At a glance. The appeal of motorbikes stems from their low purchase price, fuel efficiency, ease of maintenance and safety.

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1 RESEARCH REPORT: TWO-WHEEL MOTORBIKES AUTHORS Tim Andrew Josh Giumelli KONDININ GROUP Josh Giumelli At a glance Different jobs require different machinery so farmers need to look seriously at whether the trusted ag-bike is up to the task. Weigh up the purchase price with standard features and construction quality when buying a new motorbike. Front and rear disc brakes, stainless steel exhaust systems, bash plates and handlebar protectors might cost more but lead to savings later on. While most ag-bikes had lower power output and poorer handling, they were cheaper and better suited to farm jobs requiring lower speed and less adventurous riding styles. The 250cc off-road class combines power, handling and light weight but lacks some features necessary for on-farm use. The 400cc bikes have no shortage of power but need to be ridden with more skill and confidence. With a wide range of motorbikes on the market, farmers are faced with a difficult buying decision. Do they stick with the tried-and-tested ag-model they have used for the past 10 years or buy a bike with more power and better handling? Kondinin Group s latest test of 12 motorbikes cuts through the confusion and dishes the dirt on handling, power, features and suitability for the farm. Buying the right motorbike for the farm can save money in the long term, even if the initial cost is higher. Kondinin Group tests of 12 popular motorbikes have shown farmers need to consider more than price when making a buying decision. Issues to consider include durability, rider confidence, power and agility, safety, comfort, spare parts costs, standard equipment, warranty and service intervals. Spending a little extra up-front can pay off in the long term, particularly as features such as disc brakes, stainless steel exhaust systems, handlebar protectors and bash plates are included in the base model of some bikes. Independent tests Kondinin Group tested 12 bikes by Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Suzuki and Yamaha (see Table 1). All manufacturers supplied bikes except Yamaha. A test panel of Kondinin Group engineers, farmers and experienced riders examined the bikes in detail, taking them through different riding conditions including steep terrain, paddocks, gravel, sand and water crossings. An essential farm vehicle Motorbikes have long been an indispensable farm tool for herding stock, riding out to check a bore or simply travelling around the farm. The appeal of motorbikes stems from their low purchase price, fuel efficiency, ease of maintenance and safety. Unlike all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), two-wheel motorbikes carry less risk of death from roll-overs and can safely negotiate more challenging terrain. But serious injury risks are always present, so always wear helmets and suitable clothing. 20 Farming Ahead January 2007 No

2 RESEARCH REPORT: TWO-WHEEL MOTORBIKES Ben White Splash: Kondinin Group engineer Tim Andrew took the Yamaha AG200E though a water crossing to help evaluate rider protection and brake function when wet. The Yamaha performed well as it had large mudguards and wide mudflaps. Test ride: A team of Kondinin Group engineers, farmers and experienced riders tested each motorbike for its performance under farm conditions. Ag-bikes a reliable choice Motorbike manufacturers realised early on the value farmers place on their products and have offered agricultural models or ag-bikes for years. But with ATVs capturing more market share and the difficulty in realising a profit from a small market sector, fewer ag-bikes are now available. Kondinin Group tested the Honda CTX200, Kawasaki Stockman, Suzuki Trojan and Yamaha AG200. The bikes were well equipped for farm use and all are supplied with front and rear carry racks, dual stands, handlebar protectors and clutch locks. Off-road bikes Farmers who need more power, agility and speed have looked toward trail or dirt bikes as an on-farm tool. TABLE 1 Kondinin Group ratings for two-wheeled motorbikes Typically 250cc or more, these bikes work well for mustering and general farm use but are not as well-equipped as ag-bikes with guards, rider protection and carry racks. Nonetheless, a range of manufacturer and aftermarket accessories such as bash plates, handlebar protectors, bark busters, cooling fans