250 2 stroke choice

Zesiger 112
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Zesiger 112
Edited Date/Time 12/5/2014 8:54am
I'm looking to move up from my 125. I have a 2005 yz125, so the smart choice would be a 08 or newer yz250 so I would be comfortable. But a lot of people like the rm250, also the last gen cr250 is an option, or an 08-10 sx250. Obviously the 13-15 sx250 would be the best but I'm looking around $3000.
So which brand is the best and which year-s?
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JW381
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JW381 12/2/2014 5:15pm
12/2/2014 5:15pm
I've had a YZ and I currently have a CR. The YZ has motor and the CR has everything else. Both have a huge abundance of parts, which is a big plus. Can'treally go wwrong, I know I have way more fun on my CR but it's really all about preference.
Falcon
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Falcon 12/2/2014 5:25pm
12/2/2014 5:25pm
'06 or newer YZ. You can have what is basically a current model bike, and they are solid as a rock. You can get one for cheap. Heck, the 2015 plastics will bolt right up if you want the new look (I think the front fender and numberplate will require some modification.)
zookie
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zookie 12/2/2014 5:29pm
12/2/2014 5:29pm
RM250 is a very very very solid choice. I am clearly biased, but my 2005 handles better than any other bike I have ever ridden or owned (including an RMZ450, and an RM125 from the same or later eras).
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FGR01 12/2/2014 6:19pm
12/2/2014 6:19pm
Zesiger 112 wrote:
I'm looking to move up from my 125. I have a 2005 yz125, so the smart choice would be a 08 or newer yz250 so I...
I'm looking to move up from my 125. I have a 2005 yz125, so the smart choice would be a 08 or newer yz250 so I would be comfortable. But a lot of people like the rm250, also the last gen cr250 is an option, or an 08-10 sx250. Obviously the 13-15 sx250 would be the best but I'm looking around $3000.
So which brand is the best and which year-s?
Your 125 shares almost every part with the 2005 and newer YZ250. All plastic is the same, including the tank and seat. Air filters are the same, etc. Makes life easy.

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SwapperMX
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SwapperMX 12/2/2014 6:22pm
12/2/2014 6:22pm
Falcon wrote:
'06 or newer YZ. You can have what is basically a current model bike, and they are solid as a rock. You can get one for...
'06 or newer YZ. You can have what is basically a current model bike, and they are solid as a rock. You can get one for cheap. Heck, the 2015 plastics will bolt right up if you want the new look (I think the front fender and numberplate will require some modification.)
No they wont, you would still need the re-style kit !!
mehow2g
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mehow2g 12/2/2014 6:22pm
12/2/2014 6:22pm
Hey guys, rather than opening a new thread I'm currently in market getting a two stroke, I haven't rode a bike since my kx85 when I was 13 I'm now 24 when I was racing I was B grade fear ultimately held me back to make it to A grade.

I'm 6'1 currently 190lbs probably going to trim down to 175lbs, I've been wanting to purchase a ktm150sx but I worry if the bike will be Small for me but it also have heard a 250 could be quite too much if I'm not experienced.

I'm dead set on getting the best 2 stroke possible and I do prefer Japanese bikes.

Can anyone steer me In the right direction ?
JW381
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JW381 12/2/2014 6:28pm
12/2/2014 6:28pm
mehow2g wrote:
Hey guys, rather than opening a new thread I'm currently in market getting a two stroke, I haven't rode a bike since my kx85 when I...
Hey guys, rather than opening a new thread I'm currently in market getting a two stroke, I haven't rode a bike since my kx85 when I was 13 I'm now 24 when I was racing I was B grade fear ultimately held me back to make it to A grade.

I'm 6'1 currently 190lbs probably going to trim down to 175lbs, I've been wanting to purchase a ktm150sx but I worry if the bike will be Small for me but it also have heard a 250 could be quite too much if I'm not experienced.

I'm dead set on getting the best 2 stroke possible and I do prefer Japanese bikes.

