2000 yz 125

At the amature level it is totally competitive. In 2001 I was winning C and B class mx and HS races on a 1993 KX250 and a 1997 YZ127, never did I feel that a new bike would have made any difference in my placement.

The newer bikes are a little better, but the difference isn't huge and in the C and B amature classes no one is coming close to using their bike's full potential. Keep it well jetted, well maintained (engine, chassie and suspension) and wearing fresh tires and you'll be way ahead of the game. You'd be surprised how many people show up to races on new bikes with shiny exhaust systems and terrible jetting, nasty suspension and chassie components and worn tires. This was my approach and I always did well, even got a top 3 start (40 rider grid for MX, varied in hs from 30 - 120) 95% of the time with holeshots about half the time.

It's a GREAT bike that I still miss.
I had one that I bought new & raced a few summers here in Phoenix. I was 43 at the time & getting back to MX after a nineteen year break.

I also weighed around 200lbs w/gear and was able to pull the first holeshot I've ever had in the 125 beginner class against 14 year olds who weighed a little less then me :fft:
Mainly because I had fresh rings in there - very important in the 125's

Keep the top end fresh to help stay competitive.

Its all rider, I can pull holeshots on my YZ125 against four-strokes

Its an outstanding bike. Very competative. If you HAVE to spend money on it, consider having the forks set up for your weight.

You can get by with the forks in stock condition. The valving in not very good in any of the YZ's.

I finally revalved mine and was amazed at how well they work. The odd thing is, everyone who has been on my bike said the same thing. Weight, size or speed really did not matter.