Dream Build

Once you are in the rabbit hole, it is very hard to get out. Let alone wanting to get out of it. There are endless amounts of aftermarket bling items out there but there is a fine line between tastefully accessorizing and over doing it. Originally with this build we were just going to do suspension. We didn't need any of that silly bling items that don't really serve a purpose. Well since that premise is completely out the window, time to dial this up to 11!

WORKS CONNECTION

First on the list of most bike builds are all of the billet goodies that WC has to offer. We opted for the brake/clutch caps, oil filter cover, oil fill plug, brake return spring kit, brake/clutch bar clamps and the Elite Axle Block kit. All in black of course. We didn't want to be too flashy with the billet items. KTM's have enough orange as it is. The axle block kit was something I actually stumbled upon and after reading a few reviews, was totally sold! Read more about it here . Polishing the axle nut happened earlier in the build as I was going through my high mirror polishing phase. Also with WC, you can add custom engraving to the brake/clutch caps which was a very nice touch! We added a couple KTM Powerparts items as well.

Next on the list for upgrades were the controls and contact points. To me, the way a bike feels as you sit on it and settle in to the cockpit are very important. The way the levers feel and are positioned, the diameter, squish and feel of the grips, the grip of the foot pegs and seat... They all play a huge part in how the bike feels, which transfers directly to you, the rider. A poorly set up bike will not only feel terrible but affect your riding as well. That being said, the parts we chose for this build might not be for everyone. They are a very personal choice. 

Handlebars/Grips

I was never a fan of the original Emig grips from ODI, but the V2 Emig Pro grips are SO good! They are way more comfortable and have a metal end cap. The bronzy color lock on ring was a bonus as it matched the MX-Tech Kashima coted forks perfectly! We originally were going to run the Renthal TwinWall 921 bend bars as I love how flat they are(sweep) and feel like my MTB bars. However, we stumbled on these new RC Signature bars from ODI. The same glorious bronzy color on the cross bar clamps is what got me! The fact that they are designed for a shorter rider and an oversize bar with a crossbar that has amazing flex technology just sweetened the deal! Check them out here!

Levers

The stock KTM/Brembo levers feel great but I tend to tip over every once in a while and I don't want to worry about bending a lever and possibly ending my race/ride. There are a plethora of companies making "unbreakable" levers. Working at a motorcycle shop means I get to sample a lot of different parts. We ended up going with the FLO Motorsports Pro 160 levers. They feel like a stock lever, fold in any direction with the unique ball pivot joint and have a very slim profile. Check them out here! 

Triple Clamp

Comfort is key! If your not comfortable, you don't ride well. As with most things, there are a lot of companies that make parts to make your riding experience more comfortable. Some are gimmicks and some work. I have used the PHDS system before and it works good but kinda pricey for what you get. I wanted to try something different. I have seen these clamps before in our catalogues but never seen or tried one. After a little research, I ordered up a Neken SFS spring/air upper triple clamp. With its small suspension like absorbers, it is designed to absorb the small bump/chop and help with big impacts too. The tunable air chamber allows you to infinitely adjust to your comfort level making for improved rider comfort and less arm pump. Another bonus is that it gets rid of the weak rubber mounted bar system on the stock clamp that twists like a pretzel in the smallest tip over. The black color matches the stock lower clamp perfectly too! Of course lets not forget all of the titanium hardware to help finish it off giving it that true works/professional look! We also sanded, buffed and polished the throttle housing. Really ties the room together. Check the clamps out here!   

Next on the list of upgrades are the foot pegs and foot controls. Hammerhead Designs got us covered! They make stronger and better looking shifters and brake levers. Oh, and did I mention their titanium foot pegs??? Bigger platform, more grip and wider platform. The most common gripe about the super sharp pegs are that they will chew up your expensive boots. Yes and no. Personally I think it depends on how hard you are on your current boots/pegs. For me, the arch in my boots will last me 3+ years. For one of my good friends he will wear through a set of boots in 1 year or so. Also, the Ti pegs grip more so you do less moving around thus wearing the boots less. In the end, I don't wear boots out that bad so Ti pegs it is!

Dirt Tricks has been my go to sprocket choice for years now, and for good reason. They not only look great, they are undoubtedly the longest lasting sprocket on the market! They also make some really cool looking brake rotors. Made of the same material as the sprockets, they claim and additional 15% braking power and 2-3 times stronger. Pair that with a gold Firepower chain and more Warp9 titanium hardware and its a match made in heaven. 

Being longstanding partners with TM Designs, they are the go to for chain sliders. Their new SX chain guide is lighter, stronger and better looking than the stock one. Being able to replace the middle wear pad is great! The rear disk guard is an optional part. We opted for the KTM Powerparts rear carrier/guard, because in the off season the bike will be ridden up at our local OHV riding area which can be hard on parts. The extra protection is greatly appreciated and the billet carrier has less flex than the stock cast part which gives better braking feel. Another simple addition that adds good looks and protection is the KTM Powerparts swingarm guards. Aside from getting your swingarm powdercoated, this is the next best thing. Just make sure to take it off every once in a while to clean behind it as dirt and grime gets stuck behind it.