Can anyone steer me In the right direction ?
Start with a 150 or a yz125 and if it's not enough then get a 250. If you go the 250 route first you run the risk of eating a whole truckload of shit and maybe ending up in the hospital
YZ125H1
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YZ125H1 12/2/2014 6:30pm
12/2/2014 6:30pm Edited Date/Time 12/2/2014 6:31pm
Honestly, it really depends on what you are looking for. My main issue with the Honda was how the motor came from the factory. Suzuki isn't a bad bike, but the OEM parts are fairly expensive. YZ has a nice broad motor and the bike is stable, but it wont turn like an RM.

http://motocrossactionmag.com/news/250-two-stroke-shootout-yz250-versus…
http://motocrossactionmag.com/news/2006-honda-cr250-test
mehow2g
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mehow2g 12/2/2014 6:39pm
12/2/2014 6:39pm
mehow2g wrote:
Hey guys, rather than opening a new thread I'm currently in market getting a two stroke, I haven't rode a bike since my kx85 when I...
Hey guys, rather than opening a new thread I'm currently in market getting a two stroke, I haven't rode a bike since my kx85 when I was 13 I'm now 24 when I was racing I was B grade fear ultimately held me back to make it to A grade.

I'm 6'1 currently 190lbs probably going to trim down to 175lbs, I've been wanting to purchase a ktm150sx but I worry if the bike will be Small for me but it also have heard a 250 could be quite too much if I'm not experienced.

I'm dead set on getting the best 2 stroke possible and I do prefer Japanese bikes.

Can anyone steer me In the right direction ?
JW381 wrote:
Start with a 150 or a yz125 and if it's not enough then get a 250. If you go the 250 route first you run the...
Start with a 150 or a yz125 and if it's not enough then get a 250. If you go the 250 route first you run the risk of eating a whole truckload of shit and maybe ending up in the hospital
With the ktm, I heard the suspension is not so good until the 2012 models came out, being out of the game for so long will I even notice of I went for a earlier model ?
JW381
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JW381 12/2/2014 6:54pm
12/2/2014 6:54pm
mehow2g wrote:
Hey guys, rather than opening a new thread I'm currently in market getting a two stroke, I haven't rode a bike since my kx85 when I...
Hey guys, rather than opening a new thread I'm currently in market getting a two stroke, I haven't rode a bike since my kx85 when I was 13 I'm now 24 when I was racing I was B grade fear ultimately held me back to make it to A grade.

I'm 6'1 currently 190lbs probably going to trim down to 175lbs, I've been wanting to purchase a ktm150sx but I worry if the bike will be Small for me but it also have heard a 250 could be quite too much if I'm not experienced.

I'm dead set on getting the best 2 stroke possible and I do prefer Japanese bikes.

Can anyone steer me In the right direction ?
JW381 wrote:
Start with a 150 or a yz125 and if it's not enough then get a 250. If you go the 250 route first you run the...
Start with a 150 or a yz125 and if it's not enough then get a 250. If you go the 250 route first you run the risk of eating a whole truckload of shit and maybe ending up in the hospital
mehow2g wrote:
With the ktm, I heard the suspension is not so good until the 2012 models came out, being out of the game for so long will...
With the ktm, I heard the suspension is not so good until the 2012 models came out, being out of the game for so long will I even notice of I went for a earlier model ?
You might. You won't have anything to compare it to, but it could be uncomfortable and mess with your confidence on your motorcycle. Do you have any friends that could let you take a test ride of any kind?
jmpatt79
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jmpatt79 12/2/2014 7:29pm
12/2/2014 7:29pm
Falcon wrote:
'06 or newer YZ. You can have what is basically a current model bike, and they are solid as a rock. You can get one for...
'06 or newer YZ. You can have what is basically a current model bike, and they are solid as a rock. You can get one for cheap. Heck, the 2015 plastics will bolt right up if you want the new look (I think the front fender and numberplate will require some modification.)
i have an 06 yz125 with a 2011 450 front number plate and front fender ,the number plate went right on, you have to ream the holes out on the fender looks sick ! cant go wrong with a yz250 06 to new
Zesiger 112
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Zesiger 112 12/2/2014 7:49pm
12/2/2014 7:49pm
mehow2g wrote:
Hey guys, rather than opening a new thread I'm currently in market getting a two stroke, I haven't rode a bike since my kx85 when I...
Hey guys, rather than opening a new thread I'm currently in market getting a two stroke, I haven't rode a bike since my kx85 when I was 13 I'm now 24 when I was racing I was B grade fear ultimately held me back to make it to A grade.

I'm 6'1 currently 190lbs probably going to trim down to 175lbs, I've been wanting to purchase a ktm150sx but I worry if the bike will be Small for me but it also have heard a 250 could be quite too much if I'm not experienced.

I'm dead set on getting the best 2 stroke possible and I do prefer Japanese bikes.

