Ace,
I take a slightly different angle, but I don't have your knowledge and experience. IMO, the 5-speed gearbox makes it worthwhile to get the newer bullet. I avoid the KS problem by simply not using it. The breather can also be fixed, per your current post. Are these assumptions incorrect?
Mike
Mike,
The 5-speed gearbox is a worthwhile improvement. It solves several problems which exist with the 4-speed box. I like the 5-speed.
The later model breather can be fixed, as per my other post on the subject.
The Electric Starter issue is still a potential issue, because the sprag can frag even if you don't use the ES. Any kickback, even when using the kickstarter, can demolish the sprag. Even if the bike stalls at idle, and then kicks back a bit when coming to rest, can blow the sprag.
But, that can be removed too, and you can even convert to older style primary case, with the proper parts and some drilling and tapping of the engine case.
So, all the issues can be overcome.with some effort, and you do get the 5-speed box with the later models, along with an improved front brake plate after 2004, and the better finishing quality on the later models.
With the older KS models, there's no real "correcting" to be done, but the gearbox needs to be changed to a right-shift 5-speed to compete in the gearbox department.
And with the right-shift gearbox, the crossover linkage under the engine for the brake pedal is eliminated, which is a nice improvement there. You get more direct action of your rear brake, and you remove that low-hanging brake pedal which is a ground clearance problem.
When changing to the right shift 5-speed from the left shift 4-speed, the crossover linkage for the shifter is also eliminated.