|
What strikes your fancy most, high-performance
trail riding or all-out organized racing?
One bike could be better for one application,
and not so hot for the other.
CORNERING CONCERNS
The Tecate, true
to its pure race form, turned precisely
and, using proper throttle and brake techniques,
could be put into a picture-perfect slide.
The Kawasaki liked to either slide or
go straight, nothing in between, exactly
the type of handling a skilled racer might
want. |
|
One of the few changes on the Honda
for '86 was a one-degree kick-out on
the fork's rake. The switch was designed
to enhance straight-line stability through
the rough stuff.
|
|
Yamaha's Tri-Z
couldn't slide as well as the
other two, due to slightly taller
rear tires. It worked best in
sweepers and worst in the hairpins,
due to its longer wheelbase.
Only positive comments were heard
about the Honda's cornering ability.
We found it hard to highside or
spin out on the 250R. Some of
this can be attributed to the
excellent stock tires, which rarely
seem to grab in midpitch.
JAMMIN'
ON THE JUMPS
Many of the testers noticed the
light feel of the Tecate in the
air and considered it a good flier.
Several riders mentioned that
they were able to bottom the suspension,
though.
We also found the Tri-Z to be
a good jumper, and though the
suspension was considerably better
than last year's, some bottoming
was noticed.
The Honda flew the skies as well
as the other two, but no one could
bottom her out. A big plus for
the 250R.
|
|
 |
