After riding 20 last year's on four strokes only , I decide to give two stroke a chance purchase beta 200🤘.And like you said it feels weird in the beginning, it's really fun and I question myself why I didn't tried thet sooner . I'm keeping my FX I still love four strokes, now I love them both. Great video 👍
I've gone from 2t to 4t, back to 2t, and now both for many of the same reasons that you've mentioned, mostly that each has its appropriate environment. Even on street bikes, I've got a big adventure bike, a comfortable sport edged standard, a 450 motard, and a classic 2t twin. Each has its use, and I couldn't dare pick one of them as a favorite, because it all depends where I'm going and who I am with.
I ride mostly 2 and I hate getting on a 4 mostly because of the engine breaks it feels really weird to Me. I like being able to coast, and so much more clutch control on a 4 in tight single track
I totally agree with your advice on two-stroke low-to-mid logging and shifting a lot but that is only 4 the newer Trail Offroad two strokes it is totally opposite riding Motocross though I think you should have pointed that out motocross bikes have a huge mid-range hit-and- rev to the Moon
i had a 2008 crf450r as my first dirtbike and she was a monster.. heavy and hard to handle. now i bought a 2015 125sx and i love it. thanks for your videos!🙌
I had both for years, was on a 4 stroke for several years, and now back on a 2 stroke. SInce I have been off of a bike, I am hopefully learning the new good habits. This video said a lot of the reasons why I went back to 2 stroke.
Coming from older 2 stroke mx bikes im used to having all the power on top and having wild powerbands wich i personally love. It makes the bike feel allot more eager to be ridden but i might be looking into a newer enduro 2 stroke just to feel the bottom end on them
Love the Channel. I recently switched over to a 2021 250FX and its like learning Single Track all over again. Would definitely love to see a 2 stroke to 4 stroke video.
That is my favourite my on the market! Good choice dude, that thing on a motocross track is just so sweet. Suspension, engine and brakes are the best stock. Dont need a single modification. I would love to own one myself but its extremely difficult to find one in Mexico, only like 3 a year arrive and they sell quick!
I just switched to a 22 300 xc-w from owning a 2014 250 xcf-w for the last 8 years. I honestly don’t love it as much as I thought I would. It’s better on hill climbs and not stalling. But I seem to get lots of arm pump which I never had on my old bike. Also like he said on any open roads 4-strokes leave me in the dust. I also dented my pipe a few times which I never had to deal with on my four stroke.
Mate this is the best video I’ve ever watched and as a beginner I understand it all you have done an amazing job explaining everything and iv learnt so much and my riding has changed so much thanks to you
I think most of this advice is great. However what I commonly see is people buying 300s who only know how to ride the bike on low end and have not learned how to really get the power out of a 2-st. If you watch the pros ride when it gets super steep they are riding on top end and clutching. That is how they get maximum power and traction on super steep climbs. I get the average guy this might not be applicable. But if you want to advance your skills you need to learn this technique. A good way is to learn is start on a 125/150. This will force you to learn to have great clutch control and really work power out of 2-st
Maxima 927, Motul 800 ester, or Lucas Semi-Synthetic are my go to oils. The leanest mix I know of from the OEMs is 50:1 on the European bikes, but a little extra oil never grenaded an engine whereas too little certainly has. There’s a great video showing how properly jetting and fattening up your mix yields more power than leaning the mix out.
Have you adjusted yet? I’m only 15 hours in on my 2 stroke and it has changed how I have to ride drastically. My braking points have changed and I find myself coasting a lot more
Video couldn't have come at a better time! Picking up my 2022 KTM 300 XC-W next week after riding a 2016 KTM 250 XCFW for the last several years! Great channel and content!
I’m laughing my ass off watching you swing that carb around by its leash. Such a moto head! My wife came home after I pulled the top off my 450EXC, oil pump broke, I got distracted and carried the whole upper into the house. Sat down at the computer and put the assembly on the desk, started gaming, wife came home, horrible things were said about my genetic lineage. Got a 2020 300 XC TPI that I absolutely love, second KTM 2-smoke I’ve owned. First one was a 1999 380EXC, loved that bike. Anyway, carry on and keep up the good work!
I'm old and have had my Honda crf250 for years but have barely gotten out since noone I know rides.... Now I'm getting into a group of others.... They all have 2 strokes so I've been thinking I should learn about them and maybe keep the option open later.... This was a great video! I love single track stuff like on mountain bike... Not into speed, just slow and steady.
Just picked up a 2000 yahama xt350 4 stroke watching your videos to see if this is different than a motorcycle and I like your channel so you got my sub 🎉
for mixing gas, i bought small, cheap plastic bottles with lids and pre-poured the right amount for 5 gal. i keep them in the van and they're always ready to go without any measuring and no messy cup to clean up or store at the gas station. amazon had 8 oz bottles with screw lids that worked out to the proper mixture for the amsoil stuff.
I agree with everything said here. On a big two stroke, about the time it starts to make big power, it's time to shift, because it's ready to make big power in the next gear as well.
Kyle you need to give yourself more credit. If you're not an expert show me anybody else on the internet who has had as many bikes and test rides as you. You are an expert own it!
