Well, since the YZ400F made its debut in 1997, when Doug Henry won the final supercross of the year in Las Vegas on one... things have changed dramatically.
The fours have fast become the dominating force on any track or terrain. Why? Well it seems there are a number of debatable reasons. Their power to weight ratio is almost on par with the 2 strokes - and I simply mean in terms of how a 450cc four stroke is now a lot closer to the weight of a 250cc two stroke, but puts out a similar amount of speed and power. Back in the early 90's four strokes were heavy beasts and were considerably slower than the two's.
With the new and improved thumpers, many people find them easier to ride with their smooth, tractable power delivery. But on the other hand, a lot of riders don't actually want that. They want the thrill, noise and adrenalin of a powerband that only a two stroke can serve up.
So why are the 2 strokes disappearing? Some people believe (and blame) the format of the AMA, and large companies such as Honda have a heavy influence over why we are witnessing the decline of the popular two's. Is it fair that a 450cc four stroke is able to compete against a 250cc two stroke?
It has also been said that another contributing factor to the 2 strokes decline is the pressure felt by government groups and lobbyists to phase them out because of the environmental damage they cause. But how much more pollution do they really put out compared to the 4's? It seems that the technology already exists to create a two stroke engine that is just as, if not more environmentally sound as a four stroke. Is it really because of these environmental issues that the major bike manufacturers are putting little to no effort into the new two-smokes?
To gain a deeper understanding of the way the two engines work, check out the mechanics of a
2 stroke
vs
4 stroke.
How good or bad is this for you and I as riders? There is no doubt that the costs of maintaining a 4-stroke are much higher than it's counterpart. Does that seem right to you? With modern technology shouldn't the bikes be more reliable and easier to maintain? And shouldn't we have a choice of what type of bike we prefer to ride?
What we have at present is a vast range of high performance four strokes that offer you almost everything you've ever wanted from a dirt bike... if you can afford to maintain one. Some people love 'em and some people hate 'em, and others don't know any different. One thing for sure is that the level of performance produced from these modern factory dirt bikes are better than they've ever been.
But to all you die-hard two stroke fans out there... that familiar smell of burning premix and the tell-tale 'ting ting ting' of the two-strokers still continue to resonate around the muddy tracks of the world.
Here's YOUR opportunity to let everyone else know what your views are on this developing topic.
Since most people own four strokes these days, tell us how much time and money you spend on maintaining it. How often do you get the valve clearances checked? Do you have many problems in general or does it run sweet if you keep up with the services?
There are a lot of people who are undecided on whether to get a four or two so let everyone know about your experience to help them make a decision. I'm sure they will appreciate it!
Accepted comments will be posted up as it's own page, so I am looking for something with more depth than 1 or 2 sentances.
Click below to see contributions from other visitors to this page...
Technology vs Technocracy - Two Stroke vs Four Stroke
So, here is the first sad reality. I ride 4 stroke Honda's, I'm sorry. My brother switched to the dark side and rides 2 stroke Yamaha's. However, I soon ...
New Two Stroke Rule For Privateers in AMA Motocross
I'd like to see displacement rules based on engine type go away in the AMA, and I have a plausible suggestion for how to incorporate it.
For the 250 ...
2 Stroke 500af vs 4 Stroke 450 - No Chance
The 2 strokes are faster than the 4 strokes cc for cc and proof of that is putting Bubba Stewart on a KX250 and have him turn the fastest laps he can turn ...
The 500cc Two Stroke Is Not Dead
The 500cc two stroke is not dead. Service Honda still make the cr500af and the kawasaki kx500af - but at a price. I guess it's worth the price for such ...
6 One Way Half dozen The Other!
I ride an 09 CRF 450R, and it's an awesome machine. I also ride a 2000 CR 250R. The 450 fuel injection makes for real smooth power all over the place. I'...
Multiple Reasons Why Two Strokes Are Better
I think that 2 strokes are better for a few reasons.
1) 2 strokes have twice the power a 4 stroke has.
2) 2 strokes get to top speed way faster ...
2-Smoke vs. 4-Stroke
I have read a lot of opinions about the two kinds of engines and being a motorcycle mechanic and an avid rider I of course have my own opinion.
2-strokes ...
Straight From The Horses Mouth
I was just checking up on the impressive new 2011 KTM range of dirt bikes. Geez those guys are producing some cutting edge weapons! While the big "Japanese ...
Become A Two-Stroke Supporter!
Anybody on this site that supports increased displacement of the 2-stroke motocross bikes need to go to twostrokemotocross.com and sign the petition that ...
