Stealing a Ride on The Bike That KILLED the 2 Stroke!

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In the 1990's two-strokes ruled the motocross world, as they had done for decades. But in 1997 the dirt bike world was changed forever. The era of the four-stroke MX bike was in bound and it all started with one machine! In this video Max and Nev will steal a ride on the bike that KILLED the 2 Stroke...
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Thanks for watching guys!

[@999lazer]

Hey Guys, I hope you enjoyed the film. We've got some new specially designed 2 stroke MX merch that ships worldwide . Anything we sell helps us make more cool videos. If you've got the time please check it out. Cheers Max teespring.com/stores/toofast-apparel

[@tonyw2960]

How can you compare a 400 to a 125 they were put against 250s what a pointless video! 🤔

[@ajbritton1569]

@@tonyw2960 300 btw but 125 and 250 aint much different the 125 damn near have the same top speed of a 250 its all abt the rider

[@tonyw2960]

@@ajbritton1569 not when you are trying to make a fair comparison imo

[@ajbritton1569]

@@tonyw2960 you just have to be a good rider i used to beat 250 2 strokes on my 85

[@tonyw2960]

@@ajbritton1569 thats you but your far from an average rider lol I see what you are saying but I'm commenting purely on the bike for bike comparison

[@michaeldixon6619]

4 stroke will never replace the fun factor of a 2 stroke

[@999lazer]

agree 100% thanks for watching

[@3rddayproductions723]

I’ll put a flat pipe and make it twice as fun hahaha I’m sorry 2 strokes are dead

[@jonthelamb4549]

3rd Dayproductions nah man they are coming back don’t worry

[@Natedoc808]

YZ426F was available in 2000, I have one and it still competes handily against any of the current 450s power wise. Funny watching people figure out how to start these, I left the compression release on mine instead of swapping over to hot cam auto-decompression cam. These things handle great, steel frame magic with so much rotating mass that they track and go wherever you point them, super stable

[@Natedoc808]

Wait, why did you run it against a 125 2 stroke instead of a 250cc 2 stroke

[@woodsrider117]

Good info but wrong name . 250 vs 400 is wrong. This bike didn’t kill 2 strokes. Changing the rules did.

[@mt1885]

Agree, now the sport was in demise and Enduro is where it is at.

[@teddyf9438]

Honestly 250 vs 400 4 strokes would’ve been so much more competitive

[@ettube8686]

The dude has lost his mind I feel way more stupid just from watching this complete nonscence lol

[@mt1885]

@@teddyf9438 More like match cc to cc 250 2 stroke vs 250 4 stroke and 125 4 stroke vs 125 2 stroke (if they are so great then they should have no problems against a 2 stroke at the same CC.

[@woodsrider117]

@@teddyf9438 How about 400 vs 400

[@AlejandroGarcia-tk7hv]

No one is saying how in good shape is this bike, it's 22 years old and looks brand new, congrats for the owner.

[@AbcAbc-ox6pg]

Yes, I just wanted to write that and now found your comment. I think he rebuilt it. The early 2000 bikes look so much better than the modern bikes I think. I'm rebuilding a 2004 YZ250 at the moment.

[@AlejandroGarcia-tk7hv]

@@AbcAbc-ox6pg Nice choice the 2004, hope everything goes nice with the rebuild. I also want to start rebuilding something around that time maybe end off 90s. I'm a enduro rider and I want to have and old school 2 stroke in my garage just to have fun sometimes.

[@AbcAbc-ox6pg]

@@AlejandroGarcia-tk7hv Yes that's true. Get a mid 90's bike, they are awesome. I have a 1994 YZ250 as well, which I rebuilt last year. Now it is in stock condition and looks like new. My current 2004 rebuild cost about $12.000 so far and I still have to buy some parts. I purchased almost every single part new over my Yamaha dealer.

[@AlejandroGarcia-tk7hv]

@@AbcAbc-ox6pg Awesome effort you're putting in the bike, I'll take you're advice and choose something from mid 90's to rebuild. Thank you for your comment.

[@dannygrindstaff2532]

Yo I was literally like this bike is as old as me and still beautiful and absolutely rips

[@claudewiniecki3287]

250cc 2 stroke would be a more even match against the 400cc 4 stroke especially on that track with long straights.

[@Matt_729]

Agree

[@maxrpm2215]

Another scenario would be if the Japanese continued with 250cc development i would say the engine, chassis and suspension advancement would of continued especially with the Europeans on the market, the competition would be fierce. The KTM / Husky is very fast out of the box even faster with the heavier spring in the power valve. Good engine work with some suspension work and the right rider = 450 eater.

[@matthewcarberry8243]

agreed

[@StabEDealin]

MaxRPM Yeah totally. Even back then they knew a direct injection 2-stroke would comply with the EPA and make more power, but since they couldn’t race them there was no point. A $500,000 2-stroke probably would’ve beaten it...

[@joshuahowells3848]

that's what I was gonna say

[@kevinkillsit]

My first bike when I turned 18 was a YZ426F. I waited until my parents left town and bought one and brought it home. My mom lost her shit, my dad smirked and was probably a little proud. That bike changed my life and led me down the road of motorcycles and I'm so grateful for it. That thing was an absolute monster!

[@powerwagon3731]

I’ve owned my 2001 for about 20 years.

[@jermainewilliams9887]

I owned both bikes 426 and a 400 the yz400f I liked better tho 426 was monster tho

[@dieselmech7227]

saved up and bought a RMX250 when I was 13, same situation as you described lol

[@mt1885]

*4 strokes tanked Motocross - the sport is flat lined and COST sky-rocketed*

[@gerardandrew4820]

people who need titanium valves, 3000 dollar wheels etcetera are killing motocross. If you attend a local mx race with a 5 year or older bike, the organizers would like to see you go, leave. You must buy a 10.000 dollar or euro shining mx bike. These people are killing the sport. I owned a 426, my friend had it later and drove for years with the same piston. Just keep the oil clean, the later 450 bikes where much less reliable.

