That's exactly how I feel also. I have one most people in ride with have the 300's. They are awesome don't get me wrong. Def easier to ride etc... I feel the Yamaha handles better. And as you said the simplicity!!!!! I dumped mine in a creek. We turned it upside down drained water out of the pipe. Pulled plug. Put new plug in after about 10 min of kicking started up. And I rode home. Don't think on a 300 your gonna be able to do that.
@@Davido5090% of our local A class guys who are 20 to 35 run yzs.. initial cost and cost of repairs is definitely a thing. Us guys over 40... like a magic button. I'm not An orange fan though. Love my sherco with kybs.
They are great bikes, I own a 2013 yz 250 with a 11 oz flywheel weight and I also own a 2023 KTM 250 xc. both are great bikes but there is something about the yz that's just raw old school power that is a blast to ride! I've also owned a KTM 300 as well and for now I think the 250's are more fun to ride.
I bought my 2023 Husqvarna TX300 for $9,500 OTD, it has been the best dirtbike I've ever had. You can get deals on the left over year models, you just need look around.
That’s a great deal. Those bikes are real sweet! How far have you run the tank on that TX? Buddy of mine has the same bike, and ran out of fuel on the trail. It still had about 5 inches of fuel in the left portion that hangs down over the cylinder. Fuel pump is way up top by the seat with no pickup tube. Word of warning to you if your fuel level is below the rad shrouds on the left side of the tank, fill up. We figured the tank hung down low over the cylinder to give you extra fuel, but apparently it’s useless?
@@careypatmore2576Respectfully, what are you basing your claim on? "Any of the big four"... only Yamaha makes two strokes anymore. My bike before my '22 GasGas EC250 was a built YZ250 with engine work and a Lectron. It felt huge. Long and wide. My Austrian bike feels svelte, has the magic button, and the hydraulic clutch, while not necessary, reduces fatigue by being light and precise always. The fuel injection is amazing, with broad, tractable power, and zero flat spots. I also finish long hare scrambles with 1/3 a tank left. It is categorically better than all the Japanese bikes I've ridden my whole life. Please explain your point.
I had a 20 yz250 I set up for a jday/woods ripper. Spent the money for a 18 inch rear, apex head, had the suspension setup and threw some more at it. I loved it but I picked up a 23 tx300 this season and it blows that yz out of the water in every aspect hands down and anyone who says otherwise really hasn’t spent any real time riding a 23+ husky/ktm 2 stroke
Yes. This vid is yet another an overly simplified comparison. Every bike requires you to mod it for what you want to do w it. YZ250's are great if you don't want an electric start, ever. Plug & play cooling fan? Any possibility of getting it plated in your state? Minimum required head & tail light for dual sport use? Euro bikes are too expensive, but they are far closer to what most need in that genre. All good points about Yamaha reliability, front forks & price but at the end of the day, you'll still end up with a bike with a kickstart only. At this stage of the game is a non starter (pardon the pun) for many plus no plate in most states.
I’ve always rode Yamaha’s and loved the weight but the new Ktm xact wp pro suspension is absolutely amazing, the tbi motor is unbelievable as well. Yamaha’s are for hitting big jumps.
My Xmas gift in 1974 was a JT2 60cc mini enduro. I was 8 years old & 2 years later I was waiting to get the new YZ125. I saved up every dime I made mowing lawns every weekend focused on getting my YZ125. I finally had enough in 1977 and that was my first bike I raced on at sanctioned AMA events. I've had a few of their best & worst dirt bikes. 86 they made a great 125YZ and after riding that, my 77 seemed like total junk compared to it. The 88 YZ 250 was a very good bike for a long time that motor & frame worked well on tracks. My last days of racing were on a 2002 YZ 250 in a seniors event at Gleen Hellen CA. Not always the best but never the worst bike to be one in a race. Imagine taking all of the modern suspensions off these new bikes & working with just 6 to 7 inches of suspension travel. That was what I grew up with back in the day. Rodger Decoster was a god. America needs more outdoor 45 minute motocross racing and less super cross events to make our riders stronger & world beaters again. Brad Lacky type racers.
@@joez6798 Electric start, no jetting, no pre mix, less vibration, hooks up better, 6 speed transmission, better fuel mileage so better for longer rides, and way easier clutch pull just to name a few.
I had a 2022 with a heavy flywheel and it rocked. Just too much for me NOT to use, so I found myself being constantly tempted to just send it. The handling was superb, just amazing. Never really putted around for the low end grunt, just shredding.
I own a 2024 ktm 300sx and have owned many yz 250 as well as all the other Japanese bikes, and the new 300sx is the best 2 stroke by far. It lugs like a 450 down low which I absolutely love and you can switch between maps when you get tired. I've ridden 2 strokes my entire life and when I saw the 2023 300 first come out I knew I had to have one but didn't want the first year model so I waited for the 2024 bikes, work the bugs out so to speak.
Have had both. I like the YZ suspension better, but that's it. Everything else is far better on the KTMs. Carbs are trash, FI is so much better. Range, idle quality, etc does not compare between carb and FI. The oil pump is not a reliability issue. E start is critical when you're stuck in the shit somewhere. The KTMs are a few thousand more expensive and they outsell the YZ 5:1 for woods riding...there is good reason.
I had a 2019 yz250x and I now have a 2022 GasGas ex300 I put 100 hours of “hard” enduro riding on both and never had any failures with either bike. My Yz hands down pulled harder on top and my GasGas hands down pulls harder on bottom. I was able to make both bikes work very well for what I wanted to do! The Yz is a great bike especially for the price!
I have a GPX TSE300L 2 stroke...very similar to KTM 300 Carb models...good suspension, E-start, 50cc more, hydraulic clutch, etc and less than $6500 ..I am loving it.
SSS suspension is the main reason for me along with a great chassis. Power is great! Try blending and polishing the exhaust port, polishing the power valve bores. You should have greased the suspension linkage because the factory puts hardly any grease on all those bearings. Again the suspension is world class for a stock bike and has 2 internal oil levels that are tunable. I do wish it had counterbalanced and electric start!
