2026 Yamaha YZ250 Specs & Review

The Yamaha YZ250 is a pure-bred, carbureted two-stroke built for riders who love explosive, lightweight motocross performance. For 2026, it stays true to its roots with a simple, proven package that’s easy to maintain and thrilling to ride. In this Yamaha YZ250 review, we break down the 2026 Yamaha YZ250 specs to help you decide if it fits your track or trail agenda.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine: 249cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke, reed-valve inducted
• Displacement: 249 cc
• Power/Torque: Not specified in the official 2026 Yamaha YZ250 specs
• Transmission: Constant-mesh 5-speed; multiplate wet clutch
• Wet weight: 227 lb (103 kg)
• Yamaha YZ250 seat height: 38.4 in (975 mm)

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the YZ250 is a 249cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke with reed-valve induction and a 66.4 mm × 72.0 mm bore and stroke. Fueling comes from a Hitachi Astemo Keihin PWK38S carburetor with CDI ignition, and lubrication is premix—classic two-stroke simplicity that many riders still prefer for its direct, responsive feel. Power and torque figures aren’t listed in the 2026 Yamaha YZ250 specs, but the character is unmistakable: a lively, immediate hit that rewards precise throttle and clutch control.

The constant-mesh 5-speed transmission and chain final drive keep things straightforward and durable. A kick starter underscores the YZ’s no-nonsense approach—less to go wrong, faster to get going. The 1.8 gal (6.8 L) fuel capacity suits moto-length sessions and sprint-style riding; this isn’t a long-distance or highway bike, and that’s by design.

On the track, that crisp two-stroke response helps launch out of berms and clear obstacles with minimal effort. On tight singletrack, the light feel and instant throttle make quick line changes second nature. Around town or on highways, the YZ250 is out of its element; it’s a competition-focused motocrosser, not a commuter. If your riding is mostly practice days, local races, or backyard laps, its traditional, carb-fed setup delivers exactly the kind of tactile connection enthusiasts want.

Handling, Comfort & Yamaha YZ250 Seat Height

The chassis geometry gives the YZ250 a predictable, planted front end without dulling agility. A 27.7° rake and 4.8 in (122 mm) trail, paired with a 58.5 in (1486 mm) wheelbase, strike a balance between straight-line stability and flickable cornering. Ground clearance is a generous 14.2 in (361 mm), helping you skim whoops and glide over ruts without constant cases.

Suspension is race-ready: a KYB Speed-Sensitive System inverted fork up front with 11.8 in of travel, and a fully adjustable KYB single shock out back delivering 12.4 in of travel. Both ends are fully adjustable, letting riders dial in sag, rebound, and compression to suit track conditions and riding style.

The Yamaha YZ250 seat height is 38.4 in (975 mm), which will feel tall for shorter riders but gives ample room to move and weight the bike aggressively in corners. The Yamaha YZ250 weight comes in at 227 lb (103 kg) wet, keeping the bike lively in transitions and easy to muscle around the paddock or during low-speed maneuvering. Dimensions are 86.0 × 32.5 × 50.8 in (2184 × 826 × 1290 mm), giving a slim, compact feel that’s easy to grip with the knees.

Equipment & Features

• Brakes: Hydraulic discs—270 mm front and 240 mm rear—for strong, linear stopping power and consistent performance during long motos.
• Suspension: KYB SSS inverted fork (fully adjustable, 11.8 in travel) and KYB single shock (fully adjustable, 12.4 in travel).
• Tires: 80/100-21 Dunlop Geomax MX33F up front and 110/90-19 Dunlop Geomax MX33 in the rear—popular choices for a wide range of dirt conditions.
• Fuel & Ignition: Hitachi Astemo Keihin PWK38S carburetor, CDI ignition, premix lubrication.
• Drivetrain: Constant-mesh 5-speed with a multiplate wet clutch and chain final drive.
• Starter: Kick.
• Geometry & Clearances: Rake 27.7°, trail 4.8 in (122 mm), ground clearance 14.2 in (361 mm).
• Colors: Team Yamaha Blue; 70th Anniversary Edition (white/red).
• Warranty: 30 Day (Limited Factory Warranty).

Who Is the 2026 Yamaha YZ250 For?

The YZ250 is ideal for riders who want a straightforward, competition-focused two-stroke with proven parts and minimal frills. If you appreciate easy maintenance, crisp throttle response, and adjustable suspension that can be set up for anything from local MX to play riding, it fits the bill. Newer riders can learn on it, but the tall seat height and classic two-stroke delivery generally suit riders with some off-road experience. It’s not aimed at daily commuting or highway travel; its home is the track or dirt.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2026 YZ250 remains a no-compromise two-stroke motocrosser: light, direct, and built to be ridden hard. Strengths include its fully adjustable KYB suspension, strong brakes, generous ground clearance, and a durable, simple drivetrain. The carbureted setup and kick start keep it old-school, which many riders love.

On the flip side, the tall seat and competition focus won’t suit everyone, and the lack of published power/torque figures means you’ll choose it based on reputation and feel rather than numbers. If you want a classic-feeling, modernized two-stroke with real race chops, the YZ250 is a top contender.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 Yamaha YZ250 good for beginners? It can be, but the 38.4 in (975 mm) seat height and traditional two-stroke character are better suited to riders with some off-road experience.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 Yamaha YZ250? The Yamaha YZ250 seat height is 38.4 in (975 mm).

• How heavy is the 2026 Yamaha YZ250? The Yamaha YZ250 weight is 227 lb (103 kg) wet.

• What suspension travel does it have? 11.8 in of travel at the front KYB SSS fork and 12.4 in at the rear KYB shock.

• What is the fuel capacity? 1.8 gal (6.8 L).