We just bought a used 2003 TRX 250EX and I am really excited about it. We have taken it to the farm and riding in an ATV riding area. It handled everything we wanted to do with it. Great machine for everyone in the family, with the auto clutch. We ride trails mostly so we don't need flat out speed. We did change out the stock tires very quickly to something flatter and wider for better stability.

 

congrats on the new ride

 

Agreed! It is the best beginner adult/early teen machine there is. I have taught a hundred people to ride on ours, and nobody ever gets hurt or gets into trouble.

Another nice thing, the EX is based on the Recon, so it had high ground clearance and will go anywhere a 2wd utility will....which make it a great all purpose machine.

The Raptor 250 is going to giver it a run for its money with those looking for more performance, but for the average rider it is a peach.

Remember one thing about it however, and teach this to your kids and any beginners. It will roll backwards in gear, with the engine on or off! It's not like a chain drive full manual clutch engine where compression will hold you from rolling backward. The centrifugal clutch on the 250 will not hold you, so the rider has to be ready to grab a hanfull of brakes if the fail to make a hill. Teach this to your kids!