I'm not a brand loyal guy, but it's like Ford buying Chevy and putting Chevy Camaro badges on a Mustang. I've rode a few KTM's and the ergonomics don't suit me at all. I like the feel of my WR300. Is it perfect? Not at all, but it does everything I need it to do. If I had the cash, I'd pick up one of the last Husky 300's since they are blowing them out and put it in storage till I wear out my current one.
http://www.cycletrader.com/listing/...duro-Two-Stroke-FACTORY-CLEARANCE!!-111010063
If you follow the history there is quite a bit of Husky DNA in the KTM's, if Husky built a 125 like Penton wanted, KTM might not be where they are today...KTM at that time was a bicycle/moped manufacture.
http://www.motorcyclemuseum.org/halloffame/detail.aspx?RacerID=84
When Cagiva bought Husky, and some Swedish disgruntal engineers stayed in Sweden to form Husaberg where KTM used the Berg technology for their first 4-Strokes.
That Husky DNA...KTM simply refined it, evolved it if you will. I view it as paying homage to their roots. KTM will do the brand good, imo. While it is a totally different
company, a Husky dirt bike will look good next to my Husqvarna power tools...of course the power tools are orange like KTM's...go figure!
Everyone is different, I don't care for the Italian Husqvarna ergonomics, but I am short, only 5'8"....those Huskys are a bit tall for me, where as the KTM's fit me perfect...actually my Gas Gas is a little better, but there are some fit finish things that drives me nuts...like the chain blocks are a hassle, air filter access is cumbersome, and no captured fasteners on the frame...I got spoiled with the KTM's... feel I took a couple steps back buying a Gasser, in the refinement department...still a great bike though.