Iv always rode crf250r's in the woods of Kentucky, but finally bought a mint 21 Yz250, and once your used to that hit it's so much better, lighter, more power and easier to turn and stop and start and pick up when it lays over on ya
Another good vid mate. Timely, as after growing up on 2 bangers and then thumpers for last 15 years, I made the move to the TPI 300 for last 18 months which has been an experience I had to do. But, whilst I loved so many aspects mentioned in your video, I’m heading back to a new Kato 500. Overall. I found that for whatever reason I didn’t ride as fast as I think I could on these new frames in a 500. Particularly long technical fast and slow hill climbs was a punish on the 300 verse a thumper. I think you should have mentioned you have to be a bit fitter and you much busier on the 2 banger than a thumper. I was worried about engine breaking but no issue at all. TPI is awesome. I had fun and they are awesome but for the overall mixed and varied terrain we ride over here, I’m pumped to get back to 500. ……inspired me though to get a 250 2 anger for the motor x tracks where I can ring it’s neck.🤛
When I switched from a 4 to a 2 stroke after racing a 4 stroke for years engine braking was the biggest adjustment I had to make, it's a different kind of riding style, engine braking on a four stroke isn't a choice it's just how the engine functions when you let of the throttle especially if it's a higher compression 4 stroke but it only takes a ride or two to naturally adapt to it, as far as fouling spark plugs that rarely ever happens on a modern 2 stroke, if it loads up just hold the throttle wide open a couple of times while in neutral and it will clear right out.
For me I love 4 strokes because they are more consistent with the throttle while the 2 stroke is more powerful and sensitive with the throttle in the low rpms. For me I just prefer the predictable power from 4 strokes.
Clutch modulation is the key on a 2 stroke. Constant. Like playing with a joystick. Plus, the free floating engine on 2 stroke verse 4 stroke engine breaking throws most people off. I like the momentum on 2 stroke. 4 stroke likes grabbing a gear taller to relieve engine compression.
Your #2 Tip on shifting early and often is spot on. I rode a yamaha 4 stroke the past 3 years and started riding a 250xcw this year, and I noticed the top end of the throttle isn't nearly as unlimited in each gear.
Great video! Another tip is understanding the engine effects on the suspension and chassis. 4 Stroke engine braking will shift the bikes geometry forward, compressing the forks and lifting the rear (if rear brake isn't applied). This helps with tightening the steering geometry entering a corner. it will also cause the bike to be less stable steepening the fork angle and shortening the wheelbase. in whoop sections, a 4 stroke (due to engine braking) will drop the front end if the throttle is not kept constant. A two stroke will not do this. As the power of a bike tightens the rear suspension, a two strokes power band can make the bike bouncy off the rocks which is why as you mention, shifting to be in the lower meat of the power is better. A four strokes engine characteristic will manage this better with longer less intensity on the rear linkage.
7:39 2 strokes feel grate on track to but that ktm is a enduro bike so now wonder it feels like that. And there are MX 2 strokes like the YZ that are meant for track use. 2 Strokes can be just as good if not better on track than a 4 stroke
I love 4 strokes when I rode 2stk for a year, I hated problems with spark plug, stalling engine specially downhill, breaking the pipe, and as you said "riding long transition road to trails, and last I really missed the electric starter on 4stks. Good things of 2stk was the weight, the price, and the sound.
Please do the 2 smoker to 4 smoker video. I recently had my 2021 Yz250x stolen and have purchased a 2022 fe350 reading and listening to all the 350 praises. I know I will love the bike or any bike I bring home. This will be my first 4 stroke and really have no idea what to expect. 😳
I started dirtriding a year ago, in my low 40s, on a ktm 350 exc-f. Now, a year later, I am seriously considering buying a new TE150i although all my friends are pushing me towards a bigger 250 or 300... I kinda researched it a lot and still stuck to the 150 idea as I believe it will make me a better rider... the 350 made me a more lazy rider. I have the advantage of having the forest right at my door
I am an arthritic 56 year old, there is nothing wrong with being a lazy rider, riding a Dirt Bike the word lazy in any context does not really apply when you think about it.
I'm battling the same decision. I'm stuck on do I want to spend the time and frustration learning or would I rather have a bike that compensates for my lack of skills and just ride?
@@iainhutchinson345 That's true, and I totally agree with, but it's missing the fun factor. I am struggling to keep up with the guys I ride in the gnarly technical stuff... The 350 is 970mm seat height, it's not way heavier than a large bore 2 stroker, however, I can bearly reach the ground with my toes and, as an example, pivoting it is out of the question unless I have a higher thing like a rock or a tree to stand on. The high center of gravity and the rotational mass makes it feel quite heavy. For example, I have laying around an old YZ250f which is a pain to ride in the woods (it's a cross bike... that's killing my disk hernia :( ), however I find it extremely nice for short rides due to the fact that I need to change gears more often and work a lot harder with that clutch due to the light flywheel, I dunno, just makes me feel more in contact with the bike and the sport. Also, on that yz250f I find the position on the bike better than the ktm and I actually enjoy bottoming out the throttle. The 350, if I am not careful with the throttle, it becomes difficult to control. On the 350 you could just fell asleep as that engine just lugs everything on the open trail no matter you're in 1st, 2nd,3rd 4th... In the gnarly technical stuff, this bike is killing my stamina - this could also be because I am just a beginner.
