HONDA CR250 TWO STROKE BREAKDOWN - The WORST Two Stroke Model??

Is Honda's LAST GENERATION two stroke really the WORST two stroke model they ever made? I break it down in this video and go over the main differences between the 2002-2007 CR250 two stroke. I also dive into the 2004 Honda CR250 that I purchased for my Throwback Two Stroke garage build shoot out!
🔥SOCIAL MEDIA:
Instagram: / greghitchko
🔥EMAIL [e-mail] with any questions or inquiries
Looking for parts and tools?! Rocky Mountain will no doubt have them in stock. Check out the links below for all of the products used in the video. I greatly appreciate your support when you do that!
🔥RMATV/MC OEM Parts: www.rockymount...
🔥MOTION PRO TORQUE WRENCH ADAPTER: www.rockymount...
🔥MAXIMA 80W MTL TRANSMISSION OIL: www.rockymount...
🔥MAXIMA COOLANOL: www.rockymount...
🔥MAXIMA QUICK MIX CUP: www.rockymount...
🔥MAXIMA SUPER M PREMIX: www.rockymount...
🔥RATIO RITE MEASURING CUP: www.rockymount...
****TOOLS****
🔥DEWALT IMPACT GUN: amzn.to/3wQgTl8
🔥DIGITAL CALIPER MEASURING TOOL: www.rockymount...
🔥TUSK STEERING STEM BEARING INSTALLER: www.rockymount...
🔥TUSK CLUTCH HOLDER: www.rockymount...
🔥TUSK CRANKCASE SPLITTER: www.rockymount...
🔥TUSK FLYWHEEL PULLER: www.rockymount...
🔥TUSK CRANK PULLER/INSTALLER: www.rockymount...
🔥TUSK BEARING REMOVAL TOOL: www.rockymount...
🔥MOTION PRO STEERING BEARING RACE DRIVER: www.rockymount...
🔥BENCH BUFFER: amzn.to/3tEmFG1
🔥PRYME CLEANING WHEEL PACK - 8 Inch: www.prymemx.co...
PRYME FIBER FLAP WHEEL PACK: www.prymemx.co...
🔥DREMEL: amzn.to/3lJal4L
🔥DREMEL MINI WIRE BRUSHES: amzn.to/3An55bq
🔥EAGLE ONE ALUMINUM WHEEL CLEANER: amzn.to/3BCCVdO
🔥WIRE BRUSHES: amzn.to/37rtLTB
🔥WIRE TUBE BRUSHES: amzn.to/3fHw35q
🔥MAP GAS TORCH: amzn.to/2RIbvR7
🔥BREAKER BAR 1/2' DRIVE: amzn.to/39vErC7
🔥STRIPPED BOLT HEAD REMOVER SOCKET SET: amzn.to/3cQXWHf
🔥MOTOSPORT ENGINE STAND: www.rockymount...
CERAKOTE TRIM COAT: amzn.to/3hPfm8P
Use GREG10 to save at PHATHEAD RACING HEADS: lukesracing.co...
This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting the channel!

[@GregHitchko]

Honest classic mix up everyone. It is Revolution Control Valve, and not Remote Control Valve. I don't even know where I pulled that out of HAHA. Probably just habit from RC cars 😂

[@jessejarzabski5076]

Yes exactly right, u have def probably seen tht one dude on KZbin open his video out w a joke, naming all the diff types of meanings the , "crv" acronym stands for......and as he seems to take a stance of professionalism and experience, the fact that he says the real meaning is , REVOLUTIONARY CONTROL VALVE.....and he goes into the next segment as if what he said was gospel, but I did my research and concluded that revolutionary is wrong and revolution is what Honda called it in all the mags...

[@showmeyourwallet347]

ive heard it be called the ricky carmichael valve

[@mastakilla6246]

I’ve had my 2002 Honda CR250 since it was new and it’s been an awesome bike! Not sure where all the criticism about the engine comes from, bike always fucking ripped

[@andrewchapman473]

Totally agree.i had mine bone stock up against a supposedly race tuned rm 250 couldn't shake me.

[@GregHitchko]

Thats badass and you still have it?

[@mastakilla6246]

@@GregHitchko yeah man, bike is awesome!

[@alexanda7876]

I got a 2002 aswell and Ive got a year and a half of ripping on it and it still has 200 psi of compression and rips

[@jessejarzabski5076]

It's mostly compared to other bikes at extreme levels of performance only the experience of the pro class could suss out the weaknesses at those high levels of competetion.....so to the average riders or beginner, it will seem like a rocketship, and the bikes shortening only become apparent when pros of the same skill level match up the bike to the other bikes in that years class.....it's not so much that the motor was slow or lethargic, it's only when juxtaposed to a superior machine is when it seems somewhat, less responsive or somewhat less snappy, but with nothing to compare it to, there wouldn't be a decisive way to quantify those small differences, especially an average rider

[@331moto]

I absolutely love my 03. vforce3 reeds, pwk air striker and a procircuit platinum 2 pipe. It will tractor up a steep hill and accelerate without clutching...

[@GregHitchko]

I really do like the PC platinum 2 pipes on these 250s, really wakes up the bottom 👊🏼, less clutch for sure.

[@gladegoodrich2297]

Put down a deposit on a new 73 Elsinore and waited. Thought i had died and gone to heaven the day it arrived. Got one of the first ones in So. Cal.

[@colmhaughey7001]

I had a 1989 CR250R used it for MotoX, Enduro, Sand Racing,Hill Climbing used the same bike for a least 5 years most of my friends replaced their machines every session however I couldn’t afford it so I just pulled it down every session and rebuild the whole machine repainted the frame the works it also looked first class & never let me down for me this was a special machine Happy Days & yeah the machine is still running today…!!!

[@GregHitchko]

That is one of the most badass things I've heard! So cool, that is what it's about right there, love that you just stick with what works and just rebuild it every year.

