My 5 Least Favorite Bikes Ever - Updated for 2021

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Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
1:02 How to support
1:17 Ground rules
2:10 Number 5 KTM
3:41 Number 4 KTM
5:31 Number 3 Beta
7:08 Number 2 Honda
9:25 Number 1 Yamaha
11:21 Conclusion
Out of the 40+ full sized enduro bikes bikes that I've owned/tested for more than 60 days, here are my 5 least favorite bikes.
I have 5 bikes from 4 different bike makers:
2 KTMs, 1 Yamaha, 1 Beta, 1 Honda
Keep in mind that there isn't anything really "wrong" with these bikes (well, sort of). Much of the reason I didn't like many of them was because they just didn't fit what I was wanting to do at the time. Some of it was that I was trying to use the bike for something it wasn't designed for. Some of it was also that I simply wasn't a good enough rider at the time for that bike, and it made things a struggle.
These aren't inherently "bad" bikes, but I just had to pick the 5 bikes that I had the least amount of fun with, or the most trouble getting them set up, or my opinion of them dropped with the next model year.
5 - 2019 KTM 300 XC-W - I'm reaching a bit to include this bike, because for the most part it was great. Left me stranded and I didn't like it after riding a 2020. The main thing here was that once the 2020 model came out, this thing felt kinda like a dinosaur to me. If I never owned the 2020 or 2021 XC-W, I'd have had to pick another bike to put here.
4 - 2014 KTM 350 XC-F - Was my first 4 stroke after riding only 2 strokes for 2 years and I sucked at clutch modulation. Couldn't keep it running. This was totally my fault. They are actually great bikes. I just wasn't skilled enough to really ride it and appreciate it at the time. I'd been spoiled by a couple of 300 two strokes and wasn't ready for this challenge.
3 - 2020 Beta 300RR - The chassis, motor, clutch, and brakes were all good. Might be been the best looking bike I have ever owned. The issue was that Beta screwed up the valving on the KYB fork for this model year and it was the worst fork I've ever had in stock form by a country mile. The 2019 Race Edition fork was likely the best valved stock fork I'd ridden and one year later, it was the worst. Spent so much time working with the fork, that it just wasn't nearly as much fun owning that amazing looking and great performing bike as it could have been.
2- 2003 Honda CR250R - Was a restoration project. Ended up looking so sharp and sounding so mean! At the end of this project, by the numbers, it was the most expensive dirt bike I've ever owned (if you include anything for time and labor), and aside from the way it looked, it was likely my least favorite bike to ride... ever. Best money we spent on it was the suspension overhaul, but since we weren't riding it on a motocross track, it just never worked that well.
1 - 2009 Yamaha YZ450F - This was my first bike and it came within an inch of snuffing the life right out of me. Again, I was using this bike as a starter bike to ride around on rocky trails. Totally NOT what the bike was designed for, so this was my fault 100%. It's like buying an F1 Racing car as your first car ever and then taking it to some bumpy dirt road to drive it. I was setting myself up for disaster and putting a great bike in an impossible situation for it to look good.
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[@mikevieira8583]

I'd prefer a ranking based on poor design or manufacture, rather than rider issues.

[@DirtBikeChannel]

I could do that too. This was the angle that I felt better about. None of the bikes are perfect and so much of that is subjective. So I decided to go 100% subjective with my favorites.

[@tammyhanm3077]

Jus mad😂

[@bizzle4819]

Or build issues, that cr250 build sheet looked like a disaster tbh. They couldve cut the cost in half and had a way better offroad bike and still plenty of bling

[@DavidVanmeterDutch]

Or you could just appreciate the video for what it is since you can find a multitude of videos, articles and blogs discussing your criteria.

[@DavidVanmeterDutch]

Also, every person is going to have variation in what works for them, what fits their riding, or just what they like in many ways. There is a always people that will talk about negative experiences on everything! It is all about your own experience since someone will also always be happy with something no one else likes. It is almost 90% subjective. No bike manufacturer out there has 100% positive or negative.

[@katietrotter9374]

Some lucky sweepstakes guys watching this: “wait that’s my bike....” 🤣😂

[@adamutuber]

That's me, just bought a YZ450 2012 as my first dirt bike. I do however race road bikes so it's not like my first ever ever bike

[@katietrotter9374]

@@adamutuber no, he actually gives all of these bikes away to lucky winners in his sweepstakes. So the actual bikes in this video were literally given to 5 of his followers, who are now watching this hearing how much he does not like the actual bike that’s in their garage.

[@OttomanTurk209]

lol its all good. I have a 2002 cr 250, he gave it 2nd worst on the list. All the things he said is true tho. My biggesf complaint is the slow technical sections, cause 1st gear is too damn short and 2nd is meant for a lil higher speed.

[@garrett9974]

It's ok, the Beta was resold in the last month or so from the winner. 2021 Race edition forks are awesome, so guessing they listened and corrected their goof in 2020

[@singletrack_king7700]

ROFL hey it was free so

[@ADKPSTech]

Funny thing about this video is the title says “top 5 worst ever” when it should say, “top 5 worst bikes I’ve had”

[@Bruh-io2dd]

click bait😂

[@davidb9323]

Bet he’s had more bikes than most people here.

