The difference is "Cast" and "Forged" pistons. I know wiseco and pro-x pistons are forged, which means they are lighter (less rotating mass = higher RPMS) and can handle higher rpms, high octane fuels, alcohol, NOS, etc.....but can shatter if you have preignition or overheat. Stock pistons are Cast, they weigh more (more rotating mass) but will melt instead of shatter if they overheat or preignition. If you blow the topend, Cast pistons will cause less damage to your crank(in most cases) can lack the quick acceleration that a forged piston can give you, But can be more reliable. There is a balancing point on the good and bad of both styles of pistons. It sounds like you are wanting a powerhouse by putting a 500 engine in an atc250r frame, I would put a wiseco piston in it, properly break in the engine, get the jetting perfect (burning a cinnamon brown colored sparkplug), Run the hell out of it.... but tear it down, hone the cylinder and re-ring the piston every 45-50 hrs and your piston should last forever.....
Machines owned:
85' atc250r (sold)
85' 250sx- the daily rider
85' 250sx- building w/ fourtrax 300 engine
83' Alt125- the Beast
85' atc70
83' atc70
01' yamaha wolverine 350 yz blue(only bike i ever bought new)
SILLY RIDER! TRX IS FOR KIDS!!!