4 Strokes Are Worth More To The Factory
I don't know how many of you's have thought about this side of it but with 4 strokes needing to be rebuilt all the time - making more money for the company ...
Blue Smoke And Two Strokes
Honestly, I think that a two stroke wouldn't be so bad if it weren't for the oil-gas mix for the motor. You cannot say that on a two stroke going down ...
Imagine This..
Consider the fact that what rolls off the production line and ends up in my and your garage is a result of what is winning on the indoor and outdoor tracks ...
Mixing Gas
I have a 1998 Kawasaki KX250 2-stroke. This bike is a beast and I love it.
But the thing is... can somebody make a 2-stroke motor to where you do ...
Two Stroke to Four Stroke - Back to Two Stroke
I grew up riding two strokes in the 80's and 90's. After a period of no riding I got back into the sport riding 4 strokes. Although there were some advantages,...
Two Strokes Are a Superior Racing Engine
The combination of fewer moving parts, and maximum horsepower at a lower RPM makes two strokes superior in racing conditions. I do believe that four strokes ...
What About The Average Man?
My Boss's son races 4 strokes at the local level. It seems like the bike is constantly needing the head removed and a grand worth of work done to the crappy ...
The Fight is Already Over
If you look around you'll see that all the dealerships are only keeping a handful of 2 strokes. Most of which are little 50cc jobs to get the little ones ...
As Much As I Love Two Strokes
Today, everything is changing at one time. It used to be that a two stroke would haul past a four stroke, but with everything changing I don't know where ...
Four Strokes = Two Strokes
I ride a Husaberg 550 and a KTM 300. I'm really torn between the two. The pros and cons to each seem to balance out. Now I realize that I'm riding quite ...
450 or a 300EXC?
I recently bought a new bike, I had been in the market for some time and looked at many different possibilities. The dilemma I was facing was that I have ...
Two Strokes Win in Every Way - Except on the Race Track
I have always ridden a 2 stroke and I will continue to ride one. The amount of sheer power mixed with the light weight and low cost are only some of the ...
2 Strokes Can Compete
My 2000 RM 250 will compete with any 450 out there! As long as you gear them right the 2 stroke will have just as much torque but with a power band that ...
I Prefer Two-Strokes
You get more power to weight ratio and more power period per cc with a 2-stroke compared to 4-strokes.
They are a simpler engine which makes for easier ...
Nothing Like A Two-Stroke
I love 2 strokes, and always will. I realize how much more efficient these modern 4-strokes are.
What for me would be the perfect 2-stroke dirt bike?...
Two Stroke Four Stroke... You Are Missing The Point!
It is just a matter of time both will be gone. Just look at the automotive industry. Only highly efficient computer controlled, low emission models remain....
Is Ignorance Bliss?
Four strokes seem to be dominating all "small" gas power sources that used to be 2 stroke by default. This isn't only true for bikes, of course; there ...
Electric Starters Make All The Difference
I started on a 1990 KDX 200, a great 2 stroke bike. Top end was rebuilt once, before I got it and is still running great to this day. Sure it takes some ...
4 Strokes Are Far From Superior
2 strokes have the following advantages over 4 strokes...
- More power (Obviously, that's why 2 strokes specialize in a thing called powerband)
- Starts ...
The Two Stroke will Never Die Completely
Even if Zeus were to descend from the clouds tomorrow and declare that all two-stroke engines must cease production for the remainder of time, lest the ...
Not Happy
I love 2 strokes, they are sooo much easier to maintain, more fun to ride and just all round great to have.
Im only 15 and I can do all the work on ...
Light Weight and ON the Pipe!
As far as Enduros and Hare Scambles go, the top guys are winning on 2-strokes. I myself race a 200 xcw and pass a lot of the 450's. I think they get lazy ...
Banning of 2 Strokes - Bollicks
I think it is absolutely ridiculous about the banning of 2 strokes over environmental issues, as it is so minimal compared to the pollution in even just ...
Two Stroke Pre-mix And Cow Shit
The burning smell of premix is the single most defining essence of motocross. Without the smell and ting ting screaming noise, you might as well have ...
My First Race Bike - 1981 YZ465H 2-Stroke 5-Speed
The 4-strokes achieve their maximum power rating at a much higher rpm. My 465 put out 52 hp under 7'000 RPM, and only weighed in at 229lbs. In deep, soft ...
I Hate The Way Two Strokes Are Compared To Four Strokes
Is it just me, or is it that every time people compare the 2 strokes and the 4 strokes that they always compare it to the wrong bike. Take the CR500 for ...
4 Strokes Are For The Street
I ride a Kawaski KX 500. The power is unmatched by any 4stroke out there. I have kicked the shit out of many 450s, and 250s are no match for my 500. Don'...
