Time to move on from the TTR250

I've had a TTR 250 for 4 years. Overall, I've been pretty happy with it. It was my first dirt bike and I've ridden it pretty hard in those 4 years.

I'm starting to race enduros and want to move to something more competitive.

I am considering one of the 4-stroke 250s (WR,CRF, KTM) or maybe a kdx220.

I think I'd be happy with any of the 4-strokes and if I go that route will probably just look for the best deal.

I'm not sure what the allure of the KDX is. Must be the history and reputation of that bike. It isn't really that much lighter than the 4-strokes, but it is quite a bit cheaper, especially used (seem to be a lot of used ones out there).

Are 2 strokes that much harder to ride in the woods than a 4 stroke? Is it just a matter of learning to use the brakes?

I plan to keep the TTR as a dual-sporter and extra bike.

I'd rather not spend a bunch of cash, but am willing to to get the right bike. Yamaha has a 0-0-0 deal that would keep me from paying a dime until Dec 05 that is a bit enticing.

I'm not looking for anyone to make my decision for me, just shoot of your thoughts.

confused...
Mag

I'm thinking used KDX may be the way to go.

This would give me a chance to experience riding a 2 stroke. I think there is only one way to find out if I'd like it better and that is to ride one for a season.

If I like it great. The bikes have a great following and lots of mods are available.

If not, then I can turn around and probably sell it for what I paid, which would not be the case with a new 4 stroke.

Thanks for the input. I still haven't decided, but once I do, I'll post my decision.

My stats

160 lb, 5'9".

I've started riding enduros (C class for now).

Problems I have with my TTR 250 are:

1) Suspension. Myabe I can fix this by having it set up correctly by someone like MX Tech. I feel like it is sluggish and sloppy. I've stiffened it up a bit by adjusting it a few clicks, and that has helped, but the bike does not react as quickly as I would like. I sometimes feel like I am just pgo-ing down the trail.

2) Weight. The bike weighs something like 260 lbs. I know a kdx comes in around 220, but I figure I can shave some pounds witha pipe. I may just add them back with armor, but it would still be less than my TTR.

3) Responsiveness. I don't necessarily feel that I don't have enough power. I think the suspension issue and my riding ability keeps my from getting the most out of the engine. This may be a tuning issue, or just a 4-stroke issue, but the bilke has a definiite hesitation off idle that bugs me. I've gotten used to riding with it, but still notice it.

I want something that will be more competitive. I feel like I work harder than I need to in a race due to my bike's wieght and slow response.

The WR and DRF are race bikes and will surely give my the suspension upgrades I'm looking for. The KDX, while not a race bike out of the dealership, offers a lot of potential from what I've read. I don't think I'm interested in trying to deal with a MX 2-stroke in the woods. I'm used to the 4 storke power, and the kds just seems to be the 2-stroke that is closest to that.

OK, I'l admit it...I love the smell of 2-strokes. Must be all those years riding an RD.

Bottom line. I want to be faster in the woods. Now I realize that I have a lot of skill building to do as a rider, but I am starting to feel like I'm out growing the TTRs potential.

My latest post on the kdx is somewhat of an econmical one. I figure I can get one to try out without to o much investment.

Though my wife keeps telling me to just get the bike I want/need. My problem is I'm not sure what that is.

I can get an 04 WR for $5200 from my local dealer, which seems like a fair price, but I'd have to make payments. But the point here is to just determine what bike I should get regardless of cost.

Thanks for all the help.

Magellan