[@geneticfreakmotivation6669]

Click bait

[@JETZcorp]

It's basically illegal to make a "worst ever" list without spending some time on a TM400 Cyclone (and then subsequently some time in the hospital).

[@scottyd2262]

@@JETZcorp Yeah not only do they handle like a Cyclone, but the do the same amount of injury to your body ! The bikes back then were too fast for 4 inches of suspension and drum brakes.. I almost forgot the ball busting steel tanks.. lol

[@CraigSmith568]

Before watching I am going to guess a 450 four stroke is number one.

[@Schnot]

My guess is the CR250

[@mathews0618]

Oh it has to be the 450

[@vichammer1767]

Let’s go Craig your a genus

[@akeebreaky7521]

Yep, knew it was the yz450, I had the same problem when I 1st got back to riding when I bought a brand new 1999 yz 400, what a heavy pile of junk

[@carlatamanczyk3891]

@@Schnot Many years ago I performed enduro conversions on a 96 and 99 CR250. My son earned 2 gold medals riding the 99 CR at the Idaho City ISDE Qualifietd back then. The 96 was just used for mountain trail riding, never completed.

[@jeffwilliams409]

At the end of the day all of the major manufacturers produce awesome bikes. Just pick your color. It's all about the skill of the rider.

[@agentredbone1667]

My favorite bike is one that runs and shifts through all gears. I'm a single father of 4 kids. Toys come after family and I rarely get toys. I did just buy a $500 1990 Yamaha xt350. It runs and rides. Dont look pretty. Its missing everything that makes it a dual sport (all front and rear light assemblies and the front brake master cylinder assembly is completely missing. But...its something I can ride carefully and fix up as I go. My Ds650 baja x wheeler is down for the count as the jets are screwed up. Yall have fun ...ride safe

[@jessedevilbiss8436]

Yep.

[@dirtbiker4376]

Perception is so huge isn't it?! I am a die hard KX500 fan and actually ride technical trails all the time with it. With a hydraulic clutch, 18" rear, and a gummy tire, the thing is flat awesome! My boy is 150 pounds and rides a pristine '03 CR250 on the same stuff and some track - he LOVES it! Many people would say we are nuts for loving these bikes. Granted, newer tech does have some advantages. Bottom line, go with what makes you happy! Enjoy the sport! Give back where you can. P.S. summer's comin!!!

[@Glm4149]

Been riding a CR250 in the mountains of Colorado for years on all the tough single track, I love it. To each their own I suppose.

[@brandonschott437]

That’s right bro 2003 cr rips fools trippin

[@derrera6derrera659]

Whete do you ride because I have an rm 125 and go riding alot

[@Glm4149]

@@derrera6derrera659 all over the state, but I've found the best riding imo is Taylor Park, outside of Buena Vista. Tons of good riding on both sides of the reservoir

[@jeremysonneman1330]

Same here. He's 2 years too late though. The 97-01 are the best years. I got 97 frame 99 suspension and 00 engine sleeved bored and port worked. The thing rips.

[@brandonschott437]

Had the 1997 as well first year aluminum frame thing was a rocket ship

[@JC-ck4wk]

Just picked up a 2019 yz450f yesterday 😍 has 8 hours on it, newest bike I’ve ever bought!!! Thought I’d let the homies know lol

[@freedaslaves8333]

Nice man

[@rgw6rtrgw899]

superb bike, i have the same. get the tuning app on your phone and set the bike to suit your riding and you wont go far wrong

[@pablopopovich1762]

I have that bike! Its awesome but the only bad thing is you can never blame the bike. Also I use hard pack map not the mxa, preston or hard hitting map.

[@NickRomanoMX]

I got my 18 Yz450f a little over a year ago. No issues with it. I love it

[@yukonjon5964]

Kyle!... if anyone feels you are not a legit dude, they should watch this video. Your open honestly in explaining how things came together or fell apart in your biking experience shows that you are doing this because its a passion and a progression of your skill level, not just an ego to be a cool bike channel guy. Keep up the good work man!!!

[@oasis618]

I love how it's nearly impossible for you to be negative about anything. It's a great quality!

[@Mooper92]

And here I am with a 1997 KTM 300EXC and a 2001 Yamaha YZ426F. Using both for trails mostly, and absolutely loving them both.

[@alang3991]

I had a 2019 KTM XC-W and now have a 2021 Husky TX300. Difference in handling and suspension between the two bikes is night and day. The 2021 is so much better and easier to ride everywhere. Nothing really wrong with the 2019, it just never felt planted and had a higher center of gravity which didn’t help my confidence in technical terrain.

[@brakel8r]

I have a CR250 r and a CR125 r...bought the 250 from a buddy and the 125 new. Softened them up, bigger rear sprockets, big brake kits and they are both super fun in the trails. The tight twisties , believe it or not the razor sharp handling and light weight of the 125 is ...lets put it this way...the only thing that gets tired are my hands The 250 with the sprocket seems to be always close in the power band . Appreciate all your reviews

[@iamaze6218]

I’ve been following u for yrs now an remember when u had 10k subs!! It’s nice to see u are still around. I love your vids!! ✌️ from PA

[@TheChedberg]

New DBC video, great way to start the morning!