[@willkeeling8894]

So true bro the early 2000s and 90s wer the golden years man

[@jeffflick2573]

Gtfoh! Put that yamadog up against a ktm 250sx NOT a 125 smoker! Unfair comparison video was misleading period! Thumbs down on this stupid vid!

[@brettorton2363]

Jeff Flick butthurt 2 stroke rider 😳😳😳

[@mt1885]

@@brettorton2363 More like flat-lined junk nascar bikes with no one to watch or buy them

[@huntercoons9555]

Should have been a 250 smoker vs. 400

[@largejoseph7914]

“Up against a modern yz125” Well I don’t know if you can say that as the yz125 hasn’t received any updates since 2006 😂

[@rollypollyraviolli4474]

Hey man, bold new graphics definitely add horsepower.

[@peterness280]

Ian Berry can’t for get the blue rims

[@rollypollyraviolli4474]

Honestly, though, Yamaha 2 strokes in 2006 were so good, the other Japanese Mfg's dropped their 2 stroke line and the only other one of the "big 5" (KTM) took 10 years of active 2 stroke development to produce a bike that testers, reviewers, riders, and magazine's would unanimously agree was a better all around bike in 2016. If anything, that's a testament to how friggin good the yz's were in 2006.

[@dalehicks6112]

This is not a competition between the YZ400 vs a modern day two stroke, because the 2020 YZ125 is not modern. It is the same bike that it was in 2006. Why didn't you use a 2020 125sx or more accurately a 250SX?

[@rztrzt]

Because that would not suit the video narrative...

[@p3kab00icu]

Idk y they used the bike they used. Perhaps it was simple availability. But it was very close. So, in my eyes, it isn't difficult to speculate the alternative endings, if other bikes were included.

[@neilpincus4667]

A '98 YZ250 would be the most accurate test.

[@TheSkinnyboy1234]

@@neilpincus4667 I’m sure Chad Reed came 2nd on 250 beating Tim ferry on the 426 2003 Supercross , beaten both by RC on the Cr250 to take 03 number 1 plate Las Vegas. Ferry did win a race on the YZ426F

[@Checkyoursix77]

The rules killed the 2 strokes not any 4 stoke. 2 strokes are cheaper and easier to maintain and more fun to ride.

[@coltonmachado8801]

no if 4 strokes never came out or were worse than 2 strokes they would still race two strokes

[@MrJimabby]

@@coltonmachado8801 take a 250 2 vs a 250 4 and see who has better lap times

[@AntiPattern328]

Environmental regulations that were geared towards smokers and the YZ 400f together took the 2 Stroke out of the pro ranks... Now that they have super clean running efi 2-strokes, it might be time to play it back. Get that 2-stroke back under yer ass!!

[@sirhuntntersteelsirhunters2248]

@@MrJimabby it depends on the rider

[@MrJimabby]

@@sirhuntntersteelsirhunters2248 2 stroke is lighter and alot faster

[@1969cmp]

"A certified two stroke killer".....against a 125. Crikey....

[@dean8067]

@Cătălin a 450 makes almost double the power of a 125 2 stroke, that match won't end well

[@BaileyStokes-]

@Cătălin a yz250 has around 45 hp a yz250f has about 40 hp that’s a 5 hp difference the same between a 125 2t and a 250 4t so why couldn’t a 250 4t be competitive in a 250 2t class if a 125 2t can be competitive in a 250 4t class

[@vaughanhodgson]

@Cătălin a modern 450 beats a 125 250 and 500 stroke

[@tumeh7410]

@Cătălin a 450 will beat a 250 any day

[@robshef1903]

@@vaughanhodgson probably because they stopped developing the 2 stroke like said in the video. 4 strokes are sooo much easier to ride and require so much less talent.

[@motokid1492]

2 stroke is still the king of enduro and always will be !

[@999lazer]

Let's hope it stays that way!

[@zev2491]

2 strokes posess character that a 4 stroke will never equal

[@mxprogression]

There’s only 1 way it’s going and that’s electric ⚡️ 😏

[@zev2491]

@@mxprogression sadly

[@charliecopelandfilms]

MX Progression I really hope not 😂

[@callumnaughton9111]

You can’t compare a 125 with a 400 hundred when clearly the 400 is going to be faster even if it is older

[@seaeff6428]

Actual anyone that isn't a top level pro can. The reason being is the lap time isn't going to come down to which bike is faster as he isn't using nearly all the power in both bikes so it comes down to traction, handling comfort etc. Im not super fast at all but I can get around an Mx track okay (I was pretty fast on 80s and did okay on 125s) If I went out and did lap to lap 125 2 stroke to a 250 2 stroke id probably be faster on the 125 honestly. Because for 1 its lighter and 2 I can harness the power of a 125 more comfortably than a 250 2 stroke. but that doesn't mean the 250 2 stroke is slower. not to mention thats probably all they had on hand.

[@joshwase84]

2strokes ain’t dead 💨

[@nadiajvr]

It's not dead is fu#t

[@AndreS_-df2nw]

Especially at the sand dunes.

[@wannabecarguy]

When I can buy a street legal street bike 2 smoker , brand new , 500 cc , then I would believe your statement. While I'm thrilled that fi and oil injection found it's way onto the new 2 strokes . I still want to ride one on the street.

[@bressqn]

@@wannabecarguy well, you can buy a 300 2t

[@juledoren]

@@bressqn eh i got a beta 300 and a ktm 300, no way id like to ride em on the street

[@hillclimber65]

Why not a 250? This proved nothing.

[@onlyccs]

hillclimber65 lol smokes are expensive

[@ettube8686]

He's odvously on crack

[@ettube8686]

@@onlyccs I've only watched one hundred thousand or so bike vids in my life this one is hands down. Smoke nonscence

[@kokkouu]

You realize a 250 2 stroke is not a lites bike right?

[@MOTO809]

@@kokkouu Neither is a 400 4 stroke... What's your point?

[@kyleklaumanns-moller5350]

Awesome video man 😍 now it’s time to do a lap time comparison on a 250 2 stroke with the 400 🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️

[@malcolmgolden6661]

Yea. Exactly

[@999lazer]

Challenge accepted

[@nickgraupman8457]

@@999lazer I'll be waiting for that video, this comparison is kinda fucked

[@22raddad]

@@nickgraupman8457 Totally agree!

