Today marked the third short ride on the RMX250 since its rebuild, and I couldn’t be happier with how it’s running. Starts on the first kick, idles all day long, and (fingers crossed) the squeak in the rear linkage seems to be a thing of the past after a little grease therapy.
As I was cruising, I tried to recall the last time I seriously rode this bike. Actually, scratch that—I know exactly when it was. Over 10 years ago, KTM Ken and I headed to the lush woods of Washington state for a weekend of riding. My WR426 refused to start (classic), but thankfully, I had the RMX250 as a backup. It saved the trip.
Suspension: The Weak Link
Now, here’s the kicker: riding the RMX250 today reminded me just how bad non-setup suspension can be. Compared to the WR426, which had its suspension dialed in by Rich at Santa Cruz Suspension, this thing feels like an out-of-control pogo stick on steroids.
It’s amusing—and a bit ironic—considering the RMX was once my go-to race bike. It powered me through enduros, multiple runs on the Rubicon Trail, and more Sierra single-tracks than I can count. But now? It’s a chaotic bounce-fest, and it’s got me rethinking my approach to the Husky FE350s.
To Upgrade or Not to Upgrade?
I’ve been planning to leave the suspension stock on the FE350s, partly to save money and partly because, let’s face it, I’m old and slow. I figured it wouldn’t make much of a difference. But after today’s ride, I’m questioning that logic.
Would a pro setup give me that same predictability and confidence I had with the WR426? Or am I just overthinking it because I have too much time to tinker? Decisions, decisions…
For now, I’ll let it bounce around in my head (pun intended). But one thing’s for sure—if the RMX250 has taught me anything, it’s that good suspension is never a bad idea.
