OVER 100 FREE ENDURO TRAINING VIDS English not your first language? Subtitles in 30+ languages! Basic enduro skills playlist bit.ly/3BtOVyI Intermediate enduro skills playlist bit.ly/3HSkh4r Advanced enduro skills playlist bit.ly/3oNNeqF BIKE SETUP & RIDING GEAR Bike setup playlist: bit.ly/3sBar0i Protective gear playlist: bit.ly/34BYDTI Which bike should I buy? bit.ly/3gLTJG1 Knee protection playlist bit.ly/36fR4Cw OUR OTHER PLAYLISTS Reviews of bikes & products bit.ly/3GQCVrO All about helmets bit.ly/3sJxIgy Enduro philosophy! bit.ly/33meQeV 10 ways to hop logs bit.ly/3JqlOPx The weird side of enduro! bit.ly/3Js1ai2
Love the 300s all I'll ever ride now, I moved to it after 8 years on 450s and the bike setup the way it is now, head, port exhaust, red PV exc. It pulls harder, is significantly lighter feeling and is faster than any stock 450 I have ridden or owned. Best part is i can still just lug around all day out in the trails almost effortlessly if I'm not out on a track.
Best explanation yet. I had a group of XR400 riders. We loved the bottom end. Most bought KTM 300EXCs and never looked back. I had a license plate on my XR400 and bought a KTM 200SX for variety. Same HP, 60 lbs lighter, lots of torque for a 2T 200.
I personally find the power of the 250 to be more intimidating then the 300's. Once the 250 hits the power band it just takes off while the 300 has a softer hit.
Here's my take. I ride extreme enduro trails on a regular basis and two people who ride with me had 250's. Both of them moved to 300's and loved them so much more. I think the 250 just lacks that touque that makes the 300 so good. If I was forced at gunpoint to get a fourstroke, I would get a 250.
I used to race my kx 250. I started with a kx 500 which I liked to ride but the problem was no matter what I did it wouldn't pass the sound checks for the enduro races. So that's why I got into the kx250. Now I sold my kxs and bought a 300 2 stroke gas gas. I loved it. It had so much grunt it was like riding a 4 stroke. Then in 2020 I traded the 300 in for a 2019 250 two stroke. I dont regret it . The 250s have more power than you can use. I like the lighter feel and the snappier engine. All though the 300 felt like the power of my 500 yet handled like a 250. When it comes down to it... get a bike you like and learn to ride it. They are all good anymore... keep rideing and God bless
How is the te300i in the sand/mud??? I am in doubt! I live in NL and I want a 300 or 350. I loved the 300 in the mountains...but I dont know how he is in sand and mud....you know? :)
Somehow, I think if you're asking which to buy, ya should be going with the 250. Learn that bag of tricks, then put the 300 engine kit to it. Best of both worlds......
Why is the video hidden? Anyways, I as a unexperienced rider i would opt for a 250 since it´s harder work and requires you to do it correctly, it teaches you more that a 300. Either get a 250 or a old 300. Still the 300's are brilliant fun and can offer a quite similar learning experience. It´s just that they don´t punish as much when you get it wrong, thus not teaching you as much. Great vid BTW.
I'd love to try out one of these modern 300s that all the cool kids keep going on about. I'd love to know how it compares to the vintage 440 Maico. Compared to a vintage 250, hill climbs on the 440 are like cheating. You can drop anchor on a gnarly hill, take a break for 15 minutes, and just start back up like you're at a traffic light.
I was a sheep and joined the 4 stroke revaluation after 28 years on 2 stroke MX and enduro bikes . The maintenance required on the 4 strokes gets very annoying and it isn't cheap for the high quality oil they require. My 4 stroke needed two oil filters per service . For me now it would always be a two stroke OR if it was four stroke it would be old school style where services are in the thousands of miles NOT 8 hours use
I bought a 2021 XC-W with 130 hours. Love my 300! Coming from nothing but older 2t 250s and little 2 strokes, KTMs counterbalanced engine, transfer port injection, and modern clutch and suspension make it feel like magic, literally!
Have had both 250 and 300 exc both on red power valve spring but i always come back to the 250 just suits my style and all current euro 250/300 seem good these days.
I'm pretty sure the answer is just a straight up yes. I haven't compared similar models of 250 vs 300, or even relatively new ones, but have both an old KTM 300 and a slightly less old YZ250. Both are a ton of fun, seem to be super reliable when trail riding instead of racing (especially with forged pistons), and while they are completely different bikes, both are great options. And being older used bikes means I can afford to have both options.
I have both a 300 and a 250, you nailed the differences. Not much but the 300 picks up the wheel easier to hop over stuff. 250 takes a tad more skill you have to be more aware of what gear you’re in.
It's funny how each appeals to different riders. In our group most of us are 300 junkies. But one guy swears by his 250 and says he'll never ever buy a 300, just doesn't like them. And another guy has a 200cc because he loves small bore bikes.
DON'T ASK US WHICH BIKE YOU SHOULD BUY! We don't do personal bike recommendations. But we have done vids providing some guidelines, feel free to watch these for extremely dodgy general advice. 😊 Should I buy a 250 or 300 two stroke? th-cam.com/video/am8SFww0a5U/w-d-xo.html Best bike for hard enduro and slow technical riding? th-cam.com/video/v0cUHPEp4eA/w-d-xo.html Checklist for buying new or used bikes th-cam.com/video/b4TMA0PDd3c/w-d-xo.html Should you buy a 450 dirt bike? th-cam.com/video/fevAD93quQ4/w-d-xo.html Two stroke or four stroke? th-cam.com/video/PmUUxV3c_NQ/w-d-xo.html Which bike should I buy? th-cam.com/video/HIdBljML-80/w-d-xo.html
When Hans A was looking to move off his 450 we tried all the Husky models - FE450 (a brute!), FE350 (nice but you could feel the 4T inertia and it was too tame), TE300 (mine) and the TE250. He settled on the 250 and never looked back. Being 70+ (and no, you wouldn't know it!) he wanted something that was quick, light and easy to get through the flowing single we love. We swapped bikes for a long section and the 250 was a revelation! So easy to go fast! Didn't want to stand up in tight corners or push the front end, and so smooth on the throttle - I almost thought about selling my 300. It reinvigorated his riding. Then of course he upgraded and the new one was even better! I now recommend the 250's to any new rider as the perfect single track weapon.
excellent points, glenn. occasionally when i've headed interstate or off to canada the only available bike has been a 250. i'd groan to myself a bit as i love that lowdown grunt instead of revving, but of course within minutes i stop whinging and begin enjoying the fun side of the smaller engine!