[@dustdriver115]

I am looking forward to it

[@David-mo3tv]

I am a 2strokes guy . So much fun and cheaper braaaap

[@brettorton2363]

Naw they always breaking down in my experiences with my friends holy shit they cannot keep running

[@supergmx1046]

If you are a 2 stroke guy you should not say braaap

[@Cam_B]

Super Gmx why?

[@David-mo3tv]

Gmx what’s that??

[@MountainManKm]

@@brettorton2363 Then they don't know how they work. If you cant get a 2 stroke to run, I wouldn't hire you to get anything to run lol. They are so simple

[@jeffprzonek]

2 strokes are alive and well, I guess you never get out in the woods.

[@misfit1-3]

Jeff Przonek they dont like premixing their fuel and jetting but yet they like doing valves

[@trevmeiste246]

Hang on why did you do a 125 against a 400? That’s not even comparable, basically a 250 would’ve destroyed the 400 in this video lmao

[@AjackLee4]

Not true necessarily, the YZ400F makes 45-48HP and 32-33 ft lbs of torque. Close to the same power and more torque than a modern 250 2t.

[@numvvuk4479]

@@AjackLee4 Not True, My 2004 Honda CR 250 makes 58 HP stock, lmfao it would destroy a YZ400.

[@AjackLee4]

@@numvvuk4479 My 1981 ATC200 makes 75HP stock lmfao it would destroy a 2 stroke 😆

[@numvvuk4479]

@@AjackLee4 lol 3 wheeler guy

[@AjackLee4]

@Cătălin True

[@Smudger40k]

I'll never stop riding a two stroke!

[@kylelangworthy9641]

Why did y'all compare lap times with the 125 that was pretty stupid should have used the two-fifty 2-stroke I mean wasn't that the class that the 400 was racing against totally ruin this video for me just with that one fact good information but poor comparison and I think you guys know that so I don't even get the point

[@StabEDealin]

Might as well make it YZ400 vs YZ65...🙄

[@braaap5.7]

Yeah agreed. I think they just needed to race a 125 so they had more of a chance of the 400 winning. A 250 for sure would have smoked that 400 without a doubt in my mind

[@projectredbeard2199]

They did that because they knew a 250 would have beaten it...

[@22raddad]

Sad that they can't answer your question.

[@williamsnow417]

Or you just realize that the dude brought his personal bike🤦‍♂️

[@frankiemarchese2978]

What a shame to have music over that engine singing smh

[@slagletoby]

This is a great episode and thank you for taking the time to doctor up such a great specimen of veteran knowledge of these bikes.

[@KN-lq4zv]

I was working for a Yamaha dealership selling bikes when this came out.... I remember half the store standing around the crate when the mechanic lifted the lid on it......our minds were blown

[@michaeldixon6619]

Bring a 250 2 stroke bike

[@motomash6143]

I sold my bored out 98 cr250 a few months ago. The thing was a weapon. I swapped it out for a cr125. Much better for me

[@sharksshark6212]

Beta, husqavena, Yamaha, Kim, TM, GXP and a few others still have 2 strokes

[@motomash6143]

@@sharksshark6212 nobody said they didn't.... I think you read it wrong

[@emmert090]

sold my yz400f the other day, it is an absolute beast! btw there is an actual starting procedure on them, find TDC < pull compression lever < slowly push down kickstarter until you hear 3 clicks < release lever and let kickstarter get back up < kick start like you've never tried before. starts every time

[@DanArnets1492]

Here's an even funner fact: · Yamaha forced the change in regulations even after the FIM had already found the way to match 2-strokes and 4-strokes in World Enduro Championship. That championship originally had FIVE classes and those were 125cc 2-stroke, 250cc 4-stroke, 250cc 2-stroke, 350cc 4-stroke and Open (275 to 500cc 2-stroke and 400 to 650cc 4-stroke). For a couple of years there was a 6th class: 80cc 2-strokes (all classes were open for riders above 16-years-old, there were grown men riding those 80cc little rippers with a headlight!!!) Yamaha requested the middleweight 4-stroke class to turn into 400cc 4-stroke after they had done some testing, even before having raced the YZM400. The FIM accepted the change as the 350cc 4-stroke class was the least popular and they wanted to have "conceptual duels" in motocross, enduro and even MotoGp. The World Enduro Championship eventually turned to just 3 classes: E1 (lightweight), E2 (middleweight) and E3 (heavyweight). The matching concepts was cool but the FIM wasn't satisfied as they actually wanted 4-strokes to win the war. The 1st push allowed a limit of 430cc (YZ426F is the direct result of that) and eventually Honda stepped in asked for 450cc to end the war forever. To consider how fucking stupid the FIM was, we have to consider that Yamaha was winning MX3/Open class races for a couple of years with "big bore" Yamahas with the displacement bumped up to 476cc (1cc above the minimum requested, Honda UK built 480cc CRFs at 1 point). Yamaha showed with both Stefan Everts and Marnicq Bervoets how a 475cc 4-stroke dirtbike was literally faster than anything else in the World. OF COURSE 450CC 4-STROKE DIRTBIKES WOULD KILL THE 2-STROKES, YOU CORRUPT FUCKERS!!!

[@premix3663]

I rode a yz426 back in 2000 or 2001 my friends hated it haha, it was so darn loud , I swear that bike was so fast and perfect in the dunes with a paddle where 2 strokes can't handle

[@heartsky]

CR & KX 500's rule the dunes in Glamis & Dumont, sand is where the big bore 2 strokes shine.

[@theduke6221]

When the four strokes came out. all of the sudden every idiot could ride a motorcycle.

[@johnlorenzo1413]

😂😂😂😂 so true!

[@spreaddeezhazelnutz7511]

I agree with Nev on the ergonomics and seating position of the older bikes. They just felt so normal right off the bat. Personally I still can’t get used to the way the KTMs feel because to me it feels like the pegs are way too high and the seat is almost too flat feeling like you’re on top of the bike and about to fly off of it while the older bikes felt really secure. Basically the best way for me to put it is that the new bikes are like a bench seat in an old car where you feel vulnerable to flying off and the older bikes are like a heavily bolstered racing seat which makes you feel planted.

