The 2020 Yamaha XT250 is one of the longest-running, most reliable, most durable dual-sport motorcycles ever made, being introduced way back in 1980. The current, third-generation XT250 came to be in 2008, and Yamaha has followed the age-old advice of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
With a bulletproof 249cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected, 2 valve single-cylinder engine producing 19 crank HP and 14 lbs-ft of crank torque, this dual-sport can get you almost anywhere you need to go, on and off the road.
Designed with off-road fun in mind, the XT250 is equipped more like a dirt bike than a dual-sport, with serrated grip footpegs, rubber covered clutch and brake lever boots, and a low slung seat letting you stand on the pegs without having to worry about shattering your tailbone over a large bump. The only real changes from 2008 to 2020 are cosmetic, mostly with color choices and refined frame and swingarm designs.
The 2020 Yamaha XT250 starts at $5,199 US/$5,499 CA
On this page:we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new Yamaha XT250 in one place.
Model Overview
General Info
Price: $5,199 US / $5,499 CA
Key Features:
Modern Fuel Injection
Trail-Ready Chassis
Dual Sport Lighting
Key Specs
Engine type: 249cc air-cooled SOHC 4-stroke single
Single shock, adjustable preload, and rebound damping; 7.1-in travel
Brakes Front
Single disc, 245mm
Brakes Rear
Single disc, 203mm
Tires Front
2.75-21
Tires Rear
120/80-18
Fuel Tank Capacity
9.8 L (2.6 US gal.)
Color
Sandy Beige
ELECTRICAL
Ignition
TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition
Spark Plugs
Headlight
Lightweight headlight
Tail Light
LED
DIMENSIONS
Overall Length
Overall Width
Overall Height
Wheelbase
53.5 in (1358 mm)
Ground Clearance
11.2 in (285 mm)
Seat Height
31.9 in (810 mm)
Curb Weight
291 lbs (132 kg)
WARRANTY
Warranty
1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty)
Extension
2020 Yamaha XT250 Features
TOP FEATURES
Advanced Long-Travel Suspension
Long-travel suspension and more than 11.2 inches of ground clearance live under a seat only 31.9 inches from the ground.
Modern Fuel Injection
The XT250 has fuel injection for smooth throttle response and easy starting in nearly all conditions.
Convenient Electric Start
Electric start makes firing up the 249cc four-stroke effortless.
Dual Disc Brakes
245mm front disc and 203mm rear disc brakes combine to deliver superb stopping power on both paved and unpaved surfaces.
ENGINE
Reliable Four-Stroke Motor
249cc air-cooled four-stroke with 9.5:1 compression makes for great on-and off-road performance.
Modern Fuel Injection
The XT250 has fuel injection for smooth throttle response and easy starting in nearly all conditions.
Advanced Cylinder Design
A light-and-strong forged piston inside a plated cylinder helps dissipate heat more efficiently, increasing both performance and durability.
Responsive Power
A light crankshaft helps provide quick responsive power.
5-Speed Transmission
Wide-ratio five-speed transmission for maximum power and performance in a wide range of terrain and conditions.
Efficient Intake Design
Straighter intake tract for improved performance.
Convenient Electric Start
Hassle-free push-button electric starting adds extra convenience and reliability.
Trail-Ready Chassis
Engine is mounted high in the frame to provide an incredible 11.2 inches of ground clearance.
Low Maintenance Engine
Automatic cam chain tensioner means minimal maintenance and longer engine life.
CHASSIS/SUSPENSION
