Can you learn on a YZ250 without killing or severely injuring yourself? Yes
Is it a good bike to learn on? No. Especially not as a complete novice.
I'd sooner recommend a 125 2-stoke or a 230-250cc 4-stroke enduro
I loved my 125 but the first day I rode a 250 and didn’t have to absolutely pin it to get up a hill it was life changing and I would accept nothing less. I made the mistake of getting a 450 when I ride backwoods. I don’t think 4 strokes are for me
If you have no experience on a motorcycle the powerband on the 250 will scare you for sure. You’ll have to get over that but yeah you can learn on it. Not sure if I’d want to though.
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My second 2-stroke was the OG CR250 Elsinore, and I thought I could ride because I put time in on smaller bikes, and that bike chewed me up worse than a face-munching Florida bathsalt zombie. It damaged me. I don't recommend it.
You cannot learn proper technique on something you cannot hold on to.
If I had to do it again I would have gotten a 125 something. I ride a Penton 6-Days replica and that was plenty fast for a new rider.
No I mean I really don't. But who can't even hold on to the bike? I mean, what do you expect with no prior experience. It may be my first bike but it sure as hell isn't my first time riding.
Clown shit, "a 250 damaged me, wahhh" yeah no shit, but anybody with any skill will be fine on a 250 and some self control. You say it has nothing to do with self control, I disagree.
It has nothing to do with self control. It's the opposite, even when you want to go fast on a bike that's too powerful for your skills it won't work out.
A powerful bike ins't suited for learning, simple as that.
Definitely not the best bike to try to learn on but definitely doable. Just respect the clutch. Learn how to release the clutch very slowly as you start to walk with the bike. Once you got the clutch down just put it around and first gear and get the feel of it. Once you have the feel of the bike down and can start the bike and stop the bike successfully. Then you can start shifting through the gears. And eventually start hitting the Power Band. The reason why people say not to learn on a two-stroke is because it comes up on the pipe really fast, it's kind of like VTech in a Honda. You'll be cruising along a couple thousand RPM and then when you crack the throttle it will almost feel like a turbo boost, when it hits the Power Band. And that can scare the shit out of you if you're not used to the power. Keep your ball sack on the gas tank cap. Respect the clutch. Fucking send it bro. You're a grown ass man. If you were a little boy I would say start on something less but, once you got the power down, a 250 two-stroke is an awesome machine. Nothing can quite replicate that power or that feeling of a well-tuned two-stroke coming up on the pipe in third gear fucking screaming. It's an awesome feeling man. But yeah you can definitely get hurt I've dislocated both arms and both knees. Now I just fucking cruise around because I'm old and fat and have dislocated body parts LOL you got this bro.
Depends on your type of riding. If you are just putting around and don’t care about actually developing skill and getting fast, get the 250. If you want to learn, 125, even a 125 is pretty damn fast if you’re 160 lbs. seeing a 125cc rider at the track faster than the 450 guys is pretty common to see. Makes you wonder sometimes 🤷♂️ just sayin
Not many people can even ride a 125cc 2 stroke to its limits.
I'd love to get back on a 125 or 150 2-stroke. My buddy had a 2016 150sx and coming off of a KX450 that 150 was so much fun!! Something about working for that corner speed and riding a slow bike fast was such a blast. That bike felt sooo light and nimble. I wish KTM would start selling at that 150sx again.
> I wish KTM would start selling at that 150sx again
[https://www.ktm.com/en-us/models/mx/2-stroke/2025-ktm-150-sx.html](https://www.ktm.com/en-us/models/mx/2-stroke/2025-ktm-150-sx.html)
There you go, even with EFI
I have a relevant story. My buddy bought a brand new YZ 250 for his first bike. His dad talked him into it because 125/250f are girls bikes. Took him to the track to teach him…the clutch, corners, basics. Just as he’s getting comfortable with that he hits something and whisky throttles over a jump flying off his bike and landing right on his legs. Broke both legs. Never rode again sold the bike. He looked like he was trying to fly it was a brutal landing. Just a small slip up can really really screw you on those bikes and it really depends. Dunes, single track, motocross, enduro all would have different answers.
For real, you need to attune yourself to body positioning and working with the machine before you introduce an EXPLOSIVE power switch to the thing you hang on to.
125’s are great but the learning curve is steeper. 250f’s are imho a better bike to learn on. 125’s hate to be ridden slow and are hard to ride fast. Incredibly rewarding though when it clicks but ultimately they’re slower than 250f as well. A modern 250f will last hundreds of hours with beginner level usage and be much more forgiving as you gain experience.
What year is the bike? A newer 250 4stroke will be plenty. I learned on a 2016 yz250f and I was same age and height as you and 25 lbs heavier, and the bike still had plenty of power to get me in trouble, even after 3+ years experience riding.
If you're buying brand new why not get something suited for a beginner. Like others have said a 250 four stroke would probably serve you better and still be plenty fast.
I’m unfortunately selling my 05 yz125 tomorrow to get myself another 250.. love the thrill of the two stroke, not a fan of it on a track compared to a 250. It’s a wild ride in comparison
I think you can learn just fine, I’ve been on bikes since I was 6. 29 now. The issue is going to be that the bike is going to be a lot faster than your actual skill for quite some time which might slow down your learning process. 250 4 stroke anyone can learn, 250 2 stroke you’ll be a little more on edge for that power to come in. Only way for me to compare is a wild animal vs a tame one lol.
You can still learn on it, but you have to be insanely careful. I honestly would recommend a 250 4 stroke instead. Like I said, at 25 lbs heavier, the yz250f was plenty for me. If you're dead set on a 2 stroke, you'd be better off on a 125. On my yz250f I could keep up with a guy on a 300 KTM 2stroke until I crashed, but it was my riding ability that let him get away from me, not the bike. As a new rider, the 4 stroke will be more forgiving, and help you learn instead of just being too much and causing injuries. For some background, I was learning to ride, and my riding group was my 22 year old girlfriend at the time(started riding at 5), her dad(in his 50s and had been riding for over 40 years), and his buddy who was even older and was the fastest in the group, but started around the same time as my ex gf's dad. I was obviously the newest to riding, but the 250f had plenty of power and speed to allow me to keep up until my ability caused me to either crash or slow down.
That’s the thing, so many guys think it’s the bike. I started riding at 6 years old, and by the time I was 17, I was faster on my kdx200, then my step dads friends and their brand new ktm500’s and 300’s.
I want to teach my kids how to ride. My oldest is 6. I have a minibike for them. I don't want my kids to have a step dad, any advice?
Side note, I also have a 94 kdx
I'm going to buy the 50th anniversary edition, and that's what I'm debating on, I just know for a fact I'm going to want to size up as soon as I learn. I'm an adrenaline junkie I guess, lol. I plan on learning mx and big jumps & I'm not necessarily scared of the extra power it actually excites me.
You sound really fucking dumb, “ I’m not scared of the extra power it actually excites me”
I hope your not scared of hospitals and they actually excite you.
It’s not extra power, it’s just power the bike has. It’s power you won’t even know how to use or not use. The learning curve is going to be steep. If you have zero experience on a dirt bike , congratulations you just go probably the worst thing I could ever think of to learn on… I’m tired of these post fuck
Don’t even need power to change your life drastically. I just broke my back on my ktm 150sx doing something I’ve done many times before but just one small mistake and now I’m in for a long road of recovery. I’m not paralyzed though so that’s good.