UPDATE: MAIN BEARING FAILURES 2018, 2019 & 2020 BETA TWO STROKES Unfortunately there been main bearing failures in late model Beta two strokes... Beta USA estimates about a 5% failure rate. Unfortunately there have been cases of multiple failures - up to three in a row even when 'fixed' by Beta mechanics. Beta head office have never been clear about the exact cause. After being pressured, they said it was an 'assembly problem'. Months later they changed their story to it being a 'supplier problem' and they were given incorrect bearings. I've checked again and according to a distributor it's back to being 'an assembly problem' as they were heating the engine cases incorrectly, causing them to warp. This would explain why some riders are having two or even three bearings fail in a row. Get your engine case checked and replaced if needed!
So the RCA process was incomplete. Not sure what happens at the Beta factory but a good process failure and effects analysis would consider the bearing installation procedure and what could happen when overheating the casing during bearing installation. Anyway, some musings from some that had the bearing failure AND is a professional quality/manufacturing engineer. For what it's worth we have another over 35 hours on ours after the replaced bearing.
Yea people that don't give them a thought are missing out, I upgraded to a 250 because the 200 was to much work to ride fast on certain tracks but its a great bike for turn tracks, if it has the low end power to get you up the hills your doing without working it to hard its a fun bike in slow technical stuff as well as its just so easy to throw around.
I have for the most part owned 250SX's but recently got a Beta 300RR. I gotta say i miss the kick. After playing around with power valve springs and adjustments it seems the Italians have ported the engine for linear power. And of course there is diminishing returns on port timing as CC's increase. However the extra bottom end is very handy on the hill climbs and tight sections. It's a double edged sword but i think for aging riders who have had a few good winters a 300 is a better pick.
Well said... very linear power on all the 300s, but especially the Beta and Shercos. The 250s still have that kick as the power comes in though for those who like the thrills. 😊 Still a lot milder than the mx bikes though.
Currently on the 250. Both are good. I prefer the 250. If you weigh over 200 pounds buy the 300 and as someone mentioned the 300 is worth more money when you sell it used.
I've got a '19 TC250 MX bike. There is a sand pit with some fairly big/steep hills. Hitting them in 3rd I have no issues. Even if my front wheel sinks in and I loose speed, it has the torque to pull me up the hill.
Dude, I thought you were riding a big bore four stroke no long ago? I see you like the 300 two stroke now. Well, I don't blame you, all the top riders use the 300. That's what I would choose, the 300 Husky, just like Graham.
I will never part with my 570 awesome machine .i would also own a 300 2banger as well but i love the engine brake on 570 and for long rides. And still is capable through tight stuff for a large bike
250 is the best bike. people buy the 300 cause they watch them in extreme enduro but lets face it few riders can take advantage of the 300 but we all suffer from their disadvantages. except if the rider is older than 40 or overweight...
im rocking a new sx250 with a flywheel, weight, gnarly pipe, and geared up a few teeth in the rear. has been smoking single track. few changes and its track worthy also!
Just went from a old rm125 up to a2017 TM 250. Man it’s got a lot of torque. I don’t think a 300 is really necessary. Plus it has the map switch so I’m riding in the mild mode most of the time anyway. It’s deff much harder to corner than my 125 though so I would say that rotational mass theory holds true
I just went to pick up a gas gas 300 yesterday. The salesman actually talked me out of it and told me to get the 250 because he had ridden both and there wasn't much difference. But the price difference was $700. So I got the 250 and I love it. Broke it in today. Kind of reminds me of the two strokes of old. I also got the cross-country version instead of Enduro version. Where I ride it's more open. Love the suspension! I weigh 230 lbs and it has no lack of power.
Good to hear, Keith. My brother and I bought brand new Shercos and he opted for the 250 and loves it. I can see why, it has so much grunt compared to 250s of old.
I found a good deal on an xc250 and love it. Then I got an RR300 because I can plate it. I love them both. Xc250 is fast and snappy RR300 is smooth and will pull stumps. I love them both. Life is good.
Most excellent synopsis your Gumby guru lordship. We are truly fortunate to be living in a golden age of dirt bike. You can tailor and blur the lines of the displacements. For me sometimes hard charging revver type on a 2t and weighing in under 200 lbs with full offroad kit on, the 250 is perfect , the 300 being a bit overkill more often than not. Just the opposite or my 280lbs son, but we can be effective on either depending on the day.
I own a 2014 250 XC. You can tune the powervalve even on the older models to be completely linear. I don't feel a hit at all. But man, that scream up top!
That's a big step up, Ruari! Hopefully the TPI will be trouble-free, if it's not we've done a recent vid on common TPI problems. If it's a 2021 model we strongly suggest getting the dealer to make sure it has the 'extreme' map to ensure more oil use.
I upgraded an 07 300XC to a !7 250 XC and I miss my 300. there is a big difference in riding them and i had to retrain myself. I feel like it is more work and hits harder. More shifting, wheel spin, and miss the grunt. I think the 300 makes you lazy and I'm 50 years old so i like lazy. i miss my 300
I use to have a 250 exc when I was younger. Great bike. I got out of riding for a while. Now I have a 501FE. However, if I was going back into racing or hard enduro I would probably buy one of the 200's out.