Can anyone steer me In the right direction ?
For your size I would say 250, but since you haven't ridden in a while and your last bike was and 85 go for the 150. Spend a year or so on it.
I'm 5'8 140lb and my 125 is good enough. I'm just not fast enough to ride it how I want all the time. It's plenty fast, I'm just looking for more punch out of corners. Plus I ride sand.
Zesiger 112
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Zesiger 112 12/2/2014 7:54pm
12/2/2014 7:54pm
So it's looking like the YZ is the best option. Yes the new 2015 plastic will fit on it. Just have to buy a new airbox. While the 06-15 is basically the same bike there are small differences from, 06-08. Such as triple clamps, fork lugs, and front brake caliper. From 08-14 all they really did was change the silencer and jetting.
Zesiger 112
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Zesiger 112 12/2/2014 7:57pm
12/2/2014 7:57pm
YZ125H1 wrote:
Honestly, it really depends on what you are looking for. My main issue with the Honda was how the motor came from the factory. Suzuki isn't...
Honestly, it really depends on what you are looking for. My main issue with the Honda was how the motor came from the factory. Suzuki isn't a bad bike, but the OEM parts are fairly expensive. YZ has a nice broad motor and the bike is stable, but it wont turn like an RM.

http://motocrossactionmag.com/news/250-two-stroke-shootout-yz250-versus…
http://motocrossactionmag.com/news/2006-honda-cr250-test
Thanks this was exactly what I needed.
SwapperMX
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SwapperMX 12/2/2014 8:00pm
12/2/2014 8:00pm
Zesiger 112 wrote:
So it's looking like the YZ is the best option. Yes the new 2015 plastic will fit on it. Just have to buy a new airbox...
So it's looking like the YZ is the best option. Yes the new 2015 plastic will fit on it. Just have to buy a new airbox. While the 06-15 is basically the same bike there are small differences from, 06-08. Such as triple clamps, fork lugs, and front brake caliper. From 08-14 all they really did was change the silencer and jetting.
2015 plastic wont fit earlier YZ's without serious screwing around. The subframe is different on the 15, just easier and simpler to buy the UFO restyle kit !!
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#991 12/2/2014 8:05pm
12/2/2014 8:05pm Edited Date/Time 4/3/2015 2:48pm
...
NorcalVet
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NorcalVet 12/2/2014 8:18pm
12/2/2014 8:18pm Edited Date/Time 12/2/2014 8:19pm


Yes, I'm biased


04+ RM 250, showa susp is very good
just add a 10oz ffw and your golden

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holverson34
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holverson34 12/2/2014 8:53pm
12/2/2014 8:53pm
I had a 06 yz125 then got a 05 yz250 and sold it a yr later. Didn't really like the way it handled so traded it for different 06 yz125. Jw381 didn't you switch for similar reasons?
Falcon
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Falcon 12/2/2014 9:53pm
12/2/2014 9:53pm
Falcon wrote:
'06 or newer YZ. You can have what is basically a current model bike, and they are solid as a rock. You can get one for...
'06 or newer YZ. You can have what is basically a current model bike, and they are solid as a rock. You can get one for cheap. Heck, the 2015 plastics will bolt right up if you want the new look (I think the front fender and numberplate will require some modification.)
SwapperMX wrote:
No they wont, you would still need the re-style kit !!
Fuel tank, frame and subframe bear the same Yamaha part number. Therefore, the side panels, rear fender, seat and radiator shrouds would fit.
The reason I know is I checked this very thing for my '06. Cool
JW381
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JW381 12/2/2014 10:28pm
12/2/2014 10:28pm
holverson34 wrote:
I had a 06 yz125 then got a 05 yz250 and sold it a yr later. Didn't really like the way it handled so traded it...
I had a 06 yz125 then got a 05 yz250 and sold it a yr later. Didn't really like the way it handled so traded it for different 06 yz125. Jw381 didn't you switch for similar reasons?
That's right man, that's exactly why. I just could never find a comfortable setup for my riding style. And the motor was scary fast. I actually did some snooping on TT and it sounds like a lot of YZ owners fight the front end for a good setup the same way I did. But others have no complaints so it really depends on the operator.
YZ125H1
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YZ125H1 12/3/2014 5:47am
12/3/2014 5:47am Edited Date/Time 12/3/2014 5:50am
I'm on a budget of about $3000 max for a 250 2 stroke also. I've narrowed it down to the RM250 or YZ250. Mainly, because each bike comes setup from the factory very good and no need to sink money to set them up decent. The only mod I can see myself doing is a FWW and suspension revalve down the road. If you get a chance to ride the bikes you are looking for do it. Nothing worse than buying a new bike and finding out you don't like it. Still waiting to get a ride on an RM250 aka "God's chariot" according to Abroham Lincoln*.
Zesiger 112
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Zesiger 112 12/3/2014 8:39am
12/3/2014 8:39am
NorcalVet wrote:
[img]https://p.vitalmx.com/photos/forums/2012/08/01/RM_250_MXa_57371.jpg[/img] Yes, I'm biased 04+ RM 250, showa susp is very good just add a 10oz ffw and your golden


