I've ridden most of the 500's over the years and own an 83 Maico 490 as well as newer Maico big bores.I recall riding an 89 KTM 500 - nice bike with that "Big block" feel.What are my unbiased critiques of the other big bores?(I also have some Florida swampland if you are interested).
RM 465/500 - gutless
YZ WR IT 490/500 - I like them in spite of what the magazines say.
Husky CR XC 500 - very nice but weak compared to the Maicos.
Honda CR500 - Honda quality but too hard to start.
KTM 440 - horrible.
KTM 550 - sweetheart of a bike.
81 Maico 490 - As good as they say.
83 Maico 490 - fast and furious.
94 Maico 440 - smooth and revvy
Newer Maico 500s (powervalved) - ultra smooth and fast/easy on gas.
One thing I noticed racing Maico 500s is that on fireroads I could always reel in the the KX/CR 500s, the Maico always seemed to have an edge powerwise.