Torque to rider weight ratio matters here... Flat fast track and light weight rider = 250cc would be great, seeing most your throttle will be 50% or greater not needing the low end TQ really. If you plan on doing slow technical stuff the 300 is great, 90% of the time my throttle is just off idle to 50%. and I weigh 220lbs dry... 230 or so with all gear. So the heavier weight and slower rider the more low end TQ of the 300 is best suited. The 250 for me would just be more revving and clutch work....doable but I think it would strain the bike more. I like the slow technical stuff... If I was on flat corn lanes and woodland trails 250 would pry work ok. I love the 300xc. If you are trying to decide, get the 300... you cant lose. I dont think one would be easier than the other to ride... you just have more low end power on the 300. Why would anyone not want it? :)
Out of our group there's only one guy who is a 250cc nut, which is weird because he never revs the bike. The rest of us will go for the 300 every time....
i rode a KDX250 some time back in the 1990s, what a sweet engine! it would be awesome to see kawasaki update the design and bring it back but the japanese seem to be stuck in a rut with their enduro models. 😢
My brother had one when they came out and loved the grunt. It's interesting that none of the Europeans have bored out their 300 models to something like a 350... I wouldn't mind a bit of extra grunt!
sweet! i reported on riding a KX500 in one of the supporter vids. i'd be super keen to see some of the manufacturers move to 350 for that bit of extra grunt. 500 models would just be icing on the cake. 😎
Great summation Barry. The evolution of the 2T enduro motor has been fun and rapid. The new TPI KTM/ Husky models have really come a long way. The counterbalanced engine, E start, fuel injection, and tuned steel ( and carbon with Husky) frames all come together to provide the smoothest, most linear powerband yet. I have 45 hours on my TE 300i and it has been flawless. These are the best of times for enduro riders.
I used to have good over rev... I used to have good low end grunt... Now I just lug around at low revs. Oh wait, you were talking about motorcycles...!
I ended up going for a 2018 Sherco SE-R 250 6 days as I've always ridden 250's and I got a great deal oh and the fact they didn't have any 300 6 days models left but I'm convinced it was the right choice as it was the only choice. I don't think I'm being all that convincing am I. Oh well she's a beast and plenty powerful for me haven't really had to give it too much clutch as the aggressive map seems to open her up sooner and I probably haven't had it in any truly technical spots.
Both great..slight edge to 300. Would like a 200 rr too and a carbed 15’ 500 RS too... and a 15’ 430 race edition too!! Does thatcover it?? Yea close enough..wait maybe a new Holcombe replica 300 and a 250 race edition Chile with the ohlins..
What bark buster set are you using? Those are awesome, I've been wanting something that attaches like yours instead of the ones that get in the way of your controls and leave minimal room for clearance. Thank you
I don't know why all these old video's are showing up on my front page now. But to me, as you said, it is all up to the rider. I've seen people on 125 kick the crap out of people on 400 2 strokes, just because they were way lighter and quicker. But in my opinion it is 70% rider and 30% bike. So my best advise is to learn the bike you have and use it to the best of it's abilities. Just my thought. And the old beasts were fun to try and control.
TH-cam algorithm. 😒 So many viewers have said despite subscribing AND ticking that little bell for notifications that they were rarely seeing my vids over the past two years and views were dropping. I've been posting less lately as a result, I wonder if this is TH-cam's way of trying to get me to post weekly again? But it's definitely the rider, not the bike in most cases! Although all the manufacturer advertising will try and tell us it's the other way around lol!
let me just say, and I know this is a 2stroke video but my first dirtbike is a 4stroke WR250FK and all we do is trail riding, single track, and enduro. It's really killing it and I've gone from never riding a real dirtbike and having no clue what I was doing to riding with dude's who have ridden for 20yrs in only 2 rides. It's more about the rider than the bike, but if I just went and bought a 250 or 300 2smoker I'd have gotten myself into some hairy situations with accidental whiskey throttle I think, not that I didn't anyway but i didn't get hurt so it's fine hahaha. But I am currently saving up for the Yamaha Yz250x 2stroke right now.
I also changed my gearing from 13t and 50t, to 11t and 53t and that made my bike much more of a crawler for the technical stuff, along with an FMF q4 slip on pipe it feels much much much better than stock. With the power tuner and competition ecu I imagine it'd be even better than it is now and that would be crazy to me
Chug (below) is onto it! Good Vid Barry, all down to preference, get a test ride and go from there. 👍 Ive tried hard, real hard to love the 2 strokes and have tested many 250s and 300s, both of the last two times I bought a 300 4 stroke for my needs. I find it difficult to get used to having no engine braking, and the addition of valves doesn't stop me doing anything we try when on a ride. So much choice, I think we live in a golden age of dirt bikes. On the new efi Kato/Husky twins, I got the chance to ride a TE300i. It's a lovely smooth engine and plenty of power. I could see what 'the internet' is talking about though with the power delivery. The bottom end torque right off idle is missing, tuned out of the bike. Thinking about it as I rode, as a mechanic, I'd bet that this very light throttle setting is where the emissions test is performed and is deliberately lacking as a result. That said, you'd expect the factory to also give access to a 'Racing' tune for off road use. (like the old TE449 power plug under the seat) Road tune emissions friendly, race tune with power.
I rode a Beta RR125 in some tight single track a few years back... wow. It was hard staying the powerband but my lap times were way quicker than on my RR300.
@@crosstrainingenduro try a 200. Same power and weight of a 125 but lots more torque and can lug pretty good. One the best all around bikes imo. Can have screaming top end but also very controllable lugging bottom end.
The price of new ones is a deterrent for many, Destry. I guess the good news is that with less things to go wrong with the engine there are less risks with a secondhand one?
Went to a vintage mx show 2 weeks ago, had the kdx250 and the tlm200 in the bus. Went out in the jungle trails behind the show on the kdx, it was fun a week before on the crf250...... .....after power valving into the 4th tree i gave up cos i didnt want any more busted ribs
I have spent a lot of hrs on 300and 250s and if l had to pick between a 250/300 l would still run with the 300 but obviously with any cc size engine there are things you will never really like but put up with but now with a big range of flywheel weights , extreme low comp heads , ecu refash etc not to mention so many great ergonomic modifications what ever your poison you can make a great bike fit like your favourite jeans or shoes
no one has offered us one to test. i think beta has been getting progressively more annoyed when we occasionally do our known issues vids. one thing to keep in mind, just make sure the main bearing failures are definitely fixed for 2019.
