After lurking for a few months, I just pulled the trigger on this dealer demo from Halls:
http://www.halls-cycles.com/Bike%20I...C300-VALIN.htm
I swore off 2 strokes after owning a KDX200 for a season. Nothing wrong with the bike, I just didn't seem to make peace with it. I went to a DRZ400S and was actually faster, smoother, and more comfortable on the trails even with the 40 (or 50) more pounds -- but it feels like 90. So call me crazy to try another 2 stroke.
I decided to relagate the DRZ to pure dual-sport work and get a dedicated trail bike. A smart man, knowing my experience with the KDX, might have gone for another 4 stroke. Somehow I was lured back to the 2 stroke world after reading this forum and riding with some KTM 300 friends. I'll give it a season and see where it goes. Wish me luck. I'm sure I'll be asking all sorts of questions soon.
Greg