If I were to get a 02 250 it would be the CR. I hear they are supposed to be really sweet. Not only is the handling and suspension great, but from what I remember reading the CR had more peak HP than the YZ, but I can't remember how the rest of the motor was, but I never remember hearing the word weak motor used on the CR 250. It was used on the CR 125, but from what I remember hearing the CR 250's motor is great. If you read that the motor was weak from MXA don't believe them they always pick on everthing that isn't blue. The YZ is sweet though I rode one and it is fast. I bet you would be happy with either one, but I personally would go with the CR if it were me.