I've gone through my fair share of 2-strokes: a YZ250, CR250 and now a KX250 and I've loved em all. But I can't help but wonder if a 4-stroke, to be more specific a YZF250 or CRF250, would be better suited for me. I'm 5'10 150lbs so I'm sure the power would be enough for me. I've never ridden a 4 stroke, but from what I've read, I'm intrigued by the "tractor" style pull and the more forgiving ride (in comparison to 2ts).

Anyone here that has made the switch from a 2t to a 4t and noticed that their riding ability seemed better on a 4t? I know its not all about the bike but mostly rider skill, but my understanding is you really need to get a bike that's more suited for you and your riding style. Don't get me wrong, I love the excitement of my KX250 and how its all balls to the wall, but I can't help but wonder if I'd be a better rider on a 250f.

Note: I couldn't go any newer than an 02 though, since that was the last year of the green sticker and I like to ride in the summer.

I don't know where your going to find a 250f that was made in 02 as I think (but maybe wrong that it wasn't until 04 that the 250f's came out, But as far as your question on whether the switch to a 250f would be in your best bet, I am defiantly faster on the 4 strokes, than 2 simply cause there easier to ride and be lazy on, Cornering is so much easier as you don't have to worry about cornering speed momentum, but Getting used to engine braking takes a bit to get used to but I like it. But everyone's different, But in my opinion nothing compares to going full tilt on a 125two.

There are definitely 2002 YZ250F, no doubt. Seen a few on craigslist (green stickers).

Well, if you want an 02 the yz-f is the only option. Buying a 250f that old can be very risky. I came off an 02 rm250 onto the crf250. I am a WAY more confident rider now. I have much better control of the bike than when I was on the 250 smoker. That being said, I am not a great rider especially on a very fast bike. The 250f is smooth and torquey with a very wide spread of power. You will miss the balls to the wall fast top end of a smoker though. Just hammering down a straightaway on the 250f isn't all that exciting. Where it gets exciting is when you get into some technical sections and blow by all your buddies on bigger bikes.

01 is the first year of the yz250f. Honda did not come out with the crf250 until 04 with the kawasuki 250f

the 250 2stroke has about 10hp more then a 250f motor. the 250f is smooth and will help you learn lines, corners, and control. depending on the tracks you ride, you will eventually be wanting more power and go back to a 250 smoker or probably step into a 450f.

Ah that sucks! Didn't realize that they were that relatively new. How risky would it be to get an 02 YZ250F? Would I be dumping a lot of money into it to get it to a comfortable point (maintenance wise)?

Also, are there any newer 250Fs that have green stickers? I know its an emissions thing, and I noticed someone from another board got a brand new KTM that had a green sticker on it. I'd love to get a new bike but the thought of missing all this great riding weather because of a red colored sticker makes my stomach turn

California is hoakey. Just move somewhere else and Ride On!

I completely agree! Unfortunately California is the place to be when it comes to my line of work, and until I retire I'm at the Bay Area's mercy

Don't go 250f or 4stroke!!! Yeh sure ya will be a little quicker, but they are boring, wayy too easy to ride and take all the fun out of mx. I've a yz125 and a yz250f, I race every weekend on the 250f just for the vain fact that I'm quicker on it and am chasing a championship this year.

I was always quick enough on the 125, but only really use it for practicing these days. Its hard enough trying to adjust to swapping over between bikes, and when I hop back up on the 125 I don't have great confidence because of the lack of engine breaking and power hit. Next year when I'm moved up a class, the 250f is going and its 2stroke and funfun all the way for me, nothing like an underdog on a 125 mixing it with all them 4strokes!