[@mxrevival]

Such a fun video. Thank you. It allowed me to re-live my childhood. I think we'll see some of these getting full-builds really soon.

[@steven.9263]

The YZ400 didn't kill the two strokes, it didn't sell well enough to do that. The YZ400 proved that a Four stroke could be competitive and win races. The CRF450, killed the two sroke.

[@cencoast_7.340]

Lol...ok.

[@francocastaldo1473]

2t never death

[@take5th]

Thanks for this history. I raced two strokes in the 70s, then got married, college, kids, divorce, career, etc., and now on a four stroke after 45 years away. Taking me a long time to adjust to the power delivery, etc. but didn’t know how and when all this changed.

[@jamespolucha6911]

I remember there used to be a claim rule anyone could claim a factory bike and buy it, it was only done once a cr250r from Honda back in the 70s the guy that won it gave it to cycle world and they tore it down to compair parts and nothing was the same as a stock bike, AMA did away with that claiming rule because Honda wouldn’t let Marty Smith bring and race his bike worry they would lose it, crazy times back in the 70s

[@2stroke1971]

We had a similar rule in dirt track stock car racing here in certain classes to discourage people dumping tons of money into the engines. I didnt know they had that in MX. Wild!!

[@woodsrider117]

Whaaa? A 125 vs a 400??? WTF

[@lucasmcmahon2615]

My friends had 125 back in the days and 125 were good then and still now my 400 has to give it death to bet the boys on the 2stroke back in 1999

[@marksommerville5857]

How about a modern 450 4 stroke v an old (90s) 500 2 stroke, and a modern 250 4 stroke v a 250 2 stroke.

[@dormantmenace]

Given traction the 500 will pull the 450 all the wat to top gear then the 450 will walk it. Just no over rev on the old smoker especially the honda with no power valve. Be lucky to see power at 7,000. Rpm on a moded engine. The modern 250 does finally make equivalent hp. To the old 250 smoker. But still falls about 10lb of torque behind. Despite what people's butt dyno think. The 2 stroke makes more torque. What they are feeling is traction. Applicable power. The 4 strokes is linear. The 2 delivers it all at once. And most of these comparison videos are 4 stroke fan boys comparing 450's to 125 cause twice the displacement apparently still isn't a high enough lead to make them look good

[@jordansbikes819]

Kaplan America have a video of kx500 vs ktm450

[@crazymanonweed117]

250 2 stroke will always win against a 250 4 stroke. Because the two stroke delivers power every 360 degrees of the crank. Where as the 4 stroke delivers power every 720 degrees this is why u can put a 250 4t against a 250 2t and it be a fair race. I love both anything with two wheels is my thing 👌👍

[@crazymanonweed117]

U cant*

[@bacchusthompson5834]

@@dormantmenace a re-geared CR500 is a totally different animal, 450 stands no chance.

[@drewdavis5345]

You are absolute top shelf in your knowledge and delivery of information about the kick ass world of Dirt bikes and Much Love & Respect to you and the lads who create this content!!!

[@kadentomlin9947]

Any honest rider can appreciate both 2 and 4 strokes as they both have their ups and downs

[@ashokraja4745]

2 stroke will always be king. Give me a 2007 CR 250 frame with a modified 98 engine anyday!!

[@allux8236]

Its funny that yamaha made 4stroke that killed 2strokes and yamaha makes still 2 strokes and other japanese companies not

[@p3kab00icu]

Excellent note

[@daveyboy7305]

I owned a 1999 yzf 400 in 2004 , hardly changed the oil and never shimmed the valves for about 3-4 yrs . Never missed a beat

[@davelaity7614]

Yaer , But you only rode it once !!!

[@footballkickerswag]

I've never subscribed to a channel after watching just 7 minutes of 1 video. You're fantastic dude!

[@999lazer]

That's awesome, thanks for joining the team dude! I'm working on a few more videos like this one at the moment. Cheers! Max

[@laberdude]

Its okay but next time pls get a 250 2s and a 500 2s in the game. Got a 426 a few years ago. Pain in the ass to start when hot.

[@bbarker5766]

The 426 was not as good as the 400. The 400 could be a royal pain to start when it was hot too but something about the 426 just didn't seem as good to me. I love 2 strokes and always will and a good friend of mine had the 400 then the 426 along with a 250 2 stroke. He'd ride the thumper and I'd ride the smoker and he couldn't get away from me. Drove him nuts but I made my time in the corners where he might air out a big jump more than me I always caught him in the flow and tech stuff. His dad love razzing him about how the younger lighter rider couldn't get away from the old fat guy. LMAO...

[@laberdude]

@@bbarker5766 the good thing on the 426 was, u can upgrade the Cams with autodeco from the 450. Here in Germany we have a multi National Champ. Last year he rode a 250 2s at the 450. No Chance for succes. The ruts and lines in the corners are different. Lack of Power at horsepower mountains. So, He rode his ass off to gain 10th place at the end. There has to be a pure 250 two stroke class beside the thumper. I guess a lot of viewers will be inteterestet of that class. Sorry for my english.

[@sethmurphy531]

Valve were to tight most likely. My problem was the tuning with the carb. They like to hot stall if you dont have the pilot screw perfect

[@teddygunzbarno2102]

I grew up racing 2 strokes and will always ride a 2 stroke more fun and easier to maintain...!

[@KoltFin]

I got a 2 stroke because I had heard this and it's the biggest lie. Oil change on my yz250 every 10hrs and on my wr400f 15-20hrs. I've only had to adjusted the valves once 110ish hours. I've had to do a top end 3 times on the yz.

