The Most Reliable Two-Stroke Dirt Bike, Ranked

Choose the two-stroke dirt bike you think is the most reliable!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 25, 2024 06:56
Navigating the world of two-stroke dirt bikes can be as challenging as a steep, rocky trail. For enthusiasts looking to make their next purchase, understanding which models stand up to the rigors of the track or trail can be invaluable. Reliability is a key factor; a bike that consistently performs without frequent breakdowns can vastly improve the riding experience and reduce maintenance costs. This interactive space allows you to contribute to and benefit from the collective experience of fellow riders. By voting for the dirt bikes you believe are the most reliable, you help create a dynamic and updated ranking. This, in turn, serves as a resource for all, helping anyone from seasoned pros to beginners make informed decisions on which two-stroke dirt bikes might best suit their adventure needs.

What Is the Most Reliable Two-stroke Dirt Bike?

  1. 1
    56
    votes
    Yamaha YZ250
    Coadster68 · CC BY-SA 3.0

    Yamaha YZ250

    Yamaha
    Known for its reliability and durability, the YZ250 has been a top choice for off-road riders for decades. It has a powerful engine and a well-designed chassis that can handle rough terrain.
    The Yamaha YZ250 is a highly regarded two-stroke dirt bike known for its exceptional performance and reliability. It is a favorite among motocross and off-road enthusiasts for its powerful engine and impressive handling.
    • Engine Type: 249cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke
    • Transmission: 5-speed
    • Suspension: KYB Speed-Sensitive System
    • Front Suspension Travel: 11.8 inches
    • Rear Suspension Travel: 12.4 inches
  2. 2
    25
    votes
    Honda CR250R
    Rainmaker47 · CC BY-SA 3.0

    Honda CR250R

    Honda
    Another classic two-stroke dirt bike, the CR250R is known for its smooth power delivery and excellent handling. It has been a popular choice for motocross and enduro riders for many years.
    The Honda CR250R is a high-performance two-stroke dirt bike renowned for its reliability and power. It is designed for off-road racing and offers exceptional performance capabilities.
    • Engine Type: 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke
    • Power Output: Around 60 horsepower
    • Frame: Tubular aluminum
    • Suspension: Front: Showa 49mm inverted fork, Rear: Pro-Link Showa single shock
    • Brakes: Front: Single disc, Rear: Single disc
  3. 3
    41
    votes
    This bike is equipped with KTM's latest fuel-injection technology, making it more reliable and efficient than previous models. It has a powerful engine and excellent suspension, making it a great choice for off-road riding.
    The KTM 300 XC-W TPI is a highly reliable two-stroke dirt bike known for its exceptional performance and durability. It is designed for off-road enthusiasts who seek top-notch power, agility, and handling on various terrain.
    • Engine Type: Single-cylinder, 2-stroke
    • Displacement: 293.2 cc
    • Fuel System: Transfer Port Injection (TPI)
    • Starter: Electric/Kick
    • Transmission: 6-speed
  4. 4
    16
    votes

    Husqvarna TE300i

    Husqvarna Motorcycles
    Similar to the KTM 300 XC-W TPI, the Husqvarna TE300i has a fuel-injected engine that provides reliable power and improved fuel efficiency. It also has a lightweight frame and high-quality suspension, making it a great choice for off-road riding.
    The Husqvarna TE300i is a high-performance two-stroke motorcycle designed for off-road riding. It is known for its reliability and power, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
    • Engine Type: 2-stroke, single-cylinder, fuel-injected
    • Displacement: 293.2 cc
    • Power: 54 hp
    • Torque: 32.5 lb-ft
    • Transmission: 6-speed
    Husqvarna TE300i in other rankings
  5. 5
    13
    votes

    Suzuki RM250

    Suzuki
    This bike has been around for over 30 years and is known for its reliability and durability. It has a powerful engine and excellent handling, making it a top choice for motocross riders.
    The Suzuki RM250 is a highly regarded two-stroke dirt bike known for its reliability, power, and agility. It has been a popular choice among motocross enthusiasts and professional riders for many years. The bike is specifically designed for off-road racing and offers excellent performance and durability.
    • Engine Type: Two-stroke, single-cylinder
    • Displacement: 249cc
    • Bore x Stroke: 66.4 mm x 72 mm
    • Compression Ratio: 8.7:1
    • Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
  6. 6
    14
    votes

