Two weeks back, Yamaha orchestrated an excursion to the Ampro testing grounds in Union, South Carolina, to unveil the new YZ450FX, stealing the spotlight.
However, amidst the frenzy, we also got an opportunity to test ride the 2024 Yamaha YZ250X two-stroke off-road bike. Though unchanged this year, it received a significant overhaul last year, making it a clandestine focus of my excitement.
Priced at $8099, the 2024 YZ250X merely demands an additional $100 compared to its motocross counterpart—an absolute bargain when considering the standalone cost of a kickstand.
In the realm of off-road biking, the 2024 Yamaha YZ250X stands as a testament to a rich heritage. With its engine tracing back to 1999 and the introduction of the aluminum central-backbone frame in 2005, Yamaha revamped the motocross model in 2016, tailoring it for off-road adventures.
Last year, it received substantial upgrades in bodywork and suspension. The YZ250X addresses aspects beyond the typical DIY garage project, focusing on critical components like the gearbox.
Sporting a wide-ratio five-speed transmission, it ensures versatility across varying terrains. Modifications extend to the cylinder head, compression ratio, exhaust port, power valve, ignition mapping, clutch plates, and the relocation of the expansion chamber for enhanced durability.
In my experience with the YZ250X, it shares the fork and shock with its motocross counterpart but with softer valving and springs, ensuring a smoother ride.
Beyond these adjustments lie fundamental alterations—a sturdier O-ring chain, an 18-inch rear wheel, and the practical addition of a kickstand.
Yet, despite these enhancements, the YZ250X remains true to its lineage. It retains the essence of a race bike, offering a thrilling experience on diverse terrains.
In direct competition with 250Fs, the YZ250X boasts superior peak horsepower and a marginal weight advantage, making it a formidable contender in races like the NGPC series.
However, when compared in terms of suspension, handling, and maneuverability, four-strokes hold a slight edge. The YZ250X’s robust power delivery demands a certain level of aggression, yet it offers the flexibility to cruise just below its power surge, delivering consistent torque output.
While the YZ250X embodies Yamaha’s racing DNA, its suspension, known for its excellence, strikes a balance between performance and comfort. Though softer than its motocross counterpart, it remains a benchmark for off-road riding.
As Yamaha continues to refine its off-road offerings, the YZ250X stands as a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to performance and innovation.
In our upcoming May 2024 print edition of Dirt Bike, we’ll delve deeper into the 2024 Yamaha YZ250X and Yamaha’s other off-road offerings, exploring their nuances and performance in detail.
In a flashback to the motocross landscape of 1981, the Honda CR250R emerges as a pioneering yet flawed creation.
Anticipating the shift towards liquid-cooling and single-shock suspension, Honda rushed to meet the demand, introducing the CR250R—an avant-garde marvel that suffered from reliability issues and subpar rear suspension performance.
However, through subsequent iterations, Honda refined the CR250R, cementing its place as a competitive force in the 250 class.
Moving to contemporary developments, Sherco’s unveiling of the 125 TY Long Ride captures the imagination, blending trial bike elements with trail-ready comfort. For enthusiasts seeking adventure beyond the beaten path, Sherco’s latest offering promises an exhilarating experience.
As the Monster Energy Supercross tour makes its inaugural stop in Birmingham, Alabama, anticipation runs high.
With prizes up for grabs in the MXA fantasy league, including sets of Maxxis off-road moto tires, enthusiasts have every reason to partake in the excitement. With each round offering unique rewards, the competition heats up, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown in the world of motocross.