@@mirceaalicu I am 5ft 6 inches with a 28 inch inseam, the first thing I do is carve the seat foam down with an electric carving knife. I have a 2020 FX 350, with a Vortex x10 ecu, a Rekluse auto clutch, K-Tech ORSS fork spring conversion and a Kreft re-worked shock, I can ride it on a track all day in 3rd. My other bike is a GasGas ex300, with a Get Athena ECU, and injector relocation kit, a RK TEC head, and at the moment its way too aggressive, not just for me but for a couple of highly competitive MX riders......I need to work on this one to get it right.
Thanks for the great tips. Have a 2015 KTM 350 EXCF - and just got a 2021 300 XCW. Both are awesome - but the 300 is much more fun in the tight trails.
@@Will-po4gd Same here after having both a Husky and KTM on order for almost 9 months I ordered a 2021 Yamaha 250FX and just figured I would take whatever came first and low and behold 3 months later im on another Yamaha
Great video thanks for the tips! I currently ride an old wr250f and looking at switching to a 2t mainly based upon weight and maneuverability. My wr is a hog on the trails I prefer to ride!
@@snowfreak551 I wouldn't necessarily agree with that. I like both for all the riding I do and just switched from an '18 TE250 to a '21 WR250F. The WR allowed me to dump most engine braking for a 2 stroke feel on tighter single track and with a push of a button it'll get up and scoot. With that said, before I did the TE, I had been on 450's for years and those I'll never go back to. These 250's just seem to be more fun. I came real close to buying a TE150 last weekend just to have something to trade off on.
@@kevinoneil6032 wow thats wild, ive actually never heard of someone going from a TE 2T to a 4 stroke… i ride single track and trails with steeps and rocks and i cant even imagine going back to a 4 stroke
I really liked it a lot. But I really like this one, too. Sometimes I wonder if I made the right call, then I jump on this one and I forget all about. Will I ever own another one? Maybe. I really do like both bikes.
i have a felling when i ride a 4 stroke it is a better feeling because its so smoth the sound and all i have owned both but you're right with that trottle on the 4 stroke my hand hurts faster
I have both a 2 stroke 97 rm125 and a 22 yamaha yz450f. I bought the 450 because i got tired of changing a plug every trail ride. Might be the 32-1 ratio i run with klotz, some mechanics ive talked to said i could run klotz at 50-1. That makes me nervous lol.
What should I do if I'm just trail riding. The trails I go on I have a lot of bumps and some big rocks and some pretty deeps puddles and some little ones and I usually go like 30 to 40 on my TTR230 but I really want the yz 85 for my first two stroke. I had my ttr230 for about year and I feel comfortable enough to make a move, Should I? Plus I just like the rev
I'm just switching from 4 stroke to 2 stroke, all be it with a 10 gap in between. When going down long hills should I leave the bike coasting or should I pull on the clutch to disengage the engine so it just idles? Will letting it coast on long downhills damage the engine? As I assume it will be doing higher RPM's but with the throttle closed so little fuel and therefore oil getting into the engine. Great informative channel by the way 👍.
Surely the ecu is monitoring engine rpms no matter if you're turning the throttle or not? It's like saying all the while the clutch is engaged the ecu doesn't fire the oil pump? It must do
I curious as to what you can do to maximize that low end sortof grunt you get from a two stroke, ecspecially for smaller bikes like a tc85. i,ve heard of traction disks, although i don't know to much about there practicality for trail riding, "i would like to know if traction disks are good for smaller bikes to gain more traction to get that rock crawling uphill capability from it". please get back to me on what you can do you gain more low end and more tracion. than you
you should ALLWAYS mix oil fuel as the manufacturer says, never use less oil!!! it will take power away from the bike and it will not last as long! the more oil, the more power! believe me, it is a science in it slef, but there is one very good video out there that tell exactly why you should never use wrong ratio, it just makes your bike run not as it is supposed to ;-)
I try not to coast too much at high speed on a 2 stroke. It’s doing high rpms and getting minimal fuel and therefore minimal lubrication. But yeah not a huge deal if you aren’t riding it like a dual sport. But when I have to long straight runs I try to avoid it a bit
You did a tips for beginner adults... what bike to get. What about an adult that USED to ride a lot as a kid but has been out of the sport for 10 years or more. Man, the bikes have changed, but it won't be long before my skills are back up to where they were... I think??
I agree with a lot of what you said but this definitely applies to dual sport bikes this definitely isn’t recommended but if you ride a 2 stroke motocross bike off road it’s a bit different and you will definitely be able to tell it’s not made for it
It’s always funny when I hear people say 2 strokes do better on mountain single track. It’s all about the rider. I can keep up with any 2 stroke on any Utah trail with my 4 stroke. If you disagree comment and I’ll meet u at the trailhead
I have a WR250R. What I've learned is the DOT tires suck, the bike is heavy for how I'm using it (300#) and my trails are way more technical that I originally thought they would be. I'm definitely looking to switch to 2 stroke. What I need to decide is if I'm ditching the dual sport or not. I'm leaning towards keeping it just because it's paid for. It's not a bad bike, but it's not a great bike for how I'm using it. It's under powered for road use for sure and the seat is horribly uncomfortable.