and racks can be fitted to improve the durability and usefulness of these bikes. For more power, agility and speed farmers often look to trail or dirt bikes. Make and model Power A Steering and Gear ratios Braking D Handlebars, Seat Maintenance F suspension B and selection C controls and comfort instruments E Ag-bikes Honda CTX Kawasaki Stockman Suzuki Trojan Yamaha AG cc Honda CRF Honda XR Kawasaki KLX Yamaha TTR cc and above KTM 525EXC KTM 640LC4E Suzuki DR-Z400S Yamaha WR450F A. Power ratings are relative to class and not a comparison of power across all 12 motorbikes. B. Rating is an equal combination of steering and suspension scores. C. Rating is an equal combination of gear ratio and ease of gear selection scores. D. Rating is an equal combination of braking and engine braking scores. E. Rating is an equal combination of handlebars, controls and instrumentation scores. F. Rating is an equal combination of ease of accessing oil and air filters, battery and oil filling points. Note: Higher scores indicate better performance. Ben White Thorough checks: All motorbikes were put through their paces including a check of instrumentation, specifications and comfort. Farming Ahead January 2007 No

3 RESEARCH REPORT: TWO-WHEEL MOTORBIKES Poor access: Some motorbikes tested were not easy to maintain with oil and air filters, oil filling points and batteries difficult to access. The bolt recesses in the KTM 640LC4E s side cover were so narrow that even the tool supplied with the bike could not access the bolt heads. Farmers could solve this by using cap head bolts and an allen key to remove the bolt heads. Action aplenty: Experienced riders evaluated how well the motorbikes handled the test track. Ben White (230cc) and XR250 (250cc) models, Kawasaki KLX250 and the Yamaha TTR250. Power for the experienced For experienced riders looking for larger, more powerful bikes for mustering and travelling long distances, the KTM 525EXC and 640LC4E (now available as the 625SXC model), Suzuki DR-Z400S and the Yamaha WR450 were tested. In general, the larger bikes had superior handling, suspension and braking but were not This space is deliberately blank Kondinin Group tested the Honda CRF Farming Ahead January 2007 No

4 RESEARCH REPORT: TWO-WHEEL MOTORBIKES Photos: Josh Giumelli No kick-starter: The Kawasaki Stockman and KLX250, Honda CRF230 and XR250L and Suzuki DR-Z400S did not have a kickstarter. The KTM 640LC4E (pictured) was the only bike to have its kick-starter positioned on the left side of the bike. as light and easy to handle as the smaller 250cc dirt bikes or as cost-effective. Check safety features before buying as some bikes tested could be started in gear, while others lacked ignition locks. Safety and compliance Compliance, or the ability to be road registered in Australia, went hand-in-hand with safety features found on the 12 motorbikes. The Kawasaki Stockman, Suzuki Trojan, Yamaha AG200 and Honda CRF230 were not fitted with compliance plates. Disturbingly, the Kawasaki Stockman, Suzuki Trojan and KTM 525EXC could be started in gear without the clutch depressed. Tim Andrew As with certain ATVs tested by Kondinin Group during 2005, no vehicle should start like this as it could cause an accident. Ignition locks Some machines were fitted with ignition locks on the stands. Although an appropriate safety Under scrutiny: Kondinin Group engineer Josh Giumelli and test panel member Peter Hickey, Molong, New South Wales, examine the Suzuki Trojan ag-bike. All ag-bikes tested were well-equipped for farm use, featuring twin stands, front and rear racks, clutch locks and rider protection. Spare parts are a hidden cost With the cost of a basket of spare parts differing by more than 100 per cent from the cheapest to the most expensive, farmers can easily overlook parts costs when buying a motorbike. Being the smallest bike, the Honda CRF230 had the cheapest basket of spare parts at $989.21, while the KTM 640LC4E was the most expensive at $3208. It pays to note that spare parts quality varies dramatically with KTM parts including expensive pro-taper handlebars designed for increased strength ($240) and stainless steel exhaust header and muffler ($650 and $966). See Table 2. TABLE 2 Basket of spare parts for two-wheel motorbikes Make and model Air Oil Front Handlebars Brake Clutch Foot gear Foot brake Exhaust Exhaust Fuel Total filter filter mudguard lever lever lever lever header pipe muffler tank Ag-bikes Honda CTX200 $16.34 $4.00 $ $85.93 $12.65 $48.20 $25.00 $36.32 $ $ $ $ Kawasaki Stockman $19.65 $16.15 $ $76.80 $21.75 $40.10 $68.30 $ $ $ $ $ Suzuki Trojan $35.63 $13.32 $97.11 $ $19.72 $21.81 $49.72 $63.05 $ $ $ $ Yamaha AG200E $20.10 $11.21 $77.66 $83.25 $14.92 $24.75 $20.05 $40.45 $ $ $ $ cc Honda CRF230 $59.58 $2.05 $60.58 $60.98 $11.49 $27.69 $30.76 $31.67 $42.53 $ $ $ Honda XR250L $88.79 $8.93 $ $79.25 $28.77 $26.78 $61.11 $ $ $ $ $ Kawasaki KLX250 $82.35 $16.15 $ $79.40 $21.70 $22.00 $75.50 $83.85 $ $ $ $ Yamaha TT250 $29.43 $15.42 $41.35 $ $13.45 $24.75 $47.38 $70.48 $ $ $ $ cc and over KTM 525EXC $55.00 $35.00 $60.00 $ $15.00 $15.00 $95.00 $ $ $ $ $ KTM 640LC4E $31.13 $ $49.50 $ $82.00 $92.00 $65.00 $ $ $ $ $ Suzuki DR-Z400S $65.59 $13.06 $ $ $18.61 $21.81 $87.77 $ $ $ $ $ Yamaha WR450F $34.56 $16.95 $43.90 $ $52.76 $21.87 $92.83 $ $ $ $ $ Note: All prices include goods and services tax and were current at the time of print. Source: Kondinin Group. Farming Ahead January 2007 No

5 RESEARCH REPORT: TWO-WHEEL MOTORBIKES feature, this would be frustrating to riders when getting off the bike for short periods such as when opening gates. The Honda CRF230, KTM 525EXC, Yamaha WR450F and all ag-bikes (which have two stands) were not fitted with this feature. New bikes on the horizon At the time of testing, the popular Honda XR400 had just been discontinued. Honda has just released a new model XR400 with an electric start and no kick-starter as standard (the previous model was not fitted with electric start). Road tyres will be standard inclusions but off-road tyres would be optional for about $500. The bike is designed for road use and is not covered under warranty if modified for off-road use. Yamaha has just released a new model WR450F. Smaller bikes offer manoeuvrability, others can take rough conditions or pay the higher price tag for power. Future trends Of the 12 bikes tested, five were not equipped with a kick-starter, namely the Kawasaki Stockman and KLX250, Honda CRF230 and XR250L and Suzuki DR-Z400S. While some bikes can be fitted with a kick-starter at additional cost, farmers travelling long distances from home are sure to feel more confident with a back-up means of starting if the starter motor or battery fail. Kick-start safety The apparent phasing out of kick-starters might be more than a cost-saving measure. The introduction of electronic fuel injection on these motorbikes will mean they are impossible to kick-start with a flat battery as power is needed to operate the fuel pump. For full specifications of all motorbikes tested see Table 3. A basket of spare parts differs by more than 100 per cent from the cheapest (at under $1000) to the most expensive (retailing for $3200). Plastic not fantastic: Some radiator filler caps, like the Suzuki DR-Z400S pictured, were difficult to access because they were obscured by plastic panels. Praise and put-downs: Kondinin Group s test panel members praised the Suzuki DR-Z400S digital display featuring an Enduro computer with clearly visible dash lights. Neutral lights were not fitted to all bikes, with the Honda CRF230, KTM 625LC4E and Yamaha WR450F lacking this useful feature. Josh Giumelli Josh Giumelli TABLE 3 Specifications of motorbikes tested by Kondinin Group Make and model Engine Transmission Fuel Dry Brakes Brakes Australian Cooling Service interval Warranty * capacity capacity weight (front) (rear) design system (months) (cc) (not including (kg) compliance reserve) (litres) Ag-bikes Honda CTX Five-speed Disc Drum Yes Air 4000km A 12 $4890 I Kawasaki Stockman 249 Five-speed Disc Disc No Air 6000km A 12 $5590 Suzuki Trojan 199 Five-speed Disc Drum No Air, oil 5000km 12 $4500 Yamaha AG200E 196 Five-speed Drum Drum No Air 6000km A,B 12 $ cc Honda CRF Six-speed Disc Drum No Air 1000km 6 $5690 Honda XR250L 249 Six-speed Disc Disc Yes Air 6000km A 12 $8190 Kawasaki KLX Six-speed Disc Disc Yes Water 6000km A 12 $6490 Yamaha TTR Six-speed Disc Disc Yes Air 1000km B,D 24 $ cc and over KTM 525EXC 510 Six-speed Disc Disc Yes Water 800km C 3 H $13,090 J KTM 640LC4E 625 Five-speed Disc Disc Yes Water 5000km A,E 12 $12,200 J Suzuki DR-Z400S 398 Five-speed Disc Disc Yes Water 6000km 12 $8990 Yamaha WR450F 449 Five-speed Disc Disc Yes Water 500km F,G 3 H $11,999 A. Not including initial 1000km check service. B. Manufacturer recommends annual checks as per manual. C. Depending on use could be as low as 500km. D. Major service every 10,000km. E. Oil every 1000km depending on operating conditions. F. Minor service every 150km. G. Major service every 1000km. H. Parts only. I. $5190 for ADR compliant model as tested. J. 18L long-range tank as tested is an extra $900. * s include GST but do not include freight, pre-delivery or government changes. 24 Farming Ahead January 2007 No