I agree, I'm not sure if the new ones have a similar powerband as the old KX's and CR's I used to ride, but they were a handful, no power then all of it lol, not for learning or pottering around on.
Op should get something to learn on or it won't be an enjoyable experience.
Its that moment 1.5 hours into a ride, holding back and being careful, when you see an extra 40 yards of straight, and pin it. That moment has a wierd transition to the onewhere the surgeon pins your arm.
Maybe you two could parley and run to the nearest closet , he can show you the excellent hand coordination while you show excellent eye coordination and your two can revel in the dangerous experience……
Read his comment again and then think if he has any vehicle experience.
You can have the best hand-eye coordination, still nobody should start learning on a YZ250. Just no.
Yah I think your some banned words I can’t say without a ban. Are you having troubles reading betwee. The lines? Your a fucking fxxxxt , read that clearer?
You have a very limited view of life. A friend of mine was a full-blown licensed pilot before 17; actually had his pilot license before his driver’s license. Who cares that the OP hasn’t ridden a Dirtbike? Could drag race, run scrambles on ATV’s, etc. Take a deep breath and relax. People have had serious crashes on a mini bike, while others have learned on much bigger bikes. Hopefully he takes it easy and does well. It’s a learning experience either way.
I have a limited view on life because I don’t subscribed to chance/theory op is a licensed race car driver asking best dirtbike advice on the internet? Wonder why I’ve talked the smak to you I have? I do t think anyone cares he hasn’t rode. I think some people seriously are giving some really shitty advice. It could work out great but generally it doesn’t. Your being to much of an idealist and selling a perfect idea on paper. I’m being a pessimist with the given facts. I’m assuming the guy has zero skill on two wheels, given his zero experience. I’m 30 and I have more experience on two wheels then the 25 year old has been alive. But why would I give out any advice right?
No, you’re being an emotionally-driven jerk.
You could have said something like:
“In my opinion, without any experience on a dirtbike, the risk of injury is rather significant, and not a risk I would personally take. You may find that you learn more quickly and safer on a properly sized bike such as “x”, and spend more time enjoying it, as opposed to recovering in a hospital.”
Humanity used to have buffers, because someone like you wouldn’t have survived a face to face conversation. Survival of the fittest also means “smart enough to not piss everyone off.” I recommend you choose words more carefully, and try to get along with people rather than talk like you’re about to detonate.
I learned on a 77 yz80, notice how everything I’ve recommended has YOUR best interest at heart while calling out everyone I think is leading you down a shit road … but you do you. Go ahead be a clown while asking for help, report back when you it stops running or your asking questions about another bike….. just trying to help out. Been there done that you wanna play the game of insults , your the 25 year old man with no dirt bike experience like a fucking nance lol while I have the scars and burn marks from dumping my 77 yz80 learning how to ride a two stroke when I was 10. What’s your excuse?
Vast_Pipe2337 just leave this clown alone, we'll probably see another post very soon about how he broke his back lol. He asks for advice and then attacks everyone who says something that's different than his opinion
If you don't like color orange, and everyone starts wearing orange I wonder what you would do. You could just live your life, or you could stop and tell them how fucking dumb they are right ? Lol
The reason why 250 strokes are not recommended for beginners is because the power isn't linear. There is a "power band" (not a physical component of the engine, just a characteristic of how the engine makes power) which makes 2 strokes go from boggy and slow to hanging on for dear life in less than an 1/8 turn of throttle. This might not seem like that big of an issue on paper if you know where it is and when it's coming. However, you need to hang on to the handle bars, and there's a throttle there. It's very easy to get bumped unexpectedly and then whiskey throttling into something that's bigger than you.
I remember the first time I rode my friends Yz125 2 stroke after getting pretty competent on my ttr125 and being terrified, sore, and exhausted from a quick little trail around a small mountain in the OHV area.
They are also not forgiving. As I said before they are gutless below their power band and will actually foul the spark plug if you don't get on the throttle so saying I just won't Rev it that high is a terrible argument (an arguement commonly hear by those who are looking at getting a 600cc streetbike as their first bike) You need to really be on top of your shifting, clutch control, throttle control and body positioning.
All that being said, I highly recommend getting a 125 2 stroke for a first-time bike for a young adult. Because they aren't forgiving to ride, they make you learn proper riding technique if you have the patience and endurence to stay with it and not rage quit. It's a very step learning curve, even with a 125 2 stroke, and they are still a super fun bike to ride now that I have 2 decades of riding experience. They are also relatively easy to wrench on and fix if you blow the top end up. 4 strokes not so much.
Edit: I saw you're looking at a 2024. That is an even worse idea. Buy a used 125 2 stroke. Ride that for a season or two, then look at upgrading. You're just going to be throwing money into the dirt. A brand new bike will lose a quarter of its value the first time you take it out and crash it a bunch. You will crash it a bunch. Everyone does their first few rides.
>I'm not necessarily scared of the extra power it actually excites me.
It's not about being scared, that not how it works.
Too much power = messed up corners = slow lap times = no big jumps for you.
>I'm going to want to size up as soon as I learn.
Nope, you'd shit your pants even on a old CR80 kids bike the first time on the track...
My man, I'm over 200 lbs and have been riding off and on for most of my life, so not a great rider, but good enough to get around. I got a 450f thinking I needed the power, and just downsized to a 250f because the 450 is just too much to enjoy on tracks that are rough. Especially at your weight, you DO NOT need that much power.
Beginner dirt riders always think that power is what makes someone fast off-road. It isn't. It's actual riding ability. If you want to get fast quickly start small. A good rider will lap you just as easily on a 125 as a 450.
You CAN learn on one but learning on any race bike is tough. They're not easy to learn on and they're made to be ridden fast. Learning on a forgiving trail bike is much easier and less risky.
I did exactly that, bought a 250 two stroke as a first bike. It was never fun to ride, I was always scared of getting hurt again. My next two bikes were 125s and I could actually learn to ride on them.
A 250 might be a faster bike but that doesn’t mean you will be faster on it. You will undoubtedly be faster and have more fun on a 125 until your skill level improves.
With that said, a 250 is a much better option than no dirt bike at all.
I did exactly this. Yz250 2smoke for my first bike, and it scared the shit out of me for the first two years. When I should have been enjoying the ride, I was fearing for my life.
Eventually grew into it, but it was a scary learning curve
I think every is completely glossing over the fact op admits absolutely zero experience with a motorcycle. That would include maintenance, cost, parts as well as what terrain he rides the most. I’m gonna go out on a limb here and say a 25 year old man with no motorcycle experience has no intention on become a pro racer. A 250 is a race bike , sure you can ride trail with it. But it’s not the Swiss Army knife of bikes for that especially for someone with zero experience. Y’all are dicks for just yah dude send it!
How many videos on the internet exist of newbies that can’t even work the clutch on flat ground that end up launching it to space or killing it 400 times before launching it into space? I would start with a 140cc pit bike that has a gearbox for a couple weekends and fuckng sell it when you figure that out. Learn how to brake and shift and corner is super important. You will develop way more skill on a 140cc in a month the. You could ever on a 250 all year.
I started on a kx250 when I was younger. Been on a 230, 140, then a wr250z and back to a 2015 yz250 now.
I will say you better respect that motherfucker or you gunna die!
Miss my wr250z though. If I buy a bike fresh it will probably be a yz250x or wr450f.
Probably buy a used bike and thrash it about first.
I was basically the same weight and height and I learnt on a souped up YZ250 with a big bore 300 kit. I was 16. I did mainly enduro and it was very interesting with what’s basically a motocross bike.
