[artinprospect]

Hey guys. I searched around the forum a bit to get some general info but needed to ask a specific question.

There is a 04 CRF250X that i've had my eye on for a good price. The only issue is the previous owner says that she hasn't ridden it for a few years, but the carb has had a go through, fluids changed, and valves adjusted about a year ago(although I can't know for sure). She says it started right up with no issues after the maintenance was done but hasn't been started since(presumed dead battery, and she has trouble kickstarting because of her physical stature).

Anyway... assuming I am able to kick start it, or even take a battery, I can't say I know what I'm looking for. I have experience wrenching on cars but this is my first dirtbike. I was curious as to what could be the major things that could be wrong/need replacing and what are the costs. Would the bottom end be fine? Just a new head? Rebuilding transmission? etc?

I've been opting for the 250X instead of the CRF230F because I will be using it as a dualsport and the price difference for this specific listing is small enough for me to consider. I liked the 230F because it was cheap and has a desirable ride height. I'm 5' 8" and was on my tip toes riding a WR250F, which really took a hit on my confidence on 2 wheels. This specific 250X has a lowered seat which is maybe only an inch off from the 230F.

Thank you guys!

Art

[Old Dude]

Hey Art welcome to CRFsOnly. You do not indicate where you are located but first be sure that dual sporting one of these bikes is doable wherever it is that you reside. I have a D/S 230 that is significantly modified (engine and suspension). A buddy has a D/S 250X. Both are good but each has its own limitations and considerations. The 250X is basically stock but it is more versatile and arguably better suited for Dual Sporting. It is overall more substantial (more power, better suspension and braking). My 230 is great for commuting back and forth to work on surface streets going to the barbershop, cruising the back roads of California's Gold Country and Sierras where you would be running at about 50 mph but Freeway speeds (except for short stretches) on the 230 are iffy. Mine tops out at about 67 mph and is really wound up at that speed. Taller gearing would help but then you lose off road-ability. The 250 is great in the above environments as well but on wide open hwys/frwys it is at its limits. Too much of this type use would be tough on the motor. If its just local stuff you plan to ride the the 230 is adequate but the 250X would be the nice option. Keep in mind the 230 is much more maintenance friendly.
O.D.

[MattBennett23]

Not to much to worry about really. They are mostly pretty reliable from what I have experienced and read about them.

If its been sitting, I would just replace the jets in the carb just on principle. They are pretty cheap and you very likely have a problem just from sitting. If I were you I would just get a JD jetting kit for it and consider it in the cost of the bike. (Also open the airbox if it hasnt been done already).

Only potential problem really are the valves. The older 250X's (before 07) had some valve issues. You will probably need to replace them with stainless steel valves at some point, again just figure that into the cost of buying it. So I would take the cost of the bike and add $750 to the cost and figure that as your total. (Jet kit, valves, battery) If it turns out you dont need the valve job, get your suspension redone or a 280 kit, or a q4 exhaust or something.

Pretty hit or miss on the valves, some people had problems, others didnt. Other than that, they are pretty much the same bikes as the new ones, just more wear and tear. (The newer ones have a smaller gas tank also.