Ec 250 piston

[Cruiser]

I'm going to change the piston and rings in my 03 this winter. I almost dont have enough time on this bike to do that, still have the original brake pads. In my 97 I put in a honda cr250 piston, more for the price thing back then, but the skirt was a different shape and I had much better bottom end with that piston. My question is has anybody used a different piston besides ones specifically for the gg and if so how did it perform?
Thanks,
Steve C

[Adrian]

I remember when the only pistons you could get for a gasgas was a stock piston at over $200. Me and my dealer went through and looked at about every piston possible. The cr250 was close but we were worried about the piston skirt and the lack of cylinder lenght into the crank case. I have yet to look at the new cr250 pistons with case reed motors. Its real likely that they are even closer to a match then the old cr250 pistons. There isn't much need for a crossover piston now. I would by a buy a model specific piston if for nothing else then to reinforce the reason why they made them in the first place. If people make parts for gasgas bike and they are reasonable in price we should buy their stuff. I am so glad that the after market has stepped in to make pistons for us.

[GMP]

Steve,

Just do a Vertex kit, + 1 size over than your cyl, new top end bearing. One .3mm base gasket, and make sure the PV is fully closed at idle (mine wasn't). Get the head cut while your at it. Everything except the head should be around $150.

The Vertex was always a TM OEM part that was a perfect match for the GG pistons, except they are cast not forged. Thats why you can go up a size because they expand less. After a year of hard use they come out looking good.

[Cruiser]

Thats probably what I'll do. I was just curious as the cr piston worked so well in my 97. The vertex, 1 ring or 2? I do plan on having the head done too. Just trying to find the time and cash. Its hard to explain to the woman why a bike you never ride needs any work..
Steve

[GMP]

Vertex is a two ring piston, with a coated skirt.