Not the Winner You'd Think! - Throwback Two Stroke Garage Build Shootout Part 2

Who makes the BEST 250 two stroke dirt bike? Find out in the Throwback Two Stroke Garage Build Shootout Part 2! This was over a year long bike build project where I completely tore down, refurbed, and rebuilt a 2004 CR250, 2006 KX250, 2006 RM250, and a 2005 YZ250. Yes, that includes engines, forks, and shocks as well. Every piece of the bikes was gone through, inspected, cleaned, and/or replaced. The bikes are "themed" after the 2005 AMA Supercross season. With the start of the 2022 AMA Motocross what better way to dive into some history and remember some rad bikes. Who wishes that there were still a full gate of two strokes on the supercross or motocross gates, I do!
Tell everyone your experience with these bikes below!
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[@CameronNiemela]

So rad to put all these legendary bikes head to head! Loved hearing 30 minutes of raw 2 stroke action💨

[@GregHitchko]

Doesn't get much radder! Thanks Cam, doing our best to keep them alive and kicking 🙌

[@voxpopuli905]

I had a 2003CR250 and loved it despite the motor. I ran a rad valve and FMF SST pipe and later chose Varner racing to do my rebuild and porting. They really helped with the bogging issues. But I always kept it in the meat anyways, and adapted to that motor. Awesome chassis. The best. Later on I purchased my buddies 03YZ250 and I really liked that bike a lot too. That motor was definitely awesome but I always missed the Honda chassis. I wish I never let go of that Honda. I’m still sick over it today

[@GregHitchko]

@@voxpopuli905 that's some awesome feedback on these bikes Vox! I feel like you hit the nail on the head there with learning to adapt to the bike you have. It's easier to pick out the differences going right from bike to bike, but if that bike is the only one that you have, that's all you know and you make it work! Thanks man!

[@voxpopuli905]

@@GregHitchko to be honest I like all of those bikes. The shootout of showroom bikes is typically irrelevant cuz no matter what…we all tend to change and modify things for our own purpose. However, at the end of the day we do need to pick a winner. And if I had to choose, I would be totally stuck on the CR250 and YZ250, and I’d have to flip a coin to make the final decision. They’re both that good, just in different ways. If I could have ANYthing my heart desires… I would have that 2003 cr250 again but it would likely have the 2010 yz250 engine before they started de tuning it and lowering compression. Or we could just build a older Honda engine with the standard power valve design. Like a 98 or 2000. Throw a pro circuit SHOWA A-kit or a SFF kit on that bad boy. That would be the cats ass

[@robertholmes1366]

From the master builder himself

[@travisgutshall9337]

These bikes are so cool. Timeless classics.... The last of an era. I don't think in 15-20 years that we'll be seeing people recreating Dungey or Tomac 4 strokes with the same passion as the 2 stroke rebuilds. I could be wrong, but I feel that the current bikes just don't have the same character and appeal as the older bikes do.

[@GregHitchko]

I think you hit the nail on the head right there Travis! There is just something about these bikes that you can't explain that makes them so iconic, this whole era and all of the time before as well. Unless electric bikes take over as four strokes took over the two stroke world haha. We will see.

[@nater9er]

That’s why I just sold my 2017 Yz250f and bought a 2009 Yz250 to build how I would like for cheaper than floor price 😎🤘🏽

[@GregHitchko]

Hell yeah dude that's awesome. In the part 1 shootout video I did, one of the test riders loved the YZ so much that he sold his 2021 CRF250R and scooped up a YZ250 too

[@garysavala665]

Well hell no they’re not as fun . I could only afford used two strokes and they’re a blast everyone loves seeing them in the back of my pickup .

[@MiikeyLawless]

Meh, 4 strokes are plenty fun, but I'll be honest...2 strokes have a soul. No idea why, but I feel so much more of a personal connection to a 2 strokes.

[@SPENJERE]

HELL YEAH SUZUKI !!! Bought my 06 brand new, the 06 was the best year hands down. It's still in the garage and will NEVER BE SOLD !

[@GregHitchko]

Whatt no way! That is so rad that you have kept it from brand new. I idol dudes like you haha. I've always used my current bike to help fund the next type of thing. To "upgrade" ya know lol

[@michaelhayden6936]

Same here sir. Miss my 06!

[@nateglasscock2883]

I lost my ‘05 CR250 a month after I purchased it in Hurricane Katrina. A few months later, Honda discovered my address was within the flood zone and called me out of the blue and forgave my loan. I called Pro Circuit and told them I wanted McGrath’s motor in my bike but I needed it to run on pump gas. $3200 later (with my military discount) I received the motor. A few months later, I discovered I had a RG3 location just a few miles from me. I did the full package and linkage system from them. I’m now retired military with 7 back surgeries…but I still have my bike. Let me echo your awesome statement, “NEVER BE SOLD”…and the wife finally understands this! Your ‘06 was a monster! Keep the faith and burn some 2-smoke for me, brother.

[@GregHitchko]

@@nateglasscock2883 This is such an incredible story Nate, damn I have goosebumps from it! Thank you so much for sharing that. I'd love to see pictures of the bike. Do you have instagram or anything you could send me a few photos?

[@nateglasscock2883]

@@GregHitchko I don’t have any social media other than LinkedIn. However, I have the pics I can send over email.

[@coloradodirtbike5930]

I've had everyone of these bikes including around 10 cr250 from 2000-2006 models. My favorite bike so far is the 2006 rm250 I still got it, rebuilding it from top to bottom.

[@GregHitchko]

Nice dude!! Damn that is a lot of CR's haha but I see you still landed on the RM. I don't disagree with you there. Thanks for the comment!