[@erickdj2009]

My 2008 YZ450F is a blast to ride out on the trails. All I did to it was change the CDI to a 2006 model and installed an aftermarket muffler & header. Favorite bike for the mountains. Sure, 1st gear is a bit tall, but not a deal breaker.

[@shakenbakebobby6149]

What was the reason for installing cdi from 06? Just curious

[@kentcarpenter42]

Thanks for the video! I know you say you won't race, but I'd love the content that comes from you doing your first race. Like the Idaho City 100 enduro (which has some wonderful single track by the way)

[@jamesokeeffe4614]

You seem very self aware I like how you take responsibility for stuff. I'm learning a lot from your channel I just got my first bike and I'm enamored with the whole sub culture. Thank you for saving me time and anguish and potentially bodily harm. You're definitely adding value to my life. Cheers from maine. Btw. It's a 85 hondaxr 80 frame with a 100 swap. It's got lots of new parts and its easy to work on. I'd like to watch you explain a valve adjustment on an older bike like mine so I can learn. Thanks again.

[@jarrodhutton8776]

Think the title should be changed on this video. To something like... 5 bikes Kyle isn’t skilled enough to ride. Sorry bro.

[@thepsychicpeach8425]

He literally said that in the beginning

[@scarab9762]

Hey man I love your show. I was shocked to hear the 09 yz450 was your least favorite bike. I still ride my 09 yz450 and I absolutely love it. Î ride single track, technical and just about everything. It's the second best bike I've owned and I've been riding since 82. Anyway, I appreciate your review and I agree you just weren't ready for that power yet. Anyone else who's reading this I can assure you the 09 is a great bike. I can hang with just about any other model or year anything. My only complaint is no e-start.. my favorite bike was a 99kx250 set up for trails.

[@caffeinated_rush]

Love the honesty, its not always a bike issue but the rider and that some bikes just aren't suited for everyone! I've seen guys do things on the same year/model bike as me that I didn't have the skill to do at that moment.

[@carlatamanczyk3891]

I bought a 21 Beta 300 race and had the KYBs revalved with trail valving. Works magic over the rocks now because that's what I ride all the time.. I love it!!

[@spuddog1102]

Great video as always👍

[@aliasfakename8076]

My first bike was a yamaha 450. It was a lot to handle at first but i got pretty good with it. Thankfully i used it mostly for dual sport/ adventure stuff which it was great for

[@speedyboi349]

In my opinion the best engine size for offroading is 250cc 4t Its the perfect balance between weight and power making it the easiest to manage without it getting boring

[@billhorrigan4388]

CR250R was my favorite trail bike here in Michigan for years. The MX suspension held up in the countless sand whoops we have. The XRs and WRs I tried all struggled to stay up in the travel. I don't know how the newer race ready "trail" bikes are to compare. But I bet the gearing is much better.

[@mikearagones2564]

Cr250r is awesome bike but he can't handle the power

[@EarthSurferUSA]

I am with you. On "the little O", 20 years ago with a stock 97KX250, not to many people could beat me on that sandy whooped out 40 mile loop trail. Now i have a better bike, (but no where near the speed), and it is a 2019 YZ250 that I lowered, and put some low rpm grunt into the motor. I also got rid of the ugly plastic that looks like was designed by batman. So if you see a guy with a white frisbee on the YZ for a front number plate, that will be me. :) OK, the frisbee is silly, but i hated the god of Thor arm shield looking stock plate, and I just thought the frisbee was funny. Since I don't laugh enough today, I am keeping it. :) Doug in Freesoil Michigan.

[@billhorrigan4388]

Sadly I will not be seeing your Frisbee on the trails. I moved to Dallas a couple of years ago. There are no public trails.down here to enjoy.

[@bradenruddock216]

You should give the honda one more chance if you can find a 93-96 cr250. The steel frame is amazing in the woods plus the 91-01 motor has tons of bottom and mid end power.. If you can find a 93 they were under sprung in the forks for motocross but work well on trails plus they came with a 18" rear!

[@BAYAREAMX]

The 2006-2009 yz450f was one of the best bikes ever made. I owned 3 of them.

[@billygildark4565]

2006 was a little different than the 08-09. 08-09 had shorty restrictive silencer and tuned down ecu and different exhaust cam profile. Throw on a 04 ecu and cams (direct swap) with a aftermarket exhaust and the 08-09s really wake up

[@johnnyofast5924]

Agreed, My '07 has been a workhorse.

[@johnnybgood774]

My 04 is a beast only a 4 speed tho

[@mx118racer]

Totally agree . I've owned prob 15 07-09 yz450f . I have one in USA I use for mx holidays and I still race 09 yz450 now .( in Australia) And have tried many times to update ( 10,11,14, 18 yz450f , 12 rmz450, 17,19 ktm450sxf , 19 kx450f ) For mx they just feel light . Nimble. Good mid range hit . Plush suspension. Definitely just wrong purpose it isn't a woods bike. could be a handful as a novice too.