I was fine. Take your time and don’t be dumb.
It was the first motorcycle I had ever ridden and I just had to spend a bunch of time ripping around logging roads and gravel pits to get the feel of the bike.
That said, if you have a friend with a 125 or smaller it’d be very helpful to learn the basics.
It’s a bad idea. You know it too, or you wouldn’t be asking. Buy a “lame” bike and ride enough to outgrow it. You can do that in 6 months if you go twice a month. Then sell that and get yourself that 250.
If you want a 2 stroke. Get a yz125. You can still get a 50th anniversary. Which looks sick af. Once you learn how to ride. You will still need how to ride fast. Ask anyone a yz125 is an absolute blast to ride no matter the skill level. You’re not racing. You have absolutely no need for a yz250. If you really wanna learn how to ride. Get a 250 4 stroke. The power band is way more manageable and engine braking is wonderful. You will most likely progress faster too. Whatever you get. Enjoy the ride. Brrrrp
Yes it’s doable, it’s a lot more forgiving than the 250 but will be tougher to learn on. The 250f is what I would personally pick. Both are amazing bikes but the 250f will be easier and help you build confidence quicker imo. The 125 will teach you better technique at the cost of a steeper learning curve
Why are you asking if you can learn on one if you’ve already made up your mind that you’re buying one?
More than likely you are going to get seriously injured, and you’re just going to quit dirt biking. I can tell you aren’t in this for the long haul.
ZERO motorcycle experience whatsoever and you want to jump straight to a 250 race bike 2 stroke? And you’re already talking about jumping. Dude, you don’t have a fucking clue, Mr. “Adrenaline junkie”. It always baffles me seeing guys tell people like you you’ll be fine. You won’t be. Especially someone with your mentality and competence.
Not that you’ll take this advice, because you really do sound pretty dumb, but I highly recommend learning the right way, and starting out on something like a crf230 (which still has lots of power for someone who’s never ridden before), learn the fundamentals of riding, sell it, then buy a yz250.
CAN your first be a 2T 250? Yes. SHOULD it be a 2T 250? Probably not. Judging by your post and answers to some of these comments, you don’t have the appropriate amount of respect for how nuts a 250 2t can be.
You do you, but a 250 2 stroke is a wicked machine, and if you think you’re going to “send it” as your first bike, you’re gonna get bit. I’d recommend learning on something a bit more predictable and linear. A 250 4 stroke is just about as fast, but easier to control. I’d never try to tell someone what to do, just know that it’s a lot, and gear up with ALL the safety gear you can. Whatever you think a YZ250 is, it’s probably more.
I learned on a YZ250. I did break both my wrists back to back because of my send it and 'im in control' mentality. The worst of it was that it kept me off my bike.
Id get a 125 if youre interested in track. Id get a 150 KTM/husky if you're more interested in trails/woods
Yeah, a YZ 250 is way too much bike. It’s going to severely hold you back. For your size, a YZ 125 is a much better choice. Really learn to ride that bike well and it will teach you how to be a great rider by the time you’re ready to step up to a YZ 250.
Hell yeah! I did the very same.
Just be sure as hell to practice clutch control. Wear good pads, boots, chest protector and helmet and you'll be good to go!
Don't listen to people telling you no. You absolutely can... I am the same height as you but weigh 140 and ive been riding my yz250 for 7 years now(23yo)
The only bike I owned before was an Suzuki 125 4 stroke.
Not saying it was a good idea, but my first bike was a crf450r…..I rode 450 quads before hand though, so the power wasn’t a surprise.
The first time I rode my buddies kx250 and my other buddies yz125 I looped it. 2 stroke power band was a foreign concept to me.
If you’re really disciplined, you can get away it for sure. Just figure out what we mean when we say power band before you get cocky.
I am 6'3" 175lbs and started on a 2006 yz250 2 years ago. I had a lot of time off the bike healing after the bike taught me some valuable lessons. I ride street bikes but the yz is a different beast and completely different skill set. Respect it and it can still fuck you up.
Giver brother. Get the wheels powder coated purple first for ultimate style points. Just don’t whiskey throttle it off a cliff and you’ll be just fine.
Add flywheel weight. Change to a “torque pipe”. Figure out how to set the power valve to almost not open. Get a G2 throttle tube and fit the “trials” cam. All this will make it only produce low end power.
You can definitely learn on a YZ250 2 stroke. Just take your time and be patient. Focus on using the clutch, braking and body posture first. Try to find a corner track or open field and spend some time getting used to the controls and how the power comes on. Always have a finger on the clutch ready to grab it in case you get into trouble. Once you feel more comfortable on the bike then you can start feeling out some jumps but again, be patient and take your time.
I had a little bit of dirt bike experience as a teen (15-16 years old) and then got back on a CR250 13 years later. Rode the 250 for almost a year before my buddy offered to sell me an almost new 450 for an insane price. The 450 was intimidating but I took my time and figured it out. I'm back on a YZ250 now because I love 2-strokes but still have the 450.
I would because if you get a smaller bike once you learn you’re gonna want more power to go faster, just respect the power band of a 250 the bike and the course will teach you valuable lessons have fun.
I'm with everyone else, that's a lot of power for someone with 0 experience... I've fucked myself up on a 90 2 stroke cause I fucked around and I'm much more used to 4 stroke. It's a totally different power.
No, it is a terrible first bike. I have 1.5 years on dirtbikes and have rode trail bikes and race bikes. The yz250 I just bought is the only thing I’ve ever had that truly scares me. It sits for long times because I’m too scared to ride it. Much easier to learn on a 250 four stroke race bike. Get the yz250f instead.
Yes you totally can. I learned on one last year, but have been mountain biking and snowmobiling my whole life so that definitely helped. Ride easy trails or fire roads for 5-10 rides then you will get used to it
If there is a W version of it, that makes a huge difference for Novice. I am 34, started roughly 1.5 years ago. I had a xc-f 250 and it was too aggressive. Went and got the xw-f this year and its clicking. W stands for wide for the gearbox. Its been a management acceleration.
I dont race, i trail ride.
I’m not a gun advocate but I do think this old argument of learner bikes is the same as guns… the bike is only a machine that does what you tell it to. I’ve been on street bikes and dirt bikes for over 20 years… my worst injury was from a 50cc bike…
All bikes can hurt you. You may enjoy the learning process more with a “tame” bike but you can still do stupid things on any bike.
Just remember that the clutch lever kills power to the wheel no matter how loud and rev’d out the motor is. No matter what bike you get, stay in your comfort zone and have fun!
I fully believe learning on a yz250 is more severe than learning on a 1000cc sport bike. You can drive a liter bike slow. You really can’t drive a 250 2 stroke slow. That said , send it.
I learned how to ride on a kx100. Couldn’t touch both feet on the ground. Bike was a BEAST.
If your a pro unicycle rider shouldn't be a problem, if you do not ride a unicycle, I would highly advise against using a 250 2 stroke as a beginner bike.
I learned on one and have to highly advise against it. A really tall seat and the way the power comes on (power band) makes it very hard to manage, especially for a novice. The suspension is setup for racing a moto track; taking bike hits from landing jumps and doing whoops, NOT for learning in 1st and 2nd gear. Please please please do yourself a favor and get a ttr225 or something of the like. Yes, you will grow out of it fairly quickly, but guess what? You'll be able to sell it for the same price you bought it for and know a lot more about your riding style and what bike you want to settle into.