2 Is Better Than 4
Valves, shims, springs, timing chains, two throttle cables, remove the gas tank to change a spark plug, 400.00 dollars for after market slip on pipes...
The ...
2 Stroke Reality
I think that the main reason 2 strokes didn't last long on the market is because the OEMS saw that there was way more $$$ in the maintenance of 4- strokes....
Two Strokes Are Better Here's Why
First off there is the simple power to weight issue. The above statement is incorrect, "not only is their power to weight ratio on par with the 2 strokes"...
Two Strokes Are WAY More Cost Effective!!!!
Two-stroke dirt bikes are much simpler, faster, and easier to maintain, and most of all cheaper for up & coming future MX / SX racers!
I think the ...
Four Strokes For Faster Lap Times - Two Strokes For Fun!
My name is Steven and I'm from Curacao (Island next to Aruba). I learned to ride at 11 (1985)on a Honda cbx 750cc. Since then I was hooked. After a while ...
2011 Maico Beasts
British-based Maico are apparently releasing a dirt-dredging, fire-breathing range of two strokes for 2011. They are producing some majorly overhauled ...
Read This - Then You May All Understand
What a pathetic thread, funny to read but so sad...
Why has there got to be a divide between 2 and 4?
We are all out there to ride and have fun, all ...
Un-biased
Now, the great two stroke versus 4 stroke battle...
Since I like 4 strokes and 2 strokes, I'm not going to prefer or endorse one or the other.
My ...
Limited Options
Man, without 125 two strokes that leaves nothing in between an 85cc and a 250cc. I know Honda makes the CRF150r, but it's little, like a pit bike. I ...
Save The 2-Strokes Please. It's Like Talking to a Brick Wall!
My friend always says that 2 strokes suck. Well my opinion is very different.
I don't know why but I have always gone with 2-strokes for some reason....
Modern 4 Strokes Can Be Reliable
The most common themes seem to be rebuild costs. Modern 4 strokes can be very reliable if oil and air filters are regularly changed and you don't spend ...
Go The Fours
I think 4 strokes are better because for 2 strokes you have to mix gas and oil together. If you go too slow you will foul your plug. I think the only reason ...
Two Strokes Have Had Their Day
I think it is good to have new direction. I like the idea of a fuel injected four, next generation may be turbo aspiration, then maybe a blower in the ...
4 Strokes Are Better
4 strokes are ten times better than 2 strokers, these days more than ever. 4 strokes well exceed the 2 stroke power, especially in torque and overall ...
Displacement
I am always amused by the younger generation, myself being 41 yo, that they always compare a 250 cc two stroke against a 450 cc four stroke. If a comparison ...
It's Senseless To Argue - You're Missing The Point
Yea, it's a heated debate and always has been. I've ridden/raced 2-strokes for 20 years and now ride a thumper. Most young guys love to hate on em, (read ...
My Personal Preference and Why
I've had my fair share/goes on different motocross bikes, a following to name a few...
Suzuki DRZ 400, Honda's CR-F, Honda CR 500, Kawasaki KX 85 (when ...
Four Stroke Engine Superior To Two Strokes
A four stroke engine is a much better engine than a modern two stroke. I have raced MX for most of my life and the 4 stroke is a better bike all around....
2-Strokes Were The Beginning
I agree with this. I wish top manufacturers would work on better improving their 2-strokes, even though they don't need anything else to beat a 4-stroke ...
Mislead About 2 stroke vs 4 stroke
Dear Sir or Ma'am,
Did you re-read your comment? You stated that the 4 stroke made the same power as the 2 stroke, and so on. This thought process is ...
2 Strokes and 4 Strokes Are Good For Their Own Reasons
I feel the phasing out is simple (sorry little conspiracy theory here) PARTS ! The head has approx 1000% more parts, machining and specialized labour ...
Big Business Does It Again
I really believe that the rise of the four stroke is due to two things.
1. All the manufacturers know that 4 strokes need more expensive maintenance ...
Two Strokes Are Affordable And Reliable
Two points to make. To re-build the top-end on a 2 stroke, with machining is going to cost you around 200 bucks and you can install it yourself. Additionally ...
Two Strokers... RULE
I am an avid outdoors person and care about our environment. However, when it comes down to governmental regulation on our 2 strokes and phasing them ...
4 Strokes Are The Future - Like It or Not.
For the average rider maintenance is not an issue for 4 strokers. I've owned them now for a while and have really done nothing to my 4 stroke. This maintenance ...
Four stroke Lover
Four strokes are better because they are waaay quieter, and people complain in field riding if it's too loud. The cops also get called.
