I think it is all about the look you desire more than anything. The 88 and 89 had an aluminum swingarm which cut off a minimal amount of weight. The front spindles on an 86-87 is one solid diameter and the 88-89 is tapered. I personally would go with the style you like if you have a preference. I have an 88 and I can basically tell you that stock frames are going to break. My frame has been welded a handful of times and it was only used for flat track only up until I bought it.....
That's the bottom line.....other than that they are both pretty much the same, engines have a little difference but that is no big deal either.
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2006 Raptor 700 Full GYTR Under Skids & GYTR Bumper
(not what you want to hear here on the 2 stroke site)
88 TRX250R
-Flotek Porting
-.30 Over Bore
-Turner Exhaust (ESR mounted like shit)
-38mm PWK Carb
-+2+1 Lonestar A-arms
-Durablue Eliminator Axle
-Lonestar Axle Carrier
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