6 RESEARCH : REVIEWS TWO-WHEEL MOTORBIKES AG-BIKES Ag-bikes gain tick for value With prices at $4500 $5590, the four ag-bikes tested represented value for money but farmers will need to examine specifications as each differed in standard equipment included. Josh Giumelli Kondinin Group tests showed ag-bikes were ready to handle rough conditions. But buyers need to beware of issues such as tuning the suspension, variations in display instrumentation and that most of these bikes lacked compliance for on-road use. Engine and brake report card The Honda CTX200, Suzuki Trojan 200 and Yamaha AG200E motorbikes were all equipped with 200cc engines, whereas the Kawasaki Stockman featured a 250cc engine. All ag-bikes included dual stands, front and rear racks, clutch lock and handlebar protectors but only the Suzuki and Honda models had an adequate bash plate to protect the engine. Although the Kawasaki Stockman was the most expensive at $5590, it was superbly equipped with a full stainless steel exhaust system, excellent instrumentation and front and rear disc brakes. While the Suzuki and Honda models were equipped with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, the Yamaha was the only Ag-bike tested with front and rear drum brakes. This braking system was inadequate, especially after completing water crossing tests, where the brakes failed to work when wet. Comfort is priceless Ag-bikes were more comfortable to ride than other bikes tested, as they were fitted with wide seats and soft suspensions. But riders noticed suspensions bottoming out during demanding riding tests, especially on the Yamaha. With some weight on the racks, suspensions would likely need tuning for best results. The Kawasaki s suspension was far superior to the other three bikes tested, and handled well in rough country. But the foot pegs were situated a little further toward the rear than other bikes and riders tended to slide forward onto the fuel tank when travelling down steep slopes. Engine power was adequate for all ag-bikes tested, with the low-range torque of the Yamaha ideal for slower stock work and hill climbing. Power and gearing While the Kawasaki had plenty of power, the Honda and Suzuki required more engine speed to gain useable power. Engine braking was satisfactory for all four bikes in first and second gears. Suzuki was the slowest machine tested in low- speed stock work trials. The gap between second and third gear ratios on the Honda and Yamaha bikes was too large with the bikes either revving too high or losing power on steep climbs. The Yamaha was the only motorbike to feature neutral at the bottom of the gear change, or below first gear, as opposed to the more familiar position between first and second gear. This made neutral easy to find but a little too easy for unfamiliar riders changing down when descending a hill. Changing from second to first under power was also an issue. Wide seats and soft suspensions make ag-bikes comfortable to ride. The Kawasaki was fitted with an excellent digital display, while the Honda and Suzuki s speedometer and dash lights were clearly visible. The Yamaha s speedometer was adequate but the neutral light was difficult to see in sunlight. No motorbikes were fitted with tachometers. Maintenance and guarding The extra guarding and rider protection fitted to the ag-bikes did not hinder maintenance points. The Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha all featured oil level windows and oil filters were easy to access, while the Honda was not fitted with a cartridge oil filter or level window. Air filters and batteries were generally easy to access from the side covers. The Yamaha featured a fully enclosed chain guard and sealed O-ring chain and was also the only bike to have a grease nipple fitted to the swing-arm pivot. All toolkits were reasonably equipped and the Yamaha had the largest toolbox, conveniently located under the rear carry rack. The Honda s toolbox was poorly located under the rear mudguard, while on the Kawasaki it required a coin to open it, which could be a problem if out riding with no spare change. Farmers looking to road license an ag-bike would have no choice but to buy the Honda CTX200 with the compliance option (an extra $300), as it was the only one of the four fitted with a compliance plate. 26 Farming Ahead January 2007 No