[@jacoblatour6192]

How’s the power on 00-01 vs 05-06-07? Also how’s the handling / weight difference? Thinking of building my 01 or averting a 3rd gen

[@coloradodirtbike5930]

@@jacoblatour6192 the 3rd generation is great if you do some engine mods. The suspensions and handling are better for sure..if you are planning to keep bike stock besides small stuff like reeds and exhaust, the 00-01 is better, has a lot more power everywhere. The 02-07 is more or less all or nothing, not much bottom end at all, more so mid and top, so you got to stay on the gas and utilize the clutch. The 00-01 handles okay but not as nimble as the 02 and up. It all around has decent handling, suspension, and a better over all engine power usage, not a bad bike at all. You can't go wrong regardless of a 2000 to 2007 they are all good bikes when dialed into your riding style with the right suspension and springing for your weight. 02-07 have electronic power valves so if it fails you have a lot of money and time on your hands finding a new one, the mechanical power valve on the 2000-01 works on the engine so less chance of issues, I give it a slight edge when it comes to reliability. The newer 02-07 have mikuni carbs same as 2001, the 00 has an airstriker carb which is superior over the 01-07 models. The stock exhaust system chamber for the 02-07 is kick ass so if you find a bike with oem exhaust chamber, use it as it has the best all around power. A few engine mods, airstriker carb, vforce or boyesen reeds, and the 02-07 is a better bike.

[@EarthSurferUSA]

@@coloradodirtbike5930 "02-07 have electronic power valves so if it fails you have a lot of money and time on your hands finding a new one" That was a silly decision IMO. When Honda was developing the ex. power valve on the works bikes (before 1986), they used a programmable electronic power valve system, (first time Bailey saw a computer hooked up to a dirt bike). But it was for figuring out the action of a mechanical valve for production. Comparably, (in many things going electronic), the electronic is still "not there" for reliability.

[@coloradodirtbike5930]

@EarthSurferUSA yeah the servo motor is definitely not as good as the mechanical power valve system. Plus the case reed design on 3rd generation aren't great in stock form.

[@johnwargo2590]

Great video, I'm an old school 2 stroke guy. I ride a 2003 RM250. I love this bike. Fantastic power and handling. Plus they look great. When I'm not going hard core I have a DR-Z 250 but there is no substitute for the sound, the smell or the thrill of hitting the powerband, lofting the wheel and going hard on a two stroke. Keep up the great work on your videos. You're doing a great job with them.

[@GregHitchko]

That's awesome John! Great idea to have the best of both worlds right there. I appreciate the kind words. Rode hard be safe out there 💨💨

[@_WatsoBrii94_]

Having a 2000 rm250 definitely puts a smile on my face banana crew for the dub 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽

[@GregHitchko]

Hell yeah! I see that 2000 peeping in your profile picture 🔥🙌🏼

[@_WatsoBrii94_]

@@GregHitchko my Girl juicy 🙏🏽💪🏽

[@weirdo1083]

I rode a suzuki rm 250 1999 model and it was insane to get on lol.

[@travisgutshall9337]

Imagine having all 4 of those beauties in your garage/basement.

[@GregHitchko]

It's a surreal feeling that is for sure! I almost couldn't believe it every time I looked in the garage haha

[@philbracy1310]

really nice to see bike reviews by normal dudes who are honest about their skill level. thanks for sharing.

[@GregHitchko]

I appreciate that feedback Phil! Yeah with me, there is no hiding from the camera that is for sure haha.

[@Jordz711]

I agree, there's nothing that bugs me more that an A-Class rider riding the latest 450 or 350 saying "it needs more power..." so irrelevant to the other 99% of us.

[@xipingpooh5783]

I own an RM 250 and I will never sell it. The bike makes gobs of power and handles great. It looks as good as it functions. The one thing I had to upgrade was the stock clutch basket. My stock clutch was toast after only a few months. I upgraded to a Hinson clutch basket and have not had any issues since. The brakes on mine are spongy but I’ve never been a really hard breaker so it never bothered me. I love my RM250!!!!

[@GregHitchko]

Thanks for sharing your experience on the RM my dude! I have also read that the clutches are the weakest part of the motor as Kris stated. Now if you could only find Hinson baskets for them still!

[@yumajdb]

A braided steel brake line will tighten up the sponginess on the brakes a little bit. Somebody used to make a brake piston upgrade, but I doubt it still exists 20 years later.

[@powerwagon7811]

The two best mods on my 03 RM is the Hinson clutch and the Honda front brakes. For less than 100 on ebay you can source a Honda front master cylinder and brake line, problem solved. It's weird since Nissin makes the brake components for all the bikes.

[@GregHitchko]

It's so weird because I needed to swap out the oem brake lines and put a Galfer steel braided one on there. And I spent a numerous times bleeding it but no bueno. I thought it would be good with that on there but apparently not. I never rode it with the oem line though.

[@GregHitchko]

That's what I don't understand Power Wagon, Nissin making all of the brakes for these bikes lol. The honda brakes have got to be the best trick, they always work SO well.

[@cosmocopus156]

Appreciate all the hard work you put into building these bikes.

[@GregHitchko]

Super glad you have been able to enjoy the series my dude, I appreciate the kind words as always🙏🏼

[@loriefleenor3074]

Can’t wait to see them

[@christophersmithsonian3350]

Thanks Greg a real honest shootout good perspective from a variety of riders I appreciate your humble opinion sir

[@GregHitchko]

Hey Christopher, I appreciate the feedback my man, means a lot! Happy that everyone’s opinion came off genuine, that’s what it’s all about. Interesting to note that in the first shootout video I did, two of my other riders were head over heals for the YZ. One so much that he sold his 2021 CRF250R to pick up a Y250! It’s cool to remind people of these bikes and open them up to them at the same time. Cheers man!

