New member and owner of 2004 450 EXC

[Bougie]

Hello All,

I just got a 2004 EXC 450. The bike is mechanically very sound, plastic is a bit beat up, exhaust pipe is ugly rusted. Obviously the bike was riden as it was meant to be, for all I can tell it's in good or very good condition (I am the third owner).

I am about 92 kg's so i was thinking to tune up the suspension, the previous owner was maybe 70ish. Next I was thinking to give it a good going over. The engine oil is new and clean, but was going to change most other fluids, change / clean filters, adjust the chain a bit etc. Eventually i'll get new plastic ..

I am not new to bikes, I had a KDX 175 way back. Anyway, hoping to post more and get to know more of you,

Cheers,

[bajadog]

Welcome.

I can't tell where you live from your post, but
if the bike has been ridden a good amount since 2004,
and seen any water on the trail, I would inspect the
swing arm pivot bearings ASAP.

[Bougie]

Hello, thanks.

I am a Canadian, in central China. I got small spare parts with the bike including front wheel bearings, i'll definitelt check the swing arm pivot bearings as well. Maybe also the front forks bearings ..

[bajadog]

Good call, the steering head bearings do require periodic greasing.