7 AG-BIKES TWO-WHEEL MOTORBIKES REVIEWS : RESEARCH HONDA CTX200 Build quality. The bike is designed for Australian farms with front and rear racks, dual stands, wide seat, clutch lock and air-cooled engines. Engine starts easily. Compliance optional. $4890 (includes GST). Seat comfort. Riding position. Honda Australia Gear ratios. Phone: Rear drum brakes. Rear suspension. KAWA SAKI STOCKMAN Stainless exhaust. The Stockman offers a significantly higher level of specification and a full 250cc engine plus made in Japan quality in fit and finish. Excellent handlebar protection. Handlebar controls and gauges. $5590 (includes GST). Build quality and presentation. Disc brakes (front and rear). 250cc engine. Kawasaki Motors Phone: No rider protection and mudguards. Non-compliant. Foot peg position. SUZUKI TROJAN Engine oil cooler. It is designed as a value-for-money, purposebuilt ag-bike. Power. Large 13-litre fuel tank. $4500 (includes GST). Gearing. Non-compliant. Suzuki Australia Rear drum brakes. Phone: (03) Expensive parts. Starts in gear. YAMAHA AG200 Comfortable seat. The series is a dedicated design for Australian conditions. Bottom-end power and torque. $4899 (includes GST). Mud and water protection. Sealed O-ring chain. Brakes. Yamaha Motor Australia Handling. Phone: (03) Dated design. Gear selection and ranges. Farming Ahead January 2007 No

8 RESEARCH : REVIEWS TWO-WHEEL MOTORBIKES 250CC Mid-size bikes show their stuff The combination of power, manoeuvrability and light weight makes the 250cc category of motorbikes an appealing choice for stock work. Josh Giumelli Manoeuvrability was the hallmark of the smaller, 250cc motorbikes tested but the risk of damage to exposed parts and rider comfort were criticised. On the upside, the Honda XR250, Kawasaki KLX250 and Yamaha TTR250 can be road registered, a further advantage if long-distance travel is required. The Honda CRF230 lacks a compliance plate and cannot be registered. While its engine capacity of 223cc is smaller than the other bikes in the category, it is included in tests as it offers a costeffective option at $5690, compared with the $6490 $8190 price tag of the other three bikes. Vulnerable spots Given that the four motorbikes tested were not designed specifically for agricultural use, certain areas are vulnerable to damage and would require additional guarding or bash plates. For example, the radiator hoses and water pump on the Kawasaki are left exposed at the front and likely to be damaged. Most bikes had plastic panels that were liable to be damaged. Exhaust header pipes on the Yamaha and both Hondas were exposed and prone to damage, whereas the Kawasaki s was protected by the bike frame. Only the Honda CRF230 had an adequate bash plate protection for the engine crankcase. The other three bikes had lightweight bars offering minimal protection. Gearing and transmission Gearing was another area that might require modification for farm use, with the first gear on the Honda XR250, Kawasaki and Yamaha slightly too fast. The Honda CRF230 gear ratios were well matched for its power and weight. All bikes featured six-speed transmissions, with the Kawasaki fitted with the only water-cooled engine of the four, including an electric radiator fan as standard. Brake systems Disc brakes were fitted all-round, except for the Honda CRF230, which had a rear drum brake. Panel members rated braking ability highly on all four bikes and engine braking was generally adequate. The Honda XR250L lacked power and torque, to the point where it seemed to be spluttering and gasping for air at higher speeds, which was surprising considering it had four valves and dual exhaust header pipes. The bike was initially tested fitted with a standard paper air filter. While conforming to Australian design rules (ADR) regulations for on-road registered riding, this configuration did not allow the engine to breathe efficiently. Honda addressed the issue by replacing the paper filter with a foam filter which made a noticeable difference in power and running. A further modification was adding an after-market exhaust tailpipe on the original header pipe. The replacement tailpipe was $600 which XR250L owners could consider if they needed more power. Comfort ignored Riders were impressed with the Honda CRF230, particularly its nimbleness and power-to-weight ratio. Despite