My warrior is up for sale and when its sold Ill be looking for a LT250r. What cn you guys tell me about them. Like other than it being a 2storke is their anything else to look out for? And is it a good bike?
I also heard your not suposed to drive a 2 stroke in the cold...why is that?

 

I have had several. Its a great machine and the 87-92 are the best ones. You can ride cold weather. You mite need to rejet but I doubt it.

 

Yes, they are good bikes, but there are some areas to look out for. When searching for a LT, be sure to check shock mounts and footpeg mounts for cracks. It isn't a big deal to have theese areas welded/gusseted, so don't freak if you see it. This are just some noted weak areas, and in fact, commom areas for any quad of this vintage to show some fatigue. '85/6 models have a different engine and a 5 speed tranny compared to the 6 speed for later years. These models are lighter, but don't handle as well nor are thay as fast. The '87 model has the same intake as the Quadzilla, and was the fastest model year stock. Later years had some additional refinement though, and are generally more desireable. Pipe selection is very important to riding style. I have ridden some with weak low end power but a very vicious mid range hit, and I have ridden some that just make good power everywhere. The stock shocks are fairly harsh, especially the fronts. Even a cheap set of Steelers add real value to the quad and help handling. Of course, the stockers may be better in comparison to the Warrior. Living in Canada, you WILL have to rejet for the seasons. No doubt about it. Just ask the rpeviuos owner what they used and for any spare jets. My winter setup is usually 2 or 3 sizes up on the main, one up on the pilot, and down one notch on the needle over my summer setup. This seems to hold true for my brothers '87 as well as my '85. I rarely ride if temps get below the 20F mark though. A few other quick notes, run a quality gearcase oil(I use Bel-Ray Gearsaver 80w, but there are others) instead of just motor oil. Also, I have found the brand of 2-stroke oil isn't necessarily as important as using the proper ratio. Some of the higher end stuff smells real good as it burns, but as long as you mix 5oz oil to 1 gallon gas, you won't be doing top-ends as often as these guys running 50:1. Remember, 2-strokes are a bit more finicky than the 4's. Jetting is more likely to change on a 2; elevation or temperature change require more frequent rejetting. Give the engine a few minutes to warm up before you ride it or you will seize the piston. You will want to always carry at least one spare sparkplug-just in case. If it doesn't idle, your carb is out of adjustment most likely. I probably have a dozen more pointers, but I'll end with this, if you find a LT250R and a Honda 250R in roughly the same condition and price, buy the Honda.

 

wow thats alot of great info thanks. What makes the honda better than the suzuki?

 

The Honda handles better, more like the current 450's, and more parts availability. The LT is a great slider and still handles very well, but it is a notch below the Honda in at least that one detail.

 

The 91-92 are the best (and last) models of the LT250R, the frame geometry and rear suspension were reworked. However they were never as good as the Honda, I've owned both. I would say my 87 LT w/ FMF pipe has more power than my old TRX w/ pual turner pipe. Niether machine had any port work done.

Jetting properly is critical to your enjoyment of a 2-stroke, and yes plan on having to change at least the main jet as the temprature changes.

 

Ok I was just wondering because someone told me you can't drive a 2 stroke in the cold. Oh and how fast is an lt? how much faster than a warrior?

 

My brothers is faster than a piped Banshee, but his motor has the CT "national" engine work and an FMF Gold series pipe. The Banshee had FMF pipes and aftermarket carbs, but no real engine work. Even my '85 scoots right along. I have never rode with a Warrior, but what experience I have with them, the LT is faster and better handling, but won't have the same amount of sack down low.

 

I have a pretty nice 88 lt250r that i would consider selling relatively cheap if your interested,i might even consider a trade for your warrior,i have triple rate front shocks,aftermarket plastics,paul turner pipe and fat boy silencer,and a k and n filter.there are pics on my page

 

Any LT250R, even an 85-86, is considerably faster, lighter and more manueverable than your warthog. I ride with 2 warriors and they usually have to race each other cause everybody else is a little further up the road/track/trail.