Starting Over

nls2299
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Zanesville, OH, USA
nls2299
Edited Date/Time 8/23/2013 5:31am
So to keep it short, I started on an RM80 at 14, then onto a YZ125 very soon after. Never raced either, ran the strip mines for fun with friends. Got into street after that, CBR600, GSXR750. Got into Harleys after that 1983 Wide Glide, 2001 Softail.
Along the way, had kids, and got them on 2 wheels, but I ended up on ATV's...friends had them, easy for me to follow the kids. Still have my 06 LTZ400.
At this point my oldest boy is on an RM85L, and I've had the itch for 2 wheels again after a long layoff. Initially I "dreamed" of something like a YZ250 05 or newer...at this point, reality, and my wallet are speaking up, and I am going to look for something around a 2000.
Yes it has to be a 2 stroke first of all.
I am 6'-5", 240, very athletic, very fit, mid 30's.
I have always loved Suzuki, but don't like the look of the late 90's/2000
Have heard Yamaha was still great around that time and can't go wrong.
But I love the look of the aluminum frame CR250's from back then.
What's everyone's thoughts when considering price, durability, etc?
New to this site, just looking for some thoughts.
Thanks guys
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TX24
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TX24 8/1/2013 11:43am
8/1/2013 11:43am
I agree with you looking for a 250 2 stroke. I wouldn't limit it to an early 2000. I would just look for the best deal you can find in your budget. There are probably tons of 250s in OH.
GPearl
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Lakewood, OH, USA
GPearl 8/1/2013 4:55pm
8/1/2013 4:55pm
We picked up a 2000 CR250 last fall from a guy in North Ridgeville for a great deal and it was one of many that we looked at. Keep your eyes open one will pop up
nls2299
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Zanesville, OH, USA
nls2299 8/22/2013 9:23am
8/22/2013 9:23am
Thanks for the feedback guys. Anyone have much experience on the 97-99 CR250's? Everyone says the frames and suspension are so harsh, but would a novice, and someone in my weight range, notice it that much really?
TX24
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TX24 8/22/2013 11:05am
8/22/2013 11:05am
Probably would be fine. Just remember if you are trying to keep the price down, it might be better to spend $1,800 on a little better, newer bike than $1,200 on some really old beater. It just seems like a 97-99 that's been ridden a lot has probably been handed around and beat up pretty good. All depends on what you can find.

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Foghorn
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Foghorn 8/22/2013 6:28pm
8/22/2013 6:28pm Edited Date/Time 8/22/2013 6:29pm
For about the same price, you could pick up a CR500 or KX500. Usually not as beat as a comparable 250 and a lot of shit eating grin factor. You didn't say what kind of riding you were planning to do. I'm 6'3" and 230 and a 250 is fun, but feels too small for my weight. Maybe it's just because I'm used to the bigger bike. You'll need a re-spring for sure if you're doing any serious riding at all as the 250 would be sprung for a max 200 pound rider as would a 500.
nls2299
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Zanesville, OH, USA
nls2299 8/23/2013 5:31am
8/23/2013 5:31am
@Foghorn - Thought about a 500, but after a decade off of a 2 wheeler, I was going to try to ease back into it LOL. Definitely knew I'd have to get something re-sprung, downfall of my size.
@TX24 - I agree on spending a little more, but I was considering if I could find that Gen 1 bike in good shape, wondered if I should jump on it, or is it really that strongly advised to avoid them. I can tell you this, I hate the side number plate on those compared to 00 and on up, but I can work my way around the looks, just want something reliable and fun.
Thanks for all this input guys!

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