I have been looking at purchasing a 2000 model Blaster. The salesman tried to talk me out of it saying that much more maintenance is needed on a 2-stroke engine. I know some maintenance is involved but how much? This got me thinking about how reliable is a 2-stroke engine? Espcially for occasional trail rides at slow speeds?The main purpose for the bike would be just recreation after work. This would not be a competition bike (for my purpose). If anyone could offer some advice it would be greatly appreciated!!

 

jgardn1,
The primary maintanance involved with a 2 stroke, especially a smaller displacement model would be rings and/or pistons, cylinder honing or boring, all of which are dependant on the type and amount of riding you'd do. You didn't mention your size or weight, but Blasters generally are more efficient with riders 5'10" or less & 150lbs or less. I know, I know, there are those who are bigger who love their Blasters. In addition, for the application you describe I feel you'd be better served with a 4 stroke. Blasters are great if kept in the power band, but like all small displacement 2 stroke bikes they are quite pipey and require a lot of attention to shifting to keep them there

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THE AZ HARD PACKER, calmiller@kachina.net

save the public land FOR you, not FROM you..join the Blue Ribbon Coalition online @ www.sharetrails.org

 

Two strokes are verry fun,But if time is an issue? And you want turn key quading, 4 stroke.

 

I really think 2 stroke and 4 stroke is all on what someone likes..

I like 2 strokes.

They put out alot more torque, and there are a lot more mods out there for them.

i don't see where they would require any more maintenance. As long as you mix your fuel correctly, and make sure the plug is clean. They will run perfect and give you no troubles.

For trail use..just make sure you get out and nail it a couple times to clear the oil out of the cylinder.

I really think the AUTO on a 2 stroke is great..you don't have to shift as much to keep your power up. But just don't stop in the middle of a hill and expect to take right off!

On the blaster thing. If you are more than 5'9 and over 150 pounds FORGET IT!

I'm 6'0 and 200 pounds. I am so cramped up on one!

 

Thanks for all the replies, I think I am gonna go with a 300EX. I believe 4-stroke is gonna be best suited for my use....

 

Two strokes make more torque? More torque than what? Not trying to start a flame war.

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95 Warrior 95 XR250 97 Kodiak

 

It seems that two strokes make more torque but its higher RPM torque. They need the engine turning over more to get it, but when they do get it... Hang On!! Not the best for a hill crawling utility (i.e. the Explorer 400- but man will it run!)

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Andy Bassham *(1999 Arctic Cat 500 4x4, 1989 Honda 300)*