First post, and it's a doozy of a question. Forgive me.

I bought an 06 KLX250S with 850 miles on it. I'm out getting used to dirt riding again after a 20+ years hiatus.

What rpms are you guys turning "all day" out trail riding and also slabbing?

I'm probably around 4-5000 trail 6-7000 slab but I feel like I'm wringing the life out of it. I've gotten very used to cruising at 3-3500 on my (wait for it...) Harley, so 6000+rpm is mind numbing. Just curious and also don't want to risk damage.

I put a 13t up front to help on the trail, but I think I'm going to add a 45 or 47 out back for more help. Those changes will definitely NOT help on the road between trails. So I'd like to know what this little beast will sustain over a longer haul, let's say an hour at one rpm.

 

In stock form the 250 will live all day long @7k with no issues. Just make sure to keep the oil serviced and the cooling system up to snuff and it will probably last longer than you or I

 

I'm more surprised at buying an '06 with only 850 miles on it. Good find!

 

Ain't that the truth!
And now he's going to tell us he got it for less than a grand!!!

Rev that motor up, son.

 

Nah, at 1500 it was still too good a deal to pass up

 

Yes, that is a good deal.
Your tires, if stock, are ten years old. Be careful on them. Check for cracks and see how pliable the rubber is. You may want to change them out, especially if you find issues or if they aren't performing well.

I picked up an '03 KDX220 a couple years ago that still had a stock front tire, or at least one made in '03. I rode it for a while because it looked good, but that rubber was hard. A new one made the nicest difference on the trail and the front didn't wash out nearly as much.