[@teddygunzbarno2102]

@@KoltFin I never had any problems probably because its a Yamaha 😆🤣😂

[@TheSkinnyboy1234]

What an Excellent video Max + Neville 👌🏼 I have a YZ400F in rebuild state right now with all the big upgrades like decomp cam , big rads and water pump and I have a Adige slipper clutch which I am very much looking forward to find out how it will run compared 😉 thank you 👍🏻

[@stretchthemechanic8836]

I have one of these. I use it as a enduro and woods bike. Absolutely love it. Hoping I can keep it running for years to come

[@michaeldixon6619]

Race the same engine sizes of 2 stroke and 4 stroke

[@motomash6143]

2 250 2 stroke would murder a 250 4 stroke any day of the week

[@fatchance1973]

@@motomash6143 , Not in GNCC XC2, I'll give ya motocross

[@motomash6143]

@@fatchance1973 huh? That didn't make sense to me. A 250 2 stroke would smoke any 250 4 stroke

[@sethmurphy531]

@@motomash6143 I've actually done a head to head between a 01 cr250r and an 04 yz250f. To my surprise the yzf took it all the way until it topped out in 5th. the cr stayed close and barely passed in 5th. Gearing was definately a factor. But i have no doubt the yzf could definitely take in the corners. And just for context the yz was 15 yrs old well over 500hrs and completely bone stock. Stock piston, stock exhaust, only 1 valve adjustment (always stayed within spec). The cr had a fresh top end before the season. Fresh carb rebuild and new reeds. Cr was geared 14/48 yzf was 14/49. When we lined up i thought the yzf wouldnt have a chance, but it pulled on it till it ran out of legs. If it was the yz was built it for sure could kill a 2 stroke. 4 stroke torque is unmatched and that's what killed 2 strokes as far as motocross goes. With Enduro 2 stroke still remains supreme.

[@codybritt8574]

250 2 stroke is like a 450 4 stroke, 125 2 stroke is like a 250 4 stroke

[@miloraca]

A 125 2T kept up to a 400 4T,a 250 2T would smoke it!

[@zx6rkilla196]

Quick question, I have me an 01 yz426 and besides cc’s does anyone have any idea what the difference is from the 400?

[@fasst45072]

This is really a well done video! Can you please explain the rationale for putting it up against a 125? Even in 97 these bikes were in totally different classes

[@mx500torid]

Killed the 2-stroke??? ROFL!!!! I don't think so. In MY garage the 4 stroke sits while i ride my 2003 RM 250 and my 1999 KX 250.

[@trevor866]

ROFLMAO LAWLICOPTERS LOLZZZZZZZ holy shit that's an amazing story. Tell us all again. You ride your 2 outdated 2 strokes so it must be true.

[@mx500torid]

@@trevor866 Yep I ride em. I have fun. They don't break. You hate people having fun on motorcycles??? Idiot.

[@trevor866]

@@mx500torid Nope. Having fun on dirtbikes is great. Fragile 2 stroke riders who flood comments are what makes me laugh. Inconsolable elitests.

[@mx500torid]

@@trevor866 Fragile??? You are the kind of person that is killing dirt bikes. Hey everyone you have to have a 11000.00 4 stroke. Yea you know the ones that when they break you just go out a pay 11000 for another one. I choose to ride my "old" 2- strokes and have fun for very little money. I guess in your book that Roczen when he rode the "old" 2 stroke Honda Jeremy McGrath tribute is an Inconsolable Elitest? Dude you are making yourself look really stupid. If you have lots of cash and or have a contract and sponsors you can ride your 4 stroke,but for normal people that have to work and pay mortgages and take care of their families they may not have that budget. Fun is what it is all about and a 2 stroke is cheaper to own than a 4 stroke. My 2 strokers ARE more fun than my KTM 4 stroke. I am talking about me not you or anybody else.

[@trevor866]

@@mx500torid Not once did I ever say you have to have a 4 stroke. I merely remarked on the idea that shit stains like you are cancer in the comments. I'm not the kind of person killing dirtbikes. The people killing dirtbikes are the ones who plague comment sections about how superior they are because they ride 2 strokes. 4 strokes don't break if you have any competency when doing your maintenance. That point is ridiculous. Thats a 2 stroke rider point of view because most of them want the easy way out on maintenence. I learned my bike and I just don't need an allowance from mom and dad to fix my bike. I do pay a mortgage and I have the same bills everyone else does. My 2 stroke goes through more maintenance than my 4 stroke. Plus mixing $20 containers of oil into my fuel i dont really see where the budget comes in. I just laughed because you felt the need to bless the comment section with your useless story. If only 2 strokes ran on tears lol And please your original comment was a shot on 4 stroke riders.

[@rafaelpires3164]

125 sx 2 stroke kill the 400

[@DerekFoulk]

I was there man! We didn't all go out and buy four strokes... It took a number of years- especially for the 250Fs to turn out. Most gates I was on we're a mix of 4-strokes and 2-strokes. I HATED the 426, btw. Because of that bike- I raced 2-strokes until 2005. THEN the sanctioning bodies started allowing us to race 250 2-strokes in the lites class ("250 A/B/C/D"). Many of us went out and bought more 250 2-strokes again after that. THAT was a dumb rule! Anyways, four strokes didn't become competitive in the smaller displacments for many years and a lot of us chose to race 125s when we jumped up to the big bikes. The four stroke was a must if you wanted to be competitive at national events, though.

[@2stroke1971]

I saw the title and rolled my eyes, but then clicked on the video and I was like "Oh it these guys!" Awesome video. I never knew about them letting Yamaha and the others use WORKS bikes ....I mean really. If not for that............one can only wonder.

[@999lazer]

Thanks for watching buddy, appreciate the comment

[@mattschwensen9562]

What about Joël Smets in the 500cc class in the early 90’s I know the class was dying but unfortunately the kx and cr 500’s we’re starting to fall behind the new generation 4 bangers

[@donbrashsux]

He rode a Husaberg..who wanted one of those

[@officialmysteriousrider6327]

It was emissions that killed the 2strokes 4 strokes sound like a wet fart were as 2strokes sound like a bike should end ov

[@wing_nut_1018]

It definitely wasn't. It was the rules changing that killed them off. If you're talking about two strokes in the road scene, however, maybe. I'd say it has more to do with the fact you can't buy 2T from the bowser. Sheer convenience.