[@stephendavis7707]

I have had an 00 honda cr 250 r bought it new ,still use it and it still flies .few mods nothing crazy ,flexible engine and fun to ride ... Never had an issue other than servicing ....after 20 yrs ..Great bike.

[@GregHitchko]

That is simply amazing Stephen! To hold on to a bike for that long is unheard of. Kuddos to you man, I am sure that thing rips!

[@xi-deadshot-ix5838]

I have a 00 as well my uncle bought in 05 and sold to me in 15. Such a great engine. Chassis isn’t that nimble. Honestly the 00 motor in an 05+ chassis would be perfect. I can’t bring myself to try the swap though as I don’t trust anyone to fab the motor mounts and get it dialed without spending enough to buy another bike.

[@stephendavis7707]

@@xi-deadshot-ix5838 i have raced and ridden mine periodically over the last 24 years i have been good with the servicing and only changed 3 pistons and one clutch tyres and brakes obviously but i swapped my cr 500 for it ,i dont think i can part with it now best bike i have ever had ,i get the frame thing the later years have improved frame flex etc but i wont mess with it ,it still goes well and we are ageing together ..good luck

[@OrignalRecipe92]

When the "I wanna ride," came on it hit me...that's a core memory that just unlocked.

[@GregHitchko]

Those commercials are just pleasantly burned into our brains, love it 🙌🏼💨💨

[@FatCat2Ez]

I've had my cr250 01 model for 8 years now. Still running strong 💪

[@GregHitchko]

Nice!!! I'd love to come across a 2001 to rebuild too

[@jamessharp9790]

No , I wouldn’t say the worst. The 73-74 was quite good, the 75 not bad -1976 just too dated against the competition. No 77 model , 78 redesign was fantastic, refined 79 was pretty good too, the further refined center port 1980 was very good too. The 1981 was the worst, but Roger DeCoster helped get it decent in 82 and on top by 83. 84 was new design and a rocket - , but seized at exhaust port. 85 was refined but not a barn burner , 86 very good, 87 on top again. 88 was fast but rough as was the USD fork 89. 90 was redesigned and quite powerful but suspension not great, refined 91 about the same. 92 was redesigned and while not as broad and smooth as the 90-91 it was killer good engine and chassis. Stock suspension was grim but engine was so good it was worth re valving suspension. Same with 92-96. Arguably the best generation of Cr250R.

[@GregHitchko]

Thank you for dropping all of this knowledge and history on the older CR's James. This is amazing information for this video!

[@joshuasmith8408]

Nothing tops the 2001 cr250, better known as the Holy Grail. Worst mistake I ever made was selling mine. Not knowing 15 years later it would be this hard to find one nowadays.

[@GregHitchko]

I would love to find one of those and rebuild it! i'd really love to compare it to the last gen models back to back

[@joshuasmith8408]

@@GregHitchko exactly damn motor was bulletproof, never see quality like that again, I could push that thing hard as I wanted too. Just made sure I had a box of spark plugs and a case of oil for oil changes.

[@enesrivera1218]

have 1 almost brand new sitting in my living room

[@hondacr250cfh]

Lol over rated

[@gumpycognac4505]

@@joshuasmith8408 you will see them again if you go to a Yamaha dealership and look at the yz250 engine😂. And my 250x does not foul plugs. Idles and lugs around as much as I want it to.

[@lindenphilippson]

Aweh yeah keep em coming!! Last gen Crs are by far the most beautiful bikes

[@GregHitchko]

You can say that again Linden, they have style for dayssss!

[@billyz28fan82]

My 1st bike was a 69' honda z50 and it was great. Now personally I own a mint condition 98' cr250r and it is a great bike. Nothing like a 2 stroke to have fun on ride often and ride safe.

[@GregHitchko]

z50! Hells Yeah, that's awesome. So sweet that you have a 98, I've heard people don't like that and the 99 model because of the rigidity of the frame, do you feel that? And you're right, nothing like a two stroke that's for sure!

[@coloradodirtbike5930]

The 2000/2001 are the claim to fame for honda cr250s. The 02-07 case reed design can be dialed in really good with the right engine work and supporting mods. They are all fun 👍. The weak spot on the 02-07 is the exhaust bridge on the cylinder, they commonly crack. The electronic power valve cables got to be in spec always or else the bike runs like crap, plus being controlled with an electric servo motor, you run the risk of it failing. The airbox on the third generation aluminum honda cr250 also pulled dirt into the engine, mxbonz makes a cure for that issue. If you have a 02-07 and run a wiseco piston you MUST drill out two holes on the piston, where the exhaust bridge is, as it helps to allow the oil to cool the exhaust bridge. The worse model is the first generation aluminum frames, they were too rigid, and really beat you up on every little bump and chop. The 02-07 third generation usually sell for the most, followed by the 2000/2001. The 2001 has a little advantage over the 2000, as the 01 cdi box revs out 500 extra rpm. 98 had a great motor, so if you were to put it into a shifter kart or other fun toy, it would be ideal. You can buy those year bikes for fairly cheap.

[@GregHitchko]

This is phenomenal information to add to the thread man! Thank you for taking the time to dive deeper into the discussion, this will be super valuable to people who come across this and have one of these Honda's!

[@coloradodirtbike5930]

@@GregHitchko Glad to help, keep making great videos, we appreciate them 👍.

[@jessederossett1484]

The 1996 is the claim to fame it's the holy grail of the cr 250s the best all around engine and the best handling

[@coloradodirtbike5930]

@@jessederossett1484 well the "93" is the frame he raced and won all the competitions if you are refering to pro riders. I like the steel frames as well, 96 has the most expensive stock suspension, all personal preference. The 02-07 can also become rocket ships when tuned in and a few easy engine modifications.

[@johnqpublic9074]

@@coloradodirtbike5930 Awesome that someone else actually knows their stuff and isn't just a keyboard warrior. 100% correct. The 01 can be made more reliable by swapping to the 00 PWK carb and boot. The 02-07 suspension is superior, but comparing a modded reed case to unmodded 01 K3Z isn't apples to apples. I prefer the mechanical power valve motor as it kicks right out of the box. What's needed in the dirtbike world is more dyno testing, so it's not conjecture...