this, the CRF230 was one of the most uncomfortable bikes to ride due to its hard, narrow seat. Rated to carry 100 kilograms, the bike might not be appropriate for heavier riders who could overload the suspension. Build draws mixed The Honda CRF230 s simple, uncomplicated construction would appeal to many but it drew unfavourable s due to its total lack of instrumentation, including neutral light. Instrumentation on the other three bikes was mostly easy to read but the neutral light on the Yamaha was a little difficult to see. The Kawasaki KLX250 was the only one tested fitted with a tachometer. Panel members criticised the key location on the Yamaha steering column as difficult to access. All four bikes handled rough ground well. Suspension report card The Honda XR250 was the most comfortable of the bikes, with the suspension soaking up bumps from rough ground. The Honda CRF230 ride was rougher but panel members praised the long suspension travel. Suspension on the Yamaha felt solid but the steering tended to be a little jittery and there was a tendency for the bike to oversteer. Riders felt confident on the Kawasaki due to its ease of operation, stability and steering. But panel members criticised it for being difficult to start. Maintenance factors Oil filters were easy to access on all bikes, except the Honda CRF230, which was fitted with a permanent gauze filter. The Honda XR250 was fitted with a dipstick at the top of the steering column, which also made a convenient fill point. The same cannot be said for the difficult fill point on the CRF230, which had an angled dipstick on the crankcase. While the Yamaha was the only bike of the four to have a level window, a spanner was required to open the fill plug. Access to air filters on the Honda XR250 and Yamaha was excellent but too many screws and bolts needed to be removed to access filters in the Kawasaki and Honda CRF Farming Ahead January 2007 No

9 250CC TWO-WHEEL MOTORBIKES REVIEWS : RESEARCH HONDA CRF230 Power-to-weight ratio. The Honda CRF230 is designed for low maintenance with a bit extra in performance. Gearing.. Uncomplicated. $5690 (includes GST). Uncomfortable to ride. Not suitable for heavier riders. Honda Australia Lack of rider protection. Phone: Not compliant. Rear drum brake. HONDA XR250L Cold starting ability. Being fully roadregistered, this machine is suitable for riders wanting for than just a farm bike. Build quality. Handling. $8190 (includes GST). Controls and handlebars. Modification needed for full power. Honda Australia Heavy. Phone: Rider protection. No oil filter KAWA SAKI KLX250 Handling. The motorbike offers advanced specifications and better built quality than some of the more expensive models. Build quality. Radiator fan fitted standard. $6490 (includes GST). Controls, handlebars and tacho.. Kawasaki Motors Vulnerable radiator hoses. Phone: Cold starts. Parts prices. YAMAHA TTR250 Power. This is a reliable, aircooled machine suitable for both work and recreational uses. Parts prices. Suspension. $7899 (includes GST). Gear ranges. 24-month warranty. Yamaha Motor Australia Steering. Phone: (03) Ignition key location. Engine protection. Farming Ahead January 2007 No

10 RESEARCH : REVIEWS TWO-WHEEL MOTORBIKES 400CC Power comes at a price With a price tag of up to $13,000 the 400cc motorbikes are for the serious contender looking for plenty of grunt. On the downside most of these bikes would need modifying to suit agricultural use. The crew: Josh Giumelli (left), Tim Andrew (centre) and fellow Kondinin Group engineer Ben White tested 12 motorbikes to help farmers with their buying decisions. Farmers looking for power would not be left wanting with any of the four large-bore motorbikes tested. The KTM 525EXC and 640LC4E, Suzuki DR-Z400S and Yamaha WR450F all were powerful, well-handling off-road bikes suited to mustering and travelling long distances. But for slower work, these bikes are not suitable due to their higher gearing and power. d at $8990 $13,090, the 400cc class is a serious investment for confident riders. All bikes had water-cooled engines, with the Suzuki the only model fitted with a radiator fan as standard. Any agricultural use would see several modifications necessary to these bikes such as fitting optional radiator fans, long-range fuel tanks, steering dampers, crankcase bash plates and handlebar protectors. Bike protection Both KTM bikes were fitted with plastic bash guards, which offered some protection to the crankcase. The