As an authority in dirt bikes, I am here to help you choose between the YZ250 and the YZ250F. My comparison will provide all the information you need to select the bike that suits your needs.
When it comes to YZ250 vs YZ250F, the answer isn’t so straightforward. YZ250 is a 2-stroke bike with lightweight handling and plenty of power, while YZ250F is a 4-stroke bike with a smoother ride and better fuel economy. It ultimately boils down to the rider’s experience level, type of riding, and personal selections.
You will learn how these two models differ and be able to decide which is best for you as you read on. This article will provide valuable insight into dirt biking, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro.
YZ250 Vs YZ250F: At A Glance
Here’s a comparison table with the key features to give you a brief idea about YZ250 vs YZ250F
| Feature | YZ250 | YZ250F |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 249cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke | 250cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke |
| Power Output | 49 hp | 38.9 hp |
| Seat Height | 38.4 inches | 38.2 inches |
| Wheelbase | 58.5 inches | 58.1 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 14.2 inches | 13.2 inches |
| Fuel Capacity | 1.8 gallons | 1.6 gallons |
| Weight | 227 pounds | 234 pounds |
| Price | $7,899 | $8,599 |
YZ250 Vs YZ250F: Detailed Comparison
Here’s a detailed comparison between the Yamaha YZ250 and YZ250F.
Engine Detail
The Yamaha YZ250 features a 249cc 2-stroke engine that is liquid-cooled and uses a reed-valve induction system. It has a bore x stroke of 66.4mm × 72.0mm and a compression ratio that can range from 8.9 to 10.6:1.
The engine is paired with a Hitachi Astemo® Keihin PWK38S carburetor and has a 5-speed transmission that is constant-mesh with a multi-plate wet clutch. This engine is designed for experienced riders who want to take on technical terrain with maximum power and control in my opinion.
On the other hand, the Yamaha YZ250F features a 250cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4-stroke engine that has 4 valves. It has a bore x stroke of 77.0mm × 53.6mm and a compression ratio of 13.8:1.
The engine is equipped with Mikuni® fuel injection, 44mm, and has a constant-mesh 5-speed transmission with a multi-plate wet clutch. This provides smoother power delivery and better fuel efficiency than the carburetor-induced one.
I would say this one is well-suited for riders who want a more versatile machine that can handle a wider range of riding conditions, from fast trails to motocross tracks.
Size and Dimensions
The YZ250 has an overall length of 86.0 inches, a width of 32.5 inches, and a height of 50.8 inches. It has a seat height of 38.4 inches.
The YZ250F, on the other hand, is slightly smaller, with an overall length of 85.6 inches, a width of 32.5 inches, and a height of 50.6 inches. It has a seat height of 38.2 inches.
In terms of weight, the YZ250 is slightly lighter at 227 lbs, while the YZ250F weighs in at 234 lbs. Both bikes have a fuel capacity of 1.8 and 1.6 gallons, respectively, which is standard for this class of bikes.
Both bikes have hydraulic disc brakes, with a 270mm front and 240mm rear brake on both models.
Performance
The YZ250’s 2-stroke engine produces more power (49 hp) than its counterpart (38.9 hp). This makes it more suitable for proficient riders who want maximum acceleration and top speed within a short period.
The YZ250F’s 4-stroke engine, on the other hand, is designed for more balanced power delivery. I would recommend it to riders of all skill levels as it’s easier to control and modulate.
Handling is another area where the two bikes differ. The YZ250’s 2-stroke engine is lighter, which makes the bike more nimble and easier to handle in tight turns and technical terrain.
The YZ250F’s 4-stroke engine is heavier, which can make the bike feel more stable at high speeds but also makes it more difficult to handle in tight turns.
Off-road Capabilities
Both the YZ250 and YZ250F are designed for off-road use, with features that enhance their performance on dirt tracks and trails. One of the key factors in off-road performance is suspension.
Both bikes come with high-quality, fully adjustable KYB® Speed-Sensitive System inverted forks and single shock absorbers.
However, the YZ250F has slightly longer suspension travel, with 12.2 inches in the front and 12.5 inches in the rear. Compared to 11.8 inches in the front and 12.4 inches in the rear for the YZ250.