[@andrewmarsh3505]

I recently picked up a 94 cr250r. Should I keep or sell it? It's a clean bike.

[@GregHitchko]

Definitely keep it! Those models are prime time!

[@jpaul5387]

The 03 is a monster with the stock pipe/silencer when you get the carb cleaned out with an ultrasonic cleaner and tuned right. I didn't even realize how much power it had until my mechanic said it needs to be pulling harder and longer so let's clean and tune the carb. And i have 3 450 4 strokes and 2 250 2 strokes. A lot of the time people don't have it tuned correctly to get the most out of it. It was already a beast so I’m glad I got it running as good as possible

[@davidyackell]

First bike was a Honda Trail 70 82 or 83 can't remember. Next bike was an 85 RM80. I rebuilt the top end by reading an article out of Dirt Rider magazine. I was like 14 or 15 when I did it. I rode that thing all summer and wailed it. Then I jumped up to a 89 RM250. It was good but then I rode my friends 87 CR250 and fell in love. We ended up swapping bikes. Now I need a new bike to get back into riding. Been out wayyy too long!!

[@GregHitchko]

Such a badass story David! Thanks for sharing that. I say you look out for another 87, if you can find one!

[@Mr10usdad]

After watching this I will stick with my restored 1995 CR250.

[@GregHitchko]

Don't ever get rid of that bad boy, they are like the holy grail!

[@Mr10usdad]

@@GregHitchko Thanks Greg! Here she is: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJOXoXWKatiljZI

[@toddgibbons7147]

Love your videos Greg! My son and I do a fair amount of builds etc. What we find refreshing about your build videos is if something is a struggle, you show it. You don't edit it out and show the end result like it was a cakewalk. Your honesty is refreshing!!!

[@GregHitchko]

Right on Todd! That is awesome that you and your son work together on builds. I hope to share those moments with my son when he is of age. That's a dream right there. I also appreciate your feedback on the videos! The struggle can be embarrassing, especially when it's not just you in the garage and others are watching, but I feel it makes it real. There is plenty I still edit out for time purposes, but I will include more of it as it comes along. Hopefully it doesn't haha!

[@jrrivers4140]

That commercial is fire lol. My first bike was a 2000 xr 100. Rode it from 12pm to 6pm every day for 4 years

[@GregHitchko]

Hells yeah! I remember those good ol days. With a 24 cut buffalo chicken pizza to finish of the day with my buddies lol

[@jrrivers4140]

@@GregHitchko the best days

[@jrrivers4140]

@@GregHitchko just picked up a mint 01 rm. Boi

[@GregHitchko]

@@jrrivers4140 you dirty dawg! I'm a huge RM fan now after riding them in the shootout

[@jrrivers4140]

@@GregHitchko what's your IG. I'll send you a picture

[@iracongiplayz4236]

My first bike was a 2004 crf 250 x but after I got good enough I bought and rebuilt from the ground up a 1994 cr 250 r which is my favorite bike of all time

[@GregHitchko]

That is sooo rad! Send me a picture on instagram if you have it. I'd love to see it @greghitchko

[@danielpaulson786]

My first bike was a 2004 Honda crf450r.it was awesome.traded it straight up for a 87 Honda xr600r.bought a 2000 cr250r now so I have both.ive only owned these three bikes.everyone says I'm nuts for learning how to ride on a 450.love my xr600r.

[@kapdon1697]

My opinion the cr250r 2000 2001 model was the best because the electric power valve was not grate let’s just put it that way lol I say you should do a video on the 2000 2001 model

[@GregHitchko]

I'd love to compare those 00-01 years to a newer one! A video of the 00-01 is definitely on the chopping block down the road!

[@mikevessey6930]

Thanks for running thru the years of the CR. To try an look up that info would have taking some time! Hopefully you can go back and give us some knowledge on the KX also? Thanks bro

[@GregHitchko]

No problem Mike, glad I could deliver the info! Keep your eye out tomorrow for a video that MAY or may not be about something green!

[@Mr10usdad]

I have not rode the last generation of the CR250. I do have a totally restored 1995 CR250 and I love it.

[@GregHitchko]

I'd love to do a comparison between those two models!

[@Mr10usdad]

@@GregHitchko me too

[@georgewarshington1230]

had a 99' cr250 when i was 16-18. put 120+ hours on it in what is now considered "hard enduro" had a flattened oem pipe. i'm talking so flattened there were holes in the flat spots. semi tweaked bars because the bark busters worked but the bars took the flex. my back fender was zip stripped in. the rear number plates vibrated like micheal j fox. and the the bolts on the plastic were stripped from torking them on.clearly needed rings and a refresh but that bad boy never failed me not even once.a fouled plug here or there after sitting in the winter. but oem clutch. oem top and bottom end. that oem suspension fit me better than any suspension i've ever had before or since. had a 1996 rm 250 with pro connection forks and now have an 06' with pro factory custom front forks set to enduro at 180lbs . nothing had the big jump impact and slow stuff impact that oem honda had. selling that bike hurts me. it just would not die. it could be down on power, with shot to shit breaks, a sloppy chain, and still never die on me. Every ride on a trail somebody's bike eats shit. that 250 never failed me. best bike i've ever owned. ridden hard - put away wet - a clean air filter 10 hours after it needed it. didn't care. honda reliability was real

[@GregHitchko]

Thanks for sharing your experience with them my dude! Honda does have some stellar reliability. Glad to hear that you’ve had good experiences 💨💨

[@JamesSmith-wv3fx]

I have a mint 1990 cr125 and wanted to ask your opinion on that year for the honda 2 strokes since you seem to have alot of knowledge on Honda 2 strokes. I love my 90 cr125 just feel that it lacks on the suspension

[@BRH_SALES]

Good video bro bike looks clean. Iv just got a Honda cr 250 2001 and it absolutely rips. But looking for a new pipe and don’t no to go FMF or Pro circuit. 👍

[@GregHitchko]

I've love to pick up on 01 in the future for sure! I hear the Pro Circuit pipes are the way to go and really broaden the power.

