Looking for older 125 or 250

[QUICK_EG_B16A]

Now that I've learned to ride I need a bigger bike.(I learned on a crf styled 110, a cheap generic pit-bike just to learn on). I'd like to get something with lots of aftermarket support for it such as any of the 93 or newer bikes from the big 4(Hon., Kaw., Suz.,&Yam.) my absolute limit is 1500. Anything decent out there and in the so cal area?

[RoostRider]

I know SoCal's prices are a little higher than here in MN.

But here in MN you can get a pretty decent used 2 stroke bike for $1500.

You will probably want to go with a 2 stroke simply because they are more affordable. (with the 4's ruling the roost in MX this makes the older 2's worth less) I think you will need a pre '02 model in order to get a green sticker to ride a 2 stroke in Cali anyways. (in Cal. you can only ride green stickered bikes all year- Red sticker bikes have a limited season.)

I could be wrong about the '02's and earlier being green sticker. I only have picked up what I know from people complaining about it on the net. You should check with your state to see the 'real rules'.

If I am right (and I think I am). You are a prime candidate for a '00 or so 2 stroke in halfway decent shape.

If you give us some of your stats we could help you decide what kind of bike might be best suited for you.

age
Height
Weight
Type of riding- rank them in the order you would ride them (MX/FMX/HS/Enduro/friends and trails/play)
riding style (agro/fast and on the edge/moderate to fast/learing quickly/slower and more carefull/my little sister kicks my butt)
terrain (sandy trails/hardpack/fire roads/desert/MX track/rocky)

Around MN I have purchased the following deals in the last 2 years

'01 KX 250 $1900 (pristine)
'01 YZ 250 $2000 (great shape)
'95 CR 125 $650 (really ugly/needs constant maintanance)
'85 KX 125 $300 (piece of junk- got it to run once)
'02 250EXC $1990 (awesome bike)
'95 XR 250 $1000 (not a looker but great mechanically)
'87 YZ 125 $400 (we call it Frankenbike- you get the picture)
'99 KDX 200 $1000 (great runner- ok looking- sound)
'01 KDX 200 $1400 (great shape all around- awesome deal)

As you can see, you are probably in the range of 'mechanically sound' with some appearance issues (scrathes, dings, wear, etc...) You should buy a local Cycle Trader and get some ideas....

If you shop around you WILL find a decent bike in your range....

The 4's are mostly out of your price range for anything decent- unless you want an older XR or something- but the reliable MX 4's are a little more out the door $$ and havent been around long enough to stockpile a decent supply of older units.

Good luck

[QUICK_EG_B16A]

Stats
age:19
ht:5'9"
wt:275
type:Mostly trail riding(desert), and screwing around with a little FMX
riding style:still learning the basics, but catching on quick(as far as regular mx type riding goes)(love to jump though)
I'd really prefer a 2 stroke anyways because as you mentioned they are MUCH cheaper.
wish I was in MN cheapest 2 stroke in my range I've found so far has been a 94 125 beat to hell!