Sold my '05 Gasser 300...got a YZ250X

[barossi73]

A lighter bike is potentially faster,sharper.period.
That said the lighter the bike is,the more topheavy it becomes,especially if you are generously proportioned.this makes the bike much more sensitive to body position,esp in pitching back/forward and also noticeably twitchier at high speeds and more sensitive to body position when jumping.great for good riders,sometimes unforgiving for others
A slightly heavier bike can add a little stability,less twitchy,generally deflects less.esp at higher speeds which can make you confident to push a little harder.i also suspect the often maligned heavier gg swingarm,actually helps the rear hookup in some conditions.depending on rider ability and confidence,style of riding,conditions,and where the weight is carried,its possible a rider may pick up the heavier bike less frequently...and be just as fast