[@yamahayz8528]

Yes

[@ACAtuker]

Love this channel, I had a 2007 yz450 that I rode single track with for years and I loved it, bit I switched to a yz250 and it's so much better. You should try a timbersled snowbike! I have a kx500 snowbike and turbo yz450, it's a blast

[@mohabreindeer3895]

I'm currently building a turbo YZ450f. I'd love to hear more about your bike. Any videos?

[@gmx0413]

Somehow, the first bike I ever rode (which I loved) was a kx125 2 stroke and i was perfectly fine because i knew what to expect. I was 7 and maybe 4'7 I'm 6 foot now and that's my primary class. Edit: I should mention I am talking about my first time riding that specific bike, and I had to use cinderblocks until I was tall enough to own it

[@davegantulga9838]

My very first bike was 2006 yz450f. Learned to ride on it on single track. Ended up hating it, now a few years later, i miss the yz450.

[@kanebalchin1419]

A heads up from the UK. Back in 07 a small group of brits headed to Erzberg which had come onto the radar due to David Knight, Travis and JMc G. A young unknown called Paul Bolton (aka 'Bolts') rode a standard Honda CR250 2t, shop sponsered (18" back wheel , no sticky tyres(then)) to 7th place, then went to Romaniacs and finished 2nd in the prologue behind Cyril Desperes (whom complained that Bolts had no lights on his bike, duh!) but broke some bones on the first day. In 08 still on his CR he came 3rd at Erzberg. In 2009 Graham Jarvis(1st timer) rode a Sherco 250 4t to 2nd place from 112th starting pos (3rd row) and Andrew Cripps a standard KX250 2t to 11th from 125th. Bolts has always been a privateer (and was 6th overall in WESS 2018,had to sit 2019 out due to bad knee damage) and is currently running a Husky 300 TPI, (thanx to a sponser) but it is quite modded. He has Kayabas back and front and a GET ignition system that also moves the Injectors back down to the reed block area and a different throttle cam . I can tell you that his bike snarls and barks like nowt I've ever heard !. Mebe you'd like to get in touch with Paul or his wife Lisa via Dirtbikespec.com Am sure they would be approachable. Cheers

[@mm7460]

Cr250 2007... Best bike I've owned and still do 13 years later...

[@hondacr250cfh]

Brought an 06 new and I still have it

[@brandonschott437]

Dam straight bought my 2003 brand new still rips after 18 years never been rebuilt

[@isgrimner]

@@brandonschott437 Rebuilding my 2003 (bought new in 2005 as new old stock) Only reason I'm rebuilding it was because the throttle cable got caught while riding and the needle got sucked down into the bottom end of the engine. Before that it always started right up with hardly any effort and rode pretty good, at least I thought so.

[@brandonschott437]

@@isgrimner hell yea that’s a good bike Throw a new piston and some rings in it she’ll be a runner

[@racingdreamz8021]

I started this year on a modified 2009 Yz450f…..Learned stunts & everything already I can honestly never see myself selling the bike I absolutely love it 😍

[@nickbryant2035]

Props for your honesty! This is a good video that goes to show if you are a more advanced/faster rider you will probably have a completely different experience than another rider. I have owned 4/5 of these bikes and have ridden the 350s quite a bit. I pretty much disagree with some of what you said but that is because we are going different speeds, are riding different terrain and I’m willing to put in some work to suit me vs how it feels out of the box. I do enjoy your content Kyle. Not hating

[@yukonjon5964]

Yep. half the guys in the comments have likely never ridden Kyle's local terrain. That rock country keeps you on your toes. Having the wrong bike for the job is just plain dangerous. Where as most of us can just push what we ride through most conditions and still safely have fun.

[@rambler8870]

Hey man. Love the channel. Referring to your mention of the KTM 350 XC-F, and you saying you think it was more your inability to ride that kind of bike and flaming it out. I don't know if that's the case. I'm not sure of which year models had this problem, but quite a few people (one being one of my best friends) were having the same problem. My friend is races in the pro classes, highly skilled in cross country/Enduro racing, and definitely a 4-stroke guy. If I'm remembering right, it turned out to be a design flaw in the factory/OEM fuel-rail that was causing this. KTM fixed this issue in the later years. I can't remember if he replaced the fuel-rail with an upgraded one from KTM or if it was an aftermarket one, but I know he ended up replacing that (and maybe doing a couple other things) and that solved the problem. Bike was phenomenal after that. He now has a 2019 KTM 350 XC-F (came with better fuel system) and it's been an awesome bike. So, I know I wasn't there, but those flameouts may not have been your doings. Lol. Just was curious if you were aware of that fuel-rail issue.

[@michaelvandesluis7581]

WOOT WOOT! My bike made the list! 2014 350 xcf. I do admit it took a few technical rides to get the clutch work dialed in!

[@aLn12301]

09 yz450f was also my first bike which I bought in 2015, still own and love this bike to this day. I ride this motocross bike at motocross tracks.

