First Test Service Honda2-Strokes
Kawasaki KX250AF
On the motocross track this was the pick: crisp steering, a light feel and a solid hit to the powerband, this is likely what Kawasaki would be building. These engines were always a little prone to pinging under a load, and we heard a bit, but overall this package seemed happy. A KX250F has great, plush suspension, but the feel is very different with the two-stroke engine. We were able to come up with settings that worked well, and that was saying something. Perris Raceway was rough with deep corner ruts on the day we were there. When we hit trails the KX was snappy and nimble, so-like any MX bike-it worked great when there was traction but required ample care in loose rocks or on skatey hardpack.
Opinions
Karel Kramer
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 215 lb
Vet B
Of these two-strokes, the one I expected to like was the AFX, but the one I actually liked was the KX250AF. I like them all better than any 500cc two-stroke, though. While I had the CR250AFX it required clean air filters and absolutely zero other attention. The tires started to show wear, but it was nice to have a bike that was so well equipped and was eternally ready to run.
Ryan Orr
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 170 lb
Pro
For me, the KX250AF was the most fun on the track. The engine has good boost, and was actually better than I remember the KX250 being. The handling doesn't lose that good feel the 250F chassis has, and we were able to dial the suspension in pretty close with the clickers. The Honda was comfortable, and the suspension was closer right out of the box, but the crushed pipe and older engine design shows. Plus, the front end just wasn't giving me confidence, and we had excellent traction available at Perris Raceway on the day we tested.
Pete Peterson
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 160 lb
Vet Novice
I rode the two MX bikes on the rough Rynoland lower track. The KX retained the retired stock two-stroke's handling feel to me, which is that I didn't trust the front end. The bike felt like it was stinkbugging, a sensation I got with the stocker no matter how much sag I dialed in. Also, the engine seemed a little sputtery getting on the throttle at low rpm. The Honda's handling was very neutral, and though it vibrated the buzz wasn't a deal breaker. The engine has power and crisp pinger response, but not so much that the bike is difficult to ride. The bike this AF would go head to head with in my mind's shootout would be the 2009 YZ250. The red bike responds better to rider input and doesn't have the YZ's overly aggressive throttle response, making for an exotic that's actually easier to ride.