How does the WR450f handle prolonged high speed cruising?

[-Splinter]

I'm still in deciding between the WR45 and CRF450x, leaning toward WR because of reliability, but am starting to get interest in the KTM 530exc because of the sixth gear. I am interested in occasionally using the bike to commute back and forth to work(20 mile round trip), and school(190 mile round trip), also little joy rides, all at about highway speeds. I am just wondering how the WR would handle that kind of riding, maybe just once or twice a week, or if the KTM's 6th gear and ability to hang around idle at 70mph would justify it's added price?

Thanks,

[Mutu]

The extra grunt of the KTM would be what I would be looking at for that type of riding.

The 6th gear would be very nice, and is what I wish the WR's had.

I do a lot of high speed work on my bike, it handles it alright.

[xrmarty]

My brother has the XC450 (6 speed). It's really nice on fireroads at high speeds. My WR revs pretty hight at those speeds. In fact I don't feel comfortable going over 65mpr for a long time. Of course, I could change the gears, but then you get a whole new set of issues.

[MaxPower]

unless you plan on running real tall gearing get the KTM with a sixth gear.

[redhurricane]

Re-gear if you go with the WR.

I went up one in the front, and down 2 in the rear from stock and it's been fine. 1st is still low enough for most anything I encounter, and if it's not I use that as an indicator I need to be going faster I am plated, and ride to work Fridays (26 miles round trip).

I'd rather ride a real street bike on the street, but for quick jaunts and to tie trails together the WR is great for me.