[@scarab9762]

I love my 09 YZ.. I can rip trails with the best of em

[@kevinjhuffman5009]

Still flying past other bikes on my '79 YZ400. Still runs and looks like its new. Paid $400 for it in 1984.

[@2216sammy]

I have the 1980 G model YZ , you can NEVER go wrong with a Yamaha .

[@scarab9762]

I was as fast on my 83 yz490 back in the day as I am now on an 09 yz450.. I was a lot younger and wilder back then! Lol

[@mxtvloggz5809]

I haven’t watched it yet but I know this is about to be an interesting video

[@riodj80]

The 2009 YZ450 is one of my favorite bikes of all time. I loved that bike.

[@KosmicHRTRacingTeam]

A CRF guy myself but YZF would be my second favorite. I’m gonna guess you have been riding a while and not a beginner 😉

[@trevor866]

Agreed. I have an 08 and it absolutely eats trails. Awesome bikes.

[@motopunk9516]

i sold my yzf450 2018 and got a 2009 yzf250 for me its the best all around bike ive ever ridden...and its the same weight as ktm's

[@riten0tajs623]

@@motopunk9516 I'm a 250 four stroke fan aswell. It feels quite a bit more nimble than the big 450 combine harvesters. My dad has owned a ktm 525 and he says he likes my sxf250 more than his current sxf450.

[@motopunk9516]

@@riten0tajs623 you can ride the 250 more agressively thats how i feel and its always a plus when a bike is lighter

[@shrubitup]

Fully agree on the 350XCF. I am quite good at clutch modulation but that bike lives to flame out anywhere off of a open course. Too bad you didn't gel with the CR250. Agree its first gear is insane tall for off road but the overall handling of the 02-07 frame is/was amazing to me.

[@mathews0618]

Nice job with the channel 😎

[@DirtBikeChannel]

Thanks Mike

[@gpaull2]

Agreed on 350xcf. Had a 2015. Adding a Rekluse cured the flameout and totally transformed the bike. Could do everything from hard enduro to desert after that.

[@scottyoz2460]

What’s a Rekluse please?

[@alphawolfadventures1470]

@@scottyoz2460 auto clutch for people who aren’t good with a clutch

[@DeerKiller011]

I forgot kyle used to have hair. 😂😂

[@CraigSmith568]

His voice sounded deeper too.

[@DirtBikeChannel]

I still do have hair! Just not as much, so I shave it multiple times per week :)

[@gmx0413]

@@DirtBikeChannel I feel ya man

[@ADVlife287]

@@DirtBikeChannel me too 😂

[@wesmorey6167]

He looked thinner also!! LMAO!!

[@jameshaney4494]

Same thing happened to me. Friend at work got me into riding, sold me a clean, well maintained 2007 YZ 450F. (after coming off a 1997 YZ250). I spent all kinds of $$$ to try to make that 450 a trail bike. Lots of Time, modifications, frustration, & injuries, all paid to TRY to make it a trail bike.. If I knew what I know now, I never would have bought it, & considering all the time & $$$, I invested on that bike, I could have easily bought a brand new, off the showroom floor KTM 450 XC-W. I really like your channel. I hear you send this message, about getting the right bike. I think we need to hear it more! Good educations are never free, & Lord knows I paid the tuition with my money & my body. All bikes are not the same. Get the right bike for terrain you anticipate to ride on is a serious consideration not to be taken lightly. Expecting any 2 wheeler to do everything where you enjoy doing it , you are living in a fools paradise.

[@mattkuretich8408]

I'd like to see you review a XC-F 350 now and see how much better you ride it than early on.

[@tylerhanisch]

Id really like to see your opinion with a comparison video with new vs old bikes. Ideally the KTM 300 XCWs. I have an 07 KTM 300 XCW and made it look and feel as new as i could but have been thinking about upgrading. If you read this, thanks for taking the time. Love your videos

[@GregHuston]

This guy gets more bikes a year than I have in the last 20! One bike that surprised me as being awesome in the woods was a 2006 RM250 that just had a bigger tank, weighted flywheel and some hand guards. I sold it and bought a 2008 KTM 300 XC and it wasn't as fun to ride as that RM250. I do want to get one of the newer 250 XCs though.

[@youtubeaccount9058]

Given you blame yourself for your bad experience with the 09 YZ450F, it would be fun to do a 'reunion' episode where you borrow an 09 YZ450F and ride and review it.

[@DirtBikeChannel]

Anything is possible!

[@christobey4198]

@@DirtBikeChannel I had a 2007 yz450f that with a flywheel weight and lower gearing and it worked quite well for single track. The thing was just a beast and wore you out by the end of the day.

[@robertatkins272]

@@christobey4198 I have a 07 YZ450F set up the same and yea is a TON of bike, way more than I need, but still very rideable. My sons CR150r... now that thing is a pain to ride woods on!

[@juanrabie6712]

1:45 damn that pype is a beauty😍

[@dravenw13]

So I have a question since I made the same mistake as you and bought a 450 motocross bike as my very first bike, and was curious what was your second bike you got? What size was it? What was it made for? And what did you ride it on(trail or track)?