@@crosstrainingenduro yeah I watched the video on the main bearings. It seems like its few and far between. I just want to let you guys know you're doing a great job. The reason I bought my 2018 Beta 480RR is partly because of your channel. Love the bike still 145hrs and almost 6000km later!
@@crosstrainingenduro I actually checked them at 130hrs. They still looked perfect. One guy I know had his in until 290hrs and replaced them just as good measure.
I wanted a 300 tpi but all where sold out so I got a 250 tpi with a discount, bought gear for the difference and I’m super happy 😃. I’m a lightweight dude so I imagine grunt and power per kg is better on my setup than my buddy and his 300, in all rpm ranges 😉.
Hey Ian, long time no hear. I wonder if a TPI 250 is like a 200 then? We were testing a guy's near new Gas Gas 250 yesterday with punch down low... he's done the air screw mod, geared it down, had TSP remap the ECU. But the older 250EXC with a carb has way more grunt...
I’ve got a 300. Tons of low torque. I only trail ride so usually I don’t get out of 3rd gear. It has more top end than I could ever use I need to dial the power valve down honestly. But blipping the throttle to raise the front end is really nice for log crossing and rarely stalling in low rpms is really nice. I haven’t had a 250 but I’m not sure I want something smaller even though I think about a smaller bike sometimes just cause I’ve had my bike try and buck me off when I was pretending to be McGrath around my trials. lol.
You guys are super cool, in my oppinion as long as you get out and ride thats wat mater, but be realistic about it dount get in a big and poweful bike if your skills are not that god ....
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I'm going for a 3 stroke 275, seems like a great compromise.
Is it front wheel drive?
Hahaha
3 strokes are just misfiring 2strokes😂😂
Never heard of a 3 stroke
@@Isaiahstetson do some research 😜
I should keep weighing the differences between a 250 and a 300 despite the fact that I can only afford 10 year old 125's
Haha same here
I've bought a 20 year old 380 exc💪😂
2000 YZ250 and I dump $3000 into it. Oh well, at least it’s a cool old restored POS
I like how all viewers have pretty similar sense of humor, that's why we like this channel!
Anton Glonner yesss! Sick bike. I had a 99
Whatever bike you have just get out and enjoy it😎
same here, i only made this vid because so many supporters had requested the topic. i'll be happy on either (but a smidge happier on a 300). 🤗
@@crosstrainingenduro i ride a 300 2 banger aswell just saying
I ride a DR350, no shortage of fun!
I don't have a bike:(
I ride a yz426f
Yz85
Ssr140
Tw200
Xl100
All fun bikes for different reasons
Love the 300s all I'll ever ride now, I moved to it after 8 years on 450s and the bike setup the way it is now, head, port exhaust, red PV exc. It pulls harder, is significantly lighter feeling and is faster than any stock 450 I have ridden or owned. Best part is i can still just lug around all day out in the trails almost effortlessly if I'm not out on a track.
I still prefer the 300's it's the 500 4t of 2 strokes.
I'll just continue riding my xt 500 :P
500 4t has 10 less hp than 300 2t
except it’s handling is much nicer than a 500F
what about 2 stroke 500cc ?
@@gurjindersingh199: no one makes one anymore.
Best explanation yet.
I had a group of XR400 riders. We loved the bottom end. Most bought KTM 300EXCs and never looked back.
I had a license plate on my XR400 and bought a KTM 200SX for variety. Same HP, 60 lbs lighter, lots of torque for a 2T 200.
I personally find the power of the 250 to be more intimidating then the 300's. Once the 250 hits the power band it just takes off while the 300 has a softer hit.
Adjust the powrervalve turn and change the spring ;)
Put the red spring in the 300. Power hits hard.the 300 same as 250 but bit more power.
If I where to buy one for motocross as well as enduro/green lane do you recon the 250 would be more suitable for motocross ?
So you would say if you want that 2 stroke buzz to go 250 over a 300? Is the 250 more brutal?
I'm still riding my 1977 Honda CR125 Elsinore. Why mess with perfection!
Here's my take. I ride extreme enduro trails on a regular basis and two people who ride with me had 250's. Both of them moved to 300's and loved them so much more. I think the 250 just lacks that touque that makes the 300 so good. If I was forced at gunpoint to get a fourstroke, I would get a 250.
certainly my take on it too. it was pretty hard to stay objective in this vid lol.
I went from a Beta 300 to a Sherco 250. I love both bikes, but am very happy with my Sherco. Very manageable steady power in the Technical stuff.
The 250’s are more fun to ride to me.
Love riding my YZ 250X.
Had a 13yz450, loved it. Have a 98 cr250 now, love it even more. Riding on pipe is an amazing feeling.
I used to race my kx 250. I started with a kx 500 which I liked to ride but the problem was no matter what I did it wouldn't pass the sound checks for the enduro races. So that's why I got into the kx250. Now I sold my kxs and bought a 300 2 stroke gas gas. I loved it. It had so much grunt it was like riding a 4 stroke. Then in 2020 I traded the 300 in for a 2019 250 two stroke. I dont regret it . The 250s have more power than you can use. I like the lighter feel and the snappier engine. All though the 300 felt like the power of my 500 yet handled like a 250. When it comes down to it... get a bike you like and learn to ride it. They are all good anymore... keep rideing and God bless
I grew up riding 250s and finally just bought myself a new 2020 te300i... there's no going back!
How is the te300i in the sand/mud???
I am in doubt! I live in NL and I want a 300 or 350.
I loved the 300 in the mountains...but I dont know how he is in sand and mud....you know? :)
Really comes down to cost/ available units, local support and parts available/ reliability.
Somehow, I think if you're asking which to buy, ya should be going with the 250. Learn that bag of tricks, then put the 300 engine kit to it. Best of both worlds......