[@cer7cer7]

Great video. Really appreciate all the time and effort that went into this project. Looking forward to future content.

[@GregHitchko]

You the man Conrad, I appreciate the kind feedback. My only hope was that people would genuinely enjoy the throwbacks and find some value at the same time!

[@Wreckhouse69]

As someone who’s ridden all of these i can easily say the Suzuki takes it

[@GregHitchko]

It's a different beast that is for sure, I appreciate your feedback on the subject dude!

[@521mxer]

Agree with you watch a solid bike

[@jaiteal5087]

Yellow army 💪

[@GregHitchko]

RM ARMY!

[@AbcAbc-ox6pg]

@@GregHitchko I'm looking for a 2005-2008 RM250 but can't find one.

[@bigtwinz3296]

Absolutley awesome job putting these bikes and this video together! I used to love reading MX shootout articles in all the magazines when theyed release back in the early 2000s when all these machines were in their heyday. I bought a 2006 Rm250 back in 2008 based on the shootout reviews i read in the magazines. The RM was known for having the most nimble and flickable geometry. Great at slicing and dicing, and jumping. It was also known for being somewhat unstable, and prone to headshake more than other bikes in high speed stuff. Some described the RM as feeling the lightest and "2 strokiest of the 2 strokes". The motor of the Suzukis started getting pretty competitive in 04 and 05, and from 06 - 08 it was described as a clone or knock off of the yz250, which was basically the best compliment you could give the motor (yamaha had dominated the engine department for years, and were never dethroned). My experience with my 06 RM250 was that i loved the motor and powerband. It had a good bottom end that picked up early, a smooth but hard hitting transition into mid, and carried into a strong top end. It did everything very good. My bike had a pro circuit pipe and silencer, and a vforce reed cage. Im limited on giving a strong review on its handling traits at the limit, and manners in the air on big jumps bc i never road mx tracks. I basically just twisted the grip off the thing whenever it got straight enough, slid the back end around, and got the front end light wheeling over bumps and shit. Basically a bunch of recreational riding with friends on trails and stuff. I will say that i really liked the overall feel of the frame and handling, although i should have revalved the suspension for my weight (was set up for a fast, slightly heavier woods rider). Awesome bike, ended up trading it to a friend 2 years ago, and now he wants an arm and leg to sell it back to me ... lol

[@GregHitchko]

Hell of a review on the RM bigtwinz! I really appreciate you taking the time to leave such a detailed comment on it. I for sure agree with you, it's such a fun bike all around. I wish I was able to spend even more time on it. But oh man how much I love that bottom end, the motor is no doubt what sold me on that bike. BIG fan!

[@federicoturlettimunivez3530]

This video it’s so underrated! THIS IS AWESOME! For the dirt bikes lovers this is perfection! Great job!

[@bondalero0074]

Awesome video! So much nostalgia ! I miss my 2002 Honda CR250R ! Best Of Times!

[@GregHitchko]

Cheers my man, thank you! Perhaps it's time to find another 02 then? Haha

[@dcouture79]

Love this video. Probably a big part of what pushed me back into moto and addicted more than ever before. Thank you!!

[@GregHitchko]

Heck yeah Derek! I appreciate the kind words my man. The addiction is REAL that is for sure lol

[@alexzavarka3209]

Yz250 takes the cake.. :) at least they still making the 2stroke

[@GregHitchko]

That bike is really so killer! It got two of the top votes in the part 1 shootout. I would choose the YZ to race over the KX

[@joelane3250]

I like Rm or kx bikes better than any yamaha or honda, but the kx just feels perfect to me.

[@TheTanner218]

Such a cool series, I've always wondered how these bikes stacked up against each other in a practical setting, like putting exhaust, handlebars, suspension on them instead of just testing bone stock bikes. Hats off to you guys, I feel like I can barely keep 2 or 3 bikes going at once let alone 4 that are over 10 years old.

[@GregHitchko]

I appreciate the kind words Tanner! That was the idea behind the whole thing, try to eliminate any of those minor differences and run them against each other for what they are. Interesting to see the results

[@lisamoserpremixandpedals]

Absolutely amazing bikes and video. Well done

[@GregHitchko]

Thank you as always!

[@mxstylie312]

Awesome Video!

[@GregHitchko]

Thanks my man!

[@16507487]

How cool are 2 stokes! Awesome vid bro - thanks for making it

[@davidelivolsi9982]

Wow that’s amazing.. good work my friend @dlmx

[@GregHitchko]

Thank you Davide! Glad you enjoyed man.

[@massy7956]

I love this 💪.

[@GregHitchko]

Thanks my man!

[@nickmikegreg7837]

Owning a 04 RM250 this makes me happy to see

[@MikeyC25]

Same here

[@derek3107]

I have an 06 RM250, I love it, also my first bike.

[@GregHitchko]

Hell yeah! The RM is one hell of a bike that is no doubt dude

[@TheTanner218]

I have an 02 CR250, an 07 YZ250 and an 07 KX250R, I definitely agree with most of what you guys are saying just based on riding the CR and YZ over the past several years, I got the KX a couple years ago in really rough shape, it's been a money pit, but I've nearly got it done, so I'm really excited to get it to the track. I rode an 03 KX250 several years ago and I really like it, so I'm hoping the 07 feels similar.

[@GregHitchko]

Haha they can for surely be money pits without a doubt! I’m curious about the 03 to 07 KX back to back. The frame head angle is slightly different and completely different too!

[@vwgtdturbo]

how do you thin is the 07 kx and yz in comparison?

[@robertmayer2071]

i had the 02 rm 250 it was my all time favorite

[@AWPmediagroup]

I love this project !

[@GregHitchko]

Thank you dude!

[@Davidkxf]

I've owed an KX250, RM250 and CR250, I love the RM the most.