[@riccochet704]

Gotta say, my old 2003 CR125R was the best bike I've ever owned. I did a full frame down resto on it in 2010, 144cc Eric Gore big bore. That bike ripped and was stupid fun in all conditions. Track or trail. I seriously regret ever selling it. The only down side was the big bore had such high compression I needed to run 100+ octane. So I'd usually run 110 race, and at $10 a gallon, well, that got old and expensive rather quick. But it smelled like victory! lol

[@brocwavra8813]

Question. I am in line to get the Beta 430 RR-S 2022. My friend who was a Baja 1000 champion loved his past betas so I am taking a chance. I know the forks are crap but the rest of the bike I hear is great/. Including motor. Please let me know your thoughts

[@Toobluejzs147]

I got a 2001 cr250 and man i love it offroad haven’t taken it on any trails yet, but iam supper excited and iam glad i got rid of my 2015 125sx and iam so glad i did!

[@joeyholthusen6495]

Can you order a maico 700 and try it out? I'm into more off the beaten path trail riding.

[@robnelson7537]

What exactly was wrong with the valving of the forks on the 2020 Beta? You say it was bad and that you had to revalve it to fix it, but what exactly did you have to change in the valving?

[@dougackerman4182]

Love your channel

[@cstCST-ny4ep]

I know this is a late comment but I also had a 2003 cr250r and out of all my bikes it was my favorite although it was a motor cross bike. I think that’s what it was meant for and it’s the only 2 stroke I’ve owned that didn’t ever foul a spark plug or have any mechanical issues. It was very reliable and I rode it hard. Motor imo was a 10/10 for two strokes.

[@codyjoseph44]

I guessed all of these correct except for the 2019 300xcw ... I figured the 150xcw would've been lower on your list than that one

[@kyleole1459]

A big part of riding dirt bike is to know where you're skill level is at. If you're riding the wrong bike, or too big of a bike, it's not just unsafe, it's just harder to have fun when you have to try everything to control it. I love my cr125 because it fits me well. I'm slowly being able to use all the power it has but I'm also not risking my safety, to a point. But it's still a tall bike for me so I have no interest in getting a 250cc two stroke at this time. The 125 is just fun and controllable. 1993 cr125.

[@ZSmith-yy4lv]

Yeah, 450 as a first bike isn’t too good. I think I want one for a second bike when I do end up selling. Mainly because I want to convert to a dual sport, otherwise I would probably stick with a smaller bike for my trails. Good video.

[@Wreckhouse69]

Ya idk some reason people just aren’t comfortable on aggressive 450s they gotta get those hours in on a weaker bike and adjust to the throttle bc i seen way to many people just whiskey tf out of the throttle and basically die first day out

[@tkwood]

Like you I have an 06 CR250R that I completely restored. I paid 4k for it and put in another 6k. From suspension, wheels and tires, exhaust, to like you complete refresh by polysport and a lectron carb. Like you I am surprised how single focused the bike is. It is either all on or all off. Not much else. Doesn't like to lug, doesn't like to go slow on a trail. It loves to rip around a track. I still own it and ride it occasionally with VP Fuels T2 so it gives me the memories of attending old supercross races by the smell, but for the most part it just sits in front of my garage on it's stand. About ever 2 or 3 weeks I go out and ride it around a bit.

[@DirtBikeChannel]

Yeah, it just wasn't great in the end. Didn't matter what we did to the bike, I just couldn't ever make it as much fun to ride any the other bikes.

[@highnoon3156]

All it takes is a flywheel weight,, and send the cylinder off to eic gorr or millennium. The cylinder needs to be milled down .3" i believe to lower the port timing. And Get the "mo betta" o porting. Get the head mod for lower octane of your not running race gas.I think it was maybe $250 but by far the best mod ive done on the bike. Replacing the mikuni is a good thing to do, but doesn't do much if you were already jetted properly. I have no issues with it in pretty knarly Colorado single track. It makes it through Donnar pass her outside fort collins

[@highnoon3156]

The problem is people are paying too much for the crs initially, and don't do the right mods to the motor. I got mine mine for $3500 all new top and bottom end, receipts from engine builder with 18 in powder coated wheels hubs exhaust ect. Only thing I've done is the cylinder, and carb

[@KosmicHRTRacingTeam]

@@highnoon3156 yup. Just throwing money at it isn’t going to make it much better. Lots of bling on that thing (which is cool, just don’t bitch about the money when it doesn’t actually make it ride better!!). If you know the motor, fly wt, gearing, suspension mods to make, AND how to set it up this bike can be as good as any 250 2t

[@kontopriaspantelis9131]

cr250’s were built to rip around tracks. Honda built them for that. With all due respect but turning it into a more trail focused bike won’t do much, as any mods you do won’t specifically help the bike. For example, the ergonomics of the frame may not match to your suspension mods, so it might not feel the way you want it to feel

[@Jayden-ti2ch]

I have a 2015 ya 85 big wheel now and it rips and goes so well and my suspension is perfect 👌 thanks to my dad

[@firemenonbikes]

We all know which would be worth the most in 20 years... The CR for sure.

