XChallenge/XMoto Buying Advice

[dc2100k]

Hi All,

First post here as I am looking to get an XChallenge or XMoto to use as my first bike. My test is next week (module 1) and the following week (module 2) and I hope to pick up something in the meantime so I can get on the road. I am 5’ 10” Male with 32” inside leg – I think I should fit but I will have limited chance to ride prior to purchase. How do others of comparable size fit, with one flat foot? I intend to do mainly commuting and touring on this bike, probably limited off road if I get an XMoto!

Can people give me some idea of the things to check on these bikes when I view? I had a look at the massive ADVRider thread on G650X issues and it makes me a bit nervous. I have had loads of old cars before and I am fully aware that things do go wrong on mechanical items, but the amount of hot-starting problems seems a bit alarming. Is this really an issue (electrical issue mainly, I believe)?

Also, given how uncommon these bikes are is there likely to become a spare parts issue in the future? What sort of luggage, accessories, should I be looking for? How do you secure the bike (it will be parked on street in London). What sort of value is a good XCh/XMo worth these days?

Finally if anyone has a G650X of any type that they are selling please get in touch.

Thanks, James.

 

[Losttheplot]

Hi James! welcome to the forum.

Where to start? Firstly Subscribe it will be the best £12 you will ever spend (this allows PM's, and then i can give you the number of a guy up near Guildford that might have a bargain XChallenge for sale )

If your looking for an XChallenge, check the things you would normally check on any used enduro/mx bike if it has been used off road. Head bearings, wheel bearings, chain and sprocket condition brake pad condition etc. make sure it's been serviced.

Check the rear shock holds air if you have the option.

Check radiator isn't full of crap (this can happen if the bike is run in shitty conditions with the standard front fender fitted, but it's not the end of the world if it has).

Spares? these shouldn't be much of a problem, the engine lives on in the G650 gs, and AFAIK a lot of the F650 parts will also fit.

The forks aren't great on these bikes, but it is a subject that has been covered extensively and they can be improved.

On the whole these bikes are pretty bullet proof.

Once you have bought the bike, whip the clutch cover off and check the centre of the case to see if it has the steel bush fitted, if not, change the cover for the updated version (about £75 IIRC) as it will save you around £150 if it wears and locks up your clutch in the middle of nowhere DAMHIKT .

Apart from that, they seem pretty sound. Got 20k miles on mine so far, and while i have had issues with it, they haven't put me off owning the bike, and didn't stop me riding the TAT on it last summer.

HTH


Nathan

 

[dc2100k]

Hi Nathan,

Thanks very much. I will subscribe just now and send you a PM. I would definitely be interested in an XChallenge near Guildford if it is a good bike.

James.

Hi James! welcome to the forum.

Where to start? Firstly Subscribe it will be the best £12 you will ever spend (this allows PM's, and then i can give you the number of a guy up near Guildford that might have a bargain XChallenge for sale )

If your looking for an XChallenge, check the things you would normally check on any used enduro/mx bike if it has been used off road. Head bearings, wheel bearings, chain and sprocket condition brake pad condition etc. make sure it's been serviced.

Check the rear shock holds air if you have the option.

Check radiator isn't full of crap (this can happen if the bike is run in shitty conditions with the standard front fender fitted, but it's not the end of the world if it has).

Spares? these shouldn't be much of a problem, the engine lives on in the G650 gs, and AFAIK a lot of the F650 parts will also fit.

The forks aren't great on these bikes, but it is a subject that has been covered extensively and they can be improved.

On the whole these bikes are pretty bullet proof.

Once you have bought the bike, whip the clutch cover off and check the centre of the case to see if it has the steel bush fitted, if not, change the cover for the updated version (about £75 IIRC) as it will save you around £150 if it wears and locks up your clutch in the middle of nowhere DAMHIKT .

Apart from that, they seem pretty sound. Got 20k miles on mine so far, and while i have had issues with it, they haven't put me off owning the bike, and didn't stop me riding the TAT on it last summer.

HTH


Nathan

 

[Losttheplot]

Pm replied to.

Good luck!

 

[casperghst42]

Also check the rear subframe for cracks, and test drive it to see if the clutch is ok.

And walk away from a lemon, no matter how much you love it.... or be prepared for some big bills.


Casper

 

[Timolgra]

This'll be for sale very soon, minter than a Trebor.

 

[FERRET]

Ange not jelling with it?

 

[Timolgra]

Ange not jelling with it?

No it's just a bike that rouses no excitement in either riding or owning so time to get what she really wants.

 

[JohnnyBoxer]

No it's just a bike that rouses no excitement in either riding or owning so time to get what she really wants.

Just give her a KTM 690

Have you got her that red BMW?

 

[dc2100k]

Now sorted with a bike thanks to Losttheplot.

Final test is next Wednesday afternoon so should pick up that evening assuming all goes ok. Can't wait to get out and about on the thing!

Thanks for your help - I look forward to getting to know you all. James.

 

[mikedefieslife]

Buying advice would be to find one first. They're have never been any around when I had the cash. Occasionally they pop up on ebay.

Wish I could sell my F650 Dakar and get an xChallenge. :-(

Hope your test went ok. http://ridershandbook.com/taking-your-practical-motorcycle-test.html