[@GregHitchko]

Thanks for the feedback on your experience with them David! What did you like most about the RM?

[@taylorkelley4498]

This is awesome!! I love that era of bikes. I am a little surprised on the results, wish my favorite CR250 would have done better but definitely appreciate the honest review from everyone. It is really cool to get a perspective from people who are used to the modern four strokes. What would be cool to see is this same shootout but after each bike has had some work done to it, things that the average weekend racer would be able to do to address the weak points of each bike. Maybe some upgrades to the brakes for the RM, engine work on the CR, whatever mods or setup a racer may do with a certain budget in mind. Results there would be really interesting!

[@GregHitchko]

Thanks for the feedback Taylor, these era of bikes are something else, I must agree with you! But damn that's what I should have done for a Part 3! Taken it even a step further to upgrade the brakes from oem, and then do motor work to all of them instead of rebuilding to stock settings and see how they would fair at the next level. Shit, time to do it over I guess haha

[@lorenzoporco]

put a keihin carb and a V-force3 on the CR 250 and it´s already a whole lot better

[@rotabom]

@@GregHitchko please do this!!!!!!

[@mikeguliz]

Hey Greg awesome videos been following your restorations I also am restoring a few older bikes 1989 KX250 1991 KX250 1990 RM 250 1992 YZ250 199 KX125. have a small channel love the shootout 🤙

[@123zammo]

I have the RM 250 k8 and it’s an amazing bike

[@GregHitchko]

Hell yeah Andrew, such an awesome bike.

[@darby4050]

Awesome video. I was looking to get an RM250, but I decided to go with the YZ strictly based on parts availability.

[@ThINKGraphixTV]

I have a 05 Suzuki RM 250 and couldn't agree more with all 4 of you guys.. Just needs better break's other than that it's an awesome bike.

[@GregHitchko]

Right on Jeremy, thanks for the feedback! Have you done anything to improve your brakes?

[@jonnoMoto]

​​@@GregHitchkoTry a 2000s cr250r front master cylinder and the most aggressive (race) brake pad compound. I only need a single finger on my 06 rm250.

[@2216sammy]

The most reliable and bulletproof motorcycles have always been Yamaha . They dominate the reliability department , always have.

[@GregHitchko]

You've got that right my man. It's really hard to beat the Yamaha in the reliability department. They are just so solid.

[@scottbradford4130]

Just picked up a 01 RM250 and it rips still eventhough the engine could use a rebuild. Can't wait to dig into it

[@sickandtiredgenx]

I have an 08 RM250 bought it in 2010 brand new to my dealer I will never sell it. I knew it would win

[@GregHitchko]

That's awesome to find a left over like that brand new in 2010. Super cool Mike!

[@tommyrainey7410]

That Honda is beautiful

[@GregHitchko]

It's really such a great looking bike!

[@521mxer]

Something with that red hits different

[@Sanchyboi]

Cool vid

[@GregHitchko]

Thanks dude!

[@The-Host]

I've owned 3/4 bikes. The rm was my favorite hands down. Only reason I let her go was parts were getting wicked hard to find.

[@GregHitchko]

Such a true story right there on RM parts getting hard to find

[@SwingArmCity]

I'm not surprised about the winner

[@GregHitchko]

Right on, yeah man that RM is a ripper that is for sure.

[@reddawg26b]

I’ve still got the 05 kx 250. Best bike I’ve ever owned. Still have it today! Bought it brand new. My buddy had the 05 YZ. Very close…

[@GregHitchko]

That's awesome Brandt! Definitely agree with you on that KX, I love that 07, such a blast to ride.

[@EarthSurferUSA]

1 year before the YZ SSS forks. Since they are still the best forks today, (production), they may have made a difference for these results. :)

[@mysterious_tim]

I’ve owned three KX125’s, an 82, a 94, and a 99. I think 99-02 is my #1 fave kawi

[@GregHitchko]

Hell yeah! That makes me stoked to have come across my 1999 KX250 barn find then. Pumped on it. I've got another video on my channel about it if you want to check it out as well 🙌🏼

[@dalehicks6112]

Thanks for putting this test together! It was a lot of fun to watch. All of you said that the KX was the FUNNEST bike to ride. What made it so fun to ride? Please do a 2005 125 shootout. I rather put my money in to a older two stroke rather than a new one!

[@GregHitchko]

Thanks for the feedback Dale! Really glad you enjoyed it. With the KX, we all loved the mid range hit, and the cockpit position where you feel like you are IN the bike when you go from standing to sitting to hit a corner. It's a comfortable feeling. The bottom end is a little trickier on that bike though, doesn't roll on as smooth as the RM or hit as hard as the YZ. Man I'd love to do a 125 shootout, I think that would be badass for everyone. That is definitely in the future plans for sure!

[@dalehicks6112]

@@GregHitchko thanks for clarifying what makes the KX fun!

[@GregHitchko]

@@dalehicks6112 no doubt Dale! Let me know if you have any other questions down the road, always happy to help out.

[@timturner4092]

RM#1💯

[@GregHitchko]

The RM is legit!

[@joeytaylor5301]

Should do a 125 shootout

[@GregHitchko]

You definitely don't have to ask me twice haha

[@wrightdieselservicesllc5831]

Still the best bikes around 2000 up. Best era of moto

[@GregHitchko]

It surely was my man. I miss it for sure. Almost took it for granted to an extent. It was epic.