@@krazed0451 such a solid foundation of an engine! Being older and 5'9" the YZ is getting tougher to start for me. It has a higher compression ratio but that gives it the great low end
I'm on my second beta now.. I agree with all you said which is why I landed on the beta kind of right in the middle of the ktm and yz platform. Price is a little more then the yz but you also get w start headlight hydraulic clutch brembo brakes mapbswitch and a few other things but the big things for me is it still carburetorated. Also race edition has kyb suspension. That's alot of bike for 10k
I sold my 250x for a beta 250rr RE. I’m a newer rider and the biggest deal for me by far and away was dropping the bike in a race on a steep hill and having the kick start on the high side and no real strength to maneuver it. It also wouldn’t start 1st/2nd/3rd kick after falling which became an issue. Looking back, I could have done a couple things way but the lack of an E start was the biggest. The beta also has a milder hit and lower seat height which I really wanted. The 250x was great though the best investment is a flywheel weight, I thought the lugability was fine for me. If the 250x had an e start and maybe dedicated transmission it would take over
They will get away from ya if ya let em. Only difference is the rear wheel. 2nd and 3rd gear ratio. And power valve setting. They make the same power as the sx. Just deliver it different.
@@wko78ms the 250x has the wide ratio and quicker power valve. The yz 250 has around 46 or so hp I think. They are still wicked fast. With plenty of hit.
I’ve got a 23 yz250 first one ever.. I also have a 22 450R.. But since I have gotten the yz I never ride the 450. It’s the most fun zippy comfortable bike I ever been on. 100 percent satisfaction
i agree with every point you made. the last thing i want when im miles deep in the woods is to have to walk the bike back. right now i have an 02kx125 and let me tell you the sht its been through and still got me back home is nothing short of amazing. one time there was some sort of internal malfunction, likely from my buddy breaking shit kicking the thing forward so hard the kick gear dislikes engaging reliably, and blew out the inner case and clutch hub completely locking up the bike causing me to skid out. well.... i refused to walk the thing back and after breaking the internals free i pop started it and rode it all the way back home about a mile. repaired the damage and went on my way. a few months later i smashed the radiator bad and lost all collant. again, i refused to walk the bike back and rode it home. replaced the radiator and coolant and bam, good to go. the bike still rips, its amazing.
Hydraulic clutch, off idle torque and reliability and e-start. I’ll take a Ktm all day,preferably a carb model 17”-18 250 XC or W. But whatever works for you. Have fun 🎉
@@burstcasino That would be nice. If I get the position in the spring I’m hoping too get at the job I’m at now I’ll come see you guys👍🏻 for a 24” Beta 200RR RACING Edition. If not gotta buy used🥹 hopefully I’ll see y’all soon 🤙🏻
I own both bikes and I prefer my KTM. But this a great and honest review. I agree with Ty. The YZ is not the same but for the money its hard to beat. WIth how ridiculous pricing is for KTM the YZ really is a great option and a great bike. And KTMs are now closer to 13-14K out the door nowadays.If your someone who is on a budget, get the YZ. You won't regret it. If you have the cash and want newer features, get the KTM. Really can't go wrong with either unless you ride hard enduro all the time.
Yup. Same thing everyone says in pretty much every shootout review. The YZ has the most comfortable chassis, suspension, and cockpit. Most people agree that the user friendliness of the YZ is unbeatable. But man, EFI really sounds tempting. Being able to take your bike to elevation or deal with temperature changes & never have to touch the carburetor is a HUGE benefit. Your bike will always run as it should with EFI. If you're always riding in the same place, it's not as big a deal. You get your bike tuned correctly & you never have to deal with it again. If you travel with your bike a lot and don't have a team with mechanics that sponsor you, carb tuning is a huge pain. No one likes to deal with stalling or bogging or running rough when they ride in a different place. I hope KTM sets a new standard for 2 strokes. Firstly, I hope Honda, Kawasaki, & Suzuki start making 2 strokes again. Secondly, I hope they make them with the same effort they put into 4 strokes. There's no reason 2 strokes can't have launch control, traction control, EFI, and map settings like their 4 stroke counterparts. Bring back the 2 strokes!
I love Yamaha I own 2 Yamahas but riding the trails the KTM owns me. All around for me it’s insane. The Yamahas are cheaper because they don’t have the technology that KTM offers. But the Yamahas are awesome too. The KTm 250 xc is absolutely amazing as well as the ktm350xc.
I have a 2006 YZ250 because it has the kyb suspension, because of the smooth useable power with the flywheel weight, and of course the price point. What I want to do is install that 250x wide ratio transmission kit, lectron carburetor, and last but definitely not least, the ESR YZ325 Big bore kit!
I bought a 41 hour 2017 Husqvarna TX300 with a Lectron carb on it for $7,000. I love that thing. Electric start counterbalanced 300cc motor is butter smooth. I rode a TPI version in 2020, and couldn't find any reason to upgrade to a newer model.
I have put 200 hours on my yz250x and 100 on my beta... and yeah, the YZ is not as good on tight single track and I'd go for the beta for harescrambles as well. There's something to be said about the fun factor of the YZ though, and it smokes the beta on a track or in the desert.
I’ve had my 250x for nearly 2 years, I’ve made a lot of mods to get it to perform well in the tightest, steepest, slick gnarly stuff on the east coast, one ride on a 2024 300 xcw had me regretting every purchase on the blue machine and I listed it for sale the same day and still waiting on a buyer
Completely wrong on the X gearing... 1st & 2nd are the same as the mx model, 3rd is closer to 2nd and 4th & 5th are spaced further apart. The 3rd to 4th shift is absolutely terrible in deep sand.
Love the yz hit. So much fun. If yamahamy would put an electric start on these bikes sales would skyrocket.IMO. Not to get of subject but what is your jetting and needle change?
I’ve been on 4 stroke w model ktm’s since 2007. I made the switch to a yz250x last year and I could not be happier. Better suspension hands down is the biggest thing imo.
@@mxr248 it’s his first big bike, we run two hr races. He’s kinda skinny, wanted a button to help conserve as much energy During the race as possible. I couldn’t even set the sag when he first got it. Next bike is on him, he’s got his eyes on a 250x or an ex250 gasgas.
i used to have a yz250 i went away from that and now i am back on a 2 stroke and I just bought a Beta 300RR Race Edition. I loved the suspension on the yamaha and thats why i went with the Beta for that KYB along with Eletric start and other goodies haha
I bought a 23 yz250 and I kinda wish I would have got an X. 1st and 2nd are the same and 3-5 are a little taller for longer stretches. Eventually I’ll swap in the wide ratio kit and add a tooth or two to the final to make it a little easier to ride in the technical low speed stuff. I have the GYTR 13oz flywheel coming so that will help but being able to lower the final and not lose the top speed would be awesome. Looking back I would have been better off to get the X model but that’s ok. Now I have stuff to tinker with.