My buddy has ...
4 Strokes Are As Good As 2-Strokes
They are perfect for the newer dirt bike riders. They have higher torque than 2 strokes and they have twice the fuel economy and yet still have a smoother ...
4 Strokes Win Hands Down
Four strokes are definitely better! I'm not putting the 2's down but 4 strokes are powerhouses. Not only do they have speed but they have power. 2 strokes ...
Snoring Boring 4 Strokes
Not rated yet
Firstly, indoor motocross or supercross is like watching golf. What happened to hill climbs and big down hills? The big manufacturers want to sell parts....
Two Stroke Feeling
Not rated yet
The feeling you get when you pull back the throttle all the way and you hold on as your front fender leaves the ground and you slowly begin to hover off ...
Two Strokes And Purebreds
Not rated yet
As a matter of fact 2 is more than 4 because the following:
Have you ever try to ride a horse?
Well we live in Chile where the country offers you ...
Expensive Four Strokes Weed Out The Riff-raff
Not rated yet
Imagine what motocross or enduro would look like if any old Joe Schmoe could spend a couple months salary and buy a race winning bike?? Think of the gypsies,...
They Should Race On Equal Footings Regardless Of 2 Or 4 Stroke
Not rated yet
I ride a 250 4 stroke and my friend rides a 250 2 stroke. We are about the same as far as ability goes. Okay he has a power advantage which makes it easier ...
The Future Is Bright For Two Strokes
Not rated yet
Although the modern trend is towards 4 strokes, modern developments in 2 stroke design sheds light on their future use.
One of the main problems with ...
2 Strokes - No Debate
Not rated yet
Been riding for 42 years. Started on two strokes in the early 70's, bought a four stroke in the 90's.. got used to it but it never performed like the ...
Go The Two Stroke
Not rated yet
I have a 2004 yz 125 and I have no problem keeping up with the newer so called faster four strokes. You can do a whole lot more to a two stroke for less ...
Reasons Why 4 Strokes Are Better
Not rated yet
2 strokes are more of a racing bike. They are snappy and a pain in the ass. You have to mix oil and gas. They are not environmentally friendly bikes. They ...
Honda Doesn't Like 2 Strokes
Not rated yet
I'm not a dirt enthusiast but I ride a two stroke street bike, and it kills me knowing that they don't make them anymore and don't have any future plans ...
Endangering The Youth MX Racer
Not rated yet
I think that the elimination of the 125 2-stroke has had a hand in the drop of young teens racing motocross and the injuries incurred by those who do continue ...
4 Stroke v 2 Stroke Undecided
Not rated yet
I have a 2010 CRF 450, a CRF 250 and also a 2006 CR 250 and I love them all.
On tight, more technical tracks the 250f is great because of the easy usable ...
Little Money vs. Big Money
Not rated yet
I would rather spend $800.00 - $1000.00 to rebuild my bike than $1400.00 - $2200.00. Wouldn't you? If 2 strokes are outlawed then BIG MONEY will be your ...
Two Stroke Preference
Not rated yet
I'm not one to tell someone else what to ride but when it comes to me and my good friend we love two strokes all the way. Even though I have a four stroke ...
Four Strokes Are Better In My Opinion
Not rated yet
In my opinion four strokes are a lot better. I'm only 13 but I've ridden and maintained a lot of bikes in the past. I have owned 2's and 4's and I think ...
When I Was A Kid...
Not rated yet
... I was gearing up to go pro when I broke my femur, an injury from which I couldn't fully recover from quickly enough, and so I wound up quitting and ...
Four Strokes Rock
Not rated yet
4 strokes rock! I have mainly ridden 2 strokes my whole life, but bought a Honda crf 450 last year. It took me no time to get used to the bike. I think ...
Two And Four Strokes Are Equal Machines
Not rated yet
Two strokes are better in motocross and for those short bursts coming round, and entering a corner. However the four strokes also have a trade off with ...
2 Strokes Are Much Easier To Start
Not rated yet
We have all heard the 2 stroke vs 4 stroke debate many times and it is interesting to read the points on both sides. One point that you don't see come ...
Bullet Proof Two Strokes
Not rated yet
We ride our two strokes when the weather prevents dust.. We like to throw dirt! We ride hard for three or four months and then put them away. When we ...
Cr 500 Beginner Bike
Not rated yet
I have had many sport bikes 450r's kfx, banshee if you consider it a sport bike lol, etc. I decided to ride bikes and learned the basics on a yz450f only ...
2 Strokes Past And Future
Not rated yet
Two strokes are the history of motocross. They're harder to race but are 4 x as fun. These bikes with their simple and cheap maintenance should have some ...