[@tylerwright6879]

I had a 2002 rm250. It was a very low hour, adult ridden woods bike and I got it in 2006 for $1700!!! However, It was not my favorite. I owned a few CRs prior to this bike so was very used to them. The RM engine was lacking top-end and over rev. suspension was ok. Rider compartment and turning were pretty good. With some mods, it would have been really good. But as a 19 year old EMT, I didn’t have much extra money lol

[@denniswilder3014]

If memory serves me right on my 06 Zook I used a steal braided line a braking rotor that was a bit thicker than stock I used to run brake lever in a little more to get my finger further out on the lever then remember taking a die grinder and cut a slit in the pads to let some air out of the pads when it clamped the disc.

[@GregHitchko]

Right on! I appreciate you leaving this feedback on the RM brakes, Dennis. This is some good stuff. Should definitely help people out who have brake issues on their RM. Thanks dude!

[@danielroff3051]

Had an 07 RM250 and regret selling it. Had plenty of different bikes since, 4 and 2 strokes 125s 250s 450s but I always remember the absolute blast I had on that RM250.

[@GregHitchko]

Dude I hear you on that brother, the 06-08 RM's are gems!

[@EarthSurferUSA]

Tip for Suzuki, "sub par", braking: Rotate the handlebars down for better cornering while making it easier to keep your elbows up. Then move he lever inward on the bar so you are grabbing the end of the lever for the best leverage. Now rotate your levers down so your higher elbow, wrist and fingers, (on the levers), are in a straight line when standing in the attack position. Now, with better control of the front end, if needed, use 2 fingers on the brake lever.

[@2_stroke_brothers121]

Great work ! Keep up with videos like this I drove a cr 250 from 2006 Yz 250 from 2010 And a suzuki 250 from 2006 I have to say i liked the most the yz because it was overall the best suspension engine handling The cr was a little bit heavy and had bad steering and too much power bottom The suzuki was almost like the yamaha only thing was the suspension too bouncy for me Every of these 3 has its own plus and minus things but at the end i am a yamaha guy 😅🤙🏼 excuse my german englisch 🇩🇪✌🏻

[@GregHitchko]

I appreciate your experience and feedback on these bikes brother! Thank you! After riding all of them, I can certainly see your opinion and how they felt to you. Very cool you’ve ridden them all. You need to get on a Kawasaki next! Lol cheers!

[@toddhull6836]

O how things have unfortunately changed ..Cmon Suzuki we need ya back

[@GregHitchko]

Man I so agree with you Todd! Really looking forward to Suzuki putting more money into their SX/MX efforts.

[@521mxer]

Definitely agree you with on this

[@gkiss1727]

Nicely done guys well enjoyed andbmy bet was on rm actually. Yellow dog whistler. Aka the pissed off hornet.

[@GregHitchko]

Haha love the nicknames! Thanks for the feedback and kind words my dude 💨

[@mikestanly749]

9-19-23 HONDA still lookin pretty good in the races 💪💪💪💪💪💪 !!!!!!!!!! Ride red .

[@yumajdb]

These brands all had their high points in this year range. I rode all of them at some point and I would order them RM, YZ, KX and CR. For me, if you go back to the pre case reed Honda ('01) it scores higher. If you fast forward a few years to when Yamaha worked the bugs out of the aluminum frame (or back to the steel '04 frame) it's right there with the RM. I never could get along with the rider triangle of the Kawis, which was a bummer because some of my favorite riders (Emig, Ward, Lechein, Matasievich, Kiedrowski) were Kawasaki guys. But the Suzukis were awesome bikes from '01 on and I've been looking for one in decent shape to bring back to life. Great series!

[@GregHitchko]

Thanks for that awesome feedback Jack! Man how would I love to be able to grab an 01 CR250 or an 04 YZ250. I had an 01 CR125 when I was an early teenager and it was slow as shit but loved the handling. Then grabbed an 03 YZ250 because and Reed and holy heck was that thing a rocket. I regret selling it but, ya know, there were these things called four strokes that were gaining popularity...haha The Kawi cockpit is different for sure as in you sit IN to the bike rather than on top. Got its pluses and minuses. Do you own one of these now?

[@AbcAbc-ox6pg]

@@GregHitchko I have a brand new never ridden 2004 YZ250 in my garage, it had never had gas in it and a never ridden original 2002 KX250 in brand new condition as well. Looking for a 2002-2008 RM now.

[@GregHitchko]

@@AbcAbc-ox6pg NO WAY! That is absolutely insane. Have you had them the entire time since inception or did you pick them up elsewhere. I'd love to see pictures! Do you have instagram or FB?

[@AbcAbc-ox6pg]

@@GregHitchko I didn't have them the entire time but since 2011. I got them both from a collector who had them in his living room since inception. They were in a climate controlled and non smoking environment. They are my holy grale now and of course I will never ride them, as they are too pristine, they are in brand new condition and on display in my private collection in a room without windows so the plastics won't fade due to sunlight. I don't have Insta or fb, only Email.

[@GregHitchko]

@@AbcAbc-ox6pg just unreal!! That is soo cool to hear. I can't blame you for not letting them see dirt and keeping them as trophies. Here is my email [e-mail] if you are okay with sharing a couple photos of those beauts!

[@troymaharrey4464]

just bought a 2002 rm250 and i was a little nervous on how suzukis perform and was a little worried about my buy but after this and riding it i can say i made the right decision! suzuki ftw

[@GregHitchko]

Suzuki for the win, grip it and rip it baby! Enjoy the RM my dude

[@aaronodguy967]

Would have been great to have the 2004 YZ250 in there. They were the best handling YZs ever made.

[@GregHitchko]

I hear you on that Aaron! That would have been super interesting to see how the steel frame bike shook down against the others

[@Deviant253]

Reed always liked the 04' better. Hated the 05'

[@GregHitchko]

@@Deviant253 the 04 bike was his jam with that steel frame that's for sure

[@jadengragg6603]

Got a 2000 kx250 love that bike I was a Honda guy but all my buddies had kawis so thought maybe switch it up best choice for me personally ride a lot of trails and the mid range is very usable for slow to quick quick trails suspension set up by kjg Motorsport good shop for suspension work they built the bike aswell also little different was a DEP works pipe and silencer

[@GregHitchko]

Have to agree with you there on the 2000 KX250. Now that I have a 1999 KX250, the bottom and kid is definitely noticeable compared the the newer model and the Honda. Good stuff dude!

