I just bought a very nice, original 500 MX from the original owners son. I know this is a little too new for you Penton guys but I hope a few of you have some experiences you can share. Also, any idea what it might be worth? It is suppose to run great (I am not starting it until I put a kill switch on it), has all original plastic and just needs a couple items. Any thoughts would be very appreciated!
https://onedrive.live.com/redir?resid=6505E62D5FD7E8D7!2028&authkey=!AJdSY-4Kr5z5ekE&v=3&ithint=photo%2cjpg
Hi Jeff,
That is one super nice looking bike.
The #1 problem with the Liquid Cooled KTM engines is the water pump area. The KTM engines are magnesium.
Water + Magnesium = Mag Rot
I get calls all the time for guys looking to replace the clutch case because the water pump area is corroded away. NOS KTM L/C clutch cases do not exist and the corrosion would have to be repaired.
I would recommend removing the pump cover and see if there is any corrosion in your engine. If you see any corrosion, now is the time to repair it before it gets any worse.
The 80's KTM bikes in running condition are tough to find. There is a following for the 500s and any other KTM big bore bikes. However, the water cooled bikes are not sought after and as a result these bikes go for give-a-way prices. One of the reasons is they are not "legal" for "vintage" or "post vintage" AHRMA racing.
Alan Buehner
Alan, Thanks for the reply. The owner was very picky with this bike and it should be fine but I will take a look. Is there a special water additive, treatment or coating I can use? Haven't figured what to do with it yet, I just like standing in the garage looking at them mostly! [8)]