Trail-riding and off-road biking doesn't have to come with a bike that's exclusively suited for those kind of surfaces. If you're looking for a bike that can provide everything you need for your off-road travels at a fraction of the cost that some other models would charge, the Yamaha->ke301 XT250 is a worthy choice.

The minimalist design of the XT250->ke2739 belies the impressive performance and handling characteristics of the bike considering it comes with an affordable price tag. The bike carries big, fat tires that deliver great traction and rider comfort over a wide range of terrain, making it one of the most all-purpose and user-friendly bikes on the market.

Unless you're into the really extreme stuff, off-road riding doesn't require a specialized bike that will cost you the moon-and-a-quarter. Though its not as flashy as some people would prefer, the dual-purpose XT250 is the perfect bike for the every-other-weekend off-road runs.

Find out more about the Yamaha XT250 after the jump. } }

2012 Yamaha XT250

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2012 Yamaha XT250
  • Engine/Motor: air-cooled four-stroke with 9.5:1 compression
  • Transmission: wide-ration five-speed transmission
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Design

For the 2012 model, the XT250 features a multifunction digital LCD instrument panel with cool green background lighting is easily visible day or night. There's also a stylish gas tank that holds a full 2.4 gallons for long-range riding; a long, thick seat that creates a balanced riding position for optimal rider movement and comfort; a durable and wide front fender that's been designed to keep mud and dirt off the rider when exploring off-road trails; frame-mounted passenger footpegs that provide two-up riding capability; an Enduro-style, 60/55-watt halogen headlight that features a cool 133mm lens for excellent visibility at night; flex-mounted turn indicators; retractable brake and shift pedals; durable fork boots to help prevent rocks and debris from damaging fork sliders; and standard dual rearview mirrors, among other things.

Engine

Powering the XT250 is a 249cc air-cooled four-stroke with 9.5:1 compression makes maximum power at 7500 rpm and maximum torque at 6500 rpm for great on- and off-road performance and mated to a wide-ration five-speed transmission. A light-and-strong forged piston inside a plated cylinder helps dissipate heat more efficiently, increasing both performance and durability while a 33mm vacuum-type carburetor keeps the airflow up for excellent performance and throttle response. The bike also has a light crankshaft that helps provide quick responsive power, a straighter intake tract that helps improve performance, and an automatic cam chain tensioner that leads to minimal maintenance and longer engine life.

Chassis and Suspension

The XT250 comes with a semi-double-cradle steel frame that achieves a lighter, nimbler feel through greater mass centralization. This frame also allows for greater lateral and torsional rigidity and reduced weight of the lower frame parts help produce light, stable handling. The bike's front fork has 8.9" of travel to soak up the rough stuff, both on-road and off while an aluminum lower triple clamp keeps the weight down. Meanwhile, the rear suspension comes with a progressive, Monocross-style linkage system, providing 7.1" of wheel travel for a smoother ride. As for the brakes, the XT250 comes with 245mm front disc and 203mm rear disc brakes. Added together, the brake set-up combine to deliver superb stopping power on all kind of road surfaces.

Specification

Model

XT250B

Engine Type

249cc air-cooled,

SOHC 4-stroke single

Bore x Stroke

74.0 x 58.0mm

Compression Ratio

9.5:1

Fuel Delivery

Teikei 33mm

Ignition

CDI

Transmission

5-speed; multiple-disc wet clutch

Suspension/Front

35mm telescopic fork;

8.9-in travel

Suspension/Rear

Swingarm w/rebound-adjustable

single shock; 7.1-in travel

Brake/Front

245mm disc

Brake/Rear

203mm disc

Tire/Front

2.75-21

Tire/Rear

120/80-18

L x W x H

84.6 x 31.7 x 45.7 in

Seat Height

31.9 in

Wheelbase

53.5 in

Ground Clearance

11.2 in

Fuel Capacity

2.4 gal

Est. Fuel Economy

73 mpg

Wet Weight

291 lb

Color

White/Blue