Nothing Like Two Stroke Power
Not rated yet
I'm 20 years old and have been wanting to ride for a long time but never had enough money. I started riding on a shitty little Chinese thumpster because ...
Four Strokes Are Awesome But Expensive To Own
Not rated yet
I'm 15. When I was 13, I was the first one out of my group of friends to upgrade from the 85's to the big bikes. I purchased a 2005 Yamaha yz125, and I ...
What Happens When You Put A Two Stroke Rider On A Four Stroke
Not rated yet
I love motocross, and I have noticed the sport take on a different look and feel since the two strokes have been fazed out of Pro racing.
For those ...
The Thrill Of A Two Stroke
Not rated yet
The 2 strokes are very reliable bikes. They're easy to maintain and they're a good bike for a thrill.
To all the gear head riders wanting to feel the ...
2 stroke vs. 4 stroke bs
Not rated yet
The whole 4 stroke vs. 2 stroke is all bs to me. I have been riding for 25 years and have seen both these bikes highly evolve and I gotta say I like both ...
Discovering The Powerband
Not rated yet
I'm middle aged now, but when I was 17 or so I rode a 250 Honda 4-stroke thumper. It was a great dependable bike and was great at riding in the hills and ...
Two Stroke Comeback - Direct Injection
Not rated yet
The coming of direct injected two strokes is just around the corner. When this happens, it will not only produce a cleaner burning two-stroke, it will ...
Complex Four Strokes
Not rated yet
Two Strokes Forever. They're less expensive to maintain & are a blast to ride. The current technology on 4 stroke race bikes (Motocross), is great. They ...
2 Strokes Are Losing Because
Not rated yet
4 strokes are linear in power delivery and have more low-end torque. They are therefore easier for the non-expert to ride in a variety of conditions.
I ...
500cc Nutter
Not rated yet
OK so everybody has this "my 2 stroker is faster than your 4 stroker" and "my 4 stroker is faster than your 2 stroker".
Going to make a fact and point ...
Why A KTM 350f And Not A 250 Two Stroke
Not rated yet
It seems mad to me that KTM invested so much money in developing the 350cc four stroke with the aim of producing a lighter bike with a revvier engine, to ...
Cheap Labor Compared To Expensive
Not rated yet
I own a 2001 YZ 250. This bike absolutely screams. I ride this bike to its max, rapping out every gear around the track. When it comes time for winter ...
Which Bike Next? Two or Four?
Not rated yet
I'm 14 and I ride a Kx 85 and not to brag but I know my way around a motocross track pretty good. My friend that I ride with has a crf150r and off the ...
A Dirt Bike Is A Dirt Bike But I Prefer Two's
Not rated yet
Two strokes are better because they are lighter, easier to work on, cheaper in parts and in my opinion have better handling traits. I love how two strokes ...
Young Riders Need Two Strokes
Not rated yet
Growing up I never had much money so when I finally could afford to get into the sport I couldn't afford a thumper, so of course I bought a 2 stroke.
It ...
Back To Two Strokes - Tired Of Riding Boring 4 Strokes
Not rated yet
I started on a KX 250 - went to a KTM 525SX - then a CRF 450R with RPM Ice Cube 498 - and many upgrades, cams, full exhaust. Spent tons on valves and engine ...
Four Strokes And Two Strokes Have Their Advantages
Not rated yet
If you ride a two stroke, you know the thrill of going fast and being light and nimble. You can feel your bike as the powerband kicks in and you can go ...
Nothing Matches The Power Of A 500cc 2 Stroke
Not rated yet
I like both but feeling the raw power of a 2 stroke is an unmatched rush. 4 strokes are good for wheelies but none come close to a 500 two strokes power....
Environmentalist, Lobbyist And The Parts
Not rated yet
If you ask me I think both are awesome and I like variety and choices. But lets face it a four stroke has millions more in financial return.
Think ...
Happy 2 Stroke Bike Rider
Not rated yet
My first motorcycle was a 1973 Yamaha L2 that was when I was in high school in the 90s (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yamaha_L2). My dad gave that motorcycle ...
4 Strokes Robbing Peter To Pay Paul
Not rated yet
The 2 stroke is better because if you look at the development of 2 stroke engines since, well let's just say late 80's to present day 2011, there has been ...
2 Strokes Hold The True Spirit Of The Sport
Not rated yet
Adrenaline. Competition. Excitement. Being a man. Isn't that why we all got into this sport?
A few main points to the sport of off road motorcycling....
I Think It Just Depends
Not rated yet
I'm sure all of you motocross riders have heard all the buzz about 2 stroke vs 4 stroke. Well me personally I don't think it really matters. This is why....
