You guys put out a top-quality magazine and I highly recommend it to all my riding buddies. Unbiased tests and comparisons, with by far the most comprehensive data offered to the reader. With that said, I’m asking for your advice. In 2005 I bought a KX250 (two-stroke) based on your comparison that year. It was perfect for what I bought it for (vet/intermediate moto), but last year I missed a double and severed my rotator cuff. Two surgeries later, realizing maybe I don’t have the reflexes I used to, I promised my wife I’d quit racing competitively. My primary riding these days is in the California high desert, with an occasional trip to Glamis (my daughter is a fan). But the problem is I also still enjoy a track day here and there at Competitive Edge or Elsinore.I’m 54 years old and weigh 185 pounds. My question is, do you think it’s worth the investment to do a big-bore conversion and a Steahly flywheel weight? I’m not a 450 fan, I’ve owned two and went back to my beloved two-stroke. I had the suspension dialed by Race Tech and really love the bike. I just need a little more grunt that’s user-friendly for the riding I’m into these days. I figured I could pull the flywheel weight for track days. I know Jimmy raved about his KTM 250 for being a “do-it-all” bike and am looking to try to accomplish the same thing. I can afford a new bike but don’t really know what I’d buy.Kevin Klinzing
Anaheim, CA
Buy a 125 and you will be forced to stop trying to jump stupid stuff. It has worked for me. I don’t have any experience with big-bore stuff on KX250s, but there is typically a trade-off and it usually isn’t good. The flywheel weight will only smooth the power. Try to beg a ride on a newer Yamaha YZ250. Stock, this bike might just be enough for you… -Jimmy