As the current owner of a 2017 KTM250Xc, the bike a yz250x's direct competition, this is what my 6 year old bike has over any yz 250x. My engine is counterbalanced, which gives less fatigue, I have electric start, which is amazing when you stall in a tight place. The adjustable power valve makes my engine far more tunable for the situation. I have a smooth hydraulic clutch. With my e start, I also have a lighting coil, to add lights, if I want to make it street legal or add an Enduro computer (an xcw has this stock). I also have another gear in my transmission, a steel frame, which I think is better off road. All this makes a yz250x seem like a 20 year old bike to me.
I've raced in the past a Yz250, but I'll take my 300cc, easy access filter, push button seat, 2.5 gallon tank, 6 speed, magic button and kicker, juice clutch, odo computer, KYB suspension, 2 mode switch, and carbureted Beta 300rr Race Edition all damn day...
Never understood why they cant get dirt bikes to have reliability or tech like a snowmobile. 2 stroke snowmobiles with efi been out since 1990 and have evolved into big horsepower oil sipping and very reliable. A 1 lug efi 2 stroke would be so easy. Something going on there not sure
I think it's got something to do with the EPA. I think snowmobiles kind of fall through the cracks. Whereas motorcycles probably count towards some type of corporate goal as it relates to emissions or perhaps theyre regulated differently
I had a yz250 and rode my buddy’s 250x a handful of times great bikes best suspension out of the box for sure, but I went out and bought a leftover te150i and for technical woods I’m super impressed but it doesn’t have that cruising speed of the 250/300s so when I’m riding open double track with my friends it’s definitely a little slower cause I don’t wanna be wide open all day long 😂
I've got both, the vibration on the Yz is hardly more than the new 300xc. The Yamaha suspension and chassis is way better than the KTM unless your willing to dump some serious cash into the WP stuff. KTM has a better motor and trans.
Reliable YZ250x. Cheaper than KTM. Parts readily available not 3 weeks waiting time like the pumpkin. And above all the real 2 stroke visceral sound and throttle response.
@@justobservenow3480 the KTM does have GOBS more power everywhere in the rmp range. My stock 300 eats my mod YZ. WP suspension needs a little love though, but it's off to factory connection soon.
Got a 2019 Ktm 300xc with wp 6500 spring conversion. Just as good as sss or even a touch better. Also carb bike with a kick starter and e-start. That is the best bike but the new tbi is super smooth I love it buddy has one
I’ve had a 93,95,99,01,05,06,08 and a 2stroke wr 94,and my current bike is a96 long rod wr250 2 stroke and love it and I would absolutely love to get a 23-24 yz250x over any euro bike
There’s a couple of channels that have focused on the YZ250X with great results in getting more low grunt out of them, BeRad and Dirt and Iron. It’s on my list of bikes to own after racing Yamahas as a younger man.
I think you can get it close making some mods and still be way cheaper buying a ktm and just been hearing a lot stuff going wrong they need to dial it in I have 2019 yz250 and your right there is just something about them love mine no problems I also put 11 Ounce Flywheel weight And put a Turbine 2 fmf on and 50t sprocket now it chuggs so much better than stock
Prob a fair evaluation. I have heard the yz suspension is great. I would guess the KTM motor is better. One thing for trails is that fantastic hydraulic clutch on the KTM For 5600 not a bad second bike
I've owned 3 YZ250's my last one was a 2017 and I loved it they are awesome bikes but I would love to get a KTM300. It's just because of the power they put out and because it's a KTM
The Yamaha is a legendary bike that has had a very long and successful run in the market. It is a proven platform that is very durable too. That said, it is at its worst in hard enduro work, and at its best on flatter GNCC type terrain. Yamaha quality and durability are significant assets the bike has. The major drawbacks for hard enduro are 5 speed transmission, cable clutch, inadequate stator output for lights and fan, and excessive vibration due to the lack of a counterbalancer. The KTM clutch in itself is a magical unit that expands the bike’s performance envelope to amazing places. When you ride the gnar all day, you are on the clutch all day. It better be good.
I say. It all depends on how much time your willing practice. With that, you can ride anything. Rode at Milestone Mx for years prior to shutting down in 2019. Saw guys on least desirable bikes passing everyone else up.
I bought a yz250x before I even cared to look for a ktm, more reliable and better suspension. I have races where it’s open desert, dunes, tight rocks, this bike does it all effortlessly
i was stuck between a yz250 and yz250x but i like doing track and trails. sadly the X model has worse detonation than the non X model so iwould change to an apex head sooner than later. only thing ive done to my 250 is a lectron pro carb which has helped a ton but need to do more for sure. i just need a kickstand and to lower my 250 but sort of wish i did go with a smaller bike. i got cursed with short legs and arms but still ride okay on trails. id rather have a yamaha over anything nowadays
I don't know if i should buy a 250 4 stroke or 250 2 stroke because am scared i might blow up the 2 stroke i wonder if the pistons do really hang out like a 4 stroke piston
Run a richer oil mix, replace piston and rings when it starts getting difficult to start. I have an 04 cr 125 with 40 hours on it and still starts first kick no issue
2 strokes are much easier and less costly to rebuild. Just mind your mix. If anything, run it a tad bit rich. If you blow up a 4 stroke, you're out a fair bit of money.
So yami is planning on going EFI. But honestly they are 10 yrs behind the ball. KTM dominanates because they listen to the customers and will do the R&D for their bikes and customers love that a manufacturer listens unlike most of the Japanese manufacturers that walked away from the two stroke
Had both a ktm300xc and currently have a yz250 I ride both track and enduro with the yz250. The 250 for me is hands down the better option in all categories.
trying to decide between a '24 YZ250 or 250XC for north east harescrambles. I've ridden the YZ250 a bunch and really like it. I've come to love the stability of the YZ frame and suspension (currently on a '23YZ125X) and don't want to lose that feel but am still considering the KTM even though i havent rode one. What are the reasons you choose the YZ over the KTM?
