is there any year that is better than another or are they all the same

 

Well, most people will say that they are all great.
the 88-89 were better.
Dont NOT buy an 86-87 because of this though.
Im sure lots of people will respond to this post telling you more.

-Matt

 

They are ALL good, although the 88's and 89's seem to be more desireable.

 

go to Model year changes and read at the bottom of each column.

86-87 motors have more bottom end...better for trails
88-89 motors have more top end = higher reving
88-89 have a little different gearing too...not much

 

the 88-89 have more parts out on the market and are an inch shorter than the 86-87 model which makes it handle just a bit better than the 86/7. ive had both and when i had my 87 i just converted things over to 88-89 like the swingarm size and clutch pushrod etc..

 

The 88-89 are not an inch shorter. The swingarm on the 88-89 is 1 inch shorter, but the a-arms were also configured 1 inch forward. Same wheelbase. Same length. The 88-89 models are supposed to turn better. I've ridden all years and can't really tell the difference, but I'm not a pro. I have an 86 and an 87. Equal horsepower all years, same bore/stroke all years. The 86, because of it's shorter connecting rod, is supposed to rev faster, not necessarily higher. The 88-89 are slightly lighter due to the aluminum swingarm while the 86-87 have steel. The 88-89 cost more. The 89 did have a better clutch actuator, but you can install it on any year. The 86 cylinder can be bored more times than other years, up to .140 over while the others can only go .080 over. They are all great, all years. No reason not to buy an 86-87.