I want a CRF150RB for MiniMoto. Talk me out of it.

Go!

Also, tell me what to look for. If I'm going 17's do I want the Big Wheel? Anything since 2007 all the same?

-T

 

Don't! Stop!


...Don't stop, do it.

 

I found this article that documents one possible route to conversion.

Not to be a dissenting opinion, but why not go with an SMR or FS supermoto that's ready to roll and is more versatile? Everyone I know who has converted a mini dirt bike or dirtbike to supermoto would just buy a built one if they had to do it over again. Food for thought.

 

12" wheels seem to be the faster setup... kart track liter bike.

 

Agreed. The majority of the mini motos that ride at our local kart track do not run 17" wheels. 12" seems to be the go-to size.

 

12s for short track, 17s for bigger.

Edit: I know of at least one properly setup ready to rock on 17s in New England, depending on where you are? Always cheaper to buy someone else's conversion than do the heavy lifting (spending) yourself.

 

The 12" vs. 17" debate rages on. I think many folks go with the cast aluminum 12" wheels because of cost, as they are a much less expensive route than lacing up 17" hoops to stock or aftermarket hubs. The "hidden" cost of 12s is the $500+ for aftermarket low-offset triple clamps.

If you go with 17s, the small wheel swingarms work but it's a little bit of a tight fit. If you're using tire warmers, you'll have to run the wheel further back in the swinger for clearance.

As for differences between the years, they were some minor changes along the way. The big changes came in 2012 with a new cylinder head, CDI, carb, cam and fork internals. I'd look for a '12+, but wouldn't turn away from a good/ local deal on a clean '07-'09.

 

Lots of good responses. Thanks all!

'12+ for the motor. Gotcha. I am in Michigan, so there are TONS of trail ridden 150R's taking up space in people's sheds. Also I have budgeted triple clamps regardless of wheel size, so we're good there.

I totally would, but I don't think KTM ever made an 85 SMR or Husky an FS85. I'm open to a 2-stroke, but the 4-stroke torque is appealing.

I think I want 17's, just because the whole point of the exercise (for me) is to develop skills around feeling the tires that will translate back to full size bikes.

PM on the way!

-Tom

 

the wheel size has nothing to do with skill set transfer.
Ultimately minis are about seat time & ride fitness with lower injury risk. The 150Rs require alot of maintenance especially if you're going to ride them full tilt.

 

I was debating selling my 150 and I see you've got a 701 for sale.............hmmmmm...........

 

Here's one in OH already on 17s:

https://www.facebook.com/share/VT9fiTpJEmgLXqTs/

 

A spin on an XR100 at the Kart Track this weekend has me thinking that a CRF150R on 16" or 17" tires would be a riot!



-Tom

 

Absolutely! They are ridiculously good.

 

Tom - Good meeting you at Grattan on Friday. I've been considering similar (small bike+kart track for training). What kart track were you at? I've got a basket case TTR125 that I want to build for kart track duty.

 

Likewise! The photo was taken at Jackson Speedway. The same group is running Auto City Speedway in Clio this weekend. Check 'em out at https://www.greatlakessupermoto.com/ They're also really active on facebook.

-Tom

 

I HAVE A 2019 ON 17S FORSALE

 

My experience with the different motor/model years is from friends at the track. Wrenching instead of riding. Most common challenge seems to be getting the pumper carb on the earlier bike working right. Get the 2012+. You can get both working, but do you love wrenching? At the track? While you watch your friends ride?

totally fun bike with 17” or 12” wheels. They work and feel different and both are worth the experience and what they’ll teach you. But I HATE INNER TUBES so i would go with cast 12” before manning up to 17s. (My local track is left handed and I have to flip tires to even the wear constantly).

 

Here's another one somewhat in your area if you're still looking. Price is a little high for what it is, IMHO.

Facebook