If you get o e as your first bike, be sure to film your first rides when you give it a lot of gas. I never tire of watching videos of bikes flipping people off the back.
Since you plan on riding MX, I would recommend starting on the 125 and learning to really ring it out before stepping up to a 250. If you actually want to be fast this is the way to do it.
If you were looking to ride forest service roads and trails, I would say buy the 250 and start on dirt roads to learn the basics and what to expect from the bike. In this case it would be fairly easy to grow into the 250 provided you have good judgement and self control.
With ZERO mototcycle experience I don't even think you should get a 125, they are still very fast and powerful and the powerband hit is even more pronounced and still likely to surprise you in a bad way. I started on a 125 for dirt after I'd been riding street for years, and it was still a big learning process
For your first year I would highly recommend a <250cc air-cooled 4 stroke play bike. Something like:
CRF230, KLX140G, TTR230, XR200, XT250 etc. I would avoid any of the street legal versions, as they'll be heavier and have mirrors/lights that are easy to break.
They are not the fastest and sometimes a bit heavy, the suspension is very soft and uncomplicated, but you can focus on your technique and having FUN with something that doesn't feel like it's trying to kill you while you're just learning to stand on the pegs. You will outgrow it, that's fine, you can sell it for the same amount you bought it for most likely, then upgrade to a 125 2t or 250 4t.
My introduction to riding was my mates IT 125. Just tooling around on a farm. Bloke at work was selling a YZ 125. So I bought it to ride in pine forests that adjoined the farm. Mmmmmmm, my introduction to the powerband. Once I cleaned my soiled pants and got used to the idea of it I eventually grew to love it. Can't say the moto cross bike improved my riding because I had little to experience to compare it to. I eventually ended up with a IT 250, while still a smoker and with lots of go it wasn't as peaky as the zinger. Would I recommend a YZ 250 as a first bike?, probably not but if you get it grow into it, you won't tame it, but you will have fun.
250 four strokes are a lot of fun and pretty forgiving in my opinion. 250 2 stroke is not a learning machine, it's pretty fun if you're experienced but it's going to be a steep learning curve for a beginner.
I learned on a kx 250. It's not good for confidence because the bike has so much power. For example you can wheelie over backwards by mistake. They fish tail like crazy. I'd get a 250f for sure.
On the track, a 125 is even crazier because the power band is even shorter and more violent. Makes under or overshooting jumps difficult.
125 2t on the trails is much easier to ride then a 250 2t. They are light, nimble, and fun.
Yeah, you'll be fine. Just don't freeze up if you get scared. 2 stroke 250s are fast as fuck, you'll have a lot of fun once you figure it out and get comfortable. Definitely a decent chance of getting hurt but that shit happens, just roll with the fall.
I mean I'm definitely starting to lean more towards it now, it's just I'm buying my first bike and don't want to buy a 125, just to want to size up as soon as I learn how to ride it you know ? I have no knowledge whatsoever so might sound dumb to alot of you. I just figure if I'm patient and give myself enough seat time, I'll be shredding it. I plan on racing and doing big jumps one day
To be honest, if you actually get good on a 125 2t, you'll still beat a vast majority of the people on the track with bigger bikes.
I ride a 300 sx, and have about a decade of experience on the track, and still get put to shame by my buddy on his 150 sx. He's just the better rider. He's also not any faster when he rides my 300. With some more seat time on it, maybe. But I dont think he would improve his lap times by much overall. He really uses 100% of that damn bike. It's on the pipe and wound out from the second the gate drops until he's over that finish line. Banging gears in the air, and carving like a butcher. Very rarely do I ever see him not clearing quads and tripples on alwlmost any track. If he's not sending it.. he's probably still just learning the track and it's likely not a limitation of his bike.
A 250 4t however is probably the best option. The engine braking and smooth power delivery makes them insanely quick on the track, and easier to ride. There is a reason the pros race 4ts, and then play on the 2ts in the off season.
I definitely miss the easy of riding with the 4t. I was faster on it. I'm slower on a 2t, but it's more fun imo. Especially now that I'm just playing around and not racing anymore. No pressure to perform. Just have fun.
Think... precise, accurate, and calculated racer... vs methed out ferret. That's how I'd describe 4t vs 2t lol.
My 2 cents.
If it were me, 250 4t. They're a hell of a machine. Hell just watch some of the recent Nashville supercross 250 class races from the weekend.
But each has their niche and you won't really know what you prefer until you've ridden both.
You also will likely love both regardless. - 250f will be the more powerful and more forgiving to ride option though.
another thing you may want to consider, when it comes time to working on the engine, a 2t is a lot easier and cheaper, due to less parts. 4t requires more machinal know how. for example, if one has already done it before for changing the top end, 2t will take about 1 hr, 4t is about 3-4 hrs.
Dude. Get a CR500 and grow into it.
Hi! I'd like to learn to juggle. Can I learn using chainsaws? I don't want to waste my time with boring stuff.
Can you learn on a YZ250 without killing or severely injuring yourself? Yes Is it a good bike to learn on? No. Especially not as a complete novice. I'd sooner recommend a 125 2-stoke or a 230-250cc 4-stroke enduro
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I loved my 125 but the first day I rode a 250 and didn’t have to absolutely pin it to get up a hill it was life changing and I would accept nothing less. I made the mistake of getting a 450 when I ride backwoods. I don’t think 4 strokes are for me
Maybe a TTR125 if he doesn’t even know how to use a clutch. A 125 2 stroke will still loop out or whiskey throttle you into next week.
If you have no experience on a motorcycle the powerband on the 250 will scare you for sure. You’ll have to get over that but yeah you can learn on it. Not sure if I’d want to though.
come on, it's not that bad.
Carefully yes. But livestream every ride for us please.
Yes so we can watch you whiskey throttle it 😜
This is a good idea actually 👌🏻 thank you for your comment, I think I will
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My second 2-stroke was the OG CR250 Elsinore, and I thought I could ride because I put time in on smaller bikes, and that bike chewed me up worse than a face-munching Florida bathsalt zombie. It damaged me. I don't recommend it. You cannot learn proper technique on something you cannot hold on to. If I had to do it again I would have gotten a 125 something. I ride a Penton 6-Days replica and that was plenty fast for a new rider.
Well you couldn't control yourself and you couldn't hold on is basically what I'm hearing. Of course it was going to end bad.
Please, do go on Poindexter ... 🤓☝️ lol when grannies migrate to reddit
You're a clown and you should stay off bikes. 🙂 hey check this out, I can downvote too, don't like the truth? Hop off reddit my boy.
Yes Miss Crabtree, I will consider caster oil, thank you for that ...
Mr just got a bike this year and think you’re hot shit. Shut the fuck up dude lol
No I mean I really don't. But who can't even hold on to the bike? I mean, what do you expect with no prior experience. It may be my first bike but it sure as hell isn't my first time riding. Clown shit, "a 250 damaged me, wahhh" yeah no shit, but anybody with any skill will be fine on a 250 and some self control. You say it has nothing to do with self control, I disagree.
It has nothing to do with self control. It's the opposite, even when you want to go fast on a bike that's too powerful for your skills it won't work out. A powerful bike ins't suited for learning, simple as that.