Regarding engine braking, engine braking in some cases is MUCH better for slowing down particularly coming into a slippery corner when you need to scrub a bit of speed and where the brakes make break the tire loose....it's bad practice on a moto track to clutch in coming into corners...
the old 2 strokes compared against the 4 strokes may be unstable for road and 'dual sport' use, but what about the new tpi, counterbalanced ktms and huskies? do they close the gap on the 4 strokes as it relates to commuting use on the road?
Great video about 2-stroke vs 4-stroke. But is a 125 2-stroke significantly different than a 250 2T? For example, 125s 2T needs to stay on the pipe while the 250 can lug.
ive always been told to never ride slow or lug on a 2 stroke... can you lug lower displacements or is that only for 250 and 300. i fouled a plug on my TC125 2023 with the green map on got a plug thankfully
2 strokes HUGE money savings you can rebuild a 4 stroke (so many more parts and more money head/valves/cam-chain/guides/seals/or it goes to pieces and THOUSANDS) - hence the salvaged bikes on (online sites for sale) they piece meal them out as it would cost way more than the bike is worth and most don't want a used 4 stroke as money pit
For sure is easier to work on 2t than 4t, I guess that you have owned four strokes and they kept breaking all the time and that you spent a lot of money to fix them, and that's why you talk so bad about four strokes, I've been riding the same 4t bike for 4 years, I have put a lot of hours on it, and all I do is oil changes and air filters, I rarely wash the bike, and runs really good still, I have no complaints on 4t.
Must have both 2 and 4 stroke mostly so you don't have to worry if you have the wrong bike . Have both life's short .
You are correct friend
That’s right!!! 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
Yup. Got a 4 stroke pitty for care free riding. Then a 250 2 stroke for everything else.
Took your advice now I’m divorced and in debt thank you couldn’t be happier lol
@@juniorramirez4956 dude ..... Congratulations on the divorce!! 🤠 .
what a coincidence!! I'm making this transition this weekend. I'll get the 300 2 stroke tomorrow. thank you for the tips! will help me a lot!
Did u get it???
@@sevenmilewhite1407 yes!! Grate bike!!
After riding 20 last year's on four strokes only , I decide to give two stroke a chance purchase beta 200🤘.And like you said it feels weird in the beginning, it's really fun and I question myself why I didn't tried thet sooner . I'm keeping my FX I still love four strokes, now I love them both. Great video 👍
I personally own a kx85, and I still watched this video. Because this guy gives some helpful tips
"The brakes are far better at slowing you down than your engine"
My KLR would like a word with you
Facts. Same with most of the dual sports especially the Honda’s and the Kawasaki’s even though kawi is getting better at it
I've gone from 2t to 4t, back to 2t, and now both for many of the same reasons that you've mentioned, mostly that each has its appropriate environment. Even on street bikes, I've got a big adventure bike, a comfortable sport edged standard, a 450 motard, and a classic 2t twin. Each has its use, and I couldn't dare pick one of them as a favorite, because it all depends where I'm going and who I am with.
I would love to hear the 2 to 4 as I have never felt comfortable on the 4
4 strokes suck
I ride mostly 2 and I hate getting on a 4 mostly because of the engine breaks it feels really weird to Me. I like being able to coast, and so much more clutch control on a 4 in tight single track
@@2Smoke-AClae474 strokes just feel weird to me
I totally agree with your advice on two-stroke low-to-mid logging and shifting a lot but that is only 4 the newer Trail Offroad two strokes it is totally opposite riding Motocross though I think you should have pointed that out motocross bikes have a huge mid-range hit-and- rev to the Moon
Same with running a mx bike with 80:1 ratio.
I think this is a great addition to your video library. Helpful for those who need to know.
i had a 2008 crf450r as my first dirtbike and she was a monster.. heavy and hard to handle. now i bought a 2015 125sx and i love it. thanks for your videos!🙌
I had both for years, was on a 4 stroke for several years, and now back on a 2 stroke. SInce I have been off of a bike, I am hopefully learning the new good habits. This video said a lot of the reasons why I went back to 2 stroke.
Coming from older 2 stroke mx bikes im used to having all the power on top and having wild powerbands wich i personally love. It makes the bike feel allot more eager to be ridden but i might be looking into a newer enduro 2 stroke just to feel the bottom end on them
Switching from four stroke to two stroke was the best decision I have made in my life. Fourstroke to Yz250. Now happily own a ktm 300 xcw tpi.
I just made the transition yesterday and I’m loving it, but haven’t quit gotten used to it yet
Love the Channel. I recently switched over to a 2021 250FX and its like learning Single Track all over again. Would definitely love to see a 2 stroke to 4 stroke video.
That is my favourite my on the market! Good choice dude, that thing on a motocross track is just so sweet. Suspension, engine and brakes are the best stock. Dont need a single modification. I would love to own one myself but its extremely difficult to find one in Mexico, only like 3 a year arrive and they sell quick!
