"The desire for knob-chunking, roost-tossing performance." That's the heart-pounding appeal of a 250cc two-stroke in a nutshell. And no MX machine makes this statement quite like the YZ250, Dirt Rider's 2002 "250 Shootout" champ and winner of three straight "250 of the Year" crowns. Which is precisely why the 2003 YZ250 rolls in with an even sharper edge.

All-new cylinder head and combustion chamber construction, combined with reshaped exhaust and scavenging porting, help deliver meaner mid-range hit and a broader over-rev envelope. A revised second-gear ratio gets that explosive punch to the ground with even less effort.

Stiffer, lighter frame and swingarm design ensures flex-free handling. And recalibrated suspension mean smoother fork travel and more precise rear wheel control.