I've owned a few YZ250 and I currently have two pumpkin bikes a KTM 250xc and a KTM 350 xcf well also a KDX 200 that I'm working on restoring as well. When it comes to price point and cost of upkeep the YZ slays any other bike. For high-speed riding or hare scrambles it's very comfortable out of the box. KTMs are better for low speed hard Enduro and they corner better than a YZ. As far as feedback or feel from the frames they're not far off of each other.
@@THMXCO You picked a great bike, and think of it like this I paid $750 for a new top end and crank on my YZ last year, 250XC this year... $1050. Toss on an E start and the gulf between the KTM and YZ is pretty non existent.
I own a 2021 GasGas EX300 TPI and a 2018 YZ 250X w a some mods and a Lectron. The YZ suspension is much better and w/ the Lectron it’s not far off from EFI. If Yamaha made a 300 w E start it would be the best XC bike IMO.
I have owned both. The YZ250's power is FUN and wicked zippy on a MX track and the gearing is close. You're in 5th before you know it. The KTM EXC 300's power has a low end that the 250cc did not have. And its low end mated with a strong mid and hellacious top end...with an elevated 5th? Whoo, I have to choose the KTM for off-road. But due to softer suspension on the KTM, I would choose the YZ every time for MX.
Have a 23 250X and wouldn't have anything else. Governor washer mod, V-Force 3 intake coupled with front /rear gearing change and this thing rips off the bottom. Best mod I've done though is IRC Gekkota 66S tires. Goes through rocks like crazy AND last longer than true gummies.
I have a OG 1999 WR400F California street legal. Purchased brand new in 2015. It has some great upgrades. Suspension, carb, intake & pipe. But basically stock. & it eats KTM's for lunch. Bought it from the original owner for $2,400 24 years old & it still has better components than a KTM.
A ktm 300 is much better everywhere out of the box. Newer frame, electric start, fuel injection, hydraulic clutch, and the list goes on. It’s better everywhere from handling to power. Now, I’m not saying you can’t put 1.5-2 k into it and make it a great bike but at that point you are spending ktm money.
I LOVE the YZ250X - BUT - For me, there are only 3 things that make a Euro bike more desirable than the YZ250X. 1) No electric starter. Sorry, but at my age, I place a high value on the magic button. 2) No 6th gear. A wide ratio 5 speed is just not as flexible as a wide ratio 6 speed transmission - especially if you run the pavement at all,...which brings me to,... 3) The Japanese CoO is impossible to street register in my state (MA).The Euro CoO's (mostly) do not read "For Off Highway Use Only". Are these 3 things worth $5,000? To me - Yes.
I like the Yamaha because I also do a lot of track riding. The suspension is easy to have setup for the track and I prefer a five speed vs a six. Price and reliability are big selling points. If I was only going to do off road, desert, trails then probably a 300 because of it's slow speed climbing ability. Unfortunately there is no such thing as one bike that does it all.
“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”- sun zu probably I’m not trying to win race titles, I want to ride and modify it slowly in a fiscally responsible manor. That’s why I would choose a yz at this point in my life. Also into dual sport riding and ride a dr650 , much cheaper than going all out on a higher end ADV/ dual sport bike
There is something to be said about simplicity and reliability. I love my yz250x.
That's exactly how I feel also. I have one most people in ride with have the 300's. They are awesome don't get me wrong. Def easier to ride etc... I feel the Yamaha handles better. And as you said the simplicity!!!!! I dumped mine in a creek. We turned it upside down drained water out of the pipe. Pulled plug. Put new plug in after about 10 min of kicking started up. And I rode home. Don't think on a 300 your gonna be able to do that.
Hard to beat a KTM. The YZs claim to fame are the price pt. -Ohio
@@Davido5090% of our local A class guys who are 20 to 35 run yzs.. initial cost and cost of repairs is definitely a thing. Us guys over 40... like a magic button. I'm not An orange fan though. Love my sherco with kybs.
Agree will pass on the electronics kick starting is easy and super reliable.
@@mt1885 Electric start is super reliable as well, it just needs a good battery. Got electric start since 2012, never failed me.
They are great bikes, I own a 2013 yz 250 with a 11 oz flywheel weight and I also own a 2023 KTM 250 xc. both are great bikes but there is something about the yz that's just raw old school power that is a blast to ride! I've also owned a KTM 300 as well and for now I think the 250's are more fun to ride.
I bought my 2023 Husqvarna TX300 for $9,500 OTD, it has been the best dirtbike I've ever had. You can get deals on the left over year models, you just need look around.
That’s a great deal. Those bikes are real sweet! How far have you run the tank on that TX? Buddy of mine has the same bike, and ran out of fuel on the trail. It still had about 5 inches of fuel in the left portion that hangs down over the cylinder. Fuel pump is way up top by the seat with no pickup tube. Word of warning to you if your fuel level is below the rad shrouds on the left side of the tank, fill up. We figured the tank hung down low over the cylinder to give you extra fuel, but apparently it’s useless?
It's only a year old tho , I've had both not 2023 models but so even it's not funny. Yz will save your pocket only difference
Had them all the 23 KTM XC out of the box best bike ever owned period
@@KTMr-sw7iz no any of the big 4s out perform the KTM. It's a good bike but not great
@@careypatmore2576Respectfully, what are you basing your claim on? "Any of the big four"... only Yamaha makes two strokes anymore. My bike before my '22 GasGas EC250 was a built YZ250 with engine work and a Lectron. It felt huge. Long and wide. My Austrian bike feels svelte, has the magic button, and the hydraulic clutch, while not necessary, reduces fatigue by being light and precise always. The fuel injection is amazing, with broad, tractable power, and zero flat spots. I also finish long hare scrambles with 1/3 a tank left. It is categorically better than all the Japanese bikes I've ridden my whole life. Please explain your point.
What i like about yz is the feel the cost and rebuilt are cheaper then à ktm or husky .
Love yz's!!!❤
Yz250 for life 💥🍻🍻
I had a 20 yz250 I set up for a jday/woods ripper. Spent the money for a 18 inch rear, apex head, had the suspension setup and threw some more at it. I loved it but I picked up a 23 tx300 this season and it blows that yz out of the water in every aspect hands down and anyone who says otherwise really hasn’t spent any real time riding a 23+ husky/ktm 2 stroke
Yes. This vid is yet another an overly simplified comparison. Every bike requires you to mod it for what you want to do w it. YZ250's are great if you don't want an electric start, ever. Plug & play cooling fan? Any possibility of getting it plated in your state? Minimum required head & tail light for dual sport use? Euro bikes are too expensive, but they are far closer to what most need in that genre. All good points about Yamaha reliability, front forks & price but at the end of the day, you'll still end up with a bike with a kickstart only. At this stage of the game is a non starter (pardon the pun) for many plus no plate in most states.
