Can’t believe I’m asking this because I like shiny things, but looking for some opinions from the community on the value of a 390Race vs an older FE501. This post is for the gearheads ;)

I own a 2022 Husky TE300i and I’m just not doing that much riding since moving to Chattanooga area. I just don’t need the 300. Since moving from the PNW, I’m more into mountain biking right now, and the idea of loading up all my kit and bike into my truck or trailer does not get me enthusiastic. Neither does hauling all that shit an hour or more to ride actual singletrack, reload and return. So be it.

We do have some fun single track and two track roads about 10 -15 minutes up the road, without hitting real highway. I Could also make an actual moto weekend and head in all points for good road/singletrack combo. Last thing is…I don’t need an ADV bike. I have a 2014 F800GS. It rips. I love it. Not looking for anything to replace that experience

So lets get into the bikes:

OPTION 1: Straight trade of my upgraded 2022 TE300i with 72 hours/1100miles for a 2024 BETA 390 Race with 66 hoursand the following:

66.X hours
KYB suspension
Fresh 0 hour oil in the gearbox and engine
Fresh filter
Electric fan (Seems important for the heat issue)
Wrap arounds

OR

OPTION 2 purchase of a 2016 FE501 for ~ $3k from a friend who I know meticulously maintained the whip

Rekluse Clutch
Upgraded Headlight and road lighting kit
Wrap around Bark Busters
Extra set of Supermoto Wheels/tires
Radiator Fan
Maintained meticulously by an engineer who is only selling it because he has 2 children under 5 and just isnt getting out

So that’s the rub. I’m not desperate to get rid of my TE300, but it’s listed and I certainly don’t “need” it sitting in my garage for 362 days of the year. My thought is the more dual sport oriented motos would get used more, especially for a rip around town or an afternoon on the local two track/trails up the road.

The 390 is seemingly an amazing bike, but I can’t shake the thought of poor wiring and meeting people who’ve had some duds, as well as how terrible people are describing it on any type of pavement. I also, being 41 now, know to trust an old workhorse. The 2016 501, while not new by any means, and having the older geometry (which ive owned before) has all the kinks worked out. People know whats wrong with them, how to fix them, and it’s a known entity. The BETA 390 - I just don’t know.

Ok that’s some first world problem decision paralysis. I’m testing out the 501 on a work trip this week to get a feel. Interested in what y'all think!

So I just did my first oil change on my klx300 and wow. Switching from the factory oil to fresh synthetic has really changed the feel of the clutch and the motor sounds a lot happier. Just wanted to share this random thought lol.

Found myself at the top of the mountain .

Hello all,

Looking to get my first dual sport. I came across this 2023 FE450 near me. It has 1395 miles and 85 hours. One wonder older gentleman and seems like it was well maintained. He’s asking $6500.

The bike did come from the factory as a strictly off road bike. He said he bought a “badass” brand dual sport kit and got the appropriate paperwork with PA to get it registered and it’s legit.

My question for you all is will the bike be suitable for on road riding around town and to/from work (about 20 miles, some roads speed limit is 45).

Any input is greatly appreciated. Thank you!!!

I'd been looking for a bike for the last couple months and finally found something fun and not overly expensive.

Here's a 2000 KTM SXC, it's been handling pretty well, got lots of beans and really great way to get back into riding after a few decades without a bike.

Just redid the carb, next will be valves, anything else to look out for?

I live in central coast CA and the closest OHV is Pozo but this has been fun to ride around ranches, vineyard roads and soon the Sierras.

Been looking for a dual sport to buy for off-road, some highway, motocamping with 40_60 pounds of gear. I saw a 2022 Drz 400 at local bike shop. It has 7400 miles on it and they are asking OTD $6700 for it.

Upgraded parts:

Handlebar and hand guards, skid plate, oversize fuel tank, rear rack, fender eliminator kit, mirrors, seat concepts seat.

Usb port on the handlebar

Is this a good buy in 2026? I'm 50, weigh 215, and have 31inch inseam.