Guess im buying a 250😂
Why is the video hidden? Anyways, I as a unexperienced rider i would opt for a 250 since it´s harder work and requires you to do it correctly, it teaches you more that a 300. Either get a 250 or a old 300. Still the 300's are brilliant fun and can offer a quite similar learning experience. It´s just that they don´t punish as much when you get it wrong, thus not teaching you as much. Great vid BTW.
I’ve owned both and love both the 250 will do everything the 300 will do it’s just the 300 does easier
I'd love to try out one of these modern 300s that all the cool kids keep going on about. I'd love to know how it compares to the vintage 440 Maico. Compared to a vintage 250, hill climbs on the 440 are like cheating. You can drop anchor on a gnarly hill, take a break for 15 minutes, and just start back up like you're at a traffic light.
Great video. Explains it perfectly. I have had 250 and 300 XC's. I like them both and owning either is ok with me.
Just got a 300 Beta RR. The best bike for me ever. I have had lots of 250s. 300 is like 500cc power. Although Im not fast enought for that!!! LOL
I was a sheep and joined the 4 stroke revaluation after 28 years on 2 stroke MX and enduro bikes .
The maintenance required on the 4 strokes gets very annoying and it isn't cheap for the high quality oil they require.
My 4 stroke needed two oil filters per service .
For me now it would always be a two stroke OR if it was four stroke it would be old school style where services are in the thousands of miles NOT 8 hours use
Why i went XR650L and not CRF, also next bike is the 300, i miss 2 strokes!
@@Jesus_Christ_is_alive two strokes are amazing fun
Get a 275 problem solved :|
Ya this I big brain time
I bought a 250 and used the savings to pay for suspension work and skid plate etc. It's still a pretty torquey motor, too. 2021 ec 250.
The map switch on the 21 300RR Beeta also makes a huge difference. I call it the angry switch. I leave it on neuter mode in the slick stuff.
I bought a 2021 XC-W with 130 hours. Love my 300! Coming from nothing but older 2t 250s and little 2 strokes, KTMs counterbalanced engine, transfer port injection, and modern clutch and suspension make it feel like magic, literally!
Have had both 250 and 300 exc both on red power valve spring but i always come back to the 250 just suits my style and all current euro 250/300 seem good these days.
You have a fantastic voice for narrating! Awesome video like always
I'm pretty sure the answer is just a straight up yes. I haven't compared similar models of 250 vs 300, or even relatively new ones, but have both an old KTM 300 and a slightly less old YZ250. Both are a ton of fun, seem to be super reliable when trail riding instead of racing (especially with forged pistons), and while they are completely different bikes, both are great options. And being older used bikes means I can afford to have both options.
I have both a 300 and a 250, you nailed the differences. Not much but the 300 picks up the wheel easier to hop over stuff. 250 takes a tad more skill you have to be more aware of what gear you’re in.
It's funny how each appeals to different riders. In our group most of us are 300 junkies. But one guy swears by his 250 and says he'll never ever buy a 300, just doesn't like them. And another guy has a 200cc because he loves small bore bikes.
DON'T ASK US WHICH BIKE YOU SHOULD BUY! We don't do personal bike recommendations. But we have done vids providing some guidelines, feel free to watch these for extremely dodgy general advice. 😊
Should I buy a 250 or 300 two stroke? th-cam.com/video/am8SFww0a5U/w-d-xo.html
Best bike for hard enduro and slow technical riding? th-cam.com/video/v0cUHPEp4eA/w-d-xo.html
Checklist for buying new or used bikes th-cam.com/video/b4TMA0PDd3c/w-d-xo.html
Should you buy a 450 dirt bike? th-cam.com/video/fevAD93quQ4/w-d-xo.html
Two stroke or four stroke? th-cam.com/video/PmUUxV3c_NQ/w-d-xo.html
Which bike should I buy? th-cam.com/video/HIdBljML-80/w-d-xo.html
So if I were to buy one for motocross as well as enduro… am I right in saying 250 would be better ??
When Hans A was looking to move off his 450 we tried all the Husky models - FE450 (a brute!), FE350 (nice but you could feel the 4T inertia and it was too tame), TE300 (mine) and the TE250. He settled on the 250 and never looked back. Being 70+ (and no, you wouldn't know it!) he wanted something that was quick, light and easy to get through the flowing single we love. We swapped bikes for a long section and the 250 was a revelation! So easy to go fast! Didn't want to stand up in tight corners or push the front end, and so smooth on the throttle - I almost thought about selling my 300. It reinvigorated his riding. Then of course he upgraded and the new one was even better! I now recommend the 250's to any new rider as the perfect single track weapon.
excellent points, glenn. occasionally when i've headed interstate or off to canada the only available bike has been a 250. i'd groan to myself a bit as i love that lowdown grunt instead of revving, but of course within minutes i stop whinging and begin enjoying the fun side of the smaller engine!
UPDATE: MAIN BEARING FAILURES 2018, 2019 & 2020 BETA TWO STROKES
Unfortunately there been main bearing failures in late model Beta two strokes... Beta USA estimates about a 5% failure rate. Unfortunately there have been cases of multiple failures - up to three in a row even when 'fixed' by Beta mechanics. Beta head office have never been clear about the exact cause. After being pressured, they said it was an 'assembly problem'. Months later they changed their story to it being a 'supplier problem' and they were given incorrect bearings. I've checked again and according to a distributor it's back to being 'an assembly problem' as they were heating the engine cases incorrectly, causing them to warp. This would explain why some riders are having two or even three bearings fail in a row. Get your engine case checked and replaced if needed!
GREAT informations - makes sense after replacing main bearings and still failing. How do you like your Beta you got a 300 correct?
So the RCA process was incomplete. Not sure what happens at the Beta factory but a good process failure and effects analysis would consider the bearing installation procedure and what could happen when overheating the casing during bearing installation. Anyway, some musings from some that had the bearing failure AND is a professional quality/manufacturing engineer. For what it's worth we have another over 35 hours on ours after the replaced bearing.
