I don't think you'll be keeping either 250cc ATV for twenty years. A 250 is pretty neat for a 14 year old, but when you're 18 or 19 years old a 450 is going to be looking a whole lot better than that five year old 250.

When we bought our first son a Honda 250 EX we only kept it for a year. He started riding it at age 11, and at age 12 moved up to a 400 EX. Then at age 14 he moved to a YFZ 450.

The Raptor 250 is a much better ATV, and stays a better ATV longer, as the rider becomes more advanced in his riding skills. We bought our second son a Raptor 250 when he was 11 as well, but were able to skip the 400cc class because the Raptor 250 was so much better of an ATV. Our second son stayed on the Raptor 250 until he was 15, and moved straight to a YFZ 450.

A Raptor 250 beats a 300 EX in a straight up drag race, with equal riders on board. And if you're looking for an ATV that you may be able to keep even longer, consider a Raptor 250R

 

Thanks for all the helpful responses. i am 14, 5'7, and yesterday I sat on a raptor 250 and it felt pretty tiny. I'm growing fast, so it is no longer an option. 250r one you said? I'll check it out.
Thanks again!

 

Hmm, not sure about a 250R. The Raptor 250R is the same size, just different shocks. If you are talking one of the old school 2 stroke 250R, it may be a bit much if you are inexperienced with a clutch. I would suggest one of the 400 class quads if you can find a nice one. Keep in mind that technically you are to young to ride one until 16. On the other hand, this is a great class for trail riding. Most people will be perfectly happy on a 400 for just about ever.

 

I think the Yamaha raptor 350 is a great choice for me so far. Enough power it seems, and here's my Q:
What's the size comparison of the raptor 250, and 350?

 

I am 5'9" and felt a bit cramped on the 250. It has been a while since I have been on a 350, but I don't remember the same cramped feeling. I ran a 1.5 hour GP on a 300ex last summer and was very comfy. That was actually the first race I have ever done where I wasn't physically exhausted at the finish. Could have used more power though...