Timmay#678 said:
Has to be a yz250f, only get a crf if you enjoy changing valves after 60hours! Honda imo are overrated.
Do you have any experience with the Honda valvetrain?
I would also say pick a color. Make sure parts support is good. These are both high maintenance 4 strokes. Unless you dont follow the routine maintenance, the valves should last a couple seasons at least with a novice rider on board.
I have a post on here with some pics of a 60 hour CRF250 engine....
http://www.dirtrider.net/forums3/showthread.php?t=158258. The head went to a reputable service tech who pulled the valves and said they were in great shape. Some new springs and labor to put them in was 75 bucks. Keep in mind this bike is ridden fairly hard, but strictly maintained.
I have also hear great things about Yamahas. A buddy has an 05 and it seems a bit stronger on the low end, and tracks straighter out of corners. It does however feel a bit heavier and doesn't seem to cut into the turns as well.
Basically, buy one, take care of it, and have fun. Make sure they give you an owners manual with the bike. Apparently alot of people leave the dealer without one, or manage to lose it before they realized they had it :whoa: . Most of the maintenance procedures are in there, if you want to do that stuff yourself. If you have any questions, this a great place to come. There's a lot of really experienced people on here. Good luck!