Struggling On A Two Stroke
Not rated yet
I wanna get started in racing but find myself fearing the jumps. I have been told from really good riders that race that I am fast in turns but like a ...
Four Strokes Are Better Because You've Been Told They Are
Not rated yet
I ride both two smokes and four strokes and can tell you that the market pushed four strokes down our throats. The market advanced the technology of the ...
Four Stroke Starting Problems & Costs
Not rated yet
I race a grand prix circuit in the panhandle of Texas. We have a dead engine start. The four strokes never start off the line. And the money that goes ...
Back To The Old Skool
Not rated yet
Just bought myself a bike after 20-yrs break. Wow, so many 4 strokes out there now, but I have opted for a 2 stroke. An old KX 125 for a year, and if ...
2 vs 4 - Right vs Left
Not rated yet
Thanks Hayden
You have a great site, and I really loved that article on two strokes versus four strokes. I have other passions like I love soccer and ...
Four Strokes Can't Match The Reliability of Two Strokes
Not rated yet
I've had experience with both 2 strokes and 4 strokes. I had a 2001 yz125 for 5 years. I never changed the engine oil one time (I know that's terrible)...
Two Stroke or Four Stroke.. Pick Your Poison
Not rated yet
I am a 2 stroke fan and I currently own a 2007 YZ125, but what people really have to understand is that on terms of reliability, which ever way you go ...
Two's & Four's Are Equal To Me
Not rated yet
The newer 4 strokes (mostly crf250r or kx250f) are a beast on the moto course. However the 2's are beasts also. 4'S might actually be a better moto bike ...
Two Strokes Are a Superior Machine
Not rated yet
I've done the dirt bike thing my whole life and I can tell you as an owner of both a 06 yz250 two stroke and a 08 ktm530 four stroke that the two stroke ...
Mixed Feelings
Not rated yet
I currently ride a 2006 KX 250 and love it! I have been considering a 09 KX 450 because of the fuel injection, but the cost of a top end alone is scary....
The Truth About Two Strokes And Four Strokes
Not rated yet
First off let me say there are way too many misconceptions regarding the debate on two vs four stroke, and most people base their idea of that particular ...
2-stroke traitor :)
Not rated yet
Hi all. Yes, I am a traitor! My first bikes were 2-strokes and a lot of fun. My last 2-stroke was a 1985 CR250R I bought for $850.00 and rode every penny ...
This Vet Rider Loves 2 Strokes!
Not rated yet
I have been riding dirt bikes since the 1970's and am very disappointed that the AMA is so 4-stroke orientated. The 4-stroke is more expensive to operate ...
CRM 250R - A Clean Burning Two
Not rated yet
Honda in their wisdom created a clean burning 2 stroke that was widely available everywhere but the US. I happened to ride one back in 1997. It was fully ...
Manufacturers are Killing 2 Strokes Due to Cost
Not rated yet
Environmental concerns are the PC reason for mfg's to phase out 2 strokes; however, it is more likely due to reduced R&D costs. 4 strokes are used more ...
After Riding A Two Stroke Everything Else Seems Tame
Not rated yet
Two strokes provide an unbeatable seat of you pants thrill that nothing else can compare to. They allow you to be genuinely shit-your-pants terrified in ...
This Sums It Up
Not rated yet
"Engine for engine, cc for cc, ounce for ounce, the two-stroke motocross engine is a vastly superior piece of equipment. If the two-stroke was invented ...
The Best Bang For Buck
Not rated yet
They are finding out that the hardcore rider will ride what they want to ride and not what they tell us to ride.
I will never buy a 4-stroke and if ...
4 Strokes Are For Lawnmowers
Not rated yet
I've raced since age 5. I'm now 25, and during those days if you showed up with a 4-stroke at the motocross track you were not doing something right - and ...
I Love Two Strokes
Not rated yet
Once you've grown up on a two stroke and then ride a four, you are disappointed. I don't like four strokes for a couple reasons...
You can't feel the ...
From 2 to 4 With Age
Not rated yet
I started riding a cr 125 in high school. Back then, like most high schoolers, I had very little fear and I could crash and laugh it off. The power band ...
I Prefer Four Strokes
Not rated yet
I'm really a fan of both bikes for different reasons. 4 strokes, I find ride better and can go over different terrain which is good for the way I ride....
Rode a 2 stroke For The First Time
Not rated yet
Well I've been riding for about 10 years. My first bike was a 1999 Yamaha pw50 and that is too small to have a noticeable power band. Ever since I got ...