I just switched to a 22 300 xc-w from owning a 2014 250 xcf-w for the last 8 years. I honestly don’t love it as much as I thought I would. It’s better on hill climbs and not stalling. But I seem to get lots of arm pump which I never had on my old bike. Also like he said on any open roads 4-strokes leave me in the dust. I also dented my pipe a few times which I never had to deal with on my four stroke.
Opposite for me. Only ever rode 2 strokes, 4 strokes a whole new thing for me.
Mate this is the best video I’ve ever watched and as a beginner I understand it all you have done an amazing job explaining everything and iv learnt so much and my riding has changed so much thanks to you
I think most of this advice is great. However what I commonly see is people buying 300s who only know how to ride the bike on low end and have not learned how to really get the power out of a 2-st. If you watch the pros ride when it gets super steep they are riding on top end and clutching. That is how they get maximum power and traction on super steep climbs. I get the average guy this might not be applicable. But if you want to advance your skills you need to learn this technique. A good way is to learn is start on a 125/150. This will force you to learn to have great clutch control and really work power out of 2-st
But the 300 lugs so well !
What is even 2-st? Riding on top end??
This is exactly what I’m doing. I’ve ridden a lot of 300’s but now that I own a 125 I’ve become a much better rider in just about 10 hours.
That’s what I did.
Recently bought a Husky TE150 and it’s an absolute hoot.
Fantastic 1st trail bike
Awesome!!!
I just sold my KTM 450 EXC and I've got a 2022 Sherco 300 SE Factory coming, thanks for the tips 👍
Maxima 927, Motul 800 ester, or Lucas Semi-Synthetic are my go to oils. The leanest mix I know of from the OEMs is 50:1 on the European bikes, but a little extra oil never grenaded an engine whereas too little certainly has. There’s a great video showing how properly jetting and fattening up your mix yields more power than leaning the mix out.
Yes, please do the 2 to 4 stroke video as well please. Thanks!
Engine breaking has been the most noticeable change that I feel. It was crazy the first time I let off and it didn't slow down
Have you adjusted yet? I’m only 15 hours in on my 2 stroke and it has changed how I have to ride drastically. My braking points have changed and I find myself coasting a lot more
Wow - some cool NUGGETS for my new 2-Stroke Bike. Highly appreciated❤
Just what I needed. My first 2 stroke is a couple weeks away.
Just got my first ever two-stroke and ended up racing it straight away. You are going to be so happy!
I completely rebuild my cr125 at home in the garage, 2 strokes are awesome
Video couldn't have come at a better time! Picking up my 2022 KTM 300 XC-W next week after riding a 2016 KTM 250 XCFW for the last several years! Great channel and content!
I’m laughing my ass off watching you swing that carb around by its leash. Such a moto head! My wife came home after I pulled the top off my 450EXC, oil pump broke, I got distracted and carried the whole upper into the house. Sat down at the computer and put the assembly on the desk, started gaming, wife came home, horrible things were said about my genetic lineage. Got a 2020 300 XC TPI that I absolutely love, second KTM 2-smoke I’ve owned. First one was a 1999 380EXC, loved that bike. Anyway, carry on and keep up the good work!
I'm old and have had my Honda crf250 for years but have barely gotten out since noone I know rides.... Now I'm getting into a group of others.... They all have 2 strokes so I've been thinking I should learn about them and maybe keep the option open later.... This was a great video!
I love single track stuff like on mountain bike... Not into speed, just slow and steady.
Just picked up a 2000 yahama xt350 4 stroke watching your videos to see if this is different than a motorcycle and I like your channel so you got my sub 🎉
for mixing gas, i bought small, cheap plastic bottles with lids and pre-poured the right amount for 5 gal. i keep them in the van and they're always ready to go without any measuring and no messy cup to clean up or store at the gas station. amazon had 8 oz bottles with screw lids that worked out to the proper mixture for the amsoil stuff.
I absolutely love my 2stroke. My yz125 pulls very hard up top.
I agree with everything said here. On a big two stroke, about the time it starts to make big power, it's time to shift, because it's ready to make big power in the next gear as well.
Kyle you need to give yourself more credit. If you're not an expert show me anybody else on the internet who has had as many bikes and test rides as you.
You are an expert own it!
Iv always rode crf250r's in the woods of Kentucky, but finally bought a mint 21 Yz250, and once your used to that hit it's so much better, lighter, more power and easier to turn and stop and start and pick up when it lays over on ya
Went from a KTM 250xcf to a 250ec GasGas. Loving the single track trails and hill climbs on the 2 stroke!!
Another good vid mate.
Timely, as after growing up on 2 bangers and then thumpers for last 15 years, I made the move to the TPI 300 for last 18 months which has been an experience I had to do. But, whilst I loved so many aspects mentioned in your video, I’m heading back to a new Kato 500. Overall. I found that for whatever reason I didn’t ride as fast as I think I could on these new frames in a 500. Particularly long technical fast and slow hill climbs was a punish on the 300 verse a thumper. I think you should have mentioned you have to be a bit fitter and you much busier on the 2 banger than a thumper.
I was worried about engine breaking but no issue at all. TPI is awesome.