Years ago I had a yammie RD360, it’s the only bike that ever tried to kill me every time I rode it. It had a switch not a throttle
I rode a friend's honda 250 elsinore along time ago...to me it was a uncontrollable hit of power and I'm about 6'2":±
What about 200?? I LOVE all the 200s I ride.... hahaha it's that old thing hey. Each to their own and you need to ride them!!
yep, this was strictly answering a much requested topic from supporters joe. keen to try a 200 myself!
Yea people that don't give them a thought are missing out, I upgraded to a 250 because the 200 was to much work to ride fast on certain tracks but its a great bike for turn tracks, if it has the low end power to get you up the hills your doing without working it to hard its a fun bike in slow technical stuff as well as its just so easy to throw around.
Beta 200 RR
I got a 300 but 200s are great single track bikes with plenty of power
I have for the most part owned 250SX's but recently got a Beta 300RR. I gotta say i miss the kick. After playing around with power valve springs and adjustments it seems the Italians have ported the engine for linear power. And of course there is diminishing returns on port timing as CC's increase. However the extra bottom end is very handy on the hill climbs and tight sections. It's a double edged sword but i think for aging riders who have had a few good winters a 300 is a better pick.
Well said... very linear power on all the 300s, but especially the Beta and Shercos. The 250s still have that kick as the power comes in though for those who like the thrills. 😊 Still a lot milder than the mx bikes though.
Love your shows. Comical as always and informative.
Peace
- Should I buy a 250 or 300 dirt bike?
- Yes, you should! Do it, now!!!
Currently on the 250. Both are good. I prefer the 250. If you weigh over 200 pounds buy the 300 and as someone mentioned the 300 is worth more money when you sell it used.
I've got a '19 TC250 MX bike. There is a sand pit with some fairly big/steep hills. Hitting them in 3rd I have no issues. Even if my front wheel sinks in and I loose speed, it has the torque to pull me up the hill.
Dude, I thought you were riding a big bore four stroke no long ago? I see you like the 300 two stroke now. Well, I don't blame you, all the top riders use the 300. That's what I would choose, the 300 Husky, just like Graham.
sold the FE570 about four years back albert, and i've been smoking every since. cough cough...
I will never part with my 570 awesome machine .i would also own a 300 2banger as well but i love the engine brake on 570 and for long rides. And still is capable through tight stuff for a large bike
250 is the best bike. people buy the 300 cause they watch them in extreme enduro but lets face it few riders can take advantage of the 300 but we all suffer from their disadvantages. except if the rider is older than 40 or overweight...
Rode a 250 GAS GAS EC and 300 EC, Latter is the bomb ! And iv ridden 250 all my life !
im rocking a new sx250 with a flywheel, weight, gnarly pipe, and geared up a few teeth in the rear. has been smoking single track. few changes and its track worthy also!
Just went from a old rm125 up to a2017 TM 250. Man it’s got a lot of torque. I don’t think a 300 is really necessary. Plus it has the map switch so I’m riding in the mild mode most of the time anyway. It’s deff much harder to corner than my 125 though so I would say that rotational mass theory holds true
I just went to pick up a gas gas 300 yesterday. The salesman actually talked me out of it and told me to get the 250 because he had ridden both and there wasn't much difference. But the price difference was $700. So I got the 250 and I love it. Broke it in today. Kind of reminds me of the two strokes of old. I also got the cross-country version instead of Enduro version. Where I ride it's more open. Love the suspension! I weigh 230 lbs and it has no lack of power.
Good to hear, Keith. My brother and I bought brand new Shercos and he opted for the 250 and loves it. I can see why, it has so much grunt compared to 250s of old.
what a hoonigan on the ktm, those powerslides were wicked!
Tbh id rather a 250 because i like to keep the wheel to the sky and the rpm high :)
Go the 150 most fun you'll have on 2 wheels
I love my cr80, not even kidding. Have a 450 too but 80s more fun. Where are these trails!
Guys are all the time adding flywheel weight to 250s to tame the motor some. 300? Maybe out west in the wide open trails.
I found a good deal on an xc250 and love it. Then I got an RR300 because I can plate it. I love them both. Xc250 is fast and snappy RR300 is smooth and will pull stumps. I love them both. Life is good.
I went from a 690 Enduro to a 300 XCW. Still feels like I’m riding a mountain bike.
I'd say !
Can you see if one of the gumby,s can try out the new YZ 250 X,,, supposed to have a power band suited for trails,
we did a non-review of the YZ250X....
Only 2 stroke I had was my RGV250. Guessing these motors aren't really like that?
But lets be honest here #1 bike kdx 220r
yes. but keep it quiet or everyone will turn green....
If kawa would have only had the vision to make another generation or 2 .....especially with the love of hard enduro sweeping the moto scene.
Everyone seems to like the 200 more
@@devengoyette1497 the 200 from my experience was a faster machine odly enough but the 220 was perfect for single track had enough bottom end.
alexei fedoroschuktait they are both great bikes I just prefer the 200 I have mx forks on mine and some engine mods and it’s great
Most excellent synopsis your Gumby guru lordship. We are truly fortunate to be living in a golden age of dirt bike. You can tailor and blur the lines of the displacements. For me sometimes hard charging revver type on a 2t and weighing in under 200 lbs with full offroad kit on, the 250 is perfect , the 300 being a bit overkill more often than not. Just the opposite or my 280lbs son, but we can be effective on either depending on the day.
I mean a 250 motocross bike(what I ride aka a 2002 cr250r) still makes more power than the enduro 300 and 250
I own a 2014 250 XC. You can tune the powervalve even on the older models to be completely linear. I don't feel a hit at all. But man, that scream up top!
I'd bet money u could take the stickers off both and the avg rider would be able to tell which one theyre on
After riding for the last 25 years,just got the tpi gas gas 300 , coming from my 92 Yamaha wr 200 which is exceptionally competent
That's a big step up, Ruari! Hopefully the TPI will be trouble-free, if it's not we've done a recent vid on common TPI problems. If it's a 2021 model we strongly suggest getting the dealer to make sure it has the 'extreme' map to ensure more oil use.
