'01, '02 wr 250f vs. '03, '04 wr 250f

[binthedirtnow]

'01-'02 wr 250f vs. '03-'05 wr 250f

I just rode a 2005 wr 250f yesterday and I loved it! Problem is I can't afford an '05 and I live in CA which means that without a green sticker, I can't ride in alot of places near my home for at least half the year, which is screwed. I believe the '03-'04 are red sticker bikes, but if not please let me know because that gives me more opportunities for a great bike. I've read that the '03-'05 were upgraded a lot from '01-'02. So, I'm asking for your opinions on this. What are the differences in terms of rideability? Are the '03-'05's really that much more awesome than than the '01-'02's ?? Opinions please.....
B.

 

[Amber Farris]

03 was the first year of the better ergos and the e-start. They made the gas tank a bit smaller but dropped it lower in the bike. The 01 and the 02 have the larger tank (which sticks up above the seat) and don't have the auto-decomp cam which make starting the bike a little more of pain. As far as motor, I don't thik there is anything too significantly differernt. I believe the carb is a bit different. The main think I don't like about the 01 and 02, is that they just feel heavier and bulkier. I the auto decomp cam is nice too. The 05 is much lower than the early years, so that will probably feel lighter, and I think the has a slimer design. So, if you like the feel of sitting on an 05, you may find the 01 and 02 feel too bulky. The 03 won't feel as slim and as the 05, but will still feel much better than the 01 and 02..