I’ve always rode Yamaha’s and loved the weight but the new Ktm xact wp pro suspension is absolutely amazing, the tbi motor is unbelievable as well. Yamaha’s are for hitting big jumps.
My Xmas gift in 1974 was a JT2 60cc mini enduro. I was 8 years old & 2 years later I was waiting to get the new YZ125. I saved up every dime I made mowing lawns every weekend focused on getting my YZ125. I finally had enough in 1977 and that was my first bike I raced on at sanctioned AMA events. I've had a few of their best & worst dirt bikes. 86 they made a great 125YZ and after riding that, my 77 seemed like total junk compared to it. The 88 YZ 250 was a very good bike for a long time that motor & frame worked well on tracks.
My last days of racing were on a 2002 YZ 250 in a seniors event at Gleen Hellen CA.
Not always the best but never the worst bike to be one in a race.
Imagine taking all of the modern suspensions off these new bikes & working with just 6 to 7 inches of suspension travel. That was what I grew up with back in the day. Rodger Decoster was a god.
America needs more outdoor 45 minute motocross racing and less super cross events to make our riders stronger & world beaters again.
Brad Lacky type racers.
I have had a yz 250, fun bike, but the 250fx is a vastly superior machine on every level except for price and weight.
Yea I have to disagree, in what way is the 250fx better? It has less torque, less horsepower, and more parts to break….
@@joez6798 Electric start, no jetting, no pre mix, less vibration, hooks up better, 6 speed transmission, better fuel mileage so better for longer rides, and way easier clutch pull just to name a few.
I rode a KTM 200 about 15 years ago. Just got my first bike since then, Its a YZ125. Never had a Yamaha before now and I cant be happier..
I think what everyone seems to enjoy about a YZ: they’re just fun. They put a smile on your face in a way that many other bikes just don’t.
Hey, what dealership in UT has them for 5,600?
I almost bought a brand new yz250x, but there was a crazy deal on a 23 tx300 i couldn't pass up. Now i dont think I'll ever go back
I had a 2022 with a heavy flywheel and it rocked. Just too much for me NOT to use, so I found myself being constantly tempted to just send it. The handling was superb, just amazing. Never really putted around for the low end grunt, just shredding.
I own a 2024 ktm 300sx and have owned many yz 250 as well as all the other Japanese bikes, and the new 300sx is the best 2 stroke by far. It lugs like a 450 down low which I absolutely love and you can switch between maps when you get tired. I've ridden 2 strokes my entire life and when I saw the 2023 300 first come out I knew I had to have one but didn't want the first year model so I waited for the 2024 bikes, work the bugs out so to speak.
Wise choice! Can't beat KTM. 💯
@@Davido50Facts
Have had both. I like the YZ suspension better, but that's it. Everything else is far better on the KTMs. Carbs are trash, FI is so much better. Range, idle quality, etc does not compare between carb and FI. The oil pump is not a reliability issue. E start is critical when you're stuck in the shit somewhere. The KTMs are a few thousand more expensive and they outsell the YZ 5:1 for woods riding...there is good reason.
I had a 2019 yz250x and I now have a 2022 GasGas ex300 I put 100 hours of “hard” enduro riding on both and never had any failures with either bike. My Yz hands down pulled harder on top and my GasGas hands down pulls harder on bottom. I was able to make both bikes work very well for what I wanted to do! The Yz is a great bike especially for the price!
I have a GPX TSE300L 2 stroke...very similar to KTM 300 Carb models...good suspension, E-start, 50cc more, hydraulic clutch, etc and less than $6500 ..I am loving it.
SSS suspension is the main reason for me along with a great chassis. Power is great! Try blending and polishing the exhaust port, polishing the power valve bores. You should have greased the suspension linkage because the factory puts hardly any grease on all those bearings. Again the suspension is world class for a stock bike and has 2 internal oil levels that are tunable. I do wish it had counterbalanced and electric start!
That grease issue exists since I bought my first new CR125 in 88 (and probably before) and it seems to be applicable on any brand.
Fantic are releasing a 300 with FI, estart and an electronic powervalve next year, based on the YZ 250.
@@wernerxldata totally agree! Steering stem bearings too.
@@krazed0451 such a solid foundation of an engine! Being older and 5'9" the YZ is getting tougher to start for me. It has a higher compression ratio but that gives it the great low end
@@markwheat2668 Yeah from what I've seen grease is expensive 🤣
I'm on my second beta now.. I agree with all you said which is why I landed on the beta kind of right in the middle of the ktm and yz platform. Price is a little more then the yz but you also get w start headlight hydraulic clutch brembo brakes mapbswitch and a few other things but the big things for me is it still carburetorated. Also race edition has kyb suspension. That's alot of bike for 10k
For me, I want an electric start. I am selling my yz250x for that reason. It is a great bike, but add an electric start and six gears.
I sold my 250x for a beta 250rr RE. I’m a newer rider and the biggest deal for me by far and away was dropping the bike in a race on a steep hill and having the kick start on the high side and no real strength to maneuver it. It also wouldn’t start 1st/2nd/3rd kick after falling which became an issue. Looking back, I could have done a couple things way but the lack of an E start was the biggest. The beta also has a milder hit and lower seat height which I really wanted. The 250x was great though the best investment is a flywheel weight, I thought the lugability was fine for me. If the 250x had an e start and maybe dedicated transmission it would take over
How’s the fuel economy, are there aftermarket/larger tank options?
Kickstarter. Never stuck in the middle of nowhere because of a dead battery.
Great video! Where in Utah is that price point you mentioned
You are spot on! I've owned many bikes, but the yz250 is the most versatile dirt bike ever made.
Like a steel frame but would get a YZ125X or YZ250X personally as parts availability along with being simple, rock solid reliable.
What did you regear too? I was thinking of trying out 13/51 for our gnarly Colorado trails.
Are these as fast as the old 250s for sx?
