Missing the old two-stroke days but want a brand-new bike? This Kawasaki KX250 recently sold on eBay by Two Strokes Only (TSO) might have been a good answer.
Keeping Two-Strokes Alive
Keen bike fans may think the heading above is an error and with good reason. The last time a two-stroke KX250 was officially available in the US was in 2007. Since then, it’s been all about four-stroke technology, which has improved durability and resulted in longer service intervals.
However, California firm Two Strokes Only offers a range of services and kits to transform a four-stroke KX250 into a modern interpretation of the classic two-stroke machine. The company website states:
What sets us apart is our commitment to keeping older two-strokes alive and enabling some of the most beautiful restorations and custom builds, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible while preserving the legacy of these classic machines.
Brand-New 2024 Build
The gorgeous bike was available from long-established eBay sellers Kaplan Cycles - opens in new window or tab. of Manchester, Conn. We recently spoke - opens in new window or tab. with Ken Kaplan about the Yamaha GT80 recently sold on eBay. This machine is far-removed from the classic little Yamaha.
This “brand new” 2019 model year Kawasaki KX250 features a full TSO two-stroke engine conversion and much more.
The Best of Everything
Kaplan Cycles listed the full specs of the KX. Some highlights of the engine conversion include:
- CAD-designed engine case, CNC machined from billet
- Wiseco crank - opens in new window or tab. and piston
- Billet two-piece, high-compression cylinder head
The complete TSO chassis kit includes:
- Mandrel-bent 6061 (aircraft grade) aluminum frame rails
- Billet cylinder head stays
- Billet upper and lower engine mounts - opens in new window or tab.
Clearly, this TSO KX250 had been highly spec’d. The photos show the build’s standard in detail. This is the way to cover off-road terrain with style and brio.
Serial Winner
The KX250 is, quite simply, the most successful bike in the modern motocross era. These green machines racked up almost 200 wins and 18 championships in the Supercross and Pro Motocross categories and counting.
That doesn’t do justice to perhaps the KX’s most enduring legacy, summed up by Dirt Bike Magazine - opens in new window or tab.:
The most relevant take-home fact about the KX250 is that most years it has been the easiest bike to race, the most fun to ride, and the least expensive to own.
The legend of the KX250 now spans half a century. This TSO KX250 blended modern engineering and techniques with an inimitable classic two-stroke character.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.