[@blanchard899]

@@GregHitchko fmf gives it more low to mid. Pro circuit is top end oriented

[@GregHitchko]

@@blanchard899 Great info to know right there!

[@patrickgagne8795]

My first “bike” was a 1984 Honda atc 250r. Was 15 years old. Loved that thing more then life itself. Currently 50 years old and ride a 2001 cr250r.

[@GregHitchko]

That is awesome Patrick! Very cool, thanks for sharing

[@humbertogonzalez9146]

1998 250cr

[@hahnmowermotorsports179]

First 250 2 stroke I ever rode was an 03 cr250. Stock other than reeds and a pipe. I loved that bike. Since I was only 13 and weighed like 120 lbs at the time the suspension was waayyy stiff for me but I still ripped that bike around

[@ontheedge33371]

I love my 2000Cr250r 🥰

[@GregHitchko]

I would love to find one of those! Sweet bikes right there.

[@zay7562]

I got lucky finding my 2000 cr my uncle had it since brand new less than 4 hours was 1 of his shop decorations that I always wanted but was too young to ride it but when I got it I seen why I had to wait 😂😂 she’s a beast and I’ve done a couple races against 2022 450s and this 22 yo bike can hang no problem

[@GregHitchko]

Whattt that is insane! That thing is probably better than brand new. So pumped for you. I’d love to be able to ride one of those and compare to the 02+. I hear they are awesome. Thanks for sharing my man!

[@Studdfromhell]

First bike was back in 84' at 12yrs old. A blue 1972 Honda SL100. Been riding since. Riding my fully rebuilt with 99'Cr 270 kit, stage 3 porting, shave head. Gnarly pipe vforce reeds ECT. VP 2t only 38:1. Getting Lectron in spring.

[@GregHitchko]

Nice!! That's awesome, bike probably rips! Lectron just came out with their Billetron carb too. The bikes for my Shoot out project are going to have those on there. I loved the H-Series on my KX250 so I am pumped to give the new ones a shot.

[@michaelmays9292]

As long as it don't have 4 strokes

[@cheto2952]

My first bike was a 1981 cr80 elsinore, and the first bike I bought by myself was a 1983 cr125, I still have them both in my man cave/ game room. They also make my friends feel old because they remember when I got them both.

[@GregHitchko]

Wow are you serious Chet?? That is insane! I used my first bikes to fund my next bikes haha, wish I still had my 1990 cr125.

[@davidkanalos6710]

Had a 81 250 kick start was on the left side .

[@TheGreatEscape77]

Great info, im considering a 2008 cr250 ? What do you guys think ? Ive heard theyre good fun bikes

[@GregHitchko]

2007 was the last year of production but perhaps thy had a couple left over 07 models that they assigned as 08?? Where are you located? Either way, I'd grab it!

[@TheGreatEscape77]

@@GregHitchko ya i thought the bike being an 08 was weird also ? Maybe it is an 07 idk ill have to check the title or something. Im in utah excited to go explore on my first bike

[@TheGreatEscape77]

@@GregHitchko the bike name the guy gave me is a 2008 honda crf250R

[@GregHitchko]

@@TheGreatEscape77 Plenty of riding to be done in Utah that's for sure, i love it here!

[@GregHitchko]

@@TheGreatEscape77 ahh okay looks like it's a four-stroke then. Those year four strokes were tough because of valve issues I want to say.

[@mitchellkalina8191]

The case reed motor wasn't well received by pretty much any of the testers from the time it released in 02. Nobody ever claimed it was slow, just hard to keep in the meat of the powerband. If you could keep it there it was as fast as anything made. The problem was the RM and YZ had excellent motors by comparison. The KX may not have been as fast but it was way easier to use than the CR. In the hands of pros it was fine, just not for amateurs. People loved the 01 CR motor and that may have played a role in not liking the 02+ motor because they were so different from each other. I've heard in race trim the 02+ case reed motor made more output.

[@Five-Four-Racing]

My first 250 was an 03 cr250 I got off Josh grant's dad who was my boss then. It had fmf mods and Tom Morgan racing did the suspension on it. Really fun bike, never raced it but lots of great rides

[@DavidLopez-od6of]

Picked up an 02' a bit ago! Only thing left is to change to vforce reeds and lectron carb! Thing already runs great tho

[@GregHitchko]

Right on David! Let me know how you like the Lectron/Vforce Combo

[@tangerineRIDES13]

81yz80,83cr125,86trx250,89trx250,91kx250,93cr250,95cr250,2002cr2502007kx450 all are great bikes but my 95cr250 was my favorite 95-96 motors were holeshot king's nice video 👍👍

[@GregHitchko]

Good stuff right here! I had an 08 KX450F as well. But man I would love to find a 95/96 CR250 and build one!

[@SreidMX]

That 04 was a good middle ground for the motor, they have less mods you need todo for it to feel correct. Measure the squish, it should be around .040-.045 or 1mm if that’s off it’ll be lazy, also epoxying the transfer and boost ports help a ton with the low end. I have a thread on ThumperTalk about this and I think there is pics on how to fix it. This will be free basically if you do it yourself. Also putting a lectron or pwk will make it less sensitive as well as putting a vforce on it. Pick your pipe, I used the fmf sst but that’s a mid and up pipe and if I did this again I’d prop get a gnarly or a pc pipe to help the low end a bit. But make no mistake these are beasts once that’s done..

[@GregHitchko]

Dude this is great info Steve! I will definitely have to measure the squish. Super excited to get this one rebuilt. Going to stick with the PC pipe on it but really looking forward to it!