They will get away from ya if ya let em. Only difference is the rear wheel. 2nd and 3rd gear ratio. And power valve setting. They make the same power as the sx. Just deliver it different.
@@woodysrockspyro6436 gotcha, wide ratio trans. Probably not aggressive timing either
@@wko78ms the 250x has the wide ratio and quicker power valve.
The yz 250 has around 46 or so hp I think. They are still wicked fast. With plenty of hit.
@@woodysrockspyro6436 no doubt
I’ve got a 23 yz250 first one ever.. I also have a 22 450R..
But since I have gotten the yz I never ride the 450.
It’s the most fun zippy comfortable bike I ever been on.
100 percent satisfaction
What sprocket sizes are you running?
i agree with every point you made. the last thing i want when im miles deep in the woods is to have to walk the bike back. right now i have an 02kx125 and let me tell you the sht its been through and still got me back home is nothing short of amazing. one time there was some sort of internal malfunction, likely from my buddy breaking shit kicking the thing forward so hard the kick gear dislikes engaging reliably, and blew out the inner case and clutch hub completely locking up the bike causing me to skid out. well.... i refused to walk the thing back and after breaking the internals free i pop started it and rode it all the way back home about a mile. repaired the damage and went on my way. a few months later i smashed the radiator bad and lost all collant. again, i refused to walk the bike back and rode it home. replaced the radiator and coolant and bam, good to go. the bike still rips, its amazing.
Hydraulic clutch, off idle torque and reliability and e-start. I’ll take a Ktm all day,preferably a carb model 17”-18 250 XC or W. But whatever works for you. Have fun 🎉
Time to jump ship to Beta when new bike time comes...
@@burstcasino That would be nice. If I get the position in the spring I’m hoping too get at the job I’m at now I’ll come see you guys👍🏻 for a 24” Beta 200RR RACING Edition. If not gotta buy used🥹 hopefully I’ll see y’all soon 🤙🏻
I own both bikes and I prefer my KTM. But this a great and honest review. I agree with Ty. The YZ is not the same but for the money its hard to beat. WIth how ridiculous pricing is for KTM the YZ really is a great option and a great bike. And KTMs are now closer to 13-14K out the door nowadays.If your someone who is on a budget, get the YZ. You won't regret it. If you have the cash and want newer features, get the KTM. Really can't go wrong with either unless you ride hard enduro all the time.
Yup. Same thing everyone says in pretty much every shootout review. The YZ has the most comfortable chassis, suspension, and cockpit. Most people agree that the user friendliness of the YZ is unbeatable. But man, EFI really sounds tempting. Being able to take your bike to elevation or deal with temperature changes & never have to touch the carburetor is a HUGE benefit. Your bike will always run as it should with EFI. If you're always riding in the same place, it's not as big a deal. You get your bike tuned correctly & you never have to deal with it again. If you travel with your bike a lot and don't have a team with mechanics that sponsor you, carb tuning is a huge pain. No one likes to deal with stalling or bogging or running rough when they ride in a different place. I hope KTM sets a new standard for 2 strokes. Firstly, I hope Honda, Kawasaki, & Suzuki start making 2 strokes again. Secondly, I hope they make them with the same effort they put into 4 strokes. There's no reason 2 strokes can't have launch control, traction control, EFI, and map settings like their 4 stroke counterparts. Bring back the 2 strokes!
I love Yamaha I own 2 Yamahas but riding the trails the KTM owns me. All around for me it’s insane. The Yamahas are cheaper because they don’t have the technology that KTM offers.
But the Yamahas are awesome too. The KTm 250 xc is absolutely amazing as well as the ktm350xc.
Reliability, simplicity, and effectiveness. Those are 3 key reasons at the moment.
I have a 2006 YZ250 because it has the kyb suspension, because of the smooth useable power with the flywheel weight, and of course the price point. What I want to do is install that 250x wide ratio transmission kit, lectron carburetor, and last but definitely not least, the ESR YZ325 Big bore kit!
I bought a 41 hour 2017 Husqvarna TX300 with a Lectron carb on it for $7,000. I love that thing. Electric start counterbalanced 300cc motor is butter smooth. I rode a TPI version in 2020, and couldn't find any reason to upgrade to a newer model.
Check out the new Fantic dirtbike. It’s basically a Yamaha built for enduro.
Whats the dealership in utah that had that price ???
I have put 200 hours on my yz250x and 100 on my beta... and yeah, the YZ is not as good on tight single track and I'd go for the beta for harescrambles as well. There's something to be said about the fun factor of the YZ though, and it smokes the beta on a track or in the desert.
I’ve had my 250x for nearly 2 years, I’ve made a lot of mods to get it to perform well in the tightest, steepest, slick gnarly stuff on the east coast, one ride on a 2024 300 xcw had me regretting every purchase on the blue machine and I listed it for sale the same day and still waiting on a buyer
I like Yamaha more. You should keep yours
Where in Utah? What’s the Dealership name?
i told my dude from work to buy one loves it! I rode it love the x model trails lets go
2024 ktm 300sx is 9000 OTD. My dealer has the 250x for 8k out the door. Seems to be a winner for the ktm. I do own a yz125.
How do you rent to see what you really want
There are sometimes ride days but other than that, just gotta go to the track, make friends and ask people if you can ride their bike.
Completely wrong on the X gearing... 1st & 2nd are the same as the mx model, 3rd is closer to 2nd and 4th & 5th are spaced further apart. The 3rd to 4th shift is absolutely terrible in deep sand.
Thanks for being completely right!
Had them all best out of the box bike I ever had KTM 300 and I’m sticking with it.
Ive got a 22 with 60 hrs. Apex head xc dome lectron new version. I love it. Fits my body way better than euro bikes. Fuel actually lasts for ever
Love the yz hit. So much fun. If yamahamy would put an electric start on these bikes sales would skyrocket.IMO. Not to get of subject but what is your jetting and needle change?
I’ve been on 4 stroke w model ktm’s since 2007. I made the switch to a yz250x last year and I could not be happier. Better suspension hands down is the biggest thing imo.
Btw I bought a 23 125xc for my son at the same time.
@@JustTip922should have bought him the yz125… that is hands down amazing all around!
@@mxr248 it’s his first big bike, we run two hr races. He’s kinda skinny, wanted a button to help conserve as much energy During the race as possible. I couldn’t even set the sag when he first got it. Next bike is on him, he’s got his eyes on a 250x or an ex250 gasgas.