[@hondacr250cfh]

Lol I have an 06 250 put up

[@michaelholguin9112]

i want to get the beta 2019 one like you said but where do i get one i live in cali and is it good for the desert?

[@Sanguine_Addiction]

If I'm not mistaken, Mountain Motorsports in Ontario is an authorized Beta dealer. Or you can go on Beta USA site to get a list of all authorized Beta dealers.

[@JoshStreetDesign]

My 2017 xc-f 350 with Rekluse is the best bike I've ever ridden, it's a beast, rips, and rarely ever stalls after I had it all dialed in.

[@Lucid9host]

my 3rd bike was a 2008 yz450f, completely rebuilt it. loved it!

[@davebutler9276]

Growing up in the 70s and 80s riding old SL70s, XR75s, MX100s, MX175s and YZ125s gives me an appreciation for any bike built in the last 10-15 years. They are so far advanced beyond what I grew up riding but am glad i had the chance to grow up on those old bikes...They helped me be a better rider. I think riders today start out on bikes that are to big or powerful for them...they don't build the skills on a small bike first because everyone has to have the biggest/baddest bike to start with.

[@EarthSurferUSA]

70's, 80's and 90's here. Started in 74, bought my first bike at the age of 12 making $1.00/hr part time. We all bought our own bikes as kids. Then the 1986 production rule and the 4-stroke forced on the industry mad the bikes so un-affordable, 90% of what once was market share is gone. I bet the difference between then and now for you; If you were a kid today, you would be able to afford a new bike. Yea, all your trails and tracks are grown in too I bet. The sport is already dead.

[@EarthSurferUSA]

you would "NOT" be able to afford a new bike

[@TERollin89]

I liked the comment you made about your first bike the Yamaha YZ450F. I bought a 2009 CRF450R as my first bike and that was a bad decision. Now looking to get a 2022 Husqvarna TE150i and start fresh.

[@splitrockfence]

You got two things right. CR250 is awesome for motocross. And the 2009 yz450 is like a Ferrari.

[@scarab9762]

I love my 09 yz450

[@samboy121]

Loved my 03 CR in the bush. Was a great bike when ridden hard, but it did have a tendency to bog down in the low revs which was a pain in steep technical stuff.

[@carlosduran514]

I think you should try the new Beta 300 RR 2021, many pros riding it right now, looks like it’s much better for hard enduro etc.

[@adrianrouse5148]

I keep hearing the new yamaha and honda Fourstrokes enduro bikes don't like to run slowly in knarly sections. They spit and pop and cut out. Would fitting a pumper carb fix it???. Are they running to weak to meet emissions.

[@ajbritton1569]

The cr250r is a motocross bike you should have went with the rmx or the kdx or the yz250wr if you were doing a old bike for off road

[@noname-jr1vo]

I'm from the south East Coast. Woods and trails. Red clay. Super fast. Lots of traction if the ground is right. Lots of wide open 5 and 6 gear riding with hills and jumps. Motocross bikes are ideal for our trails. Idk if I'd have any fun over all that desert sand and rocky stuff.

[@liamhenderson9503]

I'm 15 and a yz450f is my first bike and I'm perfectly fine with it no issues at all I think it's mad fun and easy to learn with

[@traxxasrcfun]

Weird world, my 99 cr250 that I just fixed all up is my favorite bike I've ever owned. And I've had tons of bikes including newer 450s. I also use it for enduro type riding

[@snowflake277]

I have a 96 cr250r and a 01 250r they are mint bikes and I have no problems in trails and track

[@coreyholte6007]

I bought the 2013 XF350F the first year KTM turned up the power and from owning XC300's since 2007 this was a game changer cheater bike. My favorite off-road bike to the Kailub Russell Factory Edition I just picked up so will see how it works out. Suspension is for sure the key to every bikes setup.

[@emerak_22]

Hey can you make a video explaining the difference between, say motor cross bikes and idk trail riding bikes? I guess i would like to know, how do i pick the bike best fit for me depending on what i'm doing? if that makes sense.

[@tommyisaboss]

Dirt bikes are great because you find the valving on the 2020 300RR race edition to be horrible but for me in my fast, flowy midwest trails I find it absolutely perfect. To each his own!

[@DirtBikeChannel]

Yep.

