2 stroke itch....

[mikeyp]

I have an itch to get a 2 stroke. Never had one. Never ridden one.

Have a 250 EXCF (four stroke) at the moment which I like but can't help thinking that a 300 EXC 2 stroke will be a lot more fun (and challenging) to ride. More bottom end torque.

I gather that 2 strokes are easier to maintain and lighter than their 4t counterparts.

What am I missing?

Convince me to stick with my 250 4t ????

[Dominic]

So I did what you are contemplating... I went from a 250EXCF to a 300EXC. I had been thinkling about it for awhile and when my 4t came up for valve checks it sent me over the edge. I only started riding in Jan so my observations are from limited experience. The maintenance is definately easier and cheaper on the 2t and the lightness combined with the 2t power-delivery makes it a more entertaining ride for sure. I dont think its made me any faster tbh (its not a miracle bike).

If i was to do it again I would probably go for a 250 2t. I went for a 300 as reviews referred to them as "3-strokes", i.e. the best of both worlds. However I do find the 300 can be a handful

[Stewie]

The main thing with the 2smokes is the mpg, I used to get about 50 miles to the tank on the 300exc and that was plodding!, also not realy set up for distance, so van or trailer.
On the plus side, there like sitting on IBM and a lot more track friendly IMHO.
Although easier to work on, you have to do a lot more running maintenance.
Best thing is to see if you can get a ride on one, and give it a go.

[Dave]

4 strokes are definitely the way forward if you was solid reliability, easy riding and happy road miles. But if you've outgrown your 250 4t you need to make a tough decision.

Upgrade to a 400/450 4t to keep things interesting and easy but suffer an increase in weight (check new bike models though, some are immensely light )

Or get a 250 2 stroke which is pure fun but you will need to accept the challenge of adopting a slightly different riding style

When I went back to 2stroke after 4 stroke I'd forgotten the fun but also clutch feathering etc..

I agree with above. Go to a track, sit on a few, ride a few buy one you like.