1981 KTM 250

[kenny5000]

Just wondering if anyone has a 1981 KTM 250 MX basket case or unfinished project that they may move on??

Cheers

[oz555ktm]

What about a 1982 250

[kenny5000]

Cheers Dennis...Close, after the twin shock of the 81 though. I'll keep it in mind however. PM me the details when you get the chance.

Cheers

[Slakewell]

Why 81 twin shock?

[kenny5000]

No real reason other preferring my VMX bikes to be twin shock/air cooled. Probably something I should grow out of!!

[Slakewell]

Kenny I have the luxury of being able to race/ride many KTM models. IMO there better models in the line up. The 81 is very tall and has no more power than a 78 on mostly smooth VMX tracks the tallness is a disadvantage. The motor had little to no change between 78/81 with new engine cases in 78 and extra ports from 77. The 82 was the next step with reed valve. If I was looking to build a great KTM evo bike much like the franken Maico's I would start with a 78 frame. All the engines fit as do the swingarms. Use the 125 arm as is it shorter if you want alloy. The 40mm forks from 81 can be shorten or use the Yamaha front end and brake. I go the 81 125 for body work if you can find a tank. ( I have a spare ) To finish off go with the 82 top end.
If you build this I would like to ride it.

[Gippslander]

Slakewell, What are the differences between the 77 and the 78 frame?

[Slakewell]

The 78 frame was built for the longer fork. I would have to double check. The rear shocks were like 5mm different but the forks like 50mm

[kenny5000]

Funny you should say that, I have a 78 250 (turning into a long term project but getting there) and was offered an 81 125 swing arm for it the other day, just wasn't sure about dimensions etc might have look into it. Always worry about the fibre glass tank though!!

[Gippslander]

thanks Slakewell, the reason I ask is that I have a 77 250 and crikey it's the best ride -- nothing upsets it

[Slakewell]

I have purchased some Clarke plastic tanks for KTM's. They dont always fit perfect but it is an solution.

The 77 is one of my fav bikes thou mine is far from standard mostly because of the build and parts available.