Which RM250 to buy for VMX Racing

[VMXSteve]

I am after a RM250 to race socially in VMX events in NZ.
I brought the last new K8 model in 2010, and so are keen getting one of the early ones!
There are several 1981 RM250X models for sale in NZ at the moment.

What do guys think of these?  Or should I try for the water cooled later models?

[Rossvickicampbell]

82 RMZ is light years better than the X and quicker than the 83 as well 

[suzuki59]

Hi Steve,
Welcome to NZ VMX.
I have owned the  82,83 and 85 models and concur with Ross the 82 is the fastest but any of the watercooled beasts can fly with minor head mods.
The 81 is a cool bike but prone to engine casre issues caused by the main bearings chewing out the cases so approach this model with caution.

Cheers
Craig

[OverTheHill]

My boy [in nz] has an "85 RM250 semi basket case--well, bought it complete but never ran it [i believe imported & sold on, maybe the seller knew something!!]. Motor has had what was needed done & assembled but just sitting in the frame--then parked in my farm lock up & put on the back burner. I don't mind being the middle man as sort of caught in the middle lol. Give me an nz email address & can send some pics to view & can find out more technical detail. Cheers Morley Shirriffs NZ.

[William Doe]

I am after a RM250 to race socially in VMX events in NZ.
I brought the last new K8 model in 2010, and so are keen getting one of the early ones!
There are several 1981 RM250X models for sale in NZ at the moment.

What do guys think of these?  Or should I try for the water cooled later models?

Where in NZ are you based ? you can limit your riding options if your local VMX club does not cater for linkage bikes .

Research that first  then buy the latest model for the class you want to enter. Bear in mind with RM 250s there are classes for pre 78, pre 81, pre 86 and pre 91 depending on where you are geographically located .
I would give the X models a wide berth for the reasons Craig has pointed out . The 82 Z model is fast but looks dated compared to the 84,85 models ( run in same class ) .

My pick would be

Pre 78 RM 250 B

Pre 81 RM 250 N or T

Pre 86  RM 250 Z , E or F

Pre 91 RM 250 J 

[VMXSteve]

Thanks Guys, I a in Christchurch and already race / ride a KX500B (1985) in the local VMX club.    I am after a  2 stroke 250 to play in that class also.