[OreoGitorio]

I'm sure this would get Paul's attention... niiiice lookin RS right there

http://www.clubracer.net/forum/showthread.php?t=850

[hessogood]

Is that price reasonable? I wouldn't pay that much for a 93 ferrari.

[Paul_E_D]

The price is in the ballpark. GP machines are fresh from the crank up every season, so year doesn't matter as much. They do make incremental improvements in the expansion chambers and other subtle things from year to year.

I'm not sure about the 250s, but a '95 125 can be as fast or faster than an 05 depending on the prep. That's the beauty of this class. Development of the bikes is very advanced, and therefore moves very slowly.

[OreoGitorio]

I'm kinda interested in learning more about the 125/250 classes...

Paul, do you think it's a class that a newcomer to racing would fair well in?

Alot of fun & competition in the Novice ranks?

How expensive is it compared to other bikes to race?

As much as i'd like to jump in the 600cc meatgrinder, the expense is a little much for me which is one of the reasons why I chose the EX500... I know running a 125 or 250 won't be nearly as cheap as an EX but how does it compare to the light & middleweight classes as far as costs go?

I've always been one to kinda stray from the norm & find fun alternatives to the mainstream.

[x2468]

i learned a bit of info on the 125/250s from www.usgpru.com. from what i understand the 125s are pretty cheap because they are only one cylinder, and 2-strokes don't have many moving parts, so when something breaks you can fix it urself. and they don't eat thru tires very fast, altho tire availbility has become a problem as of late (they have specials sizes only some manufactures carry, and in limited ammounts). The only reason im not is because new/used they are somewhat expensive and they would not allow me to get any street experiance first. but for you it may be worth it. the 250s are alittle more expensive cuz its 2 pistons, 2 carbs etc. but i saw a nice 95 TZ250 for sale on lrrs a few weeks back.

[Paul_E_D]

the 125 class is unique for a newcomer because you race on track with the experts from the beginning. This is good for a rider with good fundamentals like yourself, Pete. You get to chase top level guys after they lap you!

It's a little hairy for the wobblers as the guys at the front can't really show any mercy on them during the race. I can remember several occasions where a guy was wobbling through a fast turn and at least 2 of us made contact with him as we split past him. It was dangerous for sure, but if I let off, I lose.

[hessogood]

I've been saying for a while a two smoker will be my next race bike. I'd really like to turn some laps on one before I commit to a purchase though.

[Paul_E_D]

It's very different. Point and shoot guys hate it cause they go dog slow on them.

It actually takes quite a bit of learning to go fast on one. They are unforgiving of errors when it comes to laptimes. just 2 or three mistakes in a lap will have you 1-3 seconds off the pace.

Riders who will excel on them have a technical approach to riding and are willing to analyze every detail of their technique.

[hessogood]

I'm up for the challenge, and the work that comes with it.

[Paul_E_D]

They are super rewarding when you get it right. They are so much stiffer than a streetbike that sliding isn't much of an option. I guess the 250s can spin it up, but let it step out and you'l learn how to fly
I have developed a real appreciation for the two-stroke/pavement combination. It's exciting.

[a13x]

Originally posted by hessogood
I'm up for the challenge, and the work that comes with it.

Word up.