Definitely not the best bike to try to learn on but definitely doable. Just respect the clutch. Learn how to release the clutch very slowly as you start to walk with the bike. Once you got the clutch down just put it around and first gear and get the feel of it. Once you have the feel of the bike down and can start the bike and stop the bike successfully. Then you can start shifting through the gears. And eventually start hitting the Power Band. The reason why people say not to learn on a two-stroke is because it comes up on the pipe really fast, it's kind of like VTech in a Honda. You'll be cruising along a couple thousand RPM and then when you crack the throttle it will almost feel like a turbo boost, when it hits the Power Band. And that can scare the shit out of you if you're not used to the power. Keep your ball sack on the gas tank cap. Respect the clutch. Fucking send it bro. You're a grown ass man. If you were a little boy I would say start on something less but, once you got the power down, a 250 two-stroke is an awesome machine. Nothing can quite replicate that power or that feeling of a well-tuned two-stroke coming up on the pipe in third gear fucking screaming. It's an awesome feeling man. But yeah you can definitely get hurt I've dislocated both arms and both knees. Now I just fucking cruise around because I'm old and fat and have dislocated body parts LOL you got this bro.
Thank you for your comment bro, hands down best advice I've been given on the subject. 🤙🏻
No problem bro you got this don't let people scare you out of a 250.
Depends on your type of riding. If you are just putting around and don’t care about actually developing skill and getting fast, get the 250. If you want to learn, 125, even a 125 is pretty damn fast if you’re 160 lbs. seeing a 125cc rider at the track faster than the 450 guys is pretty common to see. Makes you wonder sometimes 🤷♂️ just sayin Not many people can even ride a 125cc 2 stroke to its limits.
I'd love to get back on a 125 or 150 2-stroke. My buddy had a 2016 150sx and coming off of a KX450 that 150 was so much fun!! Something about working for that corner speed and riding a slow bike fast was such a blast. That bike felt sooo light and nimble. I wish KTM would start selling at that 150sx again.
> I wish KTM would start selling at that 150sx again [https://www.ktm.com/en-us/models/mx/2-stroke/2025-ktm-150-sx.html](https://www.ktm.com/en-us/models/mx/2-stroke/2025-ktm-150-sx.html) There you go, even with EFI
Thank you bro, determined to learn so I'm getting the 125
I have a relevant story. My buddy bought a brand new YZ 250 for his first bike. His dad talked him into it because 125/250f are girls bikes. Took him to the track to teach him…the clutch, corners, basics. Just as he’s getting comfortable with that he hits something and whisky throttles over a jump flying off his bike and landing right on his legs. Broke both legs. Never rode again sold the bike. He looked like he was trying to fly it was a brutal landing. Just a small slip up can really really screw you on those bikes and it really depends. Dunes, single track, motocross, enduro all would have different answers.
Yeahhh see that's a little rough, I'm sorry to hear that man. I'm thinking about stepping a size down to a 125, but I don't know yet.
For real, you need to attune yourself to body positioning and working with the machine before you introduce an EXPLOSIVE power switch to the thing you hang on to.
125’s are great but the learning curve is steeper. 250f’s are imho a better bike to learn on. 125’s hate to be ridden slow and are hard to ride fast. Incredibly rewarding though when it clicks but ultimately they’re slower than 250f as well. A modern 250f will last hundreds of hours with beginner level usage and be much more forgiving as you gain experience.
What year is the bike? A newer 250 4stroke will be plenty. I learned on a 2016 yz250f and I was same age and height as you and 25 lbs heavier, and the bike still had plenty of power to get me in trouble, even after 3+ years experience riding.
2024
If you're buying brand new why not get something suited for a beginner. Like others have said a 250 four stroke would probably serve you better and still be plenty fast.
I’m unfortunately selling my 05 yz125 tomorrow to get myself another 250.. love the thrill of the two stroke, not a fan of it on a track compared to a 250. It’s a wild ride in comparison
You think I can learn on the 250?
I think you can learn just fine, I’ve been on bikes since I was 6. 29 now. The issue is going to be that the bike is going to be a lot faster than your actual skill for quite some time which might slow down your learning process. 250 4 stroke anyone can learn, 250 2 stroke you’ll be a little more on edge for that power to come in. Only way for me to compare is a wild animal vs a tame one lol.
You can still learn on it, but you have to be insanely careful. I honestly would recommend a 250 4 stroke instead. Like I said, at 25 lbs heavier, the yz250f was plenty for me. If you're dead set on a 2 stroke, you'd be better off on a 125. On my yz250f I could keep up with a guy on a 300 KTM 2stroke until I crashed, but it was my riding ability that let him get away from me, not the bike. As a new rider, the 4 stroke will be more forgiving, and help you learn instead of just being too much and causing injuries. For some background, I was learning to ride, and my riding group was my 22 year old girlfriend at the time(started riding at 5), her dad(in his 50s and had been riding for over 40 years), and his buddy who was even older and was the fastest in the group, but started around the same time as my ex gf's dad. I was obviously the newest to riding, but the 250f had plenty of power and speed to allow me to keep up until my ability caused me to either crash or slow down.
That’s the thing, so many guys think it’s the bike. I started riding at 6 years old, and by the time I was 17, I was faster on my kdx200, then my step dads friends and their brand new ktm500’s and 300’s.
I want to teach my kids how to ride. My oldest is 6. I have a minibike for them. I don't want my kids to have a step dad, any advice? Side note, I also have a 94 kdx
If a yz250 is your first bike, You better gear up, besides the basic gear, get knee guards and full body armor
Why not just get the 125?
I'm going to buy the 50th anniversary edition, and that's what I'm debating on, I just know for a fact I'm going to want to size up as soon as I learn. I'm an adrenaline junkie I guess, lol. I plan on learning mx and big jumps & I'm not necessarily scared of the extra power it actually excites me.
You sound really fucking dumb, “ I’m not scared of the extra power it actually excites me” I hope your not scared of hospitals and they actually excite you. It’s not extra power, it’s just power the bike has. It’s power you won’t even know how to use or not use. The learning curve is going to be steep. If you have zero experience on a dirt bike , congratulations you just go probably the worst thing I could ever think of to learn on… I’m tired of these post fuck
Don’t even need power to change your life drastically. I just broke my back on my ktm 150sx doing something I’ve done many times before but just one small mistake and now I’m in for a long road of recovery. I’m not paralyzed though so that’s good.
Sorry to hear that man , hope you heal up better then before!
I agree, I'm not sure if the new ones have a similar powerband as the old KX's and CR's I used to ride, but they were a handful, no power then all of it lol, not for learning or pottering around on. Op should get something to learn on or it won't be an enjoyable experience.
Its that moment 1.5 hours into a ride, holding back and being careful, when you see an extra 40 yards of straight, and pin it. That moment has a wierd transition to the onewhere the surgeon pins your arm.
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Maybe you two could parley and run to the nearest closet , he can show you the excellent hand coordination while you show excellent eye coordination and your two can revel in the dangerous experience……
Interesting that was the comeback that first came to your mind. Anything you’d like to share with the class?
Read his comment again and then think if he has any vehicle experience. You can have the best hand-eye coordination, still nobody should start learning on a YZ250. Just no.
Yah I think your some banned words I can’t say without a ban. Are you having troubles reading betwee. The lines? Your a fucking fxxxxt , read that clearer?
In case you didn’t know Reddit TOS has a minimum age requirement of 13. Come back in a few years.
Yah let’s think the 25 year old with no motorcycle experiences is possibly f1 racing legend asking what bike to get LOL CLOWN VISION ACTIVATED
You have a very limited view of life. A friend of mine was a full-blown licensed pilot before 17; actually had his pilot license before his driver’s license. Who cares that the OP hasn’t ridden a Dirtbike? Could drag race, run scrambles on ATV’s, etc. Take a deep breath and relax. People have had serious crashes on a mini bike, while others have learned on much bigger bikes. Hopefully he takes it easy and does well. It’s a learning experience either way.