I had fun and they are awesome but for the overall mixed and varied terrain we ride over here, I’m pumped to get back to 500.
……inspired me though to get a 250 2 anger for the motor x tracks where I can ring it’s neck.🤛
Great video! There were definitely a few things I was thinking 2 strokes did or didn’t do and I was completely wrong I’ve realized
Good timing on the video, i just switched from the yz250f i had for 11 years to my first two stroke ever a 2017 yz250x for riding in Southeast Idaho.
When I switched from a 4 to a 2 stroke after racing a 4 stroke for years engine braking was the biggest adjustment I had to make, it's a different kind of riding style, engine braking on a four stroke isn't a choice it's just how the engine functions when you let of the throttle especially if it's a higher compression 4 stroke but it only takes a ride or two to naturally adapt to it, as far as fouling spark plugs that rarely ever happens on a modern 2 stroke, if it loads up just hold the throttle wide open a couple of times while in neutral and it will clear right out.
Bought my first dirtbike this weekend a yz125 and the No engine braking was a shock to me and promptly ended with me on the ground
Have an 81 yz250 and have always just ran Stihl chainsaw oil mixture. No problems so far.
For me I love 4 strokes because they are more consistent with the throttle while the 2 stroke is more powerful and sensitive with the throttle in the low rpms. For me I just prefer the predictable power from 4 strokes.
2 strokes are predictable if your used to the bike 🤷🏻♂️
I do agree with you a bit though. 🫡
Clutch modulation is the key on a 2 stroke. Constant. Like playing with a joystick. Plus, the free floating engine on 2 stroke verse 4 stroke engine breaking throws most people off. I like the momentum on 2 stroke. 4 stroke likes grabbing a gear taller to relieve engine compression.
99% of 4 stroke riders think they make more low end unlike you
Great comment, engines are for speeding up, brakes are for slowing down. Do any road racing course and that's the first thing they will teach you !!
Warm up process on a TPI bike is very different and more like what you see for 4Ts.
This mans got the best channel!
Your #2 Tip on shifting early and often is spot on. I rode a yamaha 4 stroke the past 3 years and started riding a 250xcw this year, and I noticed the top end of the throttle isn't nearly as unlimited in each gear.
Great video! Another tip is understanding the engine effects on the suspension and chassis. 4 Stroke engine braking will shift the bikes geometry forward, compressing the forks and lifting the rear (if rear brake isn't applied). This helps with tightening the steering geometry entering a corner. it will also cause the bike to be less stable steepening the fork angle and shortening the wheelbase.
in whoop sections, a 4 stroke (due to engine braking) will drop the front end if the throttle is not kept constant. A two stroke will not do this.
As the power of a bike tightens the rear suspension, a two strokes power band can make the bike bouncy off the rocks which is why as you mention, shifting to be in the lower meat of the power is better. A four strokes engine characteristic will manage this better with longer less intensity on the rear linkage.
For oil mix run recommend oil mixture in the manual.
For oil mix, run the mixture of a good quality oil that's listed on the bottle. Then jet the bike for that ratio.
7:39 2 strokes feel grate on track to but that ktm is a enduro bike so now wonder it feels like that. And there are MX 2 strokes like the YZ that are meant for track use. 2 Strokes can be just as good if not better on track than a 4 stroke
I love 4 strokes when I rode 2stk for a year, I hated problems with spark plug, stalling engine specially downhill, breaking the pipe, and as you said "riding long transition road to trails, and last I really missed the electric starter on 4stks. Good things of 2stk was the weight, the price, and the sound.
I've only ever ridden 2 strokes never had a problem stalling downhill or any problem with the spark plug. Maybe the one you got had an issue
Please do the 2 smoker to 4 smoker video. I recently had my 2021 Yz250x stolen and have purchased a 2022 fe350 reading and listening to all the 350 praises. I know I will love the bike or any bike I bring home. This will be my first 4 stroke and really have no idea what to expect. 😳
If u can learn to use the clutch to stay on the pipe for a Smoker, u can learn how to use it on a Thumper to flow and engine brake into corners.
I started dirtriding a year ago, in my low 40s, on a ktm 350 exc-f. Now, a year later, I am seriously considering buying a new TE150i although all my friends are pushing me towards a bigger 250 or 300... I kinda researched it a lot and still stuck to the 150 idea as I believe it will make me a better rider... the 350 made me a more lazy rider. I have the advantage of having the forest right at my door
The 150s are amazing
I am an arthritic 56 year old, there is nothing wrong with being a lazy rider, riding a Dirt Bike the word lazy in any context does not really apply when you think about it.
I'm battling the same decision. I'm stuck on do I want to spend the time and frustration learning or would I rather have a bike that compensates for my lack of skills and just ride?
