I had a 2000TB for a year and now a 2002 250EX for a year. I much prefer the 250EX. Being so much lighter and smaller, it just seems to have a higher "fun" quotient.

I also like the manual shift, because the direct hook up vs auto just makes it seem peppier. I don't care about top speed. I like the low end "snap" of a manual vs auto. My kids regretted the loss of the auto only until they got used to shifting.

I also prefer the shaft drive for ease of maintenance.

I think the 250EX is a great little bike if you're not a power junkie or too large in stature.