Is an '86 250R a decent trail bike?

[Kwattro]

I'm considering buying one but I'm afraid it's too hard-core to use as a trail machine. What can be done to make them better trail machines anyway? I'm used to riding an '85 Big Red, but want something more powerful and nimble. 205R a good move for me or not? :crazy:

[inv3ctiv3]

I'm sure it would be pretty good, you'll always have the 2-strokers and 4-strokers arguing over which is best but IMO the best trail trike is the 350x. IMO it is more reliable of a bike as well, 2-strokes are great but if you're real far away just make sure you got a couple of spark plugs.

[cr480r]

IMO the only advantage a 4-stroke has is fuel range. as long as the 250r doesnt have a wild port job or a top-end pipe it should be a great trail machine

[Kwattro]

Is the factory exhaust very loud on the 250R? Is a flywheel weight and different gearing available? I have fairly good experience with 2 stroke dirt bikes and don't find repairs or maintenance difficult, 2 strokes are a bit sexier IMHO.

[RoscoW]

A 250 R can be a great trail machine. Mine both have pipes and silencers, and reeds and I could drive them like this for hours
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWsGyteWgHQ (skip the first minute)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JSRkioPgLc
If your machine is tuned in properly they are very reliable too .I will run all year on the same plug and only change it as part of my winter maintainance.

when you want to cut loose you will never regret switching from the Big Red
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WgB73tbk31s
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dErH9qUhZxY

Same machines, same tires, All kinds of options.

Ross..

[bigred44]

I think that if you have experience with 2 strokes already then you know what to expect from them and would be able to handle one on the trail just fine. If you keep your machine running tight and maintained correctly then yes, they are a good trail machine. I say go for it.

[Dammit!]

I haven't fouled a plug in my R in years but I do still carry an extra plug just in case.

A well kept R is just as reliable as a 350x. More so in some ways (the frames aren't prone to cracking for example). In 20 years of ownership, I've only done the top end in my R once and it gets rode pretty hard. Can't beat the suspension on an R either.

They both have pros and cons. I have both, as do a lot of people on here. If you like 2-strokes though (and it seems like you do), don't be afraid of a 250R as a trail machine. They can be setup to accomodate it very well. Keep it mostly stock, use a good premix oil that won't load up and foul the plug all the time, maybe gear down a tooth in the front. Good to go.

[Autophysn]

IMO, that would depend on the area your taklking about. Out here, the best trail riding I can think of would like Ocotillo wells or something similiar, by which I can tell you, my bike does great!

[Russell 350X]

I had a 85, and I liked it on the trails. If you keep it semi-stock, gear it down some, and have it running good, it will be awesome.

[ovhonda1]

350x and the 250r are both great on the trails. I prefer the X if I am riding all day as it doesn't tire me out quite as much and the seat is much more comfortable. If you ride all of the time, you are conditioned to long rides, used to a 2 stroke and jump a lot, then go with the R. I guess this is the reason that I have both.

[GeniusBlock]

Just traded a 200x to my brother for his 1983 R. I do mostly trail riding. I've had to adjust a bit, haven't been on a 2 stroke for a long time. But pure fun factor, I'd never go back. I can't speak for a 350X. The 200 was just a bit underpowered for a guy my size.

[Silverado]

I have a 250sx and I have never tried a 250r, never tried anything 2 stroke, is there really a huge noticeable difference?

[Dirtcrasher]

Yes, there is a huge difference!!

I'd only ask, what size are the trails. I personally feel that it's easier to stay in control on tight trails with a 4 stroke. But nice wide trails would be just fine for a 2 stroke.

I would try to ride a 250R and a 350X before I spent the cash...........

[inv3ctiv3]

Yea the 350x has that nice low end grunt to get over trees/rocks, etc.

[GeniusBlock]

I prefer the 4 stroke...like to trade this R for a 350X. Or sell and buy. 200X was just a little too small for me.

[torker]

40 or 41 rear sprocket and mostly a stock engine and carb. You're in buisness.
My trail R has a FMF pipe and silencer, some good reeds and reed spacer, K&N filter and it rocks. Just keep it well tuned and use good, quality 2 stroke oil (I've been using Maxima 927 for more than 20 years). Carb set-up is crucial in any machine and 250R's are no diferent. Great suspension too.
Just go and get it!!!!
TORKER.

[harryredtrike]

if you know how to ride it's a great trail trike.

[Kintore]

40 or 41 rear sprocket and mostly a stock engine and carb. You're in buisness.
My trail R has a FMF pipe and silencer, some good reeds and reed spacer, K&N filter and it rocks. Just keep it well tuned and use good, quality 2 stroke oil (I've been using Maxima 927 for more than 20 years). Carb set-up is crucial in any machine and 250R's are no diferent. Great suspension too.
Just go and get it!!!!
TORKER.

Well said!

FMF is a great all around pipe, gear it down a little and add some 20 razrs or alike tire. Mine has the said mods with a all around port job, v force reeds, full skid plates and progressive springs. Works really well and havent touched the plug in a year.
My race bike ran the same plug all season with the exception of changing it pre race when it was VERY humid out just a fear of fouling on the line.

[Micahdogg]

Hard to say for you. Sounds like you might be intimidated by it...and IMO, it's not fun to ride when you are constantly scared. I love the 250R power and my heart beats nice and eassssssssssy when I'm slinging around the trails on it. Totally worthy trail machine IMO.