Shortly after phasing out the legendary 2-Stroke Blaster, Yamaha was left with the challenge to bring an innovative and affordable entry-level ATV to the market to replace it. For many years, the Blaster was a direct competitor to Honda’s 250ex and 300ex models, both of which have been relatively unchanged since their initial release. As a result, Yamaha understood the need for modern technology to be applied throughout their entire product line up, not just the popular racing models. The result? Exactly that. The Raptor 250 borrows numerous qualities from it’s big brother YFZ450. Traits such as impressive performance, delicate handling and looks to impress are featured throughout Yamaha’s entire sport family. With features such as these, it’s clear why we chose this unit as our project bike. It’s really THAT good!

Our Mission? Similar to our XC 300ex Buildup, this bike will also be used to compete in the VXCS, a nearby Virginia Harescramble Series (www.vxcs.org) and the Grand National Cross Country Series. (www.gnccracing.com) We will be transforming a near-stock Raptor 250, owned by ACR’s Kyle Brannon, into a full-out Youth Production Monster!

From basic bolt-on components to highly-specialized performance parts, we intend to review and evaluate each component throughout this racing season. Furthermore, this bike will feature several products from our ACR Product Line which will be available early Summer 2011.

The build will be broken down into three phases, in a similar fashion to our 300ex Build:

Stage One: Transform a factory Raptor 250 into a formidable entry-level racer through the use of affordable bolt-on components.

Stage Two: Take our build to the next level with the necessary Chassis and Suspension upgrades to compete at a more advanced level.

Stage Three: Convert a fairly restrictive factory powerplant into a full-out power machine! Miscellaneous cosmetic issues will be addressed here as well.

PhaseOne :: Bolt-On Performance

Would you like to see your product used on our build? Contact Adam@AirCooledRacers.com for more Information.