[CRF230dad]

My 16yr. old son has out grown his 05’ CRF150 in height and riding ability. He needs a 250cc. That’s fine only problem is he is hell bent on a lighter bike he can ride at the track with his friend. We camp and ride off-road allot here in the So. Calif. desert and I don’t want I bike he can not ride 5 months out of the year when we hit the road. I’m looking for a 03-05 to keep the cost down but still get an aluminum frame. The CRF250X is a good choice (pricey) but he claims it’s too heavy (26lbs. compared to the R) and it has a different stance and profile. Honda is 1st choice, Kawasaki 2nd, Yamaha 3rd and KTM 4th (again pricey). I was even entertaining the thought of a 2-stroke 125cc but don't know if it would have enough power to satisfy his young testosterone not to mention how embarrassed he might be riding with his 250 friends (heaven forbid). When I grew up I was trilled to ride what ever I could get my hands on. I read in one of these forums that someone said he had a YZ250F that was a green sticker. Now I read the DMV’s deal on VIN number ID for red vs. green. Which green sticker bike would you guys suggest to fit the bill? Has anyone every modified a red sticker 4-stroke to meet Calif. green sticker emission standards? Is it even possible? That might be my best solution. Any input is appreciated. Thanks!

[150_red_rider]

I'm 14 now and I'm planning on getting a 250R. I live in Nebraska and we dont have all the green sticker stuff. I think you can buy a green sticker miffler for the 250R's I think a nice 250X would be good. The 2 strokes power band is a little scary for me. Id go with a Honda for sure.

[djh65]

Seems like you have two choices. 02 250R pre red sticker or 250x. It's like 25 lbs heavier.
Good luck.
David

[JAWS]

You can get a green sticker bike if it is 2002 or earlier. They were all grandfathered. So don't be afraid of that issue.
Joe