total begginer

[RoostRider]

keep in mind that a 2 stroke delivers about the same power as a 4 stroke TWICE it's size.... so while an XR 80 wont pull you around all that well... a CR 80 will get your carcass flying...

If you want cheap, the market is in the 2-strokers... they usualy sell for consdierably less than there 4-stroke counterparts (which are twice the displacement)... i.e.- for analagies sake lets say an '03 YZ125 might be selling for $2500, and an '03 YZF250 in similar shape might be going for $3500 or more....

of course you should take the deals where you find them, and you may run into someone selling a 4 stroker for less than it's equivilent in 2 stroke.... it's just less likely....

I would recomend an '90's 80cc 2-stroke MX'er (any brand).... you will outgrow it in a season or two, but then you will know what you want next and you can sell yours to get a new ride and be in a ride that fits you.... (more important than you might think)

[v-16]

k, i found a bike that might work. its $700. a 1986 kawasaki kdx 200. i know thats probly way too big but i was thinking that back in the 80s two strokes wernt as powerful as now. the kid said it has a semi-new carbeurator, spokes, and its only been ridden 4-5 times annualy. if you know any thing that will help, please reply.

[rootie]

i can tell you from experience a four stroke is better to learn on. the downside is engine maintenance is much more complicated than on a 2 stroke. i learned to ride on a 80cc 4stroke, then moved up to a 250 4stroke and now ride a 250 2stoke and it has more power than i can reasonably use on the trail. my advice is the 200 4stroke for learning. you'll be able to control it and you'll still be having fun on it next year.

[rootie]

if you find a good deal on an older 2 stroke and the bike seems to be in good condition, keep in mind that for about $150 you can buy the top end kit from and have basically a brand new engine. assuming the transmission and clutch are in good working order, the only thing that robs your power are worn rings, piston, and/or cylinder. usually its just the rings, but the kit comes with piston and gaskets too. whatever you buy, invest the $50 for a shop manual. its worth every penny

[cndctrdj]

shop manuals are great tools