Hold On To Your 2's
Not rated yet
I've been riding for 25yrs. I have owned both 2 strokes and 4 strokes. I believe they both have their place on the track and on the trail.
I currently ...
It's a Toss Up
Not rated yet
I've always ridden two strokes and loved them - the explosive hit, the sound, everything. But a couple of years ago I threw my leg over a RMZ 450.. I was ...
The Best Dirt Bike For You And Me
Not rated yet
If you are wondering what bike is best for you, read this. I went out and did the research in the real life not the rich life. This story for me first ...
The Pancacked (shortened.. i.e. no skirt) Piston
Not rated yet
I'm commenting not on why 4 strokes are better (I have both 2 and 4 strokes), but I'm commenting on why the 4 strokes became much faster with the '97 Yamaha ...
Lower Maintanance and Much More Fun
Not rated yet
I have just recently changed bikes from a Honda CRF 250r to a Yamaha yz250. I can't believe that I have not made the change back to the two stroke before ...
Two Stroke Where Have You Gone?
Not rated yet
Yea I think the two stroke should be raced by the lights class and the 450s in the pros. The AMA has most to blame for this, when they put only four strokes ...
4 Strokes Started Off as a Joke And Will Finish The Same Way
Not rated yet
Yes overall 4 strokes are easier to ride with their more controlled and smoother power delivery which is very forgiving around the track except at high ...
Four Strokes Are Driving The Blue-collar Guy Out of The Sport
Not rated yet
I really don't hate four strokes, in fact I might even be faster on one than my YZ250 - but I will never own one.
There is a long term test on the ...
Long Live 2 Strokes
Not rated yet
Two strokes may pollute more and may be noisier than 4 strokes, but nothing compares to the hit of the powerband and the sound these motors make when they ...
Half and Half
Not rated yet
Between the two bikes it is a huge tossup - the noisy zing zing of a two stroke is something that I just love to hear at a motocross race but yet I prefer ...
Fear And Four Strokes
Not rated yet
FEAR is the reason for the appearance of the 4 stroke in motocross. Fear of impending "green laws". I've been racing for 35 years and I've seen it all ...
Four Strokes Were Good Bikes Before...
Not rated yet
... but got a bad rap largely because of their riders! Yep, that's right! Like monkeys learn to press buttons, 97% (whatever?) learned to ride these ...
Direct Injection Retrofit Kits
Not rated yet
Envirofit, a non-profit corp at Colorado State University, is installing DI retrofit kits on two-stroke Motorcycle-Taxis (Tricycles) in the Philippines,...
2 Strokes Easier For Me
Not rated yet
I grew up riding on two strokes. I currently ride a yz250 two stroke.
Last summer I borrowed my buddies rmz450. I found that I got tired quite fast....
2-Strokes For Life
Not rated yet
As a motorcycle Technician I get my hands on a lot of bikes. 4 strokes can be great, when they're running well. With the new high end MX bikes, you're ...
Two Smokes For Life
Not rated yet
As long as 2 strokes are around I will be riding one. For more reasons than one. 2 strokes fit my riding style, and my budget. Since I don't have the mechanical ...
Resurrecting 2-Strokes
Not rated yet
I won't pay money to buy a new 4-stroke motorcycle when a 2-stroke will do the job better, even if it means resurrecting older bikes. It is actually cheaper ...
45 Years of Four Stroke & Two Stroke Racing
Not rated yet
I have been racing over 45 years, raced 4 strokes long before anyone else, in the 60's, Ducati's, BSA's, Triumph's, 1978 CCM's. Then Husabergs, then 98 ...
The Big Corporations are Phasing out the 2-strokes Because..
Not rated yet
There is less money to be made in it. The companies with dominating shares of the market (such as Honda or Yamaha) can throw their clout to influence the ...
15 Years of Racing - 2 Strokes Are The Way
Not rated yet
I raced for 15 yrs when I was younger. Motocross, enduro's, desert, even 3 yrs of speedway. Rode a lot of bikes over the yrs and I remember several 2 ...
4-Strokes Should Stay And So Should 2-Strokes
Not rated yet
I think yes keep the 2 strokes alive, that way people won't get sick of the 4 strokes. Come on people use your heads... if they ban 2-strokes and everybody ...
Two Strokes Are Way Better Because Of Everything
Not rated yet
Well, I've ridden 2 strokes all my life but now these so called "better 4 strokes" are being produced that aren't worth s%#t. They are way more expensive,...
NiMH - X
Not rated yet
I reckon that before the next fifty years has passed you won't see two or four strokes... you will have high current, high power output, electric powered ...