[@johnkerner9242]

2-stroke

[@GregHitchko]

All day man!

[@joelrees9519]

RM Army!

[@GregHitchko]

Let's gooo, I assume you have one?!

[@joelrees9519]

@@GregHitchko Sure do man. 2008 Rm250 Goldvalves. Full fmf. 08 KX250 same setup. Still prefer it over my 21 MC450. I have owned all 250s except Honda.

[@GregHitchko]

Hell yeah that is so bad ass, you've got my two favorites right there!

[@deanhoyt9296]

I’m not surprised that the RM came out on top I got a 2004 rm 250 it’s like brand new maybe 5 hours I’ve had it 13 years and I only ran 1 tank of gas through my baby.

[@jamessharp9790]

We have an 01 Rm250 and also a 96. Rms are great and probably best overall , but expect to upgrade brakes and when you get cylinder re plated - Suzuki changed power valve every year 96 through 06. The 07 remained same as the 06. What I’m saying is that you’re not going to get an exchange on cylinder- like you easily can with a Yz. Also , some aftermarket bling parts are harder to find , steering nut, oil fill plug. Study the model year changes - the 06-07 best if you can find one- 04 and up if not and even the 01-03 is really good.

[@GregHitchko]

Thanks for dropping all of that knowledge on the 01 and up RM250's James! I was really stoked that I was able to come across a 2006 for this project. Wish these companies would still make parts for these beasts as they once did, they are making a comeback.

[@theladdiesda8190]

How do you find the 96 rm?

[@jamessharp9790]

@@theladdiesda8190 friend of mine had it for years I didn’t know he had it . He posted it for sale and I was first to reply

[@jcbenson01]

Man I love my ‘07 RM250. What I understand is that they mellowed out the motor some going into ‘07. But it’s an awesome bike. I agree with everyone about the brakes though. Jumping on the RM from my RMZ450, the RM has serious trouble stopping and the fingers start aching pretty quick from squeezing that lever!

[@jonnoMoto]

I have an 06 rm250 and the front brake was crap too. Spongey, no matter how you bled, and lacking power. I did go to a larger rotor but they're pricey and didn't solve the feel. I found a 200* CR250 front master, stock size rotor and goldfren s33 racing pads helped lots.

[@jcbenson01]

@@jonnoMoto I’m also looking for a Honda master. I had read that the ‘07? And newer crf masters were improved and a much better feel. I’ve also bled and bled and while time consuming was able to improve. But still not as good as I’d like.

[@garysavala665]

Suzuki execs should watch this and make another 2 stroke . Thanks Yamaha and ktm for making what the people want

[@GregHitchko]

Wouldn't that be something! I fully support it 🙌🏼💨

[@Lousasshol]

Kawi #1 🤘👍

[@GregHitchko]

Gotta love team green baby!

[@wyattlarson1104]

Miss my 2003 RM250. I’d give my left nut for Suzuki and Kawasaki to start making 125/250 again

[@GregHitchko]

You can say that again my dude, how epic would that be!

[@bugs7425]

Needs your nuts to go fast, don’t sell ‘em!

[@TheLaboys_]

Have a 2015 yz250 and just bought an 03 kx250 that had been kept in a collection with original plastics, and looks absolutely brand new. The kx250 is 100% more fun imo. The seat height is smaller which I like, and the bottom end is ridiculous. Very torquey and fast.

[@GregHitchko]

Dude that is so awesome on the 03 KX250 you just picked up. Question is, are you going to ride it or is that the KX250 you were referring to in the second comment? The 03-04 motors had more torque than the 05-07 models actually.

[@TheLaboys_]

@@GregHitchko Interesting I thought it was the other way around and the 04 and above years were faster. Thanks for the knowledge. Definitely going to ride it! It runs insanely crisp and sounds so good. I go out into the garage just to look at it. 🤣

[@GregHitchko]

Haha I have for sure been there done that PLENTY of times, almost every day I just go in the garage and stare.

[@TheLaboys_]

@@GregHitchko I have been looking up part availability in case something goes wrong with the bike, and noticed there is literally no website that has a cylinder for my 03. If the cylinder was to end up fried what would I do? This is my first older bike so I have never had to deal with struggling to find parts.

[@GregHitchko]

@@TheLaboys_ No worries at all! Try calling up Millennium Technologies or Power Seal USA and they should be able to get the cylinder fixed up for you my dude.

[@TheShift1313]

Love it! I started riding in the 90s and by far my favorite era was mid 90s to mid 00s. Not surprised by the order. Ive tried for years to buy a decent 02 up rm250 but they are hard to find. The honda powervalve (and the frame) killed those bikes. I had an 06 yz250 and the suspension was good with the SSS stuff. Not sure if your yz was an 05 before the switch.

[@GregHitchko]

Hell yeah thanks for the feedback my dude! They are definitely getting harder and harder to find. The YZ was an 05 so it still had the AOS stuff on it. But with it redone, it was way better. The SSS stuff is so good though!

[@TheShift1313]

@@GregHitchko if you ever come across an 04 yz for sale pick it up. Last of the steel frame but first year for the 48mm forks. Was the best of the steelies and i prefer those to the aluminum frame bikes even those the yz(for me) feels much better than the cr chassis.

[@onetimeexcavation6015]

Lots in Ontario

[@GregHitchko]

I think that would be the jam right there, pick up an 04 and grab a set of SSS suspension for it. I'd love to do that!

