Yamaha release MY20 YZ250X

While two-stroke trail bikes are a niche market, there are nevertheless enough riders out there who want one to see Yamaha and other Japanese manufacturers continue to offer them. And if plans come to fruition to bring the recreational registration that Victorians enjoy into other states, expect that market to grow.

To suit Victorian recreational registration (and hopefully other states soon), all Australian-delivered YZ250Xs come with an “off-road kit” that includes front and rear lights, a horn, mirror, handguards, braided steel front brake line and a rear number plate hanger. 

Powered by the same liquid-cooled 249cc, reed-valve inducted engine as Yamaha’s YZ250 two-stroke motocross machine, the MY20 YZ250X features adjusted compression ratio, porting and power valve timing for improved trail performance.

Matched to a 5-speed transmission, the engine’s CDI unit – specific to the YZ250X - is designed to deliver a wider, more controllable power band to suit enduro applications. 

The lightweight aluminium double-cradle frame and swingarm is matched to KYB closed-chamber USD forks and a high-performance KYB rear shock, both of which are fully-adjustable to suit a wide range of surface and riding conditions.  Front suspension travel is listed at 300mm and rear travel at 315mm. Yamaha says the whole package has been specifically tuned for cross-country racing to deliver unmatched performance, along with light, nimble, and precise handling.

Braking duties are handled by a 270mm front and 245mm rear hydraulic disc brake with high-performance pad material in the calipers.

The YZ250X’s standard Dunlop Geomax AT81 tyres include an enduro-specific 18-inch rear with a taller sidewall for reduced pinch flats. 

Weights and measures include a 970mm seat height, 1480mm wheelbase, 355mm ground clearance, 8.0-litre fuel tank and 104kg wet weight.

Available exclusively in Team Yamaha Blue and White, the MY20 Yamaha YZ250X is priced from $12,299 (incl. GST). See your Yamaha dealer for details.