I upgraded an 07 300XC to a !7 250 XC and I miss my 300. there is a big difference in riding them and i had to retrain myself. I feel like it is more work and hits harder. More shifting, wheel spin, and miss the grunt. I think the 300 makes you lazy and I'm 50 years old so i like lazy. i miss my 300
I use to have a 250 exc when I was younger. Great bike. I got out of riding for a while. Now I have a 501FE. However, if I was going back into racing or hard enduro I would probably buy one of the 200's out.
It would be good to redo this video soon and incorporate the 200 as well....
Torque to rider weight ratio matters here... Flat fast track and light weight rider = 250cc would be great, seeing most your throttle will be 50% or greater not needing the low end TQ really. If you plan on doing slow technical stuff the 300 is great, 90% of the time my throttle is just off idle to 50%. and I weigh 220lbs dry... 230 or so with all gear. So the heavier weight and slower rider the more low end TQ of the 300 is best suited. The 250 for me would just be more revving and clutch work....doable but I think it would strain the bike more. I like the slow technical stuff... If I was on flat corn lanes and woodland trails 250 would pry work ok. I love the 300xc. If you are trying to decide, get the 300... you cant lose. I dont think one would be easier than the other to ride... you just have more low end power on the 300. Why would anyone not want it? :)
Out of our group there's only one guy who is a 250cc nut, which is weird because he never revs the bike. The rest of us will go for the 300 every time....
I like 250s. When I'm lugging it I don't want a bunch of power. I'm riding low in the revs because I'm tired and trying to ride smooth
I am amazed when I jump on a buddies late model 250, so smooth off the bottom for finding traction that can be blown out on the 300.
Kdx 220 still is hard to beat 1st and 2nd gear trails.
i rode a KDX250 some time back in the 1990s, what a sweet engine! it would be awesome to see kawasaki update the design and bring it back but the japanese seem to be stuck in a rut with their enduro models. 😢
@@crosstrainingenduro any word or experience with the YZ250X? I've heard good things.
I bought a 01 ktm 380 about a year ago to try out as a second bike. Best decision I've ever made 10/10 would recommend over a 300 or a 250.
My brother had one when they came out and loved the grunt. It's interesting that none of the Europeans have bored out their 300 models to something like a 350... I wouldn't mind a bit of extra grunt!
@@crosstrainingenduro It certainly brings some excitement to the party whenever the trails open up!
I'm getting the brc 500 twostroke 😏 I'll let you review it when it's done 🤗
sweet! i reported on riding a KX500 in one of the supporter vids. i'd be super keen to see some of the manufacturers move to 350 for that bit of extra grunt. 500 models would just be icing on the cake. 😎
CROSS TRAINING ENDURO SKILLS I will need to start a piggybank to get you the ticket to Norway tho. All of my money went into the BRC 😂 ALL of it 😅
or just ship it over to here. you'd get it back. eventually. maybe.
CROSS TRAINING ENDURO SKILLS 🤔
I love my 250. Another great video. Keep up the great work!
Great summation Barry. The evolution of the 2T enduro motor has been fun and rapid. The new TPI KTM/ Husky models have really come a long way. The counterbalanced engine, E start, fuel injection, and tuned steel ( and carbon with Husky) frames all come together to provide the smoothest, most linear powerband yet. I have 45 hours on my TE 300i and it has been flawless. These are the best of times for enduro riders.
300 it is... well done. Linear power please. For trail riding.
I used to have good over rev... I used to have good low end grunt... Now I just lug around at low revs. Oh wait, you were talking about motorcycles...!
I ended up going for a 2018 Sherco SE-R 250 6 days as I've always ridden 250's and I got a great deal oh and the fact they didn't have any 300 6 days models left but I'm convinced it was the right choice as it was the only choice. I don't think I'm being all that convincing am I. Oh well she's a beast and plenty powerful for me haven't really had to give it too much clutch as the aggressive map seems to open her up sooner and I probably haven't had it in any truly technical spots.
Love to try one, if you could find one.
Do live near Ohio?
@@markmtbrider Nah mate, I'm a fair way from Ohio I'm in Australia!
@@brownsworthy7323 if only I was I independently wealthy, would love to winter down under.
@@markmtbrider yeah, we've got pretty nice winters were I am no snow or black ice on the roads just a bit of rain and plenty of sunshine!
IT 490, now there's a widow maker !!
Both great..slight edge to 300. Would like a 200 rr too and a carbed 15’ 500 RS too... and a 15’ 430 race edition too!! Does thatcover it?? Yea close enough..wait maybe a new Holcombe replica 300 and a 250 race edition Chile with the ohlins..
speaking of power valves, when are they going to put a turbo on a 2 stroke?
😂
What bark buster set are you using? Those are awesome, I've been wanting something that attaches like yours instead of the ones that get in the way of your controls and leave minimal room for clearance.
Thank you
Pretty sure they were Fastway
@@crosstrainingenduro cool! 👍
I don't know why all these old video's are showing up on my front page now. But to me, as you said, it is all up to the rider. I've seen people on 125 kick the crap out of people on 400 2 strokes, just because they were way lighter and quicker. But in my opinion it is 70% rider and 30% bike. So my best advise is to learn the bike you have and use it to the best of it's abilities. Just my thought. And the old beasts were fun to try and control.
TH-cam algorithm. 😒 So many viewers have said despite subscribing AND ticking that little bell for notifications that they were rarely seeing my vids over the past two years and views were dropping. I've been posting less lately as a result, I wonder if this is TH-cam's way of trying to get me to post weekly again? But it's definitely the rider, not the bike in most cases! Although all the manufacturer advertising will try and tell us it's the other way around lol!