1st and 2nd gear are the same on the YZ and YZX. 3rd gear is closer to 2nd on the 250X and 4th and 5th are taller on the 250X than the YZ
i used to have a yz250 i went away from that and now i am back on a 2 stroke and I just bought a Beta 300RR Race Edition. I loved the suspension on the yamaha and thats why i went with the Beta for that KYB along with Eletric start and other goodies haha
I love my 2023 Yz250.
I bought a 23 yz250 and I kinda wish I would have got an X. 1st and 2nd are the same and 3-5 are a little taller for longer stretches. Eventually I’ll swap in the wide ratio kit and add a tooth or two to the final to make it a little easier to ride in the technical low speed stuff. I have the GYTR 13oz flywheel coming so that will help but being able to lower the final and not lose the top speed would be awesome. Looking back I would have been better off to get the X model but that’s ok. Now I have stuff to tinker with.
still buying a ktm, had a couple yzs, great bike had a issue with powervalve linkage breaking ,but the 24 ktm 300 very nice and reliable bike imho
Your new flywheel is lighter or heavier than stock? Why did you decide to replace the one that came from the factory?
Heavier by 11oz, it's just a weight added onto the factory flywheel
As the current owner of a 2017 KTM250Xc, the bike a yz250x's direct competition, this is what my 6 year old bike has over any yz 250x. My engine is counterbalanced, which gives less fatigue, I have electric start, which is amazing when you stall in a tight place. The adjustable power valve makes my engine far more tunable for the situation. I have a smooth hydraulic clutch. With my e start, I also have a lighting coil, to add lights, if I want to make it street legal or add an Enduro computer (an xcw has this stock). I also have another gear in my transmission, a steel frame, which I think is better off road. All this makes a yz250x seem like a 20 year old bike to me.
I've raced in the past a Yz250, but I'll take my 300cc, easy access filter, push button seat, 2.5 gallon tank, 6 speed, magic button and kicker, juice clutch, odo computer, KYB suspension, 2 mode switch, and carbureted Beta 300rr Race Edition all damn day...
love my 250x. pipe, head, flywheel, and setup suspension. Its great.
Can’t register a Yamaha on the street which is the deal breaker for me. KTM XCW comes with a Title, the YZ comes with a Certificate of Origin.
Never understood why they cant get dirt bikes to have reliability or tech like a snowmobile. 2 stroke snowmobiles with efi been out since 1990 and have evolved into big horsepower oil sipping and very reliable. A 1 lug efi 2 stroke would be so easy. Something going on there not sure
I think it's got something to do with the EPA. I think snowmobiles kind of fall through the cracks. Whereas motorcycles probably count towards some type of corporate goal as it relates to emissions or perhaps theyre regulated differently
Have a 21 yz250fx 4stroke model and ride it mx after some suspension spring change.
I had a yz250 and rode my buddy’s 250x a handful of times great bikes best suspension out of the box for sure, but I went out and bought a leftover te150i and for technical woods I’m super impressed but it doesn’t have that cruising speed of the 250/300s so when I’m riding open double track with my friends it’s definitely a little slower cause I don’t wanna be wide open all day long 😂
Electric start? Counterbalanced vibration free engine? Butter smooth, light Hydraulic Clutch...?..... No? Thank you very much! Have a nice day...
I've got both, the vibration on the Yz is hardly more than the new 300xc. The Yamaha suspension and chassis is way better than the KTM unless your willing to dump some serious cash into the WP stuff. KTM has a better motor and trans.
@@panic-revv85 do yo have the 2024 ktm?
Reliable YZ250x. Cheaper than KTM. Parts readily available not 3 weeks waiting time like the pumpkin. And above all the real 2 stroke visceral sound and throttle response.
@@Hondarider35 23, same bike other than the 24xc has a spring fork and narrower shock shaft.
@@justobservenow3480 the KTM does have GOBS more power everywhere in the rmp range. My stock 300 eats my mod YZ. WP suspension needs a little love though, but it's off to factory connection soon.
Got a 2019 Ktm 300xc with wp 6500 spring conversion. Just as good as sss or even a touch better. Also carb bike with a kick starter and e-start. That is the best bike but the new tbi is super smooth I love it buddy has one
I've owned many Yamahas, But I love my 2017 KTM 300 XC-w with a carb.
I'm in Utah.. what dealer is selling them for $5,600?? I'd like to go buy one.
I’ve had a 93,95,99,01,05,06,08 and a 2stroke wr 94,and my current bike is a96 long rod wr250 2 stroke and love it and I would absolutely love to get a 23-24 yz250x over any euro bike
Maybe ride a Ktm 250-300xc first amazing bike!
There’s a couple of channels that have focused on the YZ250X with great results in getting more low grunt out of them, BeRad and Dirt and Iron. It’s on my list of bikes to own after racing Yamahas as a younger man.
Fantic 300😮
I think you can get it close making some mods and still be way cheaper buying a ktm and just been hearing a lot stuff going wrong they need to dial it in I have 2019 yz250 and your right there is just something about them love mine no problems I also put 11 Ounce
Flywheel weight
And put a Turbine 2 fmf on and 50t sprocket now it chuggs so much better than stock
Prob a fair evaluation. I have heard the yz suspension is great.
I would guess the KTM motor is better.
One thing for trails is that fantastic hydraulic clutch on the KTM
For 5600 not a bad second bike
I have a 2017 YZ250X with a SmartCarb and Scott's stabilizer. STUPID amounts of fun to ride BRAAAAAAAAP 🤘
what dealership has them at $5600?
I've owned 3 YZ250's my last one was a 2017 and I loved it they are awesome bikes but I would love to get a KTM300. It's just because of the power they put out and because it's a KTM
The Yamaha is a legendary bike that has had a very long and successful run in the market. It is a proven platform that is very durable too. That said, it is at its worst in hard enduro work, and at its best on flatter GNCC type terrain. Yamaha quality and durability are significant assets the bike has. The major drawbacks for hard enduro are 5 speed transmission, cable clutch, inadequate stator output for lights and fan, and excessive vibration due to the lack of a counterbalancer. The KTM clutch in itself is a magical unit that expands the bike’s performance envelope to amazing places. When you ride the gnar all day, you are on the clutch all day. It better be good.
