Motocross Mania

KTMs come with a small tool kit, but the tools in it are great. For instance, there is a T-handle Allen wrench that is set up to accept special 8, 10 and 13mm sockets. The supplied sockets fit the six-sided shaft of the Allen, so if you lose the sockets, the tool is worthless. The longer leg has a detent bearing to hold the socket, but I tape the 10mm socket in place. I wrap additional tape around the shaft of the longer arm so I have tape on the trail if needed. Now I never have to search my tool pouch for hidden sockets.

Photo Gallery: Triple Threat – T-Handle Allen Wrench – Dirt Rider Magazine

I drive a truck when I go riding, and my gear bag is out in the elements. For rainy riding trips I pack my gear into a plastic storage bin. Suitable tubs can be found for as little as $7 at building supply stores! I made a long trip in pouring rain and my gear was completely dry. As large as the storage bin I use is, it still fits between two bikes in a mini truck, and it fits ahead of the footpegs. Some even have the option of padlocking the top or even locking the tub into a truck.

Photo Gallery: Rainy Day Gearbox – Dirt Rider Magazine

Late-model KTM four-stroke models have the coolant hose fitting at the highest point of the water jacket, so they do not need to have the air bled from the system if it is drained and refilled. The 2000 to 2007 KTM RFS engine has a small bolt on the top of the left radiator, and another on the head to bleed the air from the system. The bolt on the head is the one near the spark plug with a copper sealing-washer under it. Cooling is much improved if the system is bled.

Photo Gallery: Bleed Baby – Dirt Rider Magazine

Drew Lambert
Oakland, CA
My friends and I have a problem keeping everyone at the same pace due to our differing experience levels. My buddy and I noticed that we were spending a bunch of time sitting at trail intersections waiting to make sure the rest of the group didn’t get lost. By the time we would ride away our goggles would be completely fogged up and we would be totally out of the groove for a few minutes because of the downtime.

Photo Gallery: Mapped Out – Trail Tip – Dirt Rider Magazine

In the past, Dirt Rider has illustrated the proper methods of bleeding brake systems, but each time those processes assumed that you have good pedal or lever pressure to pump the fluid through. If you have changed the brake line, the process is a bit tougher. If you change the caliper, then the entire system is nearly dry and it takes some tricks to get the job done in a reasonable amount of time. You will need to buy some tools, but the price should be less than $10 for the lot. You will also need proper brake fluid and paper towels. At some point a helper is almost vital.

Photo Gallery: How To: Bleed Brake Lines And Calipers – Dirt Rider Magazine

Photo Gallery: How To: Bleed Brake Lines And Calipers – Dirt Rider Magazine