300 is the answer for the leave at the cabin moto. Get one with a kicker and put a Lectron carb on it if you want to never think about jetting again. 2T is lighter, simpler, and cheaper to repair. As said, don't get a MX/XC version--wide range gearbox and softer enduro suspension FTW. Beta 300 will be a little friendlier than a KTM.
350 is an amazing machine but valve jobs are $1000+ and it wouldn't be my choice for something to leave sitting and expect to just hop on and ride on occasion.
Your friends can't keep up because you're a better rider, obviously. If you swapped bikes with them the same scenario would play out.
ride bikes, climb, ski, travel, cook, work to fund former, repeat.
Bookmarks