IMHO, Honda's 230 has a little bit better suspension than the Yamaha. thats about the only difference, though. but, if i were you, i wouldnt go out and buy a brand new 230. at your physical standard, id look into getting either a used 125 2-stroke, a used XR250, or a used KDX200/220. all these bikes would suffice for you now. a 125 smoker is faster than the other two, with much better suspension, its also lighter. it can be ridden on trails or MX tracks effectively. however, if youre just going to be riding trails, an XR250 or a KDX200/220 would be a better choice for you. an XR250 is more outdated than the KDX, and both of these bikes are indestructible. the XR is a Honda, and the KDX is a Kawasaki. the XR is a 4-stroke, the KDX is a 2-stroke. look around on cycletrader.com and evilbay to find some really good deals on all three of these bikes.