[@benjaminsmith8058]

With me starting out early in life with dirt bike riding with little 80cc two strokes and 100cc fourstokes at like age 10 to 12 going to a heavy steel frame 1987 Rm 125 at 14 was a walk in the park it's just the mistake I made was thinking I could just jump to an old school 1980 Husqvarna WR 500 if left hand kick wasn't a world of confusion for me , actually riding that beast at 15 years old scared the crap out of me and almost killed me and what saved my life was downgrading to a 97 Honda Xr 250 the following year

[@brettkenney6464]

Kyle Ive been riding since I was 7 my last bike was a 2003 crf450r, which I sold in 2013 not because it was to powerful I loved that bike just had priorities and stopped riding. A lot of guys are telling me just to get a new 250f cause they are so advanced from my old bike that the 250 is plenty and the new 450s are to much power. I ride practice tracks, mostly pits love jumping, and some trails. Im concerned about buying a 250f and 2 months later wishing I bought another 450. Im not worried about having an x or fx model cause im 5'10 and under 150lbs, so whatever model i get I want the race model cause they are lighter than the x or fx models. Im stuck between a ktm 250 sxf, yz250f, or kx250f. Or if I should just get the 450 again. I love the low end grunt power on the 450 but I am 40 years old now and want to have fun as well and not be tired after 1 lap. Any input Kyle would be great?1

[@BigDaveTALKS]

Oh my GAWWWD!! Totally agree on #1. I got the 2019 WR450F, for my 1st bike getting back on the dirt. After adding the ECU& CCU, then really dumbing down the power and a lot of practice for almost a YEAR, i am now using the full maps and riding at a fairly good level. I honestly hated the bike when i first got it and it was kind of depressing. We are all good now😬👍

[@DirtBikeChannel]

haha! glad you got it sorted out.

[@robinbrowne5419]

My least favourite bike was my friend's Yamaha 400 motocross bike back around 1975, because it went around 30mph in 1st gear and would suddenly get on the pipe on steep, twisty trails. Yikes. My most favourite bike was my Yamaha 100 Trailmaster because it had a super low 1st gear and the rotary-value engine had tons of low end torque (for a 100 that is). Perfect for the steep trails through the woods where we lived in Quebec at the time.

[@eduardocortes9118]

What bike you recommend for off road baja type style, thinking for buying my first bike and I don’t want to buy a moto cross only bike by accident

[@jthondacrf8926]

I love you're videos 📹 awesome 👌

[@jasonjaeger4042]

Seeing as riding bikes is 80% skill, 20% machine, none of these bikes are bad. A talented rider can do most anything they want on a pos.

[@MichaelAbramo]

My favorite bike that I'm also the most frustrated with: Yamaha YZ250X. Yamaha... Stick the engine in the 4 stroke chassis. If you want to be extra nice put an e-start on it.

[@DirtBikeChannel]

I've been saying this for some time now. They have all the pieces needed to upgrade that bike and make it killer! Why don't they do it???

[@superlativegoose5447]

personally i really like the yz250 frame

[@jonathondavis170]

Yamaha is actually looking into putting some R&D money into their two-stroke program, however, it was dependent on how many sales they were getting in the depth. and they also mentioned how for now, they like keeping their two strokes at a lower price point for added value - much like an SWM RS300R & RS500R that is a resurrected 08-10 Husqvarna TE310 & TE510 with a few added upgrades. So stay tuned...let's cross our fingers! Also,, I test drove the new WRs and let me tell you that I am in love, when I thought it couldn't compare to the YZ-FX line! I loved my 2016 YZ250FX I had, however, my next purchase shall be a 2021+Yamaha WR450F due to the sheer versatility of engine, chassis, and suspension - would look great next to my new TM Racing EN300ES too! Go give it a try - will blow your mind if you are a racer or aggressive rider that rides weekly alternating from trail to track without ergos and comfort being negatively affected...the suspension valving seems even more versatile than the YZ-FX line, NO LIE!

[@MichaelAbramo]

@@jonathondavis170 yeah well the other thing is I don't want to spend 10k haha. Otherwise I'd buy a TM or Sherco 250

[@dong8307]

Keeping it real. Love the content. Great stuff.

[@chobitrial]

i like to see you in more different bikes brands, like TM, Gas Gas, for example

[@atmusic9694]

I'm hoping to get a CRF250r for trail riding. Is that a good idea? Same with a CRF250x

[@pags1981]

2003-2007 CR 250s were excellent MX bikes with decent mid range, everything felt good.

[@cumnmrmptaaa4234]

Great video, totally unbiased

[@tylerdaavettila5148]

The first “big bike” I purchased was a 2017 KTM 350 XCF but he’s right it is an easier bike to kill on the trail if you’re not covering the clutch.

[@graemebartmann7872]

Just install a rekluse clutch ☝️

[@TheKinety]

Funny enough my first bike was 2002 Kawasaki KX250. I was 15 and a scrawny little shit barely weighing 130 lbs lol. Never used a clutch before. So I popped the clutch accidentally, stood that sucker up, literally catwalked it (my feet were on the ground I was walking with it lol) 20 feet and dropped it into a pile of firewood. Scared the shit out of me, took it in a couple days later and traded it. Eventually got on to a slightly modded 2002 ktm 125 sx. It came with a free motocross lesson. Learned to ride that day, and saved my love for dirtbikes.

[@heylisten5329]

Watching Dirt Bike Channel reviews to form opinions - oldest bike ever mentioned is ~2009... newest bike I've ever ridden was a 2007 :')

[@jthondacrf8926]

I have the 2019 honda crf 450x it is by far the best bike I've ever owned it does awesome on the trails

[@mirorados7208]

Is yamah yz250f 2006 good for begginers, found one for $1500, or should i find newer or another bike