@@iainhutchinson345 That's true, and I totally agree with, but it's missing the fun factor. I am struggling to keep up with the guys I ride in the gnarly technical stuff... The 350 is 970mm seat height, it's not way heavier than a large bore 2 stroker, however, I can bearly reach the ground with my toes and, as an example, pivoting it is out of the question unless I have a higher thing like a rock or a tree to stand on. The high center of gravity and the rotational mass makes it feel quite heavy. For example, I have laying around an old YZ250f which is a pain to ride in the woods (it's a cross bike... that's killing my disk hernia :( ), however I find it extremely nice for short rides due to the fact that I need to change gears more often and work a lot harder with that clutch due to the light flywheel, I dunno, just makes me feel more in contact with the bike and the sport. Also, on that yz250f I find the position on the bike better than the ktm and I actually enjoy bottoming out the throttle. The 350, if I am not careful with the throttle, it becomes difficult to control. On the 350 you could just fell asleep as that engine just lugs everything on the open trail no matter you're in 1st, 2nd,3rd 4th... In the gnarly technical stuff, this bike is killing my stamina - this could also be because I am just a beginner.
@@mirceaalicu I am 5ft 6 inches with a 28 inch inseam, the first thing I do is carve the seat foam down with an electric carving knife. I have a 2020 FX 350, with a Vortex x10 ecu, a Rekluse auto clutch, K-Tech ORSS fork spring conversion and a Kreft re-worked shock, I can ride it on a track all day in 3rd. My other bike is a GasGas ex300, with a Get Athena ECU, and injector relocation kit, a RK TEC head, and at the moment its way too aggressive, not just for me but for a couple of highly competitive MX riders......I need to work on this one to get it right.
You should open your sweepstakes to Canada, Kyle! I know there's a host of legal reasons you don't, but in a perfect world... You SHOULD!
2strokes are amazing for doing wheelies around town
What timing!
I just upgraded from my old 1991dr350 to a 2010 250xc for racing in Harescrambles on the east coast.
First two stroke!
just got a yz125 and I love it
Thanks for the great tips.
Have a 2015 KTM 350 EXCF - and just got a 2021 300 XCW.
Both are awesome - but the 300 is much more fun in the tight trails.
It's easier if you never switched to four strokes to start with.
I couldn’t find any 2 strokes until like 1 month ago
This!
@@Will-po4gd Same here after having both a Husky and KTM on order for almost 9 months I ordered a 2021 Yamaha 250FX and just figured I would take whatever came first and low and behold 3 months later im on another Yamaha
Seems like you made this video for me!! Love my 2022 YZ250 :)
Hows it feel compared to the older model both power and ergonomics wise???
I just bought a yz85 2 stroke an boy that little thing is a blast!! Sucks n the woods but other then that it's really fun to through around lol
great vid, I just moved from a 500 EXCF to a 300 EXC
Always 2 strokes. Plus they sound way better ! 💯👍
I think of 4 strokes like a nice small block V8 and the 2 strokes like a rice burner
@trav3510 trav3510 Totally agree. My 97 YZ285 sounds great like my son’s mint 03 RM125 with the shorty silencer
let see the video the other way round! I just switched to a 4 stroke from a 2 and I might have to go back.
I have been looking for a video for this and I found it on my recommended
never had a dirt bike, but I know it will be 2 strokes,,,,,, nice video, cheers V!
I would enjoy a 2-stroke to 4-stroke video. I’m a dual sport rider primarily. Thanks
Great video thanks for the tips! I currently ride an old wr250f and looking at switching to a 2t mainly based upon weight and maneuverability. My wr is a hog on the trails I prefer to ride!
I had a 450F and now im on a TE250 2T. Youll never go back to the 4 stroke once you get into the 2 strokes
@@snowfreak551 I wouldn't necessarily agree with that. I like both for all the riding I do and just switched from an '18 TE250 to a '21 WR250F. The WR allowed me to dump most engine braking for a 2 stroke feel on tighter single track and with a push of a button it'll get up and scoot. With that said, before I did the TE, I had been on 450's for years and those I'll never go back to. These 250's just seem to be more fun. I came real close to buying a TE150 last weekend just to have something to trade off on.
@@kevinoneil6032 wow thats wild, ive actually never heard of someone going from a TE 2T to a 4 stroke… i ride single track and trails with steeps and rocks and i cant even imagine going back to a 4 stroke
I really liked it a lot. But I really like this one, too. Sometimes I wonder if I made the right call, then I jump on this one and I forget all about. Will I ever own another one? Maybe. I really do like both bikes.
Everything spot on bar warm-up. Let new TPI idle till it reaches operating temperature.
12:02 i let my yz 125 idle for like 4 mins every time i go for a ride but i have never fouled a plug or gooued up my power valve.
i have a felling when i ride a 4 stroke it is a better feeling because its so smoth the sound and all i have owned both but you're right with that trottle on the 4 stroke my hand hurts faster
Great video... I'm switching soon too
I have both a 2 stroke 97 rm125 and a 22 yamaha yz450f. I bought the 450 because i got tired of changing a plug every trail ride. Might be the 32-1 ratio i run with klotz, some mechanics ive talked to said i could run klotz at 50-1. That makes me nervous lol.
Best moto youtuber
You’re the man Kyle
What should I do if I'm just trail riding. The trails I go on I have a lot of bumps and some big rocks and some pretty deeps puddles and some little ones and I usually go like 30 to 40 on my TTR230 but I really want the yz 85 for my first two stroke. I had my ttr230 for about year and I feel comfortable enough to make a move, Should I? Plus I just like the rev
I'm just switching from 4 stroke to 2 stroke, all be it with a 10 gap in between.