[@brettorton2363]

Hahah wtf r u talking about 4 strokes sound mean two strokes sound like a little bug 😂😂😂

[@williamr3151]

😂 4 strokes sound bad ass 2 strokes are whiney and annoying 8

[@liamnatequiap805]

yes emissions..we all love bikes specially with that 2-strokes...we all be thankful withthose memories of riding..all the effort to calm the fast changing climate we have right now is due to carbon right?I no scientists but I love the nature and preserve it for the next generation.sad for my kids for not experiencing those memories that i have...love for all not for one only

[@tommoniz3909]

I wish I never sold my yz400 when I had it I hated it but it was just such a unique bike hard to describe. I remember it feeling really heavy in the front and prone to head shake I always wanted a steering dampener for it. Another thing I remember was how it rode a wheelie unlike any other bike I’ve owned like the balance point was huge you had such margin for error I wouldn’t say I’m that great showing off with a wheelie every other bike I’ve owned I wouldn’t push my luck into the balance point sort of playing safe this bike I could ride a wheelie indefinitely lift in any gear shift through the gears, corner with it shift back down all with out dropping the wheel. Top speed (I’m pretty sure I had stock gearing can’t really remember so long ago) was 76mph off the rev limiter measured by a police radar sign on my street.

[@dirtbikedave]

I think what this shows is that the ability of the machines is very comparable (within these parameters). The ability of the rider is what counts, at that point. In this case, the same rider was able to achieve damn near the exact same results (on 2 machines that are not the same, but are made to do the same job). Nice Cagiva, BTW!

[@Youdontneedtoknowboy]

Make it fair guys, 250cc 4 vs 250cc 2 stroke lol, let’s see who wins then.

[@mrkuki682]

2 Stroke engine is Faster Than The 4 Stroke.... Because 2 Stroke Has Half Pump Per sec And 4 Stroke Has Quarter pump a Sec ..... Ofc 250 2stroke and 500 4 Strong Has The Same Power But the Engine is Different.... 2 Stroke Has Speed But 4 Stroke Has Strength

[@Youdontneedtoknowboy]

Matapo Hewitt yea I know haha but it’s not fair!! 250 vs 450 lol. 👌🏾👌🏾

[@chorleycake7942]

Would still rather have a yz125 or yz250 and yes I have had 4 strokes, the 2 strokes are just more fun.

[@justinfannon8159]

i had a 2001 yz 250, loved that bike. bought it used and great shape, but in 2006 i bought new out of the crate the yz450f. Instantly fell in love with the power. been out of the dirtbike scene for a bit now, but i would buy another 450 in a heartbeat

[@burstcasino]

Your comment about the popping of the yzf was a 426 issue. You also needed to time the accelerator pump squirt on the FCR39 carb or it would bog. The 426 had a jerky powerband and was a real bear to start when they got hot. I had a yz400f and buddy had a yz426f and remember that the 400 just was way easier to ride with a smooth powerband. The 426 had a harder hit but didn't really help you on the track. 20 years have passed but that's what I remember. Also had a 98 yz250 at the same time. Sold 'em both to get the button on my '01 ktm 520exc which still sits in my garage.

[@999lazer]

thats interesting, thanks for sharing.

[@Natedoc808]

My 00 426 came from the factory with jetting that wasn’t even on the tables, the main jet needed to be 2 sizes larger and you are in business. The FCR carb needed to make sure the cam that creates the squirt doesn’t have a gap which can be fixed by wiring it closed or a stiffer spring to prevent the bog. 426 jetted right and stiffer spring for accel pump cam and there no popping, easy to start, no bogging.

[@joshf8097]

Well, first of all the test is already biased if it was racing against our modern-day to stroke it would still be racing against a 250 not a 125? That 400 raced against 250 2 Strokes not 125 2 Strokes it's only fair if you redo the test with a 250 2 stroke I'm just being honest the test seems a little biased at this point I haven't seen the entire video I'm only at 7 minutes and 16 seconds but I just figured I'd give you my input before watching the whole video. I don't know it doesn't seem like a fair comparison. Literally, the only way a 4-stroke wins against a 2-stroke is by doubling the cc's.?. In what world is that considered Fair? Let's go to the superbike races you can ride a 600 and I'll ride 1000 .?. You think the judges of be okay with that if Marquez races 1000 against 600? I highly doubt it and that's my point it's not right never was and if we're all being honest with one another it's the truth. I am glad they developed the four stroke further. I do honestly, really like the new bikes. However, I'm not convinced it was entirely Fair how they got there. And to compare a 400 4 stroke to a 125 2 stroke is literally night and day you cannot compare the two it's totally different in my opinion. Anyway good video I guess just not crazy for the bike that is being put up against the 400

[@999lazer]

Hey Josh, i hope you enjoyed the video! I know the 400 would've been up against 250 two strokes back in the day and i would have loved to have put it up against a modern 250 2 stroke, but we didn't have access to a 250 for the shoot so unforgettably i couldn't do that. However if i'm being honest i really didn't think the 22 year 400f would have a chance against even a modern 125.... thanks for watching dude

[@joshf8097]

@@999lazer yeah absolutely man I just thought I'd give you my opinion before I watched the full video. After watching the full video, I am honestly surprised that the 125 kept up pace, as well as it did. I hope you don't take what I said as harsh criticism. I just wish it could have been up against a KTM 250 SX or something. Or even a Yamaha YZ250. But, at any rate, it was an awesome video. I love all your videos man. They're really entertaining, and they definitely provide me with a lot of ambition and motivation to go riding. Awesome video brother, thanks a lot. I really appreciate your work.

[@joshf8097]

@@999lazer also pretty cool that you responded. To me that shows that you actually care.

[@pik2490]

That pos didn't kill anything. Haha

[@metlmuncher]

I remember my first ride on one back in 98. I was shocked how well it worked.

[@Grunt-tl3on]

Bought one brand new in February 98. Went from a CR125 to this as I raced my bro’s CR 250 and it was scary. This bike was awesome. Would love another one some day. If it was in this condition. Great video

[@philproud7254]

2 strokes rule

[@derekdreke4990]

Bahahaha shows how good a 125 with a good rider is 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@keithtaber1712]

Thanx yuo just gave me incentive to put my yzed 400 basket case back together !!!

