Yamaha WR250R (2009-2020): The Swiss Army Knife of Dual-Sport Motorcycles

When Yamaha introduced the WR250R in 2008, they didn’t just create another dual-sport motorcycle—they engineered a legend. For over a decade, this 250cc enduro has carved out a reputation as one of the most versatile two-wheelers ever built, blending motocross DNA with street-legal practicality. After a day spent thrashing a 2019 model through rocky trails, buzzing down highways, and threading through city traffic, it’s clear why this bike remains a benchmark in its class. Let’s break down why the WR250R continues to captivate riders long after its discontinuation.

Engine Performance: A High-Revving Pocket Rocket

The Heartbeat of the Trail
At the core of the WR250R lies a liquid-cooled, DOHC 249cc single-cylinder engine that punches far above its weight class. With 30.7 HP @ 10,000 RPM and 23.7 Nm (17.5 lb-ft) of torque @ 8,000 RPM, this isn’t your grandpa’s puttering trail bike. The inclusion of titanium intake valves (40% lighter than steel) and a forged piston lets the engine rev freely, while Yamaha’s EXUP exhaust valve broadens the powerband to eliminate flat spots.

During testing, the fuel-injected powerplant delivered crisp throttle response, though it demands commitment to the upper rev range. Low-end grunt is modest—you’ll need to feather the clutch on steep climbs—but once past 6,000 RPM, the bike sings with a satisfying snarl. On pavement, it’ll hold 130 km/h (81 mph) comfortably, though overtaking requires downshifts to tap into that 10,000 RPM crescendo.

Efficiency Meets Endurance
With a 3.31 L/100 km (71 mpg) fuel economy, the 7.6L (2.0-gallon) tank offers a 230-250 km (143-155 mi) range—enough for all-day adventures. The six-speed gearbox’s tall ratios make highway cruising surprisingly relaxed, while the shower-lubricated transmission handles abuse without protest.

Chassis & Suspension: Born for the Gnarly Stuff

Frame Geometry That Balances Agility and Stability
The WR250R’s semi-double cradle aluminum frame blends motocross rigidity with controlled flex, resulting in a chassis that’s equally happy blitzing singletrack or carving canyon roads. With a 55.9-inch wheelbase and 295 lbs (134 kg) wet weight, the bike feels flickable yet planted. The 36.6-inch seat height is intimidating for shorter riders, but the narrow profile helps mitigate the reach.

Suspension: Fully Adjustable, Fully Capable
Yamaha didn’t cut corners here. The 46mm inverted KYB fork and linkage-mounted rear shock both offer 10.6 inches (269 mm) of travel, with compression/rebound damping and preload adjustability. Dialed to intermediate settings, the setup soaked up root-strewn trails without bottoming out, while remaining composed during aggressive cornering on tarmac. For hardcore off-roaders, stiffening the front compression damping transforms the bike into a mini rally raider.

On-Road Manners: The Urban Assassin

Tarmac Performance
Don’t let the knobby tires fool you—the WR250R is a riot in the city. The 21”/18” wheel combo and Bridgestone Trail Wing tires provide predictable grip, though swapping to 50/50 rubber (like Shinko 705s) unlocks smoother pavement manners. The 250mm front wave rotor with Nissin calipers offers strong stopping power, while the adjustable lever accommodates gloved hands.

Ergonomics: Stand-Up Comedy
The upright riding position and wide handlebars make lane-splitting a breeze. At 80 km/h (50 mph), windblast becomes noticeable, but aftermarket screens like the Puig Universal Touring model (available at MOTOPARTS.store) solve this neatly. Passenger pegs are usable for short trips, though your pillion will envy the plushness of the YZ-inspired gripper seat.

Off-Road Dominance: Where the WR Truly Shines

Trail Credentials
With 11.8 inches (300 mm) of ground clearance and a tucked exhaust, the WR250R laughs at rocks and logs that’d high-center lesser bikes. The 270mm suspension travel handles drop-offs with composure, though adding a skid plate (a popular MOTOPARTS.store upgrade) is wise for rocky terrain.

Weight Distribution: The Invisible Trick
Despite its 295-lb curb weight, the WR feels lighter than spec sheets suggest. The centralized mass—fuel tank under the seat, compact engine layout—makes lifting the front wheel over obstacles instinctive. In technical sections, the bike’s willingness to pivot beneath you rivals dedicated enduros.

Competition: How the WR250R Stacks Up

| Model | Yamaha WR250R | Honda CRF250L | Kawasaki KLX250 | KTM 250 EXC-F | |----------------------|---------------|---------------|-----------------|---------------| | Power | 30.7 HP | 24 HP | 22 HP | 45 HP | | Weight (wet) | 295 lbs | 322 lbs | 304 lbs | 242 lbs | | Suspension Travel | 10.6" F/R | 9.4"/9.1" | 10.0"/9.1" | 11.8"/13.0" | | Fuel Capacity | 2.0 gal | 2.1 gal | 2.0 gal | 2.25 gal | | Key Advantage | Versatility | Low Cost | Accessibility | Pure Performance |

The Verdict
The WR250R isn’t the lightest (KTM) or cheapest (Honda), but it strikes a Goldilocks balance. Compared to the softer CRF250L, the Yamaha’s suspension and power delivery feel race-bred. Against the fire-breathing KTM, it trades peak horsepower for bulletproof reliability and street-friendly maintenance intervals.

Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive

Valve Checks: Set It and Forget It
Yamaha’s titanium valves allow 42,000 km (26,000 mi) adjustment intervals—a stark contrast to the KTM’s 30-hour schedule. When the time comes, MOTOPARTS.store stocks OEM shim kits and NGK CR9EK spark plugs.

Oil & Fluids
- Engine Oil: 1.4L of 10W-50 (1.48 quarts) with filter changes every 6,000 km (3,700 mi).
- Coolant: 900ml (0.24 gallons) of ethylene glycol.
- Brake Fluid: DOT 4, bled annually for crisp lever feel.

Common Upgrades
- Sprockets: Dropping to a 12T front (-1 tooth) improves low-end snap.
- Exhaust: The stock muffler is quiet but restrictive. A FMF PowerCore 4 slip-on (available here) unlocks 2-3 HP.
- Handguards: Acerbis Rally Pros shield levers and knuckles from trail debris.

Final Thoughts: The Unlikely King of Compromise

The Yamaha WR250R isn’t perfect—it could use more low-end torque, and the seat is a plank after three hours. But as a do-it-all machine that’ll commute, conquer BDR routes, and even dabble in amateur enduro, nothing in its class matches its longevity or aftermarket support. For riders seeking one bike to rule all terrains (and a parts catalog to keep it fresh), the WR remains a triumph of thoughtful engineering. Now, if you’ll excuse me, there’s a skid plate in my MOTOPARTS.store cart waiting to be installed…

Specifications sheet