I'm fixing what isn't broken...again
 

I'm about to pull the top-end apart on my 03 250, for an inspection. I've put somewhere close to 75 hours, probably more, on my bike since Oct. 2012. After I put it back together, I'd like all my 2t running the same mix ratio. I'm going to run everything at 32:1. My biggest struggle is gauging needle profiles. I'm just not sure what to start with. My bikes get run from 0-5500 ft. with temps ranging from 35f-80f. Mostly I ride between 0-2500, same temps. For those running the fat mix...What are you using for needles? My KX 250 edges out both my Gassers in the HP dept(@ 32:1). Would it be as simple as copying my KX jetting, then fine tuning from there?

I'd personally imagine that a change to 32:1 would need very little change in jetting. Especially if moving from 40:1. Maybe some slight adjustment on the main and pilot. I can't see it being anymore of a variable than temp &/ humidity.

Best bet is to mix a tank and run the bike. It'll tell the story. I have a KX needle here (NAFW I think) and its way too rich to work in my gasser, even in top clip). Remember the KX will be running a lighter flywheel, as well as all the other variables. It was also designed as an MX bike where the Gasser isn't.

Good point. I'll mix a batch, and give it a whirl. I'm tired of having 3 cans...3 mix ratios. At this jucture, I'm getting somewhat quick about tearing these things apart, and having them running again in a day or two. Thanks, for the advice.

It won't make that much difference. I run 36:1 with excellent results. If you run a spark arrestor it will trap spooge and drool more but thats not an indication of being too rich. What needle do you run now? I had an '03 and it came with a #6 slide, which made needle selection tough. #7 is what you should be running. JD Blue has been the best, most consistent needle in all my 250s with an ASI carb, including the '03. The '12 and '07 give up nothing to any other 2stroke on HS starts.

Be careful with advice on specs by guys from Austraiia with different carbs.:D

#7 slide JDred #4. I imagine I'll be dropping the needle 1 or 2 positions when the warm weather temps hit. Today was a bearing check & regrease kind of day. I hate checking bearings, but I hate being broke down, even more:D

This is the best advice you'll get :D :D :D

Also exactly why I never made any needle recommendations. The only certainty is that the best needle you try will likely be the one you end up using.

IN other news I've just added the old mans 450F to the shed. What a pig. The steering feels so slow and heavy. Heaps of grunt off the bottom, but feels like it signs off / doesn't rev as hard as I'd like. Did I mention how heavy it feels. Its like it takes effort to make it change lines and drop into turns. Its little rides like this that remind me why I love my Gas Gas.

Figured that would draw you out Jake.:D Just kidding.

bowhunter,

I find the JD needles do not need a clip change for seasonal temps. I just change pilots and tune airscrew. Sometimes I'll go up or down on a main if its extreme, like a hare scramble in a few weeks with cold temps and sand. Have you tried the Blue? Red was always flat and lean for me.

I have not tried the Blue. The red has been working well, for me. That doesn't mean anything, considering my limited experience. I am certain of one thing...My '03 deserves some love, for having to live under my ownership.

You tried the blue bike and liked it :)

Blue bike, yes. It's still not either of the 250s. Give me a shout, I'm off from Feb. 16-26.