I say. It all depends on how much time your willing practice. With that, you can ride anything. Rode at Milestone Mx for years prior to shutting down in 2019. Saw guys on least desirable bikes passing everyone else up.
I bought a yz250x before I even cared to look for a ktm, more reliable and better suspension. I have races where it’s open desert, dunes, tight rocks, this bike does it all effortlessly
i was stuck between a yz250 and yz250x but i like doing track and trails. sadly the X model has worse detonation than the non X model so iwould change to an apex head sooner than later. only thing ive done to my 250 is a lectron pro carb which has helped a ton but need to do more for sure. i just need a kickstand and to lower my 250 but sort of wish i did go with a smaller bike. i got cursed with short legs and arms but still ride okay on trails. id rather have a yamaha over anything nowadays
I don't know if i should buy a 250 4 stroke or 250 2 stroke because am scared i might blow up the 2 stroke i wonder if the pistons do really hang out like a 4 stroke piston
Run a richer oil mix, replace piston and rings when it starts getting difficult to start. I have an 04 cr 125 with 40 hours on it and still starts first kick no issue
Plus 2 strokes are much easier to rebuild
@@Addzy1 i'm gonna take your advice and when I do decide to buy one I'll probably get the 2 stroke
2 strokes are much easier and less costly to rebuild. Just mind your mix. If anything, run it a tad bit rich. If you blow up a 4 stroke, you're out a fair bit of money.
So yami is planning on going EFI. But honestly they are 10 yrs behind the ball. KTM dominanates because they listen to the customers and will do the R&D for their bikes and customers love that a manufacturer listens unlike most of the Japanese manufacturers that walked away from the two stroke
These bikes 100% shine in gncc and cross county style riding!!!
Had both a ktm300xc and currently have a yz250 I ride both track and enduro with the yz250. The 250 for me is hands down the better option in all categories.
trying to decide between a '24 YZ250 or 250XC for north east harescrambles. I've ridden the YZ250 a bunch and really like it. I've come to love the stability of the YZ frame and suspension (currently on a '23YZ125X) and don't want to lose that feel but am still considering the KTM even though i havent rode one. What are the reasons you choose the YZ over the KTM?
I've owned a few YZ250 and I currently have two pumpkin bikes a KTM 250xc and a KTM 350 xcf well also a KDX 200 that I'm working on restoring as well. When it comes to price point and cost of upkeep the YZ slays any other bike. For high-speed riding or hare scrambles it's very comfortable out of the box. KTMs are better for low speed hard Enduro and they corner better than a YZ. As far as feedback or feel from the frames they're not far off of each other.
I'd agree, appreciate your perspective
@@THMXCO You picked a great bike, and think of it like this I paid $750 for a new top end and crank on my YZ last year, 250XC this year... $1050. Toss on an E start and the gulf between the KTM and YZ is pretty non existent.
which dealership in Utah?:)
I can't remember. Saw it on Marketplace they're gone now of course.
I own a 2021 GasGas EX300 TPI and a 2018 YZ 250X w a some mods and a Lectron. The YZ suspension is much better and w/ the Lectron it’s not far off from EFI. If Yamaha made a 300 w E start it would be the best XC bike IMO.
I have owned both. The YZ250's power is FUN and wicked zippy on a MX track and the gearing is close. You're in 5th before you know it. The KTM EXC 300's power has a low end that the 250cc did not have. And its low end mated with a strong mid and hellacious top end...with an elevated 5th? Whoo, I have to choose the KTM for off-road. But due to softer suspension on the KTM, I would choose the YZ every time for MX.
If you call a motorcycle shop in Missouri and have it shipped, it’s even cheaper than buying on the West Coast
Have a 23 250X and wouldn't have anything else. Governor washer mod, V-Force 3 intake coupled with front /rear gearing change and this thing rips off the bottom. Best mod I've done though is IRC Gekkota 66S tires. Goes through rocks like crazy AND last longer than true gummies.
govener mod is already done on 2023's iirc
@seamarsh3756 I read that somewhere but had already removed a washer at that point. Still made the power come on quicker though.
if money was not an issue ktm, otherwise yzx imo
I have a OG 1999 WR400F California street legal. Purchased brand new in 2015. It has some great upgrades. Suspension, carb, intake & pipe. But basically stock. & it eats KTM's for lunch. Bought it from the original owner for $2,400
24 years old & it still has better components than a KTM.
You need to get the bike and Apex Head! It’s a game-changer!
Husquvarna te300i is by far the best bike on the market I have a2020 and I’ve never been happier with a bike
What dealer is selling for 5600?
Saw it on Facebook in Utah! Looks like it's sold now. facebook.com/marketplace/item/1369849323640259/?ref=messenger_share
I have 4 bikes and they are All the best on one day or Another!
A ktm 300 is much better everywhere out of the box. Newer frame, electric start, fuel injection, hydraulic clutch, and the list goes on. It’s better everywhere from handling to power. Now, I’m not saying you can’t put 1.5-2 k into it and make it a great bike but at that point you are spending ktm money.
Couldn't agree more!
Has it's place but it's comparing apples to oranges
I LOVE the YZ250X - BUT - For me, there are only 3 things that make a Euro bike more desirable than the YZ250X. 1) No electric starter. Sorry, but at my age, I place a high value on the magic button. 2) No 6th gear. A wide ratio 5 speed is just not as flexible as a wide ratio 6 speed transmission - especially if you run the pavement at all,...which brings me to,... 3) The Japanese CoO is impossible to street register in my state (MA).The Euro CoO's (mostly) do not read "For Off Highway Use Only". Are these 3 things worth $5,000? To me - Yes.
I like the Yamaha because I also do a lot of track riding. The suspension is easy to have setup for the track and I prefer a five speed vs a six. Price and reliability are big selling points. If I was only going to do off road, desert, trails then probably a 300 because of it's slow speed climbing ability. Unfortunately there is no such thing as one bike that does it all.
“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”- sun zu probably
I’m not trying to win race titles, I want to ride and modify it slowly in a fiscally responsible manor. That’s why I would choose a yz at this point in my life. Also into dual sport riding and ride a dr650 , much cheaper than going all out on a higher end ADV/ dual sport bike
I rode a 300 nice bike! But my RM250 leaves it in the dust get some. I do like the YZ250 cheers 🍻