New 2020 KTM 450 with ARO 3 today, zero time on bike/kit when we left, at the truck wet new powder on base so absolute traction, by 6000 and up 14" of dense but dry powder and we were on a new ktm break in ride so no steep hill sawing.
Out of the box , springs on the ARO too soft for rider over 200 lbs, probably too soft for 160 lb rider. As the day warmed and powder was getting denser, toooo much push on the ski, easy fix with more springs. Traction wise the 3" is impressive, I virtually idled up through some pretty good side hills amused by the traction and ease at which you could make uphill switchbacks .
When engine is broken in and you can grab throttle this is going to work as soon as we upgrade the shock springs.
2020 KTM on the #2 power mode was as good as you could expect from a 450, smoooth and responsive. Mode #1 might even be more docile than my stock 500, good in the dirt but not the snow.
TSS equipped, TSS still in my opinion not a mountain accessory of value, too much humping up the hill and lofting ski when you needed traction instead of that porpoising sinking feeling, yeah way more air to ridged was far better. On a bumpy trail three bumps and it packed up and just left you with bad geometry, a hell of a sales gimmick when selling to pilgrims.
Ditto for the big shock on the forks. Not sure who dreamed up this idea, way too much stiction, too much weight, for the money spent he was riding inferior front forks. WE will get that handled, not sure the dealer will take these two FOX air shox accessories back.
3 guys swapping bikes all day to evaluate what 20k will do for you in the snow.
Impressive 2020 KTM
Impressive 3" track
129" length not so much
stock ARO 3 suspension with upgraded shocks disappointing
KTM seat ? Austrians must have a concrete azz and this seat will match that
Older heavier KTM with 3" shorter height feels lighter smaller and more agile
hugely sucessful day and no issue we can't fix with money as long as we avoid the dealers advice.