Another important aspect of off-road capabilities is ground clearance. The YZ250 has a higher ground clearance than the YZ250F, with 14.2 inches compared to 13.2 inches. I think this extra clearance allows the YZ250 to navigate rough terrain and obstacles more easily, than its counterpart.
When it comes to agility, both bikes are designed to be nimble and responsive. You can thank lightweight frames and high-performance 80/100-21 Dunlop® Geomax MX33F front tires and 110/90-19 Dunlop® Geomax MX33 rear tires.
The YZ250F has a slightly shorter wheelbase than the YZ250, at 58.1 inches compared to 58.5 inches.
Maintenance And Reliability
The YZ250 is a two-stroke engine, which generally requires less maintenance than a four-stroke engine like the YZ250F. However, two-stroke engines have a shorter lifespan compared to four-stroke engines.
The YZ250 has a simple design that makes maintenance straightforward, but it still requires regular maintenance to maintain its reliability.
The YZ250F, on the other hand, has a more complex four-stroke engine that requires more regular maintenance than the YZ250.
More frequent oil changes and valve tweaks are required to ensure optimal performance. However, when properly maintained, the YZ250F is also a reliable bike.
So my experience says that while the YZ250 is generally more dependable than the YZ250F due to its simpler engine design, it has a briefer lifespan.
Price And Value
The YZ250 and YZ250F are both high-performance dirt bikes that come with a premium price tag. The YZ250 has an MSRP of $7,899, while the YZ250F has an MSRP of $8,599. These prices are for the 2023 models and are in line with other high-end dirt bikes on the market.
When considering the value of these bikes, it’s essential to factor in the cost of ownership over time. The YZ250F’s four-stroke engine may require more frequent maintenance.
This can include more frequent oil changes and occasional top-end rebuilds, which I would say can add to the cost of ownership.
YZ250 Vs YZ250F: Pros and Cons
Let’s look at some quick pros and cons of both the models
YZ250 Pros
- Two-stroke engine: lightweight, torquey, and simple
- Generally less expensive
- Has a distinctive sound and feel of 2-stroke
YZ250 Cons
- Less fuel-efficient and emits more emissions
- Power delivery can be abrupt and difficult to manage
YZ250F Pros
- Four-stroke engine: smooth, quiet, and fuel-efficient
- Broader and more linear power delivery
- Easier for beginners to ride
YZ250F Cons
- More complex and difficult to maintain
- Lacks low-end torque and distinctive sound of a two-stroke engine
YZ250 Vs YZ250F: Which One Wins The Position?
I would say the answer to this question depends on your specific needs and preferences as a rider. That’s because the YZ250 and YZ250F have different characteristics and are designed for different types of riding.
If you’re looking for a bike that offers snappy and responsive power delivery for motocross racing or other high-performance off-road ridings, the YZ250 may be the better choice for you.
However, if you’re looking for a bike that offers a smoother power delivery and better traction for both motocross and trail riding, the YZ250F may be the better option.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which bike is right for you is to test-ride both and see which one feels more comfortable and natural to ride.
FAQs
Let’s look at some of the frequently asked questions and their answers related to YZ250 vs YZ250F
Q. What does the F mean in YZ250F?
Ans. In the Yamaha YZ250F, the “F” stands for “four-stroke.” The YZ250F is a four-stroke dirt bike, which means it uses a four-stroke engine to produce power.
Q. What is the top speed of a YZ250 or YZ250F?
Ans. The top speed of a YZ250 or YZ250F depends on several factors, such as the rider’s weight, riding style, and terrain. In general, the YZ250 can reach speeds of up to 80 mph, while the YZ250F can reach speeds of up to 75 mph.
Q. Which bike is more environmentally friendly, YZ250 or YZ250F?
Ans. The YZ250F four-stroke is generally considered more environmentally friendly due to its lower emissions than the YZ250 two-stroke. Despite this, both bikes still have an environmental impact. Hence, riders should follow proper off-road riding practices to minimize their impact.
Conclusion
The Yamaha YZ250F’s 4-stroke engine is heavier, providing more stability at high speeds and making it harder to handle in tight turns. However, its balanced power delivery and smoother ride make it a better choice for all riders.
Meanwhile, the YZ250’s 2-stroke engine is lighter, providing more nimble handling in technical terrain and tight turns. Its power and torque output makes it more suitable for experienced riders who want maximum acceleration and top speed. The best choice depends on your individual requirements and priorities.