kx250f purchase advice- $650?!

So I come across this kx250f for $650 on craigslist, call the guy and he says he'd probably let it go for $ 600. I think it's an early 2000's model year, but can't remember off the top of my head.
My problem is he says it only push starts and he thinks the valves are way out, but will run. He says hes moving soon so he needs to get rid of the bike. I'm pretty mechanically competent and would look to do the work on my own. My questions to you all are:
1) Why such a low price for a nice bike, given it's problems wouldn't it still be worth more than this? (Still kind of wondering what the catch is..)
2) What kind of work/ money am I looking at if I decide to rebuild the engine as a winter project to get this running good again.



Thanks guys

 

Well if he has to push start means he you have to adjust the valves. But here's the thing if he has already adjusted the valves to where you can't adjust them even more then you need new valves cost 4-600 bucks only parts. Then your also gunna need a new top end because if he didn't take of the valves the topend meaning needs new piston and rings cost 4-500 bucks. So your lookin into puttin another 1000 dollars in parts/labor in this bike:


Question you should ask:
1: how many hours does the bike have.
2:have you ever adjusted the valves.
3: have ever done a top end on the bike.
4: has it been maintained oil,plugs,cleaned carb,chain cleaned, air filter cleaned.

 

kawasaki didnt make a 250 4 stroke until 03-04 if i remember correct so its probly has no title. buying a old 250 4t is a bad idea unless u plan on complete motor rebuild

 

Better off finding somewhat newer bike

 

I have a 2009 kx250f ...love it!

 

First year of the KX250F was 2004, I had one, and it was a total pile of shit. Be watchful of that one man, if I was you, I'd be looking for a 06 or newer. The kid I got mine from rebuilt the motor and cobbled it together with a bunch of different parts. Only rode it 15 hours and it took a big shit on me, never could get it to run again, and it was just thing after thing wrong with it. The further I dug, the more problems I found. Finally just scrapped it and saved up for my current CRF which has been a 100% better bike, plan to get several more good years out of it.

 

Forgot to mention how weak the cases are, the inside of mine were cracked from push starting. That was the whole reason I took the bike apart was to find out why a crack had appeared on the outside of the rear case above the kick start, only to find a giant crack inside the case. The small engine mechanic I worked for back then determined it was likely due to push starting, wouldn't advise doing that unless you absolutely have to.