chatting to TBR, but I know the complete forks is about double the price of cartridges, Ohlins slightly cheaper. I don’t want to go for Ohilns just because it’s cheaper, unless it’s actually just as good. And vice versa.
My intention is to keep the suspension for quite a while, through different bikes (All within KTM 300/500’s) so I don’t mind making an “investment”.
Thoughts from the few in the know?
What would be the wisest and most- future proof decision?
Background: I’m currently looking for a 2020-2023 300 with the intent to ride it till the 2024 300 XCW/EXC’s land in SA. I’ve got a 2017 300 XCW (friend will be using it) and a couple 2016 500’s. I’m possibly going to get a 2024 500 around the same time.
Now, why is this relevant? In short, options…
Situation: I’d like a set of proper suspension (Fork+Shock) that I can use on my 300 (2020-2023 that I’m yet to acquire) PLUS I’d like the OPTION of being able to use it on the 2024 300, 2024 500 and 2016 500’s.
Four main questions I need help with…
Compatibility: FIRST - What would the fork compatibility (brake caliper, axle etc) be between these bikes? SECOND - I know the shock won’t fit on the 2016 if it’s a 2017+ shock, will it fit on the 2024? Probably no way of knowing yet… 300 to 500 is compatible
Can’t use the 2023 XC as an example as it has linkage. Do I buy the fork first (Knowing it will be compatible given the XC) and wait with the shock till I have the 2024 bike?
Cartridge VS Forks: Should I go for whole forks or cartridges? Considering cost vs ease of swopping between bikes, removing for sale etc and value retention (Fork damages and cartridges probably won’t)
WP/OHLINS: I don’t have the necessary knowledge to be able to make an informed decision about paying more for WP’s pro stuff (6500/7548) and Shock vs Ohlins. Also, the new 2024 bikes will have convenient adjustability on the shock like the XC, does one wait for that to come to the Pro suspension?
Cost: When the time comes I’ll be chatting to TBR, but I know the complete forks is about double the price of cartridges, Ohlins slightly cheaper. I don’t want to go for Ohilns just because it’s cheaper, unless it’s actually just as good. And vice versa.
My intention is to keep the suspension for quite a while, through different bikes (All within KTM 300/500’s) so I don’t mind making an “investment”.
Thoughts from the few in the know?
What would be the wisest and most- future proof decision?