[@brendanxman]

Do these and document in video form please, I have an 04 with crotch and lectron but I still feel like the bottom is MIA, would love to see these done and get a review of it

[@GregHitchko]

@@brendanxman I've got an in depth video of the cr250 coming when I conduct my Throwback Two Stroke Garage Build Shootout in a couple months!

[@garymapes6955]

I'm looking for a 2001 but see alot of 2002-2005s for same prices idk if I should go for the newer ones or not

[@RED-RYDA]

Was a huge mcgrath fan and liked the commercials honda put him in during that time. One of my first bikes was an 01 xr100 Also. Still have it Greg. 🤘

[@Filip_Bubanja]

My first bike ever was two stroke two cylinder 1987 Jawa 350. If you can operate and service one of those succesfully, you are a true mechanic. I still ride one of those 350 old craps until today. Legendary bikes.

[@rafaonak9507]

Good bike, haved same, wery heawy. Now have Honda CR 250 1996.

[@emiljohansson8435]

Damn... that classic commercial was awesome! :) I had a ride red hoodie back the 90s.... too bad it got lost. Begged for the "base ball" jacket but never got one...

[@user-wu9dn6sl9y]

Honesty the 2003 and up are one of the fastest years . People today are still regurgitate old words of dirt bike magazine. I'm 38 years old I have was racing honda back in the day and the RC valve is very good. I have put my CR250 up against KX, RM and YZ250s back in the day from drag racing to moto. And it still was way faster. I feel like I need to make some videos to teach our young bucks the truth and if they get and old Honda honda to properly take care of the RC and head, exhaust port. (Like keeping it clean )

[@GregHitchko]

I can't wait to put the Honda up against the other bikes and test it out. You really should put some of those videos out. I would love to learn more about it so I support it!

[@jpaul5387]

Totally agree. I have an 03 kx250 all OEM, 03 cr250 all OEM, 06 rm250, an 06 cr125 with keihn carb upgrade, 03 cr85 all OEM and an 09 RMZ450. The Honda CR250 comes with me more then the other bikes and i got the cr85 matching it since my fiancée rides it. Will never sell either of them.

[@damiananalok1949]

Yeah for sure Honda Cr 2 strokes are fast. I have a 2001 Cr250r and it’s fast, but i want to get a keihin or lectron carb for it.

[@Workerbee-zy5nx]

From 81 on up the CRs dominated..Hondas are the Cadillac of dirt bike. All others are copy's. 🤷‍♂️

[@bjohnson1489]

Ride red🤟🤟🤟🤟

[@preslavdakov908]

I'm in love with this type of honda's I think the major problem with all bikes from 02 to 04 is the exhaust bridge cracking. I think that 70 % of the owners have this problem and don't even suspect it. decide they want to do a preventative maintenance like a piston change without any signs of a problem, there are also people who know about their problem and continue to ride their bikes like that

[@landonsawyer8373]

I got a 1989 PW50 when when I was 4 In 1999. Been hooked on 2 strokes ever since. I currently have: 1989 PW50 (I am the weirdo that still has his first bike at 28 years old) 1985 Tecate 3 KX250 2006 KX250 1986 LT500R (BEST QUAD EVER MADE in my oppinion) 1987LT250R 1995 CR500 (MY PRIZED POSSESSION, also my birthyear bike) 1985 ATC 350x (yeah I know its a 4 stroke but these are COOL) 2001 CR250

[@kmx509]

My first bike is my Apollo Chinese quad but my real first bike is my 2000 KX80. (Still have it! I have both.)

[@GregHitchko]

Never heard of that quad but that's badass!

[@kmx509]

@@GregHitchko "amazon chinese quad" stuffed a racing motor in it and called it good lol

[@cyrusgooding4860]

My first bike and the bike I currently have rn is a 2002 Cr125r!!!

[@GregHitchko]

Dude that's badass, I support that! Miss my cr125.

[@westsidemotorsports7116]

My first bike was a 07 yz450 but I’m a Honda boy with Hondas in cars and bikes I have a 02 cr250 now I love it

[@GregHitchko]

I had an 06 yz450f, thing was a beast! Good move on the CR now!

[@westsidemotorsports7116]

@@GregHitchko thanks man it’s definitely a whole new light on the 2 stroke world. I had a 2020 KTM 300 XC TPI then now the 02 CR250 and man the difference between the fuel injected 2 stroke to no having to premix my fuel 😂 we will see how it goes but so far I’m digging it.

[@GregHitchko]

@@westsidemotorsports7116 dang!! That’s awesome, I feel like you don’t go back in time like this without being a true two stroke fan. Hope you love the CR man 🙌🏼💨💨

[@Mr10usdad]

I have a totally restored 1995 CR250. I love it!

[@GregHitchko]

That is badass!!

[@Mr10usdad]

@@GregHitchko kzbin.info/www/bejne/j2Gqo2ibj8SId8k thanks!

[@martinhernandez7733]

Keep the Honda stuff coming THANK YOU SIR HONDA FOR LIFE

[@keithroberts3123]

For a bike that gets bad reviews it sure seems like everyone are building these bikes now. I built a 2004 and love it! Handles amazing and no problems with stock motor. I intended to do motor this winter, but Covid hit business hard so no funds. Next year I'm gonna have Varner tweak cylinder, ill do crank and complete low end bearings and maybe it'll be ready before my 60th birthday. It been a blast! Hate 4 strokes, they sound funny and don't have the right smell.

[@GregHitchko]

Haha I love the review Keith! Guys like you are the ones that inspire me to want to keep riding. There is really nothing like a Honda. A lot of these comments and reviews are from harsh critics but everyone is different on how a bike feels to them and none of them are bad bikes! It's great to be a part of the two stroke clan, gotta love it!

[@damiananalok1949]

Yes everyone talks bad about honda and yet so many old honda engines still running strong with no issues. Grew up riding on a 1986 Cr250r and just got a 2001 Cr250r last summer and everyone wants to buy my Cr250r, but ill never sell my 250r.