@@crosstrainingenduro Just can't understand why they are all at least a year old, nothing from this year.
let me just say, and I know this is a 2stroke video but my first dirtbike is a 4stroke WR250FK and all we do is trail riding, single track, and enduro. It's really killing it and I've gone from never riding a real dirtbike and having no clue what I was doing to riding with dude's who have ridden for 20yrs in only 2 rides. It's more about the rider than the bike, but if I just went and bought a 250 or 300 2smoker I'd have gotten myself into some hairy situations with accidental whiskey throttle I think, not that I didn't anyway but i didn't get hurt so it's fine hahaha. But I am currently saving up for the Yamaha Yz250x 2stroke right now.
I also changed my gearing from 13t and 50t, to 11t and 53t and that made my bike much more of a crawler for the technical stuff, along with an FMF q4 slip on pipe it feels much much much better than stock. With the power tuner and competition ecu I imagine it'd be even better than it is now and that would be crazy to me
Chug (below) is onto it!
Good Vid Barry, all down to preference, get a test ride and go from there. 👍
Ive tried hard, real hard to love the 2 strokes and have tested many 250s and 300s, both of the last two times I bought a 300 4 stroke for my needs.
I find it difficult to get used to having no engine braking, and the addition of valves doesn't stop me doing anything we try when on a ride. So much choice, I think we live in a golden age of dirt bikes.
On the new efi Kato/Husky twins, I got the chance to ride a TE300i. It's a lovely smooth engine and plenty of power. I could see what 'the internet' is talking about though with the power delivery. The bottom end torque right off idle is missing, tuned out of the bike.
Thinking about it as I rode, as a mechanic, I'd bet that this very light throttle setting is where the emissions test is performed and is deliberately lacking as a result.
That said, you'd expect the factory to also give access to a 'Racing' tune for off road use. (like the old TE449 power plug under the seat)
Road tune emissions friendly, race tune with power.
If there orange, make sure and get a helmet came!. Love to see them all going over and down, on moto madness!.
it's taken me 20 years to realize I'm in first and 2nd gear in single track , I could probably get by with a 150 !!
I rode a Beta RR125 in some tight single track a few years back... wow. It was hard staying the powerband but my lap times were way quicker than on my RR300.
@@crosstrainingenduro try a 200. Same power and weight of a 125 but lots more torque and can lug pretty good. One the best all around bikes imo. Can have screaming top end but also very controllable lugging bottom end.
I am on a 530 exc 4 stroke, but would love a 300 2 stroke, but the money is the thing stopping me from moving over.
The price of new ones is a deterrent for many, Destry. I guess the good news is that with less things to go wrong with the engine there are less risks with a secondhand one?
Went to a vintage mx show 2 weeks ago, had the kdx250 and the tlm200 in the bus. Went out in the jungle trails behind the show on the kdx, it was fun a week before on the crf250......
.....after power valving into the 4th tree i gave up cos i didnt want any more busted ribs
What does everyone think of the sound? To me, the 300 sounds better than the 250. I know sound doesn't impact how you ride. I'm just curious.
I have spent a lot of hrs on 300and 250s and if l had to pick between a 250/300 l would still run with the 300 but obviously with any cc size engine there are things you will never really like but put up with but now with a big range of flywheel weights , extreme low comp heads , ecu refash etc not to mention so many great ergonomic modifications what ever your poison you can make a great bike fit like your favourite jeans or shoes
Great review I really liked the the way you sprinklered in the old dirt bike adds great new school verse old school thanks for the post
Correct answer, 125, ringing out a 125 is probably my favorite thing to do on a dirtbike.
Three year old 300 RR - still feelin the love !
Same, nothing but smiles
how did you get a pic of my Suzuki PE?
This one is easy...Racing fast terrain? 250! Riding or Racing Tech? 300!
Would like your opinion on the XC W 150!? Greetings from Azores, i'm a fan of your humor and perspective!
unfortunately never ridden one... or even seen one around here
Would love for you guys to do a review on the new Beta 200RR...about to pull the trigger on one.
no one has offered us one to test. i think beta has been getting progressively more annoyed when we occasionally do our known issues vids. one thing to keep in mind, just make sure the main bearing failures are definitely fixed for 2019.
@@crosstrainingenduro yeah I watched the video on the main bearings. It seems like its few and far between. I just want to let you guys know you're doing a great job. The reason I bought my 2018 Beta 480RR is partly because of your channel. Love the bike still 145hrs and almost 6000km later!
the mighty RR480, i loved riding that beast! no doubt you are aware of the plastic gears needing replacement at 100 hours.
@@crosstrainingenduro I actually checked them at 130hrs. They still looked perfect. One guy I know had his in until 290hrs and replaced them just as good measure.
I wanted a 300 tpi but all where sold out so I got a 250 tpi with a discount, bought gear for the difference and I’m super happy 😃. I’m a lightweight dude so I imagine grunt and power per kg is better on my setup than my buddy and his 300, in all rpm ranges 😉.
wow guys where is this beautiful place to ride?!!!
No shops near me give test rides.
A 250 is similar to a 300 with 100hrs on it. Basically it comes down to what do prefer a worn out 300 or a fresh 300
Hey Ian, long time no hear. I wonder if a TPI 250 is like a 200 then? We were testing a guy's near new Gas Gas 250 yesterday with punch down low... he's done the air screw mod, geared it down, had TSP remap the ECU. But the older 250EXC with a carb has way more grunt...
I do both 250 4 stroke n 300. 2 smoke. Both KTM
I’ve got a 300. Tons of low torque. I only trail ride so usually I don’t get out of 3rd gear. It has more top end than I could ever use I need to dial the power valve down honestly. But blipping the throttle to raise the front end is really nice for log crossing and rarely stalling in low rpms is really nice. I haven’t had a 250 but I’m not sure I want something smaller even though I think about a smaller bike sometimes just cause I’ve had my bike try and buck me off when I was pretending to be McGrath around my trials. lol.
I know the feeling... occasionally the grunt of the 300 can actually be a bit too much. E.g. muddy conditions. But overall I'm a 300 2T addict!
Your videos are fantastic!! I watch some a few times
You guys are super cool, in my oppinion as long as you get out and ride thats wat mater, but be realistic about it dount get in a big and poweful bike if your skills are not that god ....