Originally Posted by Cujet
Great advice above, about ergonomics. The setup for a dirt bike is probably different than what you are used to. Handlebar position must be right (comfortable) for YOU both sitting and standing. There are big differences between individual needs. I prefer the brake and clutch levers angled down. That way when standing, they are not too high to use effectively. Some riders have to lift their fingers up to get over improperly positioned levers when standing. That's not smart.
Same goes for shifter position and brake pedal position. Make sure you can use them while standing, with your normal riding boots. Don't set up the bike for sneakers.... like my friend did.
Tire pressure is important too. I tend to like lower pressures than my peers. Better ride, and more compliant over the small stuff which leads to better grip. I have never run more than 14psi, 12 is generally good, 10 can be good for sand. Even 1/2 psi change is a lot. I've seen some riders use a skittery 20psi because that's what the manual called for. Don't do that.
It's really good to be quiet. People tend to hate dirt bikes. Especially if they are loud. I put quiet mufflers on all my dirt bikes. I even made an awesome quiet silencer for a CR500!
A pic of my old KTM on the day I purchased it. Has good looks, but falls short on real world capability.
A pic of mine on the day I purchased it,,,,,,,,,,,,back in 1985.