Differences in 2001 Cr250R to current?

[JustRide]

Ok guys I am a novice at best but I have been riding bikes for about 30 years now. I really like my 2001 CR250R and I know its more capable than I am.

My question is - in reality to someone at my skill level how much difference is there with a well maintained 2001 bike to the newer machines?

Thanks, Jay

[EJ]

Maintenance wise, it's the same to any other japanese 250 2 stroke.
Many people believe the 2001 CR250 engine was one of the best ever 250 2 stroke engines.
Even Service Honda uses the 2001 engine in the newer frames.
A 10 year old CR250 is more than capable to run with the so-called ''modern'' bikes of these days.
As this video clearly illustrates;

BATTLE: Open A Class - Raceway Park Northeast Classic/XMS

[JustRide]

Dang!  That awesome. Thanks

[Tharrell]

Dang!  That awesome. Thanks

Yup!

I have a 2001 but, can't ride it like that!

[pushdogg]

that guy is wringing that poor 250s neck!!!.....he was fast, looked like if he wasnt on the brake he had it pinned. that was a good video.

[motoman356]

Actually stick with your 01.  the motors in the 02 and following were somewhat worse but the chassis was much improved but as far as being so much better youll drop 3 or 5 seconds a lap. No. the chassis on dirtbike in the last 15yrs have all been great and mainly been going through fine tunes, and the same would go for yz's kx rm's. all the japanese bikes have awesome chassis' now euro bikes are a different story. I remember KTMs had a bad stickbug feel but pros on them back in 03 when the YZ250 and 125 were the best honda's kawis suzukis and KTMs would be ahead and the reason is As evidenced by the video it all comes down to the rider.

[riffraff]

[/quote]

Yup!

I have a 2001 but, can't ride it like that!
[/quote]

 me too

[factoryX]

As of late, the market is flooding with 00-01's.

[Shawn36]

The power valve setup on the 01 is better.  The newer motor is quirky but can be made to run strong.  But honestly if you're not in a position to take advantage of the slight chassis difference there's no reason to upgrade.  I'd definitely just stick with what you have and ride.  Invest in getting the correct springs for your weight and keep the bike fresh. 

[overthebars]

The power valve setup on the 01 is better.  The newer motor is quirky but can be made to run strong.  But honestly if you're not in a position to take advantage of the slight chassis difference there's no reason to upgrade.  I'd definitely just stick with what you have and ride. Invest in getting the correct springs for your weight and keep the bike fresh.  

Indeed, it wil be more of an upgrade then buying a bike with an updated chassis. The difference of the frame update is hardly (or not at all) noticeable for an amateur rider. A suspension upgrade on the other hand is very wel noticeable and wil make u feel more comfortable on it, thus resulting in faster (and safer!) riding.