Best 250 for Pre 85?

[Kenneth S (222)]

Hi VMXers, Having finished my first stint in Motocross in 83 on big bores, I never really took much notice of the early 80s 250s. I'm looking at  a second 250cc bike so I can race the Pre 85 class and wondered whether there was a standout 250 model for that era. I love my Hondas so ideally want to stay on them but I also want a bike which is a joy to ride like my 79 CR250 RZ is. At the moment I am looking at the 84 CR250 mainly because it has a front Disk brake. Any thoughts?

[Tahitian_Red]

I'm a Honda guy at heart and that's why it pains me to say this, but you should pick up an '84 YZ250 and build an addition to your house to store all the trophies. 

[Stevo17]

I ride and 84 KX250 which is a great bike, it also has a disc front end but no power valve in the motor. The Honda is a great ride as is the YZ - but the YZ is drum front . The Suzuki was the lemon of the year.

[Kenneth S (222)]

I'm a Honda guy at heart and that's why it pains me to say this, but you should pick up an '84 YZ250 and build an addition to your house to store all the trophies. 

Wow! With the name Tahitian Red, I am shocked you would admit such a thing (even it it was true). Thanks, I'll check it out. I had an 80 YZ250, didn't like it at all.

[maico police]

I have an '84 YZ 250 and an '81. The '84 feels like it'll send you to sleep because there's just no real 'hit' to it. I keep thinking it needs more but it is very quick. You just don't realize how fast you're going on it!
The '81, whilst it is an Evo bike, is tons more fun and I wouldn't hesitate to ride in Pre 85.

[JohnnyO]

The Honda was the best bike in '84... in fact the Honda was the best through most of the 80's.

[Tahitian_Red]

The Honda was the best bike in '84... in fact the Honda was the best through most of the 80's.

1980's = Decade of Honda 

I didn't know disc brake was allowed in OZ Pre-85 (but it makes sense).  Knowing that, I would probably still vote for the Yamaha.  An Expert Class friend of mine has raced one for years and thinks it is the best bike in his stable.  I'll try to find the '84 250 shootout mag I have that picks the Honda, then adds the Yamaha Bulletin tricks to the YZ and states it would have won the shootout with these few small mods (even with drum brakes).

[head]

I have an '84 YZ 250 and an '81. The '84 feels like it'll send you to sleep because there's just no real 'hit' to it. I keep thinking it needs more but it is very quick. You just don't realize how fast you're going on it!
The '81, whilst it is an Evo bike, is tons more fun and I wouldn't hesitate to ride in Pre 85.

I have the same two bikes and the 84L is deceptively fast. The 81 feels faster but I think that is because of the light switch power, either on or off. 84 has great bottom and mid power but I would like a bit more up top.

[John Orchard]

I tested all four for Trail & Track back in the day.........

CR250RE - needs a rear Ohlins, breaks pistons on exhaust port, with that done..the best.
KX250C2 - good everywhere, the high rear mudguard smacks you in the arse all the time.
RM250E - Best handling & rear suspension, if it had a front disc it'd be a winner.
YZ250L - Z spokes were not reliable, most low rpm power, if it had a front disc it would be a winner.

[ba-02-xr]

Go with what floats your boat. But some others were the KTM, great motor & handling but shit breaks. Also Maico had bikes in Aus but good luck finding them. Did any Can Am's come in. Also Cagiva had a underated bike.

[Luke Lloyd]

My vote is on the 84 Honda, i have one, not that I'm biased or anything

[Kenneth S (222)]

Thanks Guys, I've gone with the 84 CR250. It seems it is up there with the best.

[maico police]

I think this'n would be a great buy.

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/320815472652?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

[Scunge]

I have owned or raced the following;

1982 RM250 Z
1983 RM250 D
1984 RM250 E
1983 KX250
1983 CR250D

The 1982 RM250 Z, was the best!

[Luke Lloyd]

I'm actually contemplating letting my CR250 go at the moment to fund a new project, PM me if your interested mate, or my number i.e. 0427 761 344.