I have a chance to buy a carryover 01 yz 250 at a good price but cant decide if I should be sucked into buying an 02 yz 250 (new is always better or so they say). Is the 02 a better bike than the 01 or should I save some cash. Any rider reports would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Bunkynuts
The '01 riding compartment feels more cramped. The '02 feels very good with a flatter seat to tank transition. Motors are pretty much the same. The '02 chassis is not stiff like some of the mags say and it turns really well...probably due to the updated ergos. If there's a really big $$ difference, then you can't go wrong with the cheaper. If not, get the '02.
I've ridden both, I bought an '02. Why? because I wanted the NEW TOY:confused: Not because it was "better" in any meaningful way...that I could make use of!:)
If you can save a 1K then I'd get the '01 if it's $500 I'd get the '02 just because that's about how much you'll lose on resale... 01 vs. 02
The "stiff" stuff in the mags is B.S., I had an '02 CR250, I know STIFF!:p
I definately agree with what they are saying. If you can save a good amount of money, you could make it a better bike, the 01 that is, with the cash you saved in aftermarket parts. But I can tell you that I absolutely love the '02. Awesome motor, great ergos (im 6'3 and I finally found a bike that I can make fit), and it turns awesome. The forks were a little harsh before break in, but now after about 7-8 hours, this thing is sweet....Good luck
just out of interest, i am a big guy, 6'2" and i am looking for a YZ250 probably between 1999-2002 (although, i might have to go back to 1997 if the cash doent strectch). is the room thing you talk about that big a deal, and is it just a case of changing small bits like bar mounts etc?
I am 6'3 and love the feel of this bike. It fit me so much better than my old KX. All I did was put CR-double hi bars on with the universal mounts and she was ready to go...