[@jeffa.8976]

My 01 Cr 250 was amazing. The average rider would be slower on it but if you were a pro level rider or close to it the bike was extremely fast and well built. For eg I could pull wheelies in 5th gear at about 65 mph with no clutch and barely pulling on the bars it was a rocket ship. It had good high speed stability and also cornered sharp. Going back a bit older though my 98 KX 250 was an easier bike to ride fast for anyone thats not a pro

[@GregHitchko]

Thanks for sharing that info on the 2001 Jeff! I hear those 2001 models are rocket ships, just like you had mentioned. I would love to be able to find an 01 250 at some point to build. I had an 01 CR125 and it lacked in the motor department pretty bad, even compared to my 1990 CR125, so I am curious about the 250!

[@dashiellbrown6735]

Had an 02 cr125 bike wasn't any good lacked power and never ran right even spending lots of money on it. Got a 2000 cr250 and it rips and never had a problem reliability wise as long as I did normal maintenance. Love it, faster than some 450s I've ridden.

[@GregHitchko]

I've ridden on 02 CR125 as well and wasn't impressed with it! I hear that those 00 generation bikes just rip though! I'd love to find one.

[@mxruben1996]

My first bike was a 1989 cr 125 and it was amazing in the power department, the suspension not so much haha but loved it. Keep up the good work really loving your vids 🔥🔥

[@GregHitchko]

Thanks my man! I feel you on that 89 CR125, my second bike was a 90 CR125. Thing was a rocket but did not enjoy the way it handled.

[@skystevenson24]

I would dust brand new 450's with my 89' CR250 at my track to the point where I sold my 4stroke for another crop duster.. the 1997 CR250 is the best bike I have out of 6 bikes including Rm's and YZ's. now I'm on the hunt for a CR500

[@GregHitchko]

Man I wish I was at a track where you had the 89 to wax these 450's! That would be such an awesome sight to see. Interesting you like the 97 CR so much as I've heard and read that people despise that AL frame! What did you like about it that worked well for you? Thanks for sharing!

[@Caleb.B]

My first bike was a 97 CR 125. Amazing bike had so much fun on it.

[@GregHitchko]

I've heard those bikes absolutely rip!

[@christerence8199]

Could you make a video explaining the 2000-2001 Cr250r like you did for this video!!!!!

[@GregHitchko]

Thanks for the suggestion Chris! I will definitely put it on my list of items to do. I think it would be rad.

[@legenderekonwheels]

I second this!👍 If I could marry my '01 cr250 woods weapon, I would.

[@GregHitchko]

@@legenderekonwheels Right on! That sounds like a plan, keep your eye out for it guys!

[@connarmarsh9060]

@@GregHitchko I third this lol, 2000 cr250

[@brandonburks7968]

With the lectron carb did you have any issues with the power valve I wanna say the stock carb had something electronic running to it is that correct?

[@GregHitchko]

Nope! With the Lectron on all models you will eliminate both of the TPS and solenoid

[@chrisban6007]

I had an 05 cr250. Loved that bike, and wish I still had it. Low bottom end power, but for me, that was fine. Suspension was ok. Thinking about getting a 2022 250SX now....

[@GregHitchko]

I really wonder how those new bikes would compare to the older CRs!

[@chrisban6007]

Well, I think the yz250 hasn't changed much since 07 or so. We could look back on how they did in the shootouts back then, and have some idea. I think if they would have kept advancing 2 stroke technology, they would be just as powerful as the new 4 strokes. But would the power be as manageable???

[@hondacr250cfh]

I prefer my stock 06 over my 00 I find the 00-01 to be over rated

[@riedertech5749]

Why would the last most refined cr250r be the worst? the rc valve worked good once you got rid of the tps connection on the carb! it was basicly a fight between two MAPs, better yet ditch the hard to tune mikuni tmx all together, case reed had higher volume good if it ported to match or slightly big bore to 265cc, the biggest issue was the piston the 02 -04 flat top with bad squish angle, the fix was a oversize dome piston and recut the head or further more cut the base of the cylinder down to fix both at once.. with a few things its a great bike hold the value the best. The yamha had way more bottom end but the honda looked and felt more sporty to me, the Suzuki rm had good jetting and felt reall snappy and steered almost too good, the kx250 imo was the worst it had some cool features but felt like it wanted to throw you off every turn also suspension felt weird and poor quality

[@julianlaustsen1991]

u should put a 00-01 engine in that 04 250

[@aussiedigger1441]

Omg that commercial was hilarious.. never seen that 1 in Australia. 1980 Yz 80 was my 1st bike, loved it.. 5 years later had a 1983 cr250 with kick-start on left side with rear sprocket around drum brake. It was a nightmare!

[@johndoe3johndoe382]

First bike was a Crf 80 f. I went everywhere on it, loved that bike as a kid.

[@GregHitchko]

Nice! I totally believe that, those bikes are rock solid

[@cywinslow5984]

My 2000 cr 250 with full fmf exhaust system pulls super hard on the top. As long as I keep it in the power band it will pull any hill.

[@GregHitchko]

I'd loveee to compare that year to the last gen years back to back. Everyone has been saying your year RIPS.

[@JohnBrown-km1by]

85-86, 01-02 crs were the best. Fastest 250 2T bike ive ever ridden was a 02 cr250. Nothing could compare

[@GregHitchko]

I'd love to do an 02 build, I had an 01 CR125 that I wasn't a fan of but never rode that year 250!

[@tuckercooper3661]

My first bike I was 7 years old and it was a 1997 cr85 that thing was crazy, especially for my size when I was riding it

[@GregHitchko]

That's rad! I'm bummed I never rode an 85 but have ridden a buddy's kx100. My brother and I jumped from xr100's right to 125's because we were too tall for 85's!