exhaust header pipe on the Suzuki was exposed at the front of the engine and likely to be damaged, as was the plastic radiator shroud. Review panel members believed the power and snappy acceleration of the KTM 525EXC and Yamaha WR450F were a little intimidating at times. The KTM 625SXC in particular was singled out as almost too powerful and fast for stock work. The KTM 640LC4E and Suzuki DR-Z400S were more sedate, with manageable power for mustering. Braking was adequate All bikes had excellent braking, with the stainless steel braided brake lines and Brembo brakes fitted to the KTM bikes drawing favourable s. Engine braking also was satisfactory with the large-capacity engines holding the bikes well on steep descents. After-market steering dampers were fitted Ben White to the Yamaha and KTM 625SXC bikes tested, which assisted handling when travelling over rough ground at speed. But the steering of the KTM 640LC4E and Suzuki was responsive and direct. The Suzuki s handling was slightly compromised by the standard tyres fitted, which were hybrids a cross between road- and off-road tyres. The shallower tread pattern lost grip on loose surfaces such as gravel. Suspension performs well While suspension was impressive for all bikes, rider comfort for the KTM 525EXC and the Yamaha was reduced by the hard seats fitted. The Suzuki and KTM 640LC4E were more comfortable but the Suzuki s foot pegs were too narrow and tended to cut into the rider s feet. All four bikes tested had excellent suspension. Gears and displays Panel members rated gear ratios and ease of selection highly on all bikes but the first gear ratio on the Suzuki was a little high. The KTM 625SXC had a six-speed transmission, while others were five-speed. The digital displays fitted to the KTM 640LC4E and Suzuki were excellent, with the KTM displaying engine temperature on a bar graph and the Suzuki featuring an Enduro or trip computer. While the KTM 525EXC had a basic digital speedometer, panel members thought it was a little difficult to read and only worked when the bike was moving. The Yamaha had a basic analogue speedometer. Ease of servicing Of the four bikes tested, the KTM 640LC4E was the most difficult to service due to poor access to the oil filter and a side panel covering the air filter which was almost impossible to remove. This was due to the narrow bolt recesses in the panel which made it impossible to use the KTM-supplied socket on the bolt heads. The remaining bikes were easier to service and panel members experienced no trouble accessing air and oil filters. Both KTM bikes had oil level sight glasses and crankcase fills but the 525EXC filler was difficult to access. The Suzuki filler was at the top of the frame, while the oil level on the Yamaha was checked at the top of the steering column but filled at the crankcase. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Kondinin Group would like to thank Mark Eland, Kandanga, Queensland; Peter Hickey, Molong, New South Wales; Stuart Mitchell, Bollon, Queensland; Craig Hartley, Dalby Moto, Queensland. 30 Farming Ahead January 2007 No

11 400CC TWO-WHEEL MOTORBIKES REVIEWS : RESEARCH KTM 625SXC Power. The manufacturer has viewed this report and s have been incorporated. Build quality. Lightweight. Braking and handling. $13,090 (includes GST).. Requires an experienced rider. KTM Australia Needs optional equipment for farm use. Phone: Short warranty period. Short service interval. KTM 640LC4E Power. The manufacturer has viewed this report and s have been incorporated. Handling and braking. Ideal for long-distance riding. $12,200 (includes GST). Construction quality. Rear rack, dials, gauges and handlebars. KTM Australia Expensive parts. Phone: Maintenance access. Heavy. SUZUKI DR-Z400S. The new motorbike delivers 400cc DR-Z liquid-cooled powerplant with a thermo fan, electric start compliance plate as standard. A kick-starter is optional and farm tyres can be fitted. Instrumentation and controls. Responsive engine. $8990 (includes GST). Standard radiator fan. Solid construction. Suzuki Australia Foot pegs cut into feet. Phone: (03) Plastics liable for damage. Standard hybrid tyres. YAMAHA WR450F Power. As an Enduro race bike, this model has the performance and reliability to match. Handling and braking. Lightweight. $11,999 (includes GST). Small fuel tank. Needs modifying for farm use. Yamaha Motor Australia Three-month warranty. Phone: (03) Seat comfort. Service interval. Farming Ahead January 2007 No