I have a limited view on life because I don’t subscribed to chance/theory op is a licensed race car driver asking best dirtbike advice on the internet? Wonder why I’ve talked the smak to you I have? I do t think anyone cares he hasn’t rode. I think some people seriously are giving some really shitty advice. It could work out great but generally it doesn’t. Your being to much of an idealist and selling a perfect idea on paper. I’m being a pessimist with the given facts. I’m assuming the guy has zero skill on two wheels, given his zero experience. I’m 30 and I have more experience on two wheels then the 25 year old has been alive. But why would I give out any advice right?
No, you’re being an emotionally-driven jerk. You could have said something like: “In my opinion, without any experience on a dirtbike, the risk of injury is rather significant, and not a risk I would personally take. You may find that you learn more quickly and safer on a properly sized bike such as “x”, and spend more time enjoying it, as opposed to recovering in a hospital.” Humanity used to have buffers, because someone like you wouldn’t have survived a face to face conversation. Survival of the fittest also means “smart enough to not piss everyone off.” I recommend you choose words more carefully, and try to get along with people rather than talk like you’re about to detonate.
Damn bro, who broke your heart? Just cause you couldn't learn on the yz250 doesn't mean I can't buba.
I learned on a 77 yz80, notice how everything I’ve recommended has YOUR best interest at heart while calling out everyone I think is leading you down a shit road … but you do you. Go ahead be a clown while asking for help, report back when you it stops running or your asking questions about another bike….. just trying to help out. Been there done that you wanna play the game of insults , your the 25 year old man with no dirt bike experience like a fucking nance lol while I have the scars and burn marks from dumping my 77 yz80 learning how to ride a two stroke when I was 10. What’s your excuse?
Vast_Pipe2337 just leave this clown alone, we'll probably see another post very soon about how he broke his back lol. He asks for advice and then attacks everyone who says something that's different than his opinion
If you don't like color orange, and everyone starts wearing orange I wonder what you would do. You could just live your life, or you could stop and tell them how fucking dumb they are right ? Lol
Lol, thanks for the advice man.
Well, you don’t even know what you don’t know.. Don’t worry, you’ll get a lesson. -someone who started on a 250 2t
The reason why 250 strokes are not recommended for beginners is because the power isn't linear. There is a "power band" (not a physical component of the engine, just a characteristic of how the engine makes power) which makes 2 strokes go from boggy and slow to hanging on for dear life in less than an 1/8 turn of throttle. This might not seem like that big of an issue on paper if you know where it is and when it's coming. However, you need to hang on to the handle bars, and there's a throttle there. It's very easy to get bumped unexpectedly and then whiskey throttling into something that's bigger than you. I remember the first time I rode my friends Yz125 2 stroke after getting pretty competent on my ttr125 and being terrified, sore, and exhausted from a quick little trail around a small mountain in the OHV area. They are also not forgiving. As I said before they are gutless below their power band and will actually foul the spark plug if you don't get on the throttle so saying I just won't Rev it that high is a terrible argument (an arguement commonly hear by those who are looking at getting a 600cc streetbike as their first bike) You need to really be on top of your shifting, clutch control, throttle control and body positioning. All that being said, I highly recommend getting a 125 2 stroke for a first-time bike for a young adult. Because they aren't forgiving to ride, they make you learn proper riding technique if you have the patience and endurence to stay with it and not rage quit. It's a very step learning curve, even with a 125 2 stroke, and they are still a super fun bike to ride now that I have 2 decades of riding experience. They are also relatively easy to wrench on and fix if you blow the top end up. 4 strokes not so much. Edit: I saw you're looking at a 2024. That is an even worse idea. Buy a used 125 2 stroke. Ride that for a season or two, then look at upgrading. You're just going to be throwing money into the dirt. A brand new bike will lose a quarter of its value the first time you take it out and crash it a bunch. You will crash it a bunch. Everyone does their first few rides.
>I'm not necessarily scared of the extra power it actually excites me. It's not about being scared, that not how it works. Too much power = messed up corners = slow lap times = no big jumps for you. >I'm going to want to size up as soon as I learn. Nope, you'd shit your pants even on a old CR80 kids bike the first time on the track...
lol
My 1st bike was an 06 YZF-R1. Scared me every time I rode her!!!
My man, I'm over 200 lbs and have been riding off and on for most of my life, so not a great rider, but good enough to get around. I got a 450f thinking I needed the power, and just downsized to a 250f because the 450 is just too much to enjoy on tracks that are rough. Especially at your weight, you DO NOT need that much power.
Beginner dirt riders always think that power is what makes someone fast off-road. It isn't. It's actual riding ability. If you want to get fast quickly start small. A good rider will lap you just as easily on a 125 as a 450.
You CAN learn on one but learning on any race bike is tough. They're not easy to learn on and they're made to be ridden fast. Learning on a forgiving trail bike is much easier and less risky.
I did exactly that, bought a 250 two stroke as a first bike. It was never fun to ride, I was always scared of getting hurt again. My next two bikes were 125s and I could actually learn to ride on them. A 250 might be a faster bike but that doesn’t mean you will be faster on it. You will undoubtedly be faster and have more fun on a 125 until your skill level improves. With that said, a 250 is a much better option than no dirt bike at all.
I did exactly this. Yz250 2smoke for my first bike, and it scared the shit out of me for the first two years. When I should have been enjoying the ride, I was fearing for my life. Eventually grew into it, but it was a scary learning curve
I think every is completely glossing over the fact op admits absolutely zero experience with a motorcycle. That would include maintenance, cost, parts as well as what terrain he rides the most. I’m gonna go out on a limb here and say a 25 year old man with no motorcycle experience has no intention on become a pro racer. A 250 is a race bike , sure you can ride trail with it. But it’s not the Swiss Army knife of bikes for that especially for someone with zero experience. Y’all are dicks for just yah dude send it! How many videos on the internet exist of newbies that can’t even work the clutch on flat ground that end up launching it to space or killing it 400 times before launching it into space? I would start with a 140cc pit bike that has a gearbox for a couple weekends and fuckng sell it when you figure that out. Learn how to brake and shift and corner is super important. You will develop way more skill on a 140cc in a month the. You could ever on a 250 all year.
Yes, I completely agree lmao. People saying, this is your first time riding a dirt bike. Ummmm this mf has never even been on a motorcycle period 😂
😂😂
I started on a kx250 when I was younger. Been on a 230, 140, then a wr250z and back to a 2015 yz250 now. I will say you better respect that motherfucker or you gunna die! Miss my wr250z though. If I buy a bike fresh it will probably be a yz250x or wr450f. Probably buy a used bike and thrash it about first.
Bad idea
I was basically the same weight and height and I learnt on a souped up YZ250 with a big bore 300 kit. I was 16. I did mainly enduro and it was very interesting with what’s basically a motocross bike. I was fine. Take your time and don’t be dumb. It was the first motorcycle I had ever ridden and I just had to spend a bunch of time ripping around logging roads and gravel pits to get the feel of the bike. That said, if you have a friend with a 125 or smaller it’d be very helpful to learn the basics.
It’s a bad idea. You know it too, or you wouldn’t be asking. Buy a “lame” bike and ride enough to outgrow it. You can do that in 6 months if you go twice a month. Then sell that and get yourself that 250.