[@marksommerville5857]

400 v 125? THATS not fair. The 2018 125 hasn't been improved for about 15 years. The 400 was raced in the 250 class, not the 125s!

[@dirtbikedave]

To all of the word mincing nay sayers: Doug Henry (on the 400) killed all of the competition (on 2-smokers), and everyone was allowed the same rules. Also, there have been many instances of the best 125 (or 'lights') rider going faster than the best 250 (or 450) riders, on any given Sunday (or Saturday, as it tends to be now days). But I would have liked to see this comparison include a 250 2-stroke, since that was the actual direct competition. Either way, even without full industry support... 2-strokes are alive and well! BRrrraaaAAAPP!!

[@george8966]

CHANGE MY MIND Yeah your comment is ignorant because everyone was not allowed the same rules specifically the 4 stroke received massive exemptions. I magazine a 250 4t vs that field. Would have been a laughing matter. Rules killed the 2t you just can’t make a 4 stroke that will be as powerful or light with the same engine size and that’s just that. The rules and emissions ended a wonderful thing. Thank god enduro riders still run the smokers. There’s nothing like 50+hp out of 250cc ready to melt your face off with a slight ease of the throttle.

[@p3kab00icu]

@@george8966 everyone was allowed to use a 4 stroke.

[@george8966]

@@p3kab00icu yes, are you dumb they were allowed to use a 4 stroke with NEARLY DOUBLE THE DISPLACEMENT that is why the two stroke lost if they only allowed 4t to be the same cc as two strokes they would have NO CHANCE

[@george8966]

@@p3kab00icu as he said in the video it was merely a lobbying effort from yamaha because they had been developing a 4T. No one else would have a 4T as good ready to go because yamaha rigged it to win. It is silly.

[@p3kab00icu]

@@george8966 hmmm.. That's shady. Surely none of the other teams would ever look for an unfair advantage. Lol! Anyways, it made history, and 2-smokers are far from dead. kzbin.info/www/bejne/o3_Ni2Cef9yNacU

[@marcjones1967]

Put a modern rider on an old 500 two stroke and 99% of them wouldn’t even be able to start it let alone ride it fast. Can a 4 stroke beat a 2 stroke ? NO , what if we make the engine 3 times the size of the 2 stroke ? Still NO 😂😂😂.

[@blakebuwamd8343]

the modern 450's are actually faster than the 500 two strokes

[@blakebuwamd8343]

ktm 450sx-f top speed is 123mph kx500 top speed is 98mph

[@marcjones1967]

Your probably right , I’m old (53) and things move on , I’ve got a KTM midlife crisis EXC 250 two stroke , friend has a WRF450 and that things a monster. But we had a right laugh yesterday , give each other stick about the 2t v 4t thing all the time 😂. Riding either is great fun and a hell of a work out even when your as slow as us. Keep riding and stay safe

[@blakebuwamd8343]

@@marcjones1967 sounds like you're having an awesome time👍. I plan on riding the track when I'm 70 haha

[@nickgraupman8457]

@@blakebuwamd8343 lmao swap a couple sprokets and that will get the 2 stroke 500 a good 120mph

[@Hondarider35]

I see you have a headset for the pac talk. What is that called and where can I get one. I would like a non helmet option for the pack talk

[@endurox1481]

There are advantages to both. The weight used to be a big one but the 4 stroke isn’t that much heavier any longer. The 2 stroke needs the upper end rebuilt often, however the 4 stroke is expensive to rebuild when it finally needs one. As for performance it depends on what riding you do and where you ride. I’m a 4 stroke guy myself. I trail ride every weekend for about 80-100 miles. I love how quiet my bike is on those long rides. I also love how easy the maintenance is. That said the 2 strokes seem fun to ride. Both have their spot in this sport. Electric may take over the Mx scene one day but unless fattened technology takes a huge leap they’ll never break over into the enduro/trail world. The stamina just isn’t there with the batteries today.

[@Studdfromhell]

Someone for all that's holy. Please do a video with a 2t a 4t of the same cc. Then we will.see.who owns who. If you put a 500cc 2t up against a 450 the 2t still wins

[@Studdfromhell]

Also a 250 2t keeps a 450 working hard. Sad day when you need to compare a bike with half the cc to try and prove a point. That's all good because a 250 2t has the capability to eat up 450. I started riding in 1983, not like I'm being a dick. I always will prefer a 250 2t

[@Studdfromhell]

If we needed ear plugs for a dirtbike will be the day I need to chop off my ball just cuz they are in the way

[@stjohnbrown3519]

your fucking shitting me!!?? if a 500 2 stroke was faster round a track the privateers would be using then u numpty! round most mx tracks a 500 is way slower than a modern 4 banger, dont get me wrong i love 2 strokes but everyone is talking bullshit on these comments, there people who have never had to ride a 250 or a 500 smoker hard for a full moto, esp on slick tracks. fucking dreamers who imagine they have the balls to ride a 2 stroke properly. for most people including pros 4 bangers hook up and easier to ride the distance, may not be as fun, may be expensive but they work. 90% of comments on here are from total fooking dreamers,, key board warriors! if not video yourself ripping laps on your 500s!!??, this is a good accurate vid. 100%.

[@Studdfromhell]

@@stjohnbrown3519 you must be new to riding in general. I have 35 yrs riding. Not motocross but riding dirtbikes. I do not ride street. I have seen people on 500 2t pull away and lose 450s. 2t makes.more.hp for the cc. Y if I had a 500 i would make a fucking video. I have friends with 450s and they do move out. BUT POINT IS.... FOR YOU 4STROKE LOVERS IS........... IT TAKE YOU DOUBLE THE CC TO COMPETE WITH 2T HALF YOUR CC. GET IT? GOT IT? 2T ARE SUPERIOR. AND 1/3 THE PRICE WHEN THEY BLOW. I would rather have a 2t that woops my ass trying to push it to the limits than a lazy ez to ride but fast 4 stroke. You make a video of you on a 450 racing a 500cc.

[@Studdfromhell]

@@stjohnbrown3519 my 1999 cr250r big bore holds off 450s.