Financially Unable To Ride
Not rated yet
Hi, I have just read your 2 vs 4 stroke dirt bike article. How great it is to read a comparison test by someone who knows what they r talking about & who ...
2 Stroke Over 4 Stroke Any Day
Not rated yet
Hi I'm Josh.
I'd like to have my 2 cents about this topic. I ride a 99 Suzuki RM (2-stroke obviously) and I love it, it goes so hard I got no complaints....
2 Strokes Are The Best, Because of This..
Not rated yet
2 strokes are easy to maintain.
- Compared to a 4 stroke, the modern 2 strokes have nickel plated cylinders, which wears out the ring instead of the ...
Two Stroke Future
Not rated yet
A 2 stroke produces power every revolution making it vastly more efficient than a four stroke that needs two revolutions to do the same thing. All other ...
On The Pipe And Loving It!
Not rated yet
Having ridden a small fleet of two and four stroke dirt bikes over the years I just keep finding myself coming back to the excitement of the two stroke ...
Compare Apples to Apples
Not rated yet
250cc to 250cc two stroke wins hands down, for now. This is the way it is, but most likely will not always be. Can a four stroke be simple, cheap, dependable ...
2 Strokes All The Way
Not rated yet
Think about it... 4 strokes are a pain to rebuild because of all the valve timing. A 2 stroke you just pull off the jug and everything is uncomplicated ...
2 Stroke All The Way
Not rated yet
After growing up from a young kid to an adult riding a 2 stroke, I always thought they were the only true motocross bike to have. Then came the 400f, the ...
Two Stroke Rules!
Not rated yet
Being an old git (over 40) I've been plugging round on a KXf 250, following my 13 year old no brain, no fear son on his KX125. This has resulted in me ...
Two Stroke vs Four Stroke, Differences and Similarities
Not rated yet
Four strokes don't have a power band like a two stroke so you don't have to worry about the power band kicking in and slinging an inexperienced rider on ...
Four Stroke Maintenance Costs Make It Too Expensive To Ride
Not rated yet
My son started motox on an 85cc 2 stroke. He then followed the natural progression, 125cc - 250cc 2t's. I used to do all the maintenance myself. It ...
Good News For 2-stroke fans!
Not rated yet
I was surfing the web just the other day, researching the new Maico dirt bikes that are now being built back in Germany in limited numbers. Supposedly ...
Two Strokes Are Better... Way Better
Not rated yet
I'll get right to the point.
1. The environment problem is a load of crap. I mean seriously, how much pollution does any dirt bike engine put out?
2....
No Comparison
Not rated yet
Let me preface this by saying that I am not a dirt bike kind of guy. When I was younger, I learned to ride on a 4 stroke Honda 90cc road bike. As I got ...
You Can't Blame The Manufacturers...
Not rated yet
To be honest I considered a 450 over my 250 2-stroke. But I'm a part-time casual track rider and enjoy hitting the local sand dunes.
People are jumping ...
Two Strokes vs 4 Strokes
Not rated yet
Well I'm 29 years young turning 30 in May. I've been riding two stroke 125's my whole life until a few years ago when I sold my 125 at age 26. I returned ...
Two Strokes Sound Good And Go Hard
Not rated yet
I've only owned two 4 stroke motorbikes in my life. One was a 1980 Honda XL125 and the other was a 1983 Suzuki DR125
The 2 strokes I've owned have ...
Two Strokes Rule
Not rated yet
The whole environmentalist rationale for eliminating 2-strokes is total BS. There are already clean-burning 2-strokes, and even if they weren't, the amount ...
2 Strokes Are More Popular
Not rated yet
I have a 4 stroke dirt bike and I go to dirt tracks a lot. There's no one with 4 strokes. Everyone has got 2 strokes and the noise is crazy! But I seem ...
Two Strokes - More Power & Simpler To Work On
Not rated yet
I like 2 strokes a heck of a lot more than the sordid old 4 strokes. I mean the 4's are OK if you're not dead in the ol' bike nut. But for all of us ...
WIMPS
Not rated yet
What I hate is all of these wimps. I think the big four need to start making big bore 2 strokes again.
The first bike I ever rode was a KX500 and ...
Personal Choice
Not rated yet
I started riding 2 strokes all the way up to a Suzuki RM 250. They are without a doubt, serious horse power on any track. For a beginner it will spit ...
2 Strokes Are The Bomb!
Not rated yet
Nothing else compares to the sound and performance that comes out of a two stroke dirt bike. They're super-tough, light, easy to work on, and a lot cheaper ...
2 Strokes Dominate
Not rated yet
I really find it hard to believe how the big four can steer away from 2 strokes. I mean, it's like they don't even relate to us. Have they never ridden ...