    Beta 300 RR

    Beta Motorcycles
    Beta is a relatively new player in the dirt bike market, but their bikes are known for their quality and reliability. The 300 RR has a powerful engine and excellent handling, making it a great choice for off-road riding.
    The Beta 300 RR is a highly reliable two-stroke dirt bike known for its performance and durability. It is designed for off-road enthusiasts who seek a powerful and agile ride. The bike is equipped with top-of-the-line components and advanced technology to deliver a thrilling riding experience.
    • Engine: 300 cc two-stroke single-cylinder
    • Power: Approximately 49 horsepower
    • Torque: Excellent low-end torque for improved off-road control
    • Suspension: Front: 48 mm Sachs closed-cartridge fork, Rear: Sachs shock with adjustable rebound and compression
    • Brakes: Front: 260 mm wave disc, Rear: 240 mm wave disc
  7. 7
    13
    votes
    Sherco is another relatively new dirt bike brand, but their bikes have been gaining popularity in recent years. The 300 SE-R has a powerful engine and excellent suspension, making it a great choice for enduro riding.
    The Sherco 300 SE-R is a highly reliable two-stroke dirt bike designed for off-road enthusiasts. It is known for its exceptional performance and durability, making it a popular choice among riders.
    • Engine Type: Two-stroke
    • Displacement: 293.14cc
    • Power Output: Approximately 51 horsepower
    • Fuel System: Keihin PWK carburetor
    • Ignition: Electronic - Kokusan
  8. 8
    11
    votes
    GasGas EC300
    Tbogue · CC BY-SA 3.0

    GasGas EC300

    GasGas
    GasGas is known for making high-quality dirt bikes, and the EC300 is no exception. It has a powerful engine and excellent handling, making it a great choice for off-road riding.
    The GasGas EC300 is a popular two-stroke dirt bike known for its reliability and performance. It is designed to excel in off-road conditions and is highly sought after by professional riders and enthusiasts alike.
    • Engine: 299.3cc, two-stroke
    • Power: Approximately 54 horsepower
    • Torque: Approximately 31 lb-ft
    • Transmission: 6-speed
    • Front Suspension: 48mm WP Xplor upside-down fork
  9. 9
    14
    votes

    TM Racing EN 300

    TM Racing
    TM Racing is a small Italian company that makes high-performance dirt bikes. The EN 300 has a powerful engine and excellent suspension, making it a great choice for enduro riding.
    The TM Racing EN 300 is a highly reliable and powerful two-stroke dirt bike designed for off-road enthusiasts. It offers excellent performance and durability in a lightweight package, making it suitable for both professional riders and recreational users.
    • Engine Displacement: 293.2cc
    • Engine Type: Single cylinder, two-stroke
    • Power Output: Approximately 55 horsepower
    • Ignition: CDI electronic
    • Fuel Delivery: Keihin PWK carburetor
  10. 10
    9
    votes

    Kawasaki KX250

    Kawasaki
    While not as popular as some of the other bikes on this list, the KX250 is known for its durability and reliability. It has a powerful engine and excellent handling, making it a great choice for motocross riders.
    The Kawasaki KX250 is a robust and high-performance dirt bike designed for off-road enthusiasts. Known for its reliability, agility, and power, it is a popular choice among motocross riders and trail riders alike.
    • Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, two-stroke single
    • Displacement: 249cc
    • Power Output: Approximately 46 horsepower
    • Fuel System: Keihin PWK38S carburetor
    • Transmission: 5-speed
    Kawasaki KX250 in other rankings

Missing your favorite two-stroke dirt bike?

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Discussion

Ranking factors for reliable two-stroke dirt bike

  1. Brand reputation
    Certain brands have a reputation for producing subpar two-stroke dirt bikes, while other brands are known for producing reliable models.
  2. Engine design
    The engine design can play a big role in the reliability of a two-stroke dirt bike. Bikes with simple, proven engine designs tend to be more reliable than bikes with more complex engines.
  3. Quality of materials
    The quality of the materials used in the bike's construction will impact its reliability.
  4. Maintenance requirements
    Some two-stroke dirt bikes require more frequent maintenance than others. Bikes with a high maintenance requirement may be less reliable over time.
  5. Age and condition
    The age and condition of the bike will also impact its reliability. A well-maintained older bike might be more reliable than a newer bike that has been neglected.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most reliable two-stroke dirt bike. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or bike is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 3151 views
  • 179 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each bike once every 24 hours. The rank of each bike is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most reliable two-stroke dirt bike

Background Information: Two-stroke dirt bikes are beloved by motocross enthusiasts for their light weight, high power-to-weight ratio, and agility. These bikes use a two-stroke engine, which is simpler and more efficient than a four-stroke engine, making it easier to maintain and repair. However, two-stroke dirt bikes have faced criticism in recent years due to concerns about their environmental impact and noise pollution. Despite these issues, these bikes remain a popular choice for off-road riders, and there are many reliable options on the market. In this article, we'll explore some of the most reliable two-stroke dirt bikes available and what makes them stand out.

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