[@scotta.weaver7299]

I had an 06 RM250, thats an easy win, I rode alot of 03-04 CR250's and the YZ of those years and would put the YZ ahead, where I'm surprised is your guys KX pick. I rode a couple of 03's and didn't like them, maybe the 07 is better. I'd never buy a clapped out one of any and get 12k deep into it, I'd get a new YZ and have money to spare!

[@GregHitchko]

Right on Scott! That’s some great feedback, thanks for sharing your experience with the bikes. Now that’s a smart move it you had the 12k to spend haha. New YZ and plenty of money to dump into to make it gnarly 👍🏼

[@josephtepe3625]

Never had the kx or Rm 250 😏. 97 Rm 125 was my favorite bike ever though.

[@GregHitchko]

Hell yeah! My best friend had a 97 RM125 back in the day. The thing ripped!

[@mikeguliz]

Hey Greg awesome video been following your restorations I also am restoring a few bikes 1989 kx 250 1991 kx250 ,1992 yz250 1990 rm250 1990 kx 125 got a small channel love the shootout 🤙

[@GregHitchko]

Damn Mike that is absolutely awesome. I can’t imagine how hard it’s been to find parts for those things. Any issues during any of the rebuilds?

[@mikeguliz]

Really hasn’t been hard finding parts just playing the waiting game the 91 kx250 a few issues with the engine needed a new inner clutch cover an outer transmission shaft which they didn’t make anymore but I found them on eBay lotta OEM replica parts that they’re making which has been awesome for a little bolts and little pieces that I needed but really hasn’t been hard finding parts

[@GregHitchko]

@@mikeguliz Man that is awesome. That is my biggest fear with those older bikes is trying to find parts but doesn't seem to be too big of an issue. You will have to keep me posted Mike. Do you have Instagram?

[@mikeguliz]

Yes I have Instagram but I’m not very active on it I focus a lot on KZbin

[@GregHitchko]

@@mikeguliz sweet I'll have to check your channel then!

[@Jaysunn00]

I’ve had a 03 CR250 for the last 10 years I’d say mine has a hell of a lot of bottom end but I also have it set up as a cross country bike kehin carb, Vforce3, fmf gnarly and turbo core 2, 51 tooth rear

[@GregHitchko]

The best off-road bike I've ever ridden was my buddy's 05 CR250. Set up was Amazing. I'd take it over a ktm

[@sAu54g3]

Great video greg. But whilst these are iconic bike, I know owning one is a pain, parts are difficult to source, things generally just dont seem as reliable as modern bikes. I own a 2006 rm250 and I have to say recently I’ve been choosing to ride the husky 450 instead! Saying that hitting a few laps on the rm later! Maybe I’ll change my mind back

[@GregHitchko]

Haha thanks Sam! I hear you on that though, the new four strokes are seriously bulletproof if standard maintenance is made on them. They definitely aren't as bad as when they first came out. You are pulling at my heart strings though with that FC450, I had a 2016. What year is yours?

[@sAu54g3]

@@GregHitchko mate mine is a 2016 also! I actually love the linear power. Watched my footage back from yesterday and I can tell I’m struggling in the long medium speed corners on the 2 stroke, where as the 450 would have had usable midrange! Thanks again for the shootout vids. Are the bikes all sold?

[@GregHitchko]

@@sAu54g3 no way that is awesome! Those 450s are just fire in those long medium speed corners, they are hard to beat. But yup all of the bikes are sold, picked up a 99 KX250 barn find though, pumped on it, video on the channel if you haven't seen it yet!

[@joebiker5992]

4 strokes are NOT reliable in the dirt bike world. And FAR more expensive to maintain. I could probably do a top end on a 2 stroke faster than a valve job could be done on a four stroke.

[@andreasjonsson8075]

Japanese steelframes are awsome

[@GregHitchko]

Love them!

[@user-vj1fe6rg9s]

I love Suzuki's banana's RM 80 , 125 , 250 , 500 delicious .saludos desde Cali Colombia 😊

[@electricaltyler5998]

i got a 2002 rm 250 she hauls ass good bottom end got her tore down right now also got a 2000 cr250r shes fast mid to top end but she likes to speed out here riding in the nevada dessert wanting to go to mesquite track once i get both bikes rebuilt

[@EarthSurferUSA]

Oh yea, (because of jetting comments), Jetting a old school 2-stroke well can make a huge difference in performance. The difference up to peak 3hp, the entire curve stronger, higher revving and "lagging issues" resolved. The test is flawed if the bikes are not jetted well.

[@powerwagon7811]

Suzi for the win easily. Ive got an 03 with a Hinson clutch and Honda front brake line and master cylinder cheap fix for the weak stock brakes.

[@GregHitchko]

Oh dang, that's a great idea to fix the front brake issue. I'll have to give that a shot next time. Another RM is on my list!

[@jollyshrimpo]

would love to see a 125 version they all feel the same lol

[@GregHitchko]

That is eventually the goal my dude, do the same thing with 125's!

[@joshuasteel2109]

Suzuki is basically a Yamaha clone on the engine. They are all great in my opinion I’m not partial to any I love them all. I just know they copied the Yamaha engine when they redesigned it for the Goat 🐐. Great video and retro rest guys, thank you for sharing!

[@GregHitchko]

So true! You definitely tell that the engines were very similar, the YZ hit a little harder down low and they both had awesome mid to top. We appreciate the feedback Joshua! Glad you enjoyed.

[@scottpeters8640]

You are correct. If I recall, you can even run a YZ 250 piston in the 2002+ RM's.

[@777eyewipe]

love these bikes but its a shame the small manufacturer two stroke of the era have been forgotten about.

