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93
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3/27/2021
Location
Anchorage, AK
US
Looking to get a new bike. Right now I have a 2020 yz 250f. I am debating if I should get another 250f or if I want to go to a 125 or a 150. I used to be really into racing but now I'm racing a lot more casually and I've always heard 125s are the most fun bikes to ride and that is why I am tempted to get one. My only concern is that I will get bored of a 125 and crave more that's why a 150 sounds appealing but give me your thoughts. Btw I am about 6ft 185lbs.
My biggest concern was the WP air fork. Having spent my whole life on springs I was a bit worried. I'm happy to say they awesome and there is no need to worry. If you are thinking about a Yamaha then this isn't even a problem.
At your size I would say a 250 2 stoke might be a better option. The newer 250s are smooth and very competitive with the 250f's. The local races around me allow both 2 and 4 strokes in the 250 class. I can't answer about a 150 as I've never riden one. Emig did though at Lorettas and he seemed to do just fine.
Once I got my 150, my 450 sat and was eventually sold. Currently, my 250sx gets ridden HALF as much as my 150sx.
The Shop
It can repay you with years of trouble free riding on an easy bike that you don't have to push you limits.
Racing to me is not very fun to do often. Probably because im not fast enough to win. Im sure winning makes racing FAR more enjoyable. That being said I do want to add a 125/150 to the stable with my 250F. A alternative/backup bike to have loads of fun. Something light to throw around on the track and in the air.
But to your question, I have a '21 YZ250F and a '19 YZ125 (w/ the usual mods.) I love both and the 125 is probably the bike that I think is cooler. But that being said, I am not sure if I could do a 125 as my only/primary bike anymore. The 250F is my go-to just for how easy it is to ride. And while the 2stroke is "more fun" in the flickability and overall character of it, the 250F fun comes from just riding smooth and getting around the track by being able to do things easier than on the 2stroke, while still being able to be aggressive. So that's just me. I know you mentioned a 150 and that could be an option but I am not sure the added power really is going to make the 150 easier to ride, as the hit /window is still there. But maybe that is what you are looking for. I personally do not like that, which is why I like the YZ125. The power is broad and easy to use for a 2stroke. My friend has a nice modded 150 that I've been itching to ride back to back with my bikes. He's recovering from an injury, so we haven't been able to make that happen yet. But I'd love to be able to get feedback from running all 3 at the same track and compare.
I’m worried I’m too big for a 150 (200pounds +), a 250 2t would still rip my arms off and leave me back where I am now with the 350 or getting a 250f which the only drawback being possibly less smiles that going back 2t.
Or CR500 of course
But I really think my options are either a yz250, yz250f or a 150sx. A buddy of mine just bought a 2022 ktm 150 so will prob end of tossing a leg over it at some point. Ive never ridden a 150 is it that big of a difference between a 125.
Anyway- in your case i would get myself a yz250 2stroke, they have great engines and a broad spread of power.
Pit Row
Was hoping to get a newer model YZ 125 in the next month or so. Austrian is not out of question though...
The 125 is fun in certain situations play riding on the right track but other than that the 250f is way more fun for me.
As a vet rider at 165 pounds, I just don't think a 125 is that fun to have as the only bike in the stable. Sure, it can be fun to hold a 125 wide open, but I am way smoother and safer on my 250F.
Also, you either had some really bad luck or are doing something wrong maintenance wise. Water and dirt are the enemy, keep them out of your intake, and keep your oil and oil filter fresh (4 hours tops), and a 250F should last at least 50 hours with nothing but a clutch.
Also, I used the twin-air power flow kit on my Yamaha, this allows you to stick some clean towels in the airbox while you wash it. Even with a wash cover, I have found that water can leak in the airbox, evidenced by wet towels. Another trick is to put the bike on its side while you take off the filter. I also clean off loose dirt off the filter before I remove it.
I don't like how the 21/22 removed that boot inside the airbox. At least with the 20, if some dirt fell in, you had a good chance it did not go directly to your intake and you could vacuum it out. With the 21/22, it goes straight down. I really like how Honda has the filter upside down. Still have to be careful about water during the wash, but dirt is less of an issue.
Got my 08 KTM 200 XC, WAS super stoked on it. Thought my 17 KTM 250 SX was the only bike ill ever want. After 20 hours, my mind wanted something different.
19 Honda 250R, 40 hours and I wanted try something different because I didnt like the engine.
41 hours on my YZ250F since march and forks are too soft and I want more top end. Ill see what happens to it after I get the suspension changed from stock and a Vortex ECU.
Granted as my speed and technique has changed, so has my desires in a bike. I thought everyone one of those bikes was absolutely perfect, for 20 hours or so
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