Once upon a time two strokers ruled the world of motocross. A few decades later we see that they have been slowly pushed to the background. This process started about ten years ago, when the first 4-stroke dirt bike won the super-cross. It’s amazing how the scales have been tipped now.

According to the recent statements of three most reliable and historical dirt bike manufacturers, there is no room for 2-strokers in their assortment anymore. Green stickers are inevitable, Japanese companies basically rely on the U.S market, but it is very hard for a two stroker to pass the norms in many areas. This wouldn’t be a problem but the majority of customers are trail-riders. Also, it is a fact that factories made the pro riders ride the four strokes. EPA doesn't like the two strokes because of their emissions, which are based off of old technology and old style premixes. Now amateur racing is loosing a lot of racers because the four strokes are so expensive to maintain. Seems like a conspiracy? Yes it does and it might be so.

Is this the end of this legendary tyrant of the tracks? It is not according to Yamaha, they will continue producing the YZ series like they used to. In addition, KTM and Husqvarna are reaching the same kind of popularity, we all know how large their 2-stroke assortment is. We must also not forget the smaller manufacturers like TM and Gas Gas.

Although things seemed bad a few months ago, they have gradually become better. It has emerged that next year the junior MM (125cc) is going back on 2-strokers. It is good news, though the 125cc class isn’t all-important regarding the global motocross. Also, there are rumours that KTM is developing fuel injection on these beloved machines, prototypes were ready 1.5 years ago as it is stated. Furthermore, Suzuki plans to go the same way and that may mean a comeback for them.

The new 250 two stroke rule in AMA amateur racing will hopefully boost sales. The sad part is that in times of recession and financial difficulty dealers are desperate. But many customers and the vendors alike will benefit from this, as they still make good profit. If you have the money – buy a bike now. There have been many new machines made in the past season, the prices are obviously low and it’s the best time to get yourself a new two stroker. In addition, majority of the Japanese manufacturers have left this side of the market for now. Though it is certainly a pity, we can also benefit from this, as the prices of their ex-production have dropped tremendously.

It’s hundred percent sure that 2-strokers will at some stage no longer be produced, probably in the next fifty years, when we will face a lack of resources for combustion engines. Off-road doesn’t only consist of hammering down on the track with a 4-stroke dirt bike. Somehow 2-strokes will manage to pull through for now. Endurocross/challenges and trial are still targeting this market and it will stay like this for the next few years hopefully.