[@randyleonard4126]

Suzuki Rm 250 made me grab some championships & yes,I have raced all the others..Those zooks just worked excellent for me!!!

[@GregHitchko]

Those RM's are something else that is for sure!

[@TheSteveSteele]

I want a 2006 RM250 more than anything available today.

[@GregHitchko]

I'm on the hunt for another one that is for sure 🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@EarthSurferUSA]

"The YZ forks (one year before SSS forks), were busy on small cattery bumps. Maybe if we slowed down the rebound,------?). He could not adjust the clickers? Good "test" rider?

[@josephippolito4921]

I just bought 2005 suszuki rm 250 the thing is fast

[@GregHitchko]

Right on! I loved that suzuki man. Heck of a bike right there. Enjoy!

[@Dean-zx6nx]

The winner was exactly what I thought…

[@GregHitchko]

Haha then hell yeah!

[@521mxer]

That’s what’s up

[@CodySnell_87]

Most of the opinions seem based off of your setting up of the bikes not really the bikes themselves ive owned all 4 bikes in the past and id have to say a well set up yz is hard to beat it has a very good power delivery with the right pipe gas reeds jetting and so on and hands down the best suspension of its 06 and newer sss is still the best suspension on the market other brands are just catching up to Kayaba sss from 06. that being said I had a few cr250s and the one was way better than the others esp with the adjustable power valves it makes a huge difference to have thoose adjusted right I think it’s 13mm on the one side i forget which one is where they ran amazing for me. Each bike you have to sit in different positions to corner ect not many bikes handle amazing im loose sand either but cool bikes and thanks for taking the time to do the videos Just for fun take a bone stock almost new or new yz250 and compare them to yours i bet the factory setup bike is very good stock

[@GregHitchko]

Totally hear you on that! I bet if we took three completely different riders and put them on these bikes, they would have different opinions on them as well. Can't beat that SSS suspension though that is for sure. It was interesting in the Part 1 shootout video that the YZ was the top choice out of two of the riders. The one rider, Brock, loved the YZ so much that he literally sold his 2020 CRF250R to buy a YZ250. Insane! Just goes to show how well those bikes actually perform. Thanks for the feedback on your experience on them my dude!

[@TylerPrue-jo3ke]

I got 97-01 cr250 parts good shape that need rebuilds

[@chipsnpeasifuplz]

My 05 rm250 never had a good front brake. Crf front brake goes on which i still havent done

[@GregHitchko]

Ahh yes I have heard of that move as well. The Honda brakes are and have always been so good.

[@pc2150]

Kx is the best all around bike for the $$$

[@GregHitchko]

That bike is such a ripper man, so fun!

[@pc2150]

@@GregHitchko 1999 was the last good year of that motor Superfast huge bottom and awesome top-end in 2000 started getting really weak Long Live 2-stroke

[@GregHitchko]

@@pc2150 hell yeah! That is rad to hear about the 1999 since I literally just picked one of those up! I've got the video of the barn find on the channel if you have yet to see it.

[@Lousasshol]

@@pc2150 .. nah , I had a 03 and that thing ripped hard .. Kawasaki has their shit together I chose a 2 stroke Kawi over all other brands after doing a years worth of research

[@pc2150]

@@Lousasshol I own a 91 KX250 and I was riding with somebody that had a 2000 KX250 and we swapped for a minute and he quickly stopped and wanted his bike back because he didn't like how fast mine was it scared him and then I said yeah completely different animal you run out of Gears real fast on a 2000 mine pulls like a 500

[@chknlyps2373]

Where did you get the honda radiator shroud graphics?

[@GregHitchko]

Hit up @melodesignco on instagram and tell him you saw my CR and would like those graphics 👍🏼. Tyler is the man. Let him know I sent you

[@igorudore6593]

Honda ❤❤❤🍓

[@GregHitchko]

Ride red baby!

[@dennygamble4520]

I owned and raced all these bikes and had motor work done to all of them. I got tons of Holeshot’s on the Honda. It was really fast but didn’t have bottom end like you said. I hated the Kawi and I tried everything. I couldn’t get the power the way I liked and hated the stink bug stance it has. I tried putting a link arm on, but could never get it to handle on a rough rutty track the way I liked. I loved the Yamaha but it didn’t turn like the 02-04 or 99-01. The Suzuki was good stock but after some engine and suspension work it was great. I rode an 03 with some engine work and that bike was great too. My ranking would be RM YZ CR KX The 04 YZ would be tied with the RM.

[@GregHitchko]

Hell yeah Denny! I really appreciate you adding your experience about these bikes to the thread. That is some awesome info on them. It would have been interesting to grab a steel framed YZ and see how it really compared. I thought about it but wouldn't have quite aligned with the "last gen" theme I was going with. I'd love to find one though in the future and build one to compare. I had an 03 YZ250 back in the day and loved it. It was a rocket!

[@swedish_sadhguru3854]

That Honda seems to run like a 50cc, something ain’t right.

[@chrisr.1391]

Cool to see the second video… I still think the KX should have placed first… I am biased though…. 😂

[@GregHitchko]

Haha thanks Chris! Wonder why you think that 🤣. Glad you enjoyed it dude

[@521mxer]

This was a super hard decision to make trust me the kx had my heart during both shoots.

[@GregHitchko]

@@521mxer you and me both brother

[@jasonmccrea7519]

I’m about $5500 into my 2004 RM I love it. Would need another $2500 to make it comparable to a new bike. In 2022 is it worth it!????

[@GregHitchko]

That's up to you to decide but I believe it is worth it! To revive one of these last gen two strokes and keep them alive is invaluable. These bikes that I built are around the $7,500 mark. If you are trying to flip it to sell, I wouldn't expect that much, but if you are going to keep it, then it's worth it!