New to bikes....

[Couch]

Picked up a yz450 with 129 camso for ****s and giggles ..... Steep learning curve or not??
Must do's and helpful suggestions appreciated ... Thermobob is installed ...otherwise stock. Things to watch out for? Riding at 1000 to 2500 elevation - will be keeping exhaust stock.

 

[geelak900]

Steep learning curve? No, not at all. I suppose that might depend on your experience either sledding or biking? I would say it is more like riding a motorcycle than a sled, however, experience in riding in the snow will be helpful. They are super easy to ride, most of the learning curve I have seen with rookies is around stopping and not falling over. Once you are moving its a piece of cake.
As for bike mods the biggest area I would say to focus on is keeping engine temps up so bike runs right and doesn't over-fuel from engine running cold. Likely will need more than just a Thermobob for that, things like engine blanket and/or rad covers. A good temp gauge is important so you can see whats going on. Heated grip are nice, I would recommend coolant heated bars as they work great and have no electrical draw to worry about. A light is nice too, the days are pretty short in the winter months.
Get out and ride! Everything else can be added later after you see how your bike performs.

 

[Couch]

So.... Rigging an engine shroud ...still have a bit of trimming and tidying up plus a removable section for the rads ...figure that it should keep temps up , snow out, save bibs from melting and offer a bit of impact protection for the engine ....still quick to remove side panel to check oil level

 

[Couch]

Picked up some outerwear pre-filter and used the stock housing...not the prettiest glue job but seems to have a good hold and was easy to work with.
Tried with contact cement first but didn't hold well enough to the pvc. Hot glue gun worked like a charm.

 

[1treerider]

Over sized foot pegs help keep feet planted in deep snow. Also install heavier fork springs, send forks out to be built for the snow or airpro, something to keep forks from bottoming out. I have damaged fork tubes in the past.

 

[moyiesledhead]

Stand up on the pegs when you're going to stop until you can train your brain not to put your foot down. Put your foot down and you'll fall over.