[@presicionturning5672]

Emmissions is what is killing the 2stroke world. Also, if u have to be 2ce as big to be able to beat a 2stroke, well i dont think u beat anything. 2stroke all the way baby lol

[@Runk3lsmcdougal]

You have double the compression strokes and consume double the CC's worth of air and fuel on a 2 stroke, so really your 250ccs a 500cc just terribly inefficient

[@presicionturning5672]

@@Runk3lsmcdougal the exhaust sucks back air on 2strokes buddy, thats what the fat pipe is for. As to carbon monoxide it produces- thats what the plants use to breath lol. And why dont u get a 4stroke weed whaker if u think 4strokes are more efficient

[@mattlennymoore282]

Great video guys, good job. 👍

[@999lazer]

Thank you! 👍

[@lect0n7]

I find it interesting that he said “a handy little coincidence for the boys in blue” when in reality, the YZM400F raced by Doug Henry (other than it’s debut at the _Hangtown Classic_ where it matched it’s teammates’; Ezra Lusk’s YZ250 & the YZ125 of Kevin Windham), in every other appearance on the track it sported the mid-to-late 1980’s Yamaha colors; primary color white, secondary color red...) Anyways, this may be the bike that laid the groundwork to killing the 250cc 2-Stroke, but the bike that really killed 2-Strokes was James Stewart’s KX250F after he started dominating the outdoors with it...but in an open class race, one of those Service Honda KX500’s where a tuned 2004 KX500 motor is put into the chassis of a tricked out KX250F chassis...would fucking DOMINATE...the only problem is that it’s BLATANTLY NOT PRODUCTION BASED

[@blakenelson8314]

Kinda of wish that bike wasn’t invented

[@kylelangworthy9641]

This is bothering me so much that I had to make another comment why did you make such hype and make such a crappy video to put a 125 2 stroke against a 400 4 stroke the class the 400 was meant to race against was 250 2 stroke

[@aklaunch]

That was a great history that i did not even know about. Great video. Even from a die hard 2 stroke fan.

[@jeffmacey6482]

People seem to forget we chose 4 strokes they weren't forced on us. It's a much bigger Market than just dirt bikes. Two Strokes do not have the torque to move heavier machines like three four wheelers and side by sides. And they needed engines that can do it all.

[@tomatoknuckles]

In the middle of restoring a 426 at the moment wicked bikes. Wouldn't mind having this one i my garage so clean.

[@dashrides2679]

My first bike was a yz426, it was a terrible bike to learn on. It was a beast and hard to turn. I'm not a track rider, so I was using it on trails. It sucked for that, but that's not the bikes fault. I sold the it and bought a 2 stroke. I was instantly riding better, the old 426 was holding me back.

[@whalesong999]

How many can recall when rules in some areas for sportsman class events pitted 250 two strokes against 200cc four strokes? (i.e. New York state, 1964). I raced a 200cc Parilla Wildcat against the likes of Greeves and CZs and won, TT scrambles. It quickly turned in '66 and there were separate classes established for two strokes and four strokes. The little Parilla went on to be competitive against the 250 four strokes such as H-D Sprints and Honda CLs. Things weren't so intense back then. I recall the four strokes of the day were hardy and reliable, no big issues of upkeep.

[@Justin-nf9qh]

I’m a 2 stroke guy I have a 200 cr125r and it’s my first bike I think I’ll always be on a 2t but this is a great video and well created you just gained a new subscriber

[@thalesotelles]

22 years but 1/3 of displacement 400 x125, but if was a 250 2T x 450 4T? i keep with 2 stroke

[@Briggsys_Stuff]

Great video, hopefully Nev racing it comes to fruition!! 👍🏻

[@6226superhurricane]

the drz400 was a yz400/426 killer in australia winning an outdoor motorcross championship a national enduro title, the australia safari and even a few supercross races.

[@SMG59-]

The 426 is always super hard to start. I felt his pain when he was kicking it over and over.

[@yzmoto80]

Your preaching to the power valve choir !

[@snowmobilingburberry]

Doug Henry piloted that beast. I have his 2002 Southwick DGY National YZ two stroke that he raced in retirement. He lives up the road from us. We turned that DGY Yamaha into a hare scramble beast. I’m still racing it to this day.

[@leroybrown1173]

The thick smoke and ping of the pipe on your Hodaka Combat Wombat will never be replaced by any four stroke.

[@dennismacwilliams196]

Why did it originally get done. ? What was the point in the first place. ?

[@bjornchristiansson2827]

As old race person! I started race 1980 for Husqvarna 250cr and soon move up to Honda 480-83 and from that was the 500 class for me. I say I miss my HRC bikes from mid 80s. A friend did build a 500AF Honda and whit modern Öhlins shock and front fork hydraulic clutch plus Recluse as well. That bike is so fast and fun factor is so big ride! But I'm have my carrier on steel frame bikes and my 1993 Honda 250 & 500cc is the best production bike to ride ! Sure I had Öhlins suspension and I did go whit conventional front fork and that is to benefit for me. Today I'm on a semi factory RMZ 450 and sure it's fast whit the 62bhp but our old 80s 500cc did well over 70bhp and whit race fule of 120 octane and high compression the 2stroke was instantly as you twist the throttle! For my I wish the 2stroke would come back as a modern engine whit fule injected and modern ECU. That what's missing out there. Miss the day back then whit good memories 😁 best regards from Sweden 🇸🇪

[@DisruptiveUnicorn98k]

Man nothing sits and feels better than the older yz_f dirt bikes they are still fun to ride , probably not as quickly but man they're fun!

[@joshuahutton3997]

Great video - I just don't see how you can compare the YZ125 to the YZ400F. The fact that the 125 basically performed just as well, proves 2 stroke dominance!

[@999lazer]

Thanks Joshua! I would've loved to compare against a modern 250 2 stroke, but we didn't have one available that day. Thanks for watching dude

[@malcolmgolden6661]

Just bought an 03 yz250. Have to rebuild it but im still not sure im ready for that kind of power. Never rode a 2 stroke before.

[@benjamindavidson632]

Respect the bike it respects you

[@liammacdonald7147]

You'll survive take it easy for a bit till u get use to the bike then back wheel all the way everywhere you go