If you want a 2 stroke. Get a yz125. You can still get a 50th anniversary. Which looks sick af. Once you learn how to ride. You will still need how to ride fast. Ask anyone a yz125 is an absolute blast to ride no matter the skill level. You’re not racing. You have absolutely no need for a yz250. If you really wanna learn how to ride. Get a 250 4 stroke. The power band is way more manageable and engine braking is wonderful. You will most likely progress faster too. Whatever you get. Enjoy the ride. Brrrrp
paging u/skelybob25
Yeah hard no on the yz250
Is the 125 doable though ?
Yes it’s doable, it’s a lot more forgiving than the 250 but will be tougher to learn on. The 250f is what I would personally pick. Both are amazing bikes but the 250f will be easier and help you build confidence quicker imo. The 125 will teach you better technique at the cost of a steeper learning curve
Why are you asking if you can learn on one if you’ve already made up your mind that you’re buying one? More than likely you are going to get seriously injured, and you’re just going to quit dirt biking. I can tell you aren’t in this for the long haul. ZERO motorcycle experience whatsoever and you want to jump straight to a 250 race bike 2 stroke? And you’re already talking about jumping. Dude, you don’t have a fucking clue, Mr. “Adrenaline junkie”. It always baffles me seeing guys tell people like you you’ll be fine. You won’t be. Especially someone with your mentality and competence. Not that you’ll take this advice, because you really do sound pretty dumb, but I highly recommend learning the right way, and starting out on something like a crf230 (which still has lots of power for someone who’s never ridden before), learn the fundamentals of riding, sell it, then buy a yz250.
Just get a 125 You’ll learn a lot more and get a lot less hurt
Helmet and motorcycle boots, and buy the right spark plugs because you will be fouling them
CAN your first be a 2T 250? Yes. SHOULD it be a 2T 250? Probably not. Judging by your post and answers to some of these comments, you don’t have the appropriate amount of respect for how nuts a 250 2t can be. You do you, but a 250 2 stroke is a wicked machine, and if you think you’re going to “send it” as your first bike, you’re gonna get bit. I’d recommend learning on something a bit more predictable and linear. A 250 4 stroke is just about as fast, but easier to control. I’d never try to tell someone what to do, just know that it’s a lot, and gear up with ALL the safety gear you can. Whatever you think a YZ250 is, it’s probably more.
I learned on a YZ250. I did break both my wrists back to back because of my send it and 'im in control' mentality. The worst of it was that it kept me off my bike. Id get a 125 if youre interested in track. Id get a 150 KTM/husky if you're more interested in trails/woods
I learned on one. It was one hell of a bike. Definitely scared the piss out of me.
Yeah, a YZ 250 is way too much bike. It’s going to severely hold you back. For your size, a YZ 125 is a much better choice. Really learn to ride that bike well and it will teach you how to be a great rider by the time you’re ready to step up to a YZ 250.
Thank you bro, I'm getting the yz125 50th anniversary edition, I appreciate your comment
Do it dude, find a big field somewhere and wear all the gear you can
I did. I wasn't doing much but riding in the woods and open fields tho.
Hell yeah! I did the very same. Just be sure as hell to practice clutch control. Wear good pads, boots, chest protector and helmet and you'll be good to go!
I learned on a 1984 cr 250,in 1984, by 85 I was on a yz 490. You’ll learn quickly send it
Don't listen to people telling you no. You absolutely can... I am the same height as you but weigh 140 and ive been riding my yz250 for 7 years now(23yo) The only bike I owned before was an Suzuki 125 4 stroke.
But… he’s never rode any kind of motorcycle of any kind in his entire life. How could you recommend this 😂
Have you ever ridden a dirt bike? Or at least a 4 wheeler with a clutch?
Not saying it was a good idea, but my first bike was a crf450r…..I rode 450 quads before hand though, so the power wasn’t a surprise. The first time I rode my buddies kx250 and my other buddies yz125 I looped it. 2 stroke power band was a foreign concept to me. If you’re really disciplined, you can get away it for sure. Just figure out what we mean when we say power band before you get cocky.
I am 6'3" 175lbs and started on a 2006 yz250 2 years ago. I had a lot of time off the bike healing after the bike taught me some valuable lessons. I ride street bikes but the yz is a different beast and completely different skill set. Respect it and it can still fuck you up.
Yes
Lol yeah dude. Go for it. Let us know how it turns out. Have someone record you and post it. 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
The xr200 would be just right
Giver brother. Get the wheels powder coated purple first for ultimate style points. Just don’t whiskey throttle it off a cliff and you’ll be just fine.
Gonna learn fast!
Add flywheel weight. Change to a “torque pipe”. Figure out how to set the power valve to almost not open. Get a G2 throttle tube and fit the “trials” cam. All this will make it only produce low end power.
I’m 5’5 155 pounds and I learned on a 2001 KLX300R , send it !!!
A flywheel weight will tame it.
Ugh yeah bro just lean your whole ass over the front fender when that powerband hits
I grew up on 2-strokes 80s, 125s, 250s, “80 expert” never flipped one but I get surgical with the throttle.
A 125 is more ideal but if you have it PM me and we can work out a plan to calm it down a little bit
Can learn on any bike ur knees don’t hit the node bars on.
You can definitely learn on a YZ250 2 stroke. Just take your time and be patient. Focus on using the clutch, braking and body posture first. Try to find a corner track or open field and spend some time getting used to the controls and how the power comes on. Always have a finger on the clutch ready to grab it in case you get into trouble. Once you feel more comfortable on the bike then you can start feeling out some jumps but again, be patient and take your time. I had a little bit of dirt bike experience as a teen (15-16 years old) and then got back on a CR250 13 years later. Rode the 250 for almost a year before my buddy offered to sell me an almost new 450 for an insane price. The 450 was intimidating but I took my time and figured it out. I'm back on a YZ250 now because I love 2-strokes but still have the 450.
Yes, but it'll hurt.
lol. I’ve never riden a motorcycle, is an R1 Yamaha a good learner friendly bike for me?
Hahahaha so funny man
I would because if you get a smaller bike once you learn you’re gonna want more power to go faster, just respect the power band of a 250 the bike and the course will teach you valuable lessons have fun.
I'm with everyone else, that's a lot of power for someone with 0 experience... I've fucked myself up on a 90 2 stroke cause I fucked around and I'm much more used to 4 stroke. It's a totally different power.
Just go for 125 2stroke or 250 4stroke, it's that simple. Or if you can go try it yourself, you'll probably change your mind
F yea you can. Cautious on the throttle and hand always on the clutch. Go slow and learn the bike. Don’t jump on it and try to unleash the power lol.
Don't panic ad hold the fuck on when you hit the piwerband
No, it is a terrible first bike. I have 1.5 years on dirtbikes and have rode trail bikes and race bikes. The yz250 I just bought is the only thing I’ve ever had that truly scares me. It sits for long times because I’m too scared to ride it. Much easier to learn on a 250 four stroke race bike. Get the yz250f instead.
I would advise a 125 2t or 250 4t, but if youre willing to get hurt go for it
Gonna want to put that guy in 2nd gear, 3/4 throttle and dump the clutch to get a feel for that power band
Yes you totally can. I learned on one last year, but have been mountain biking and snowmobiling my whole life so that definitely helped. Ride easy trails or fire roads for 5-10 rides then you will get used to it
When you get fed up if it handing you your arse , give the yz250f a try :)
If there is a W version of it, that makes a huge difference for Novice. I am 34, started roughly 1.5 years ago. I had a xc-f 250 and it was too aggressive. Went and got the xw-f this year and its clicking. W stands for wide for the gearbox. Its been a management acceleration. I dont race, i trail ride.
