Two week ride report on the '03 X440.

Background: I bought my first 'Dale 12/01, the X440s. I bought my second 'Dale 6/02, the C440. I think both bikes are awesome.

Two weeks ago I demo rode the new X and ended up taking it home. I've ridden 3 more times in two weeks. Last Sat. I rode the X and Xs back to back for comparison. The new X does everything better than the Xs. Not a huge difference, just better. The mapping is better down low, the handling is sharper, the valving is more plush, the front brake is stronger, it starts even quicker than my other 'Dales and it looks very cool.

The changes include an on/off switch on the left side of the bars, start button remains on the right side, larger radiator and shrouds, new main relay, diagnostic connector moved to the rear, new regulator/rectifier, fuel tank is flat on the bottom, it doesn't drop in around the shock, and, of course, "bold new look."

All 'Dales are very narrow so I was anxious to see the new bike with the bigger radiator. I wasted no time stress testing the radiator. I crashed and was run over. The bike just sat there on it's side idling 'till I picked it up. The bike and rider are ok. Having 3 'Dales side by side really shows the progress the company has made. These bikes come with the good stuff and it has saved me big $$$ compared to past rides. I'll keep you updated as time goes on.