This week’s MXP Q&A is brought to you by the motocross loving people at Yamaha Motor Canada Ltd.
After two weeks of questions relating to the 2014 Rockstar Energy MX Nationals, this week’s inquiry is from Sam, and it’s about what type of new bike he should buy.
Q: Hey Palms, I’ve been away from the sport for a number of years and I really want to buy a new bike. Like you, I’m from the old school days, and although I’ve always loved riding two-strokes, the new 450s look awesome. What do you think I should do – two-stroke or four-stroke?
A: Hey Sam, thank you for the question. When was being 40 considered old? I guess when you remember riding in the 1980s and you’ve done laps at old tracks like Copetown and Big Bend, you’re definitely old school. Here is my opinion on what you should do about a new bike. I think you should look at it from two different perspectives.
As much as I love the sound and the smell of a two-stroke, the technology that the newer 450s have is really remarkable. With items like the EFI systems, air forks and traction control, the new bikes are amazing. I know some people complain about how much power the 450s have these days, but the power is very manageable. On most tracks a rider only has to shift from second gear to third gear a couple times a lap, so your workload is cut in half compared to riding a two-stroke. Another very positive aspect of riding a four-stroke is the traction that you’ll have. Even on the most slippery of tracks, a four-stroke will hook up, which will also help make your riding sessions more fun.
The only negative thing I see in going straight to a 450 in your situation is that it sounds as though you haven’t been riding much in the last few years. I’ve seen a few times recently that when riders take some time away from the sport then come back and get all excited about the new 450s and how powerful they are, sometimes bad things can happen. If you decide to go out and buy a 450 then please take the summer and learn how to ride again. While they’re full of new features and they’re extremely fun to ride, they’re powerful beasts. When most riders throw a leg over one they are instantly faster, but the chance of crashing may be greater and most likely the crash will be more violent. So take your time and learn how to ride again, regardless of how good you used to be. It can take a while for your brain and body to sync up again and get on the same page. Whatever you buy Sam, have fun and welcome back to this awesome sport.