While on holiday lying on the beach earlier this week,i was reading a article in a bike mag about 250 2 strokes,now i have a bit of cash tied up in some isa's,the yearly returns on my cash is dire,so got me thinking maybe i should buy a nice little stoker and actually have some thing to look at and use occasionally and all being well make more money pa than a isa.Its a bit of a mine field out there as i don't know the best models to go for,any advise on models,makes would be appreciated,looking to spend 3/5k may go higher for the right bike. Thanks.
I hope specific experts will see your thread as in-depth knowledge of each model is crucial here as you said. I have been casually looking for a KR1-S in the past but have given up now due to prices soaring. Aprilia RS250 and Suzuki with same engine come to mind - I haven't looked at prices for quite a while but I think you will be lucky to find a sound one* within your budget and the older Japanese twins are even more as @satzoomer will confirm I think. You might consider them too small but the 33 bhp Cagiva Mito 125's are a lot of fun for a lot less money. *mis-read your budget - and they are out there for 5K - this is mouthwatering : - APRILIA RS250 NEW UNREGISTERED | eBay I know several people who have praised their handling on trackdays above many similar machines.
yes, hadn't thought of those AL, don't know why I assumed late/twin. Much as I have happy memories of the ones you listed I can't get excited about them now - just me.
The rs 250 is the model i have been looking at most as it is still quite modern and spares should not be a problem,don't understand the rgv vj21 ect,not sure which model is the most sort after ?,also is a british reg bike worth more than a import ?.
I'm currently finishing my Rs250 rebuild. As I too longed for a 250 stroker as a Trackday toy a few years ago. It's great fun to ride and taught me how to carry corner speed. Which has improved my laptimes on the 749. There is a wealth of info and spares are easy to get from Sean at The Tuning Works. Also if you can handle two forum's in your life Then look at rgv250.co.uk there's tons of usefully info and what to watch out for. Like the powervalves dropping into the cylinders when retaining pin fails!
Yeah I can relate to your logic regarding Isa's and money in the bank in general. I keep telling the Mrs yes I need another bike, the other 6 are lonely! LOL The Aprilia RS250 is an awesome bit of kit, wish I didn't sell my Biaggi Chesterfield replica. Definatley increasing in value, and an brilliant track day tool if that's your thing. I prefer the shape of the MK1 version, but each to their own.
rs 250 is a nice bit of kit how a bout a Yamaha tzr 250 3ma reverse cylinder if you fancy something a bit different
£2800 is a steal. And a nice looking Mk1. They can be a money pit though. So do your home work. And budget for a few eye watering bills for replate and a set of Couger power valves.
budget 4-5 for a mint unrestored mk1 rs250. UK bike best, low miles, and completely original. Under 10k is best, and evidence of engine work needed. Unless its never been apart like mine
Look out for dodgy paint/blisters on the tanks too, ethanol is not kind on the rs, and can swell the tanks out of shape!!!
Had this for 6 years and sold it to a mate about a year ago for 3k, go back 2 years they were selling for around £1800 now a good one 3k+ a real wolf in sheep clothing and a very small bike. If you look at one get a torch and check the rear engine mount as they all crack along the bracket, some people take the engine out to repair but i left mine in as the welder could get to it for the repair,
If you go a Yamaha 350lc they start around £2500 going up to 4/5k+ for a mint one, price for spares now are making Ducati parts look cheap. Still got this one now for 6 years, Yamaha 350 ypvs are a good buy and cheaper at around 2/3k for a good one and they have a smoother power delivery over the LC. Had this one 7years, I would say go for a YPVS 350 you will get some change out of your budget and they are on the up in price,
