Alrighty I've had my 250f since 08 when I got it new and loved it still do but the price for top to bottom rebuild is killer and seems like I've out grown it. So I been thinking about the idea of going back to a 2 stroke for the shear fact of low cost of up keep. And they still haul balls. Any input on what you guys think would be cool. Pros for the 250 is cheap to fix and I can basically race it in all my classes I race in plus with a power advantage in the 250 class. But anyone who has owned a 06 with any good or bad comments let them fly would like to know.
From 06 to 2010 virtually same bike. In 2006 Yamaha came out with the Speed Sensitive Suspension. Still one of the best suspensions offered on stock bikes. OH! and the Titanium shock spring for a couple years. Which I think they later went back to steel. Then In 2007 They started using the N3ew Needle in the Carb (get one and swap it out you will notice). Gives much more bottom and mid range response. Then in 2011 Yamaha added a neutral switch to retard the ignition to help pass sound tests, and reduced the Copression to appeal to the Euoro market - Regular pump gas (lower octane) friendlier.
So aside from these and maybe a few other subtle differences, plastics and graphics, The are the same. BUT do not allow anyone to sell you on the 2005, which was a one off, It may look the same, with the Aluminum frame, but it still has the old Suspension from the prior generation.
As far as bang for your buck, If you picked up an 2006 YZ250 in good condition for under 2300 you are gold. Spring it for your weight change to the N3ew Needle and new top end and you are golden.