When going down long hills should I leave the bike coasting or should I pull on the clutch to disengage the engine so it just idles?
Will letting it coast on long downhills damage the engine? As I assume it will be doing higher RPM's but with the throttle closed so little fuel and therefore oil getting into the engine.
Great informative channel by the way 👍.
Surely the ecu is monitoring engine rpms no matter if you're turning the throttle or not? It's like saying all the while the clutch is engaged the ecu doesn't fire the oil pump? It must do
Great information, its good to have that perspective from the two different types . Looking forward to the for the next video 👍
Would love to hear 2 stroke to 4 stroke. I’ve got a yz250 2 stroke and have ordered a 500exc. Cheers!!🍻
Would really love for you get on a new 2022 crf250rx!!!
4:40 Where can I buy that?! That is awesome.
I’d watch that one and would take more off it cause I ride a two stroke currently and do want a newer 450
I curious as to what you can do to maximize that low end sortof grunt you get from a two stroke, ecspecially for smaller bikes like a tc85. i,ve heard of traction disks, although i don't know to much about there practicality for trail riding, "i would like to know if traction disks are good for smaller bikes to gain more traction to get that rock crawling uphill capability from it". please get back to me on what you can do you gain more low end and more tracion. than you
Reverse view please. I've tried both. 4 stroke for my type of riding. Long CO runs. Riding to the trails on street legal bike.
you should ALLWAYS mix oil fuel as the manufacturer says, never use less oil!!! it will take power away from the bike and it will not last as long! the more oil, the more power! believe me, it is a science in it slef, but there is one very good video out there that tell exactly why you should never use wrong ratio, it just makes your bike run not as it is supposed to ;-)
2T -> 4T video would also be great.
I try not to coast too much at high speed on a 2 stroke. It’s doing high rpms and getting minimal fuel and therefore minimal lubrication. But yeah not a huge deal if you aren’t riding it like a dual sport. But when I have to long straight runs I try to avoid it a bit
You did a tips for beginner adults... what bike to get. What about an adult that USED to ride a lot as a kid but has been out of the sport for 10 years or more. Man, the bikes have changed, but it won't be long before my skills are back up to where they were... I think??
I agree with a lot of what you said but this definitely applies to dual sport bikes this definitely isn’t recommended but if you ride a 2 stroke motocross bike off road it’s a bit different and you will definitely be able to tell it’s not made for it
It’s always funny when I hear people say 2 strokes do better on mountain single track. It’s all about the rider. I can keep up with any 2 stroke on any Utah trail with my 4 stroke. If you disagree comment and I’ll meet u at the trailhead
I've found I don't really do any better or worse between the 2. I just fall over a lot on either. lol
I totally agree with you man, if you really know how to control the bike you can compite with 2t on technical trails, it's all about the rider
I have a WR250R. What I've learned is the DOT tires suck, the bike is heavy for how I'm using it (300#) and my trails are way more technical that I originally thought they would be. I'm definitely looking to switch to 2 stroke. What I need to decide is if I'm ditching the dual sport or not. I'm leaning towards keeping it just because it's paid for. It's not a bad bike, but it's not a great bike for how I'm using it. It's under powered for road use for sure and the seat is horribly uncomfortable.
You'd find a big difference from the 250R just switching to a 4T street-legal enduro. Like a 350 EXCF, or if you can find a street-legal WR250F.
Regarding engine braking, engine braking in some cases is MUCH better for slowing down particularly coming into a slippery corner when you need to scrub a bit of speed and where the brakes make break the tire loose....it's bad practice on a moto track to clutch in coming into corners...
His suggestion for warming the bike is the exact opposite of owners manual on my 2022 ktm 300xcw
the old 2 strokes compared against the 4 strokes may be unstable for road and 'dual sport' use, but what about the new tpi, counterbalanced ktms and huskies? do they close the gap on the 4 strokes as it relates to commuting use on the road?
Great video about 2-stroke vs 4-stroke. But is a 125 2-stroke significantly different than a 250 2T? For example, 125s 2T needs to stay on the pipe while the 250 can lug.
ive always been told to never ride slow or lug on a 2 stroke... can you lug lower displacements or is that only for 250 and 300.
i fouled a plug on my TC125 2023 with the green map on got a plug thankfully
Great video love my 2stroke 👍
Very good info in this video
Great video answers a lot of questions I just switched and I noticed all the different issues ! 💰👍
2 strokes HUGE money savings you can rebuild a 4 stroke (so many more parts and more money head/valves/cam-chain/guides/seals/or it goes to pieces and THOUSANDS) - hence the salvaged bikes on (online sites for sale) they piece meal them out as it would cost way more than the bike is worth and most don't want a used 4 stroke as money pit
For sure is easier to work on 2t than 4t, I guess that you have owned four strokes and they kept breaking all the time and that you spent a lot of money to fix them, and that's why you talk so bad about four strokes, I've been riding the same 4t bike for 4 years, I have put a lot of hours on it, and all I do is oil changes and air filters, I rarely wash the bike, and runs really good still, I have no complaints on 4t.