1978 KTM 250 MC5-The following parts are new. brake shoes f/r, wheel bearings f/r, sprockets/chain, front cable, fork seals, chain guide block, air filter, air boot from carb. to air box, new front fender/side panels, tires have 2 rides on them, 81 double pinch bolt triple clamps, renthal bars/grips, rebuilt bing. runs great 1,600 OBO
(http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q45/evomx244/1978%20KTM%20250%20MC5/1978KTM250001.jpg)
I have a Modern Cycle magazine test that raves about this motorcycle and concludes that it is better than the 1978 Japanese 250's by a huge margin. If memory serves, the test says something like "it's just not marginally better, but better by this much (imagine arms outstretched)."
Also, I could be wrong about this, but, since Moisseev won the 250 World Championship in 1977, this 1978 KTM 250 should basically be the bike that he won the championship with that year.
I also have test reports from magazines that applaud the increased frame strength, stability and suspension, with engine improvements with a flatter and broader torque range. The next biggest advance was in 1980 with additional suspension travel. Mike
Michael R. Winter
I enjoy rebuilding and appreciating Pentons!
1974 250 HS Pentons-1980 KTM 175-400'S
The improvements made by 1980-81 models were significant in KTM and other designs and why the 78 MC5 model is not in big demand to AHRMA racers as it has to race with these same bikes. The 1978 model is much closer to a Historic bike but AHRMA has denied it this rating and puts it with GP class bikes because of 1/2" to 3/4" of travel. A true shame and another AHRMA wisdom question.
Speaking of AHRMA efficiency-
TEDDY LANDERS-Will I ever get a jacket for those TWO Championships LAST Season(2007)? Still waiting to hear. What do I have to do?
Larry P
Very true, but my 78 MC5 250 is one of my favorites mainly because of the handling combined with the fact that has a noticeably lower seat height than my 1980 MC 250. It contributes to a lot more confidence in the woods than the taller 1980, but still has the suspension and ground clearance for most obstacles. Mike
Michael R. Winter
I enjoy rebuilding and appreciating Pentons!
1974 250 HS Pentons-1980 KTM 175-400'S