Yes, I'm biased


04+ RM 250, showa susp is very good
just add a 10oz ffw and your golden
I love MXA but what's weird is they are saying 04-06 the RM is better than the YZ. But in the 08 test posted further above, they said the YZ was better. Even though nothing was changed in that time period.
CamP
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CamP 12/3/2014 8:55am
12/3/2014 8:55am
Get an 05-07 CR250. Making the engine competitive is cheap/easy and the chassis is the best of all the 2-stroke 250's. Honda parts are also much cheaper.
HackMan162
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HackMan162 12/3/2014 9:05am
12/3/2014 9:05am
If you get the RM, plan on putting in decent clutch parts, if it's not already done. The OEM basket is made out of butter.
Abroham Lincoln 12/3/2014 9:07am
12/3/2014 9:07am
More patented CamP "trueisms" .

Yea, get an 05-07 CR250, so you can immediately pull the jug and head and send it off, and spend money on a new carb, JUST so the thing will stay in sight of a bone stock YZ RM, or KX. You even said so, in less words, which is why it's funny.

Sometimes I swear Honda is still living on the accolades of the McGrath era and some people are still mesmerized/fooled. Others have ridden them all with an objective eye and realize the RC valve Honda is literally the worst Japanese 250 you can buy. I will give them credit on the build quality though.... its about even with the Yamaha.

Zesiger, in your case, 3K will pick you up a veteran owned 08ish YZ250 and that is what I reccommend for you.

Zesiger 112
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Zesiger 112 12/3/2014 9:13am
12/3/2014 9:13am
All of the Hondas in my area are 2002-2003 and older. I'm looking into the Rm. Is there any disadvantages of the 01-03 vs the recommended 04 08? There are quite a few rm for sale vs yz and cheaper.
CamP
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CamP 12/3/2014 9:14am
12/3/2014 9:14am
Abroham Lincoln wrote:
More patented CamP "trueisms" . Yea, get an 05-07 CR250, so you can immediately pull the jug and head and send it off, and spend money...
More patented CamP "trueisms" .

Yea, get an 05-07 CR250, so you can immediately pull the jug and head and send it off, and spend money on a new carb, JUST so the thing will stay in sight of a bone stock YZ RM, or KX. You even said so, in less words, which is why it's funny.

Sometimes I swear Honda is still living on the accolades of the McGrath era and some people are still mesmerized/fooled. Others have ridden them all with an objective eye and realize the RC valve Honda is literally the worst Japanese 250 you can buy. I will give them credit on the build quality though.... its about even with the Yamaha.

Zesiger, in your case, 3K will pick you up a veteran owned 08ish YZ250 and that is what I reccommend for you.

The Herpes is back...
Abroham Lincoln 12/3/2014 9:16am
12/3/2014 9:16am Edited Date/Time 12/3/2014 9:18am
Zesiger 112 wrote:
All of the Hondas in my area are 2002-2003 and older. I'm looking into the Rm. Is there any disadvantages of the 01-03 vs the recommended...
All of the Hondas in my area are 2002-2003 and older. I'm looking into the Rm. Is there any disadvantages of the 01-03 vs the recommended 04 08? There are quite a few rm for sale vs yz and cheaper.
04 gets you showa suspension
05 gets you a newer cyl
06 gets you a new cyl, PV, swing arm, triple clamps for 1-1/8 bars. different frame, too. they pulled the head tube inward 5mm and braced it.


from 01-06 that is a completely different bike, but they didnt change the gas tank and shrouds, which are all most dorks pay attention to. they are going thru the same thing right now with the RMZ.

leave the 03 and older alone. those open chamber KYBs were garbage.

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