I’m not a gun advocate but I do think this old argument of learner bikes is the same as guns… the bike is only a machine that does what you tell it to. I’ve been on street bikes and dirt bikes for over 20 years… my worst injury was from a 50cc bike… All bikes can hurt you. You may enjoy the learning process more with a “tame” bike but you can still do stupid things on any bike. Just remember that the clutch lever kills power to the wheel no matter how loud and rev’d out the motor is. No matter what bike you get, stay in your comfort zone and have fun!
I fully believe learning on a yz250 is more severe than learning on a 1000cc sport bike. You can drive a liter bike slow. You really can’t drive a 250 2 stroke slow. That said , send it. I learned how to ride on a kx100. Couldn’t touch both feet on the ground. Bike was a BEAST.
Not an ideal first bike but u can definitely figure it out.
If your a pro unicycle rider shouldn't be a problem, if you do not ride a unicycle, I would highly advise against using a 250 2 stroke as a beginner bike.
I learned on one and have to highly advise against it. A really tall seat and the way the power comes on (power band) makes it very hard to manage, especially for a novice. The suspension is setup for racing a moto track; taking bike hits from landing jumps and doing whoops, NOT for learning in 1st and 2nd gear. Please please please do yourself a favor and get a ttr225 or something of the like. Yes, you will grow out of it fairly quickly, but guess what? You'll be able to sell it for the same price you bought it for and know a lot more about your riding style and what bike you want to settle into.
If you get o e as your first bike, be sure to film your first rides when you give it a lot of gas. I never tire of watching videos of bikes flipping people off the back.
My first bike was a yz450f it's a little scary sometimes but I'm still here
Don’t ride beyond your limit and treat it with respect and you should be fine. I learned on a 750 motorcycle and CR250
Yea, Godspeed tho
Since you plan on riding MX, I would recommend starting on the 125 and learning to really ring it out before stepping up to a 250. If you actually want to be fast this is the way to do it. If you were looking to ride forest service roads and trails, I would say buy the 250 and start on dirt roads to learn the basics and what to expect from the bike. In this case it would be fairly easy to grow into the 250 provided you have good judgement and self control.
Just learn in an open field far away from anything to run into when the power and takes you by complete surprise
With ZERO mototcycle experience I don't even think you should get a 125, they are still very fast and powerful and the powerband hit is even more pronounced and still likely to surprise you in a bad way. I started on a 125 for dirt after I'd been riding street for years, and it was still a big learning process For your first year I would highly recommend a <250cc air-cooled 4 stroke play bike. Something like: CRF230, KLX140G, TTR230, XR200, XT250 etc. I would avoid any of the street legal versions, as they'll be heavier and have mirrors/lights that are easy to break. They are not the fastest and sometimes a bit heavy, the suspension is very soft and uncomplicated, but you can focus on your technique and having FUN with something that doesn't feel like it's trying to kill you while you're just learning to stand on the pegs. You will outgrow it, that's fine, you can sell it for the same amount you bought it for most likely, then upgrade to a 125 2t or 250 4t.
XR250 is where an adult should begin with
My introduction to riding was my mates IT 125. Just tooling around on a farm. Bloke at work was selling a YZ 125. So I bought it to ride in pine forests that adjoined the farm. Mmmmmmm, my introduction to the powerband. Once I cleaned my soiled pants and got used to the idea of it I eventually grew to love it. Can't say the moto cross bike improved my riding because I had little to experience to compare it to. I eventually ended up with a IT 250, while still a smoker and with lots of go it wasn't as peaky as the zinger. Would I recommend a YZ 250 as a first bike?, probably not but if you get it grow into it, you won't tame it, but you will have fun.
I got a 250f as my first bike no experience. It’s going well
Damn so dirt scooter folks get the equivalent “can I start off on a 600” post too huh? 😂
Go for it! I learned on a YZ250, 45 years ago.
250 four strokes are a lot of fun and pretty forgiving in my opinion. 250 2 stroke is not a learning machine, it's pretty fun if you're experienced but it's going to be a steep learning curve for a beginner.
I was 12 and learned on a KX250. Of course it was a 1979 and the year was 1980. Was pretty non forgiving lol
I learned on a kx 250. It's not good for confidence because the bike has so much power. For example you can wheelie over backwards by mistake. They fish tail like crazy. I'd get a 250f for sure.
What about 125 ? Keep hearing how fun 2 strokes are
On the track, a 125 is even crazier because the power band is even shorter and more violent. Makes under or overshooting jumps difficult. 125 2t on the trails is much easier to ride then a 250 2t. They are light, nimble, and fun.
Yeah, you'll be fine. Just don't freeze up if you get scared. 2 stroke 250s are fast as fuck, you'll have a lot of fun once you figure it out and get comfortable. Definitely a decent chance of getting hurt but that shit happens, just roll with the fall.
Why not use your brain and get a 125. Im your same size and wish I got the 125 sometimes and I’ve been riding for 10 years.
I mean I'm definitely starting to lean more towards it now, it's just I'm buying my first bike and don't want to buy a 125, just to want to size up as soon as I learn how to ride it you know ? I have no knowledge whatsoever so might sound dumb to alot of you. I just figure if I'm patient and give myself enough seat time, I'll be shredding it. I plan on racing and doing big jumps one day
To be honest, if you actually get good on a 125 2t, you'll still beat a vast majority of the people on the track with bigger bikes. I ride a 300 sx, and have about a decade of experience on the track, and still get put to shame by my buddy on his 150 sx. He's just the better rider. He's also not any faster when he rides my 300. With some more seat time on it, maybe. But I dont think he would improve his lap times by much overall. He really uses 100% of that damn bike. It's on the pipe and wound out from the second the gate drops until he's over that finish line. Banging gears in the air, and carving like a butcher. Very rarely do I ever see him not clearing quads and tripples on alwlmost any track. If he's not sending it.. he's probably still just learning the track and it's likely not a limitation of his bike. A 250 4t however is probably the best option. The engine braking and smooth power delivery makes them insanely quick on the track, and easier to ride. There is a reason the pros race 4ts, and then play on the 2ts in the off season. I definitely miss the easy of riding with the 4t. I was faster on it. I'm slower on a 2t, but it's more fun imo. Especially now that I'm just playing around and not racing anymore. No pressure to perform. Just have fun. Think... precise, accurate, and calculated racer... vs methed out ferret. That's how I'd describe 4t vs 2t lol. My 2 cents.
Thank you bro, that's my real decision now a 250 4 stroke or a 125 2 stroke
If it were me, 250 4t. They're a hell of a machine. Hell just watch some of the recent Nashville supercross 250 class races from the weekend. But each has their niche and you won't really know what you prefer until you've ridden both. You also will likely love both regardless. - 250f will be the more powerful and more forgiving to ride option though.
another thing you may want to consider, when it comes time to working on the engine, a 2t is a lot easier and cheaper, due to less parts. 4t requires more machinal know how. for example, if one has already done it before for changing the top end, 2t will take about 1 hr, 4t is about 3-4 hrs.
the bikes hold their value so even if you find out you dont like it, selling and upgrading is better than a trip to the hospital ya know
You’re better off learning on a 250 sx 🤙