[@tuckercooper3661]

@@GregHitchko yea when I was about 4 I had a Honda xr80r and when I turned 7 my granddad and dad went in on buying me a 85 and that bike was so fun but it was big for my size at the time it put me in the hospital twice and they sold it and bought me a crf125 4 stroke and then I rode the wheels off of it and then I bought a ttr225 and then went to a 250 and now I’m at a cr250. It feels like it doesn’t have any power tho. Power valve hits but I can’t feel it, it’s super weak. It only does abt 60. I’ve adjusted power valve I have put a new top end on it but I didn’t replace the head gasket. Im thinking the reeds are shot or the head gasket blew

[@AjackLee4]

It's kinda cool actually, you and I are doing very similar things. All I need now is a CR250 and I'll have all of the big 4 as well as a Euro bike and an air cooled bike. Look forward to your progress!

[@GregHitchko]

Right on! That's awesome man, cool to have the collection as well.

[@thomasbucacci4177]

2001 xr50 when I was 3, i just recently bought and restored a 2001 cr250.

[@hondarider2067]

I have an 01' and love it. Wish I had the newer frame to stuff the motor in.

[@GregHitchko]

I hear that combo would be epic! That would be sweet to do a build like that one day.

[@russpawson966]

That's not my experience on a 2004 cr 250 and i owned it for over 10 years. That's the 3rd biggest mistake i made in my life selling that bike. Love from England.

[@GregHitchko]

I know right! If we only knew now how much we'd appreciate them. Wish I still had my 90 CR125, 01 CR125, and 03 YZ250. Thanks for the love from England, Russ!

[@russpawson966]

@@GregHitchko no probs mate hindsight is a very good thing i just wish i had it . If i did i would probably still have a Honda.. some times life is a battered but at least i rode one . Still love from England.

[@jcflyer6213]

80s XR80 was mine. Can't remember the exact year. Second bike was a 98 Suzuki DS80.

[@sasin2556]

First Honda was a 98 CR125 and I moved up to a 2001 CR250.

[@GregHitchko]

That's rad!

[@ethanlepley2162]

My first bike was a PW 50, then a KX 60, then XR 100, then CRF 250l, then CR250 baby

[@GregHitchko]

That is literally like the perfect progression right there Ethan!

[@misfit1-3]

my first bike 2005 crf450 yes big mistake getting a 450 but i loved that bike

[@GregHitchko]

Right on! Those bikes were beasts man, good stuff

[@christerence8199]

This is the video I’ve been needing 💘💘 thank you for making it please push more Honda 2 stroke content and compare them to other 2 stroke models of that era :))🙏🏽💘💘

[@GregHitchko]

Ohh you just wait! I will be pegging all of these two strokes against each other in a throwback two stroke shootout in a few months. Definitely stay tuned in to the channel and my instagram for the updates my dude!

[@theundenaiblebobtheundenai1911]

My first bike was a yz490 from 84 , my second is a yz 250 from 87 , and my third is a honda cr250r from 95

[@GregHitchko]

Damn thats a huge first bike! How did you like that 95 CR250R?

[@theundenaiblebobtheundenai1911]

@@GregHitchko i love my cr , corners are smooth , torqy down low with the gnarly pipe , but i miss a little top end power

[@hunterhill1013]

Technically I had an xr75 from a garage sale that ran once... But I would say my first bike I really rode it was a 06 kx450 4 speed, I was 20y/o Beast bike

[@GregHitchko]

My brother had that 06 KX450F as well, I had an 08 KX450F, monsters!

[@graysoncrigger3912]

So should i get a 2004 cause i could rn

[@GregHitchko]

Hell yeah, that would be a solid pick up! Grab it while you can!

[@marcspencer800]

I just bought an 03 in mint condition probably 10 hours max on it.. all oem! Like even stock grips, bars, and even warnings stickers still on it.. i paid 2500 and thought I over paid but was ok with it because of how pristine the bike was.

[@GregHitchko]

Dude that is actually a GREAT price on that bike, that person could have sold it for much more in this market at the moment. Hope you and enjoy and thanks for the comment Marc!

[@marcspencer800]

@@GregHitchko I wish it was an 03-06 rm250 because that’s what I raced the last year on two strokes and they were bad ass bikes.. but I’m old now (34) so although the Honda definitely isn’t the fastest bike ever made it’s PLENTY for me in my old age haha

[@GregHitchko]

@@marcspencer800 I'm choosing the 06 RM250 over the CR250 any day, especially after doing the shootout project and videos I did. The RM is a NICE bike, but a properly tuned CR250 can come alive too. Also, I'm 33 and a half in 4 days, cut that old talk out would ya 🤣. But with that being said, I have no need to swing a leg over a 450 again haha

[@marcspencer800]

@@GregHitchko I had a cousin (basically brother since we grew up in the same house together) that used to ride for American suzuki the last several years he was amateur before turning pro and I still have some cool parts laying around so I really would like to get an rm but just haven’t found one that wasn’t clapped out or they want 8k for it haha..

[@AverageJosh769]

First dirtbike is a 2006 crf250r, i broke my ankle on it and yet im dumb enough to still ride the same one

[@GregHitchko]

Haha nice man! Gotta get back up on that saddle when you fall off, only way to do it!

[@highnoon3156]

These bikes just need to ditch the mikuni carb and send the cylinder to Eric Gorr or someone who know what to do. Have them mill the cylinder down then some porting and head work. I watched the shootout and know you're trying to keep the bikes as close as possible

[@GregHitchko]

I have heard that those Mikuni carbs are the downfall of the Honda's during these years for sure. I'd love to send a cylinder to someone like him to get some work done and really get these bikes screaming.

[@jefftheis742]

Mikunis were garbage, I have a restored 94 kx 250 which is now an Eric gorr 295 and I will say it runs amazing, pulls away from modern ktm 300's

[@randytidwell5836]

i dont think the short comings of the motor was the electtronic power valve or case reed but it was no subports that cause this motor to not have any bottom end.

[@rybolsus396]

My dad bought three brand new 1982 XR80 for me and my two brothers that was our first bike

[@GregHitchko]

That is so rad! I know how that feels but just with an XR100!

[@michaelmays9292]

Mike was a brand new 1982 XR80 my dad bought 3 in the same day for me and my 2 brothers, my second bike was a brand new 1985 CR80 that year was the best looking of all the CRs that year ,and in my opinion there still tge best looking bike

[@GregHitchko]

Dude that is amazing! My parents bought 2 new 2001 XR100 for my brother and I the same day. We thought we were only getting one. Super cool!

[@zacharydevan4107]

1993 cr250r was the pinicle of 2 stroke motocross 250s.

[@GregHitchko]

I'd love to find one to do a build for!

[@oo0Spyder0oo]

Having no low down torque and all on the top, that was how my 74 green tank Elsinore ran. It had a 38mm carb which was huge back in the day so it would bog down unless you slipped the clutch and gave it some to get going. But when the power band hit, it was neck breaking. Just pure heaven on wheels.

[@GregHitchko]

Hell yeah! I can't wait to get out on test this one once it's all rebuilt!

[@HooligansMx]

I fell in love with dirt bikes and motocross when I was 5 in 95 and my first big bike was a 92cr125 still have the bike amongst others lol but my first bike was a early 90s Rm80 because as far as the 80cc class bikes when the rm 80 was always the best. The rm didn't look the best the looks wise it stayed outdated but for riding and racing the rm 80 was always the best

[@ThomasLifts1]

My 2nd bike was a xr100 amazing I road it everyday all day for years

[@GregHitchko]

Epic! I really wish I still had my XR100.

[@Jayarea510]

1996 cr250 for the win

[@GregHitchko]

That's whats up right there!

[@jessederossett1484]

They are the meanest and best

[@huntindandys4602]

My first legit bike was an 02 cr250r. Everything I've ridden/owned since hasn't even came close. Built a 02 yz250 last summer to the gills and still didn't have anything on the Honda. Miss that bike. She was a scary one lmao. I stand corrected, mine must have been a 01, didn't have a electric power valve. Been a couple years and been through many bikes since lol. Now I gotta dig up old information 🤣

[@Isaac804ab1]

My first bike was a 2001 pw50 when i was 3 years old actually started riding it 1 month before i was 4 so probably should say 4yrs old

[@GregHitchko]

That's awesome! Wild to start that young, I rode four wheelers at 5 and then dirt bikes weren't until I was 11.

[@Isaac804ab1]

@@GregHitchko the bike did have training wheals on it for the first year lol

[@stephenmiller2544]

I've got a 96, Last year I restored it with mostly original parts, I get more compliments on it than any bike I've ever had, When I let people ride at their blown away. In fact I let my brother-in-law race it in an Enduro a few weeks ago and hes already bought His own. They're bad-ass bikes they're not perfect in every way but there's something about it especially that year before they went to the aluminum frame.

[@GregHitchko]

That is badass dude. Makes me want to try and find an 96 now! Thanks for leaving that feedback on the bike 🙌🏼💨

[@raymondsiewert2720]

Not even close to being the worst Honda 2- stroke ! The airbox / airboot junction had a poor seal from the factory, which made them hard to jet and get them to run clean. Fix that, an FMF pipe with a Shorty silencer, V- force 3 reeds, proper jetting and they rip just fine. I have a 250 with about $ 4500 into it. Modern brakes along with perfect mechanical condition with OEM and aftermarket parts . I will never sell it, too much fun ....Braaap !

[@GregHitchko]

That is so badass! Crazy how a few little tweaks like that and you can have a ripper. I am excited to get mine back together and test it out against the other models

[@BeaverCreekAuto]

I’ve had my 03 for a decade now still not ready to trade it in I’ve road a 01 before felt super twitchy frame is absolutely horrible in comparison. I did some dirt drags with my 03 I had terrible reaction times on all my runs but I sling shotted past 3 way newer 450s before losing by a hair to my friend on a 2020 YZ250

[@GregHitchko]

Damnnn sounds like it's a beast!

[@Justthatguy420]

Had an 03 since 05 and it’s been a great bike. Could not part with it. Deff would like to find a newer bike and I would deff get a new 2 stroke Yamaha although nothing has changed in years. Just the new factor

[@GregHitchko]

That's awesome to hear! I can't wait to test them back to back once mine are all complete

[@jessejarzabski5076]

1979 Suzuki rm250 with blown out shocks, a worn motor with piston slap out the ying yang, fouled plugs every 15-30 mins......but I was 14 and was my first real dirt bike tht I had been saving up for years to get, and in 1997 I only paid 400 bucks for it and restored it cosmetically myself and was the absolute pride of my life at that moment and I'll never forget it.......although it was beat and tired, I still wasted all my friends on their 4 stroke Enduro bikes by a mile, tht thing was fast as hell for how worn out it was and...... that experience rooted in my brain for the love of 2 stroke dirt bikes and has never ceased since.....!!!!....and on another note, I really don't know what Honda was thinking when they designed and developed tht infamous, flat, uninspiring motor....and at the point Honda finally gets their act together with the suspension woes of the 90s long past, but subsequently, fails to balance the awesome package with a competetive motor that the masses would embrace.....thankfully modern tech can help mitigate such flaws from the factory but no matter what one does to the last gen motor, the 1992-2001 crv(composite racing valve) power plant remains a better design and a better performer in my opinion....

[@GregHitchko]

Man Jesse, I got chills reading your story because I felt like I was there with you riding that 79 RM250! Very cool, thanks for sharing! So cool hearing those types of stories. I'll never forget my first XR100 either where my brother and I thought my parents were only going to buy us one bike to share. When they dealer was loading the one bike up to the truck, out came another one, it was epic! I then proceeded to get home and flip it over on MY FIRST ride in front of my family and friends trying to do a wheelie LOL. I'd really love to be able to compare their RC valve motor to the CRV motor bikes. Never knew it was called composite racing valve. I really appreciate the share Jesse, this is the type of information people are looking for when they click on a video like this.