The Yamaha XT250 packs a reliable punch. It is powered by a 249cc, air-cooled, four-stroke engine. The suspension duties are handled by a nonadjustable 35mm conventional fork, while the shock is adjustable for preload and rebound damping.
With its estimated fuel mileage of 76 mpg and its 2.6-gallon fuel tank (2.4-gallon for the California model), the XT250 can cover a decent amount of ground on a single fill-up.
Last year was the 40th anniversary of the first Yamaha XT250, and the Yamaha XT250 returns with no changes. An inexpensive motorcycle with an MSRP of $5199, which has held steady for several years, the XT250 is about simplicity, reliability, and friendly performance.
GO ANYWHERE DUAL-SPORT
With an electric start and a low seat height, the light, nimble and reliable XT250 is built to go wherever you go. On or off‑road.
YAMAHA XT250 TOP FEATURES:
1. Advanced Long-Travel Suspension
Long-travel suspension and more than 11.2 inches of ground clearance live under a seat that’s only 31.9 inches from the ground.
2. Modern Fuel Injection system
The XT250’s fuel injection system offers a smooth throttle response and easy starting in nearly all conditions.
3. Convenient Electric Start
Electric start makes firing up the 249cc four-stroke effortless.
4. Dual Disc Brakes
245mm front disc and 203mm rear disc brakes combine to deliver superb stopping power on both paved and unpaved surfaces.
YAMAHA XT250 ENGINE:
1. Reliable Four-Stroke Motor
249cc air-cooled four-stroke with 9.5:1 compression makes for great on-and off-road performance.
2. Modern Fuel Injection system
The Yamaha XT250’s fuel injection system offers a smooth throttle response and easy starting in nearly all conditions.
3. Advanced Cylinder Design
Light and powerful forged pistons inside a plated cylinder help dissipate heat more efficiently, increasing both performance and durability.
4. Responsive Power
A light crankshaft provides quick, responsive power.
5. Speed Transmission
Wide-ratio five-speed transmission provides maximum power and performance in a wide range of terrain and conditions.
6. Efficient Intake Design
XT250’s straighter intake tract improves performance.
7. Convenient Electric Start
Hassle-free push-button electric starting adds extra convenience and reliability.
8. Trail-Ready Chassis
The engine is mounted high in the frame for incredible 11.2 inches of ground clearance.
9. Low Maintenance Engine
An automatic cam chain tensioner means minimal maintenance and longer engine life.
CHASSIS/SUSPENSION OF YAMAHA XT250:
1. Strong, Compact Frame
A semi-double-cradle steel frame achieves a lighter, nimbler feel through greater mass centralization. Greater lateral and torsional rigidity and reduced weight of the lower frame parts help produce light, stable handling.
2. Advanced Long-Travel Suspension
The front fork has 8.9 inches of travel to soak up the rough stuff, both on- and off-road while an aluminum lower triple clamp keeps the weight down.
3. Nimble Steering
The maximum turning angle of the handlebar is 51 degrees-almost like a trials machine. Combined with a short wheelbase of only 53.5 inches, the XT250 has a super-tight turning radius for excellent maneuverability.
4. Linkage-Style Shock
A rear shock provides 7.1 inches of wheel travel through a progressive Monocross® linkage system for a smooth ride.
5. Dirt-Ready Wheels
21-inch front and 18-inch rear aluminum wheels are extremely durable and reduce unsprung weight for enhanced suspension performance and handling.
6. Generous Ground Clearance
11.2 inches of ground clearance means you’ve got the serious off-road capability.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES:
1. Advanced LCD Instruments
The multifunction digital LCD instrument panel with cool green background lighting is easily visible day or night. It also removes unnecessary weight from the handlebar for light, precise handling.
2. Extended Fuel Range
The stylish gas tank holds a full 2.6 gallons for long-range riding.
3. Comfortable Saddle
The long, thick seat creates a balanced riding position for optimal movement and comfort.
4. Protective Fenders
The durable and wide front fender is designed to keep mud and dirt off the rider when exploring off-road.
5. Passenger-Ready
Frame-mounted passenger foot-pegs provide two-up riding capability.
6. Bright Illumination
Enduro-style, 60/55-watt halogen headlight features a cool 133mm lens for excellent visibility at night.
7. Dual Sport Lighting
Flex-mounted turn indicators offer great durability against breakage.
8. Fork Protection
Durable fork boots help prevent rocks and debris from damaging fork sliders.
9. Forest-Friendly Exhaust
A spark arrestor makes the XT trail-ready.
10. Modern Battery
Dependable, low-maintenance battery.
Yamaha XT250 Specs:
General table:
Engine: | Air-cooled SOHC single-cylinder |
Displacement: | 249cc |
Bore x Stroke: | 74.0 x 58.0mm |
Horsepower: | N/A |
Torque: | N/A |
Transmission: | 5-speed |
Final Drive: | Chain |
Seat Height: | 31.9 in. |
Rake: | 26.4° |
Trail: | 4.2 in. |
Front Suspension: | 35mm conventional fork, nonadjustable; 8.9-in. travel |
Rear Suspension: | Preload and rebound damping adjustable; 7.1-in. travel |
Front Tire: | 2.75-21 |
Rear Tire: | 120/80-18 |
Wheelbase: | 53.5 in. |
Fuel Capacity: | 2.6 gal., 2.4 gals. (CA model) |
Claimed Wet Weight: | 291 lb. |
Yamaha XT250 Engine:
Engine Type: | 249cc air-cooled SOHC 4-stroke single; 2 valves |
Ignition: | TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition |
Bore x Stroke: | 74.0mm x 58.0mm |
Transmission: | 5-speed; multi-plate wet clutch |
Compression Ratio: | 9.5:1 |
Final Drive: | Chain |
Fuel Delivery: | Yamaha Fuel Injection (YFI) |
Chassis:
Suspension / Front: | 35mm telescopic fork; 8.9-in travel |
Suspension / Rear: | Single shock, adjustable preload, and rebound damping; 7.1-in travel |
Tires / Front: | 2.75-21 |
Brakes / Front: | Single disc, 245mm |
Brakes / Rear: | Single disc, 203mm |
Tires / Rear: | 120/80-18 |
Dimensions:
L x W x H: | 84.6 in x 31.7 in x 45.7 in |
Seat Height: | 31.9 in |
Wheelbase: | 53.5 in |
Rake (Caster Angle): | 26.4° |
Trail: | 4.2 in |
Maximum Ground Clearance: | 11.2 in |
Fuel Capacity: | 2.6 gal / CA model, 2.4 gal |
Fuel Economy: | 76 mpg |
Wet Weight: | 291 lb |
About the author: Michael Parrotte was the Vice President of AGV Helmets America, and a consultant for KBC Helmets, Vemar Helmets, Suomy Helmets, Marushin Helmets, KYT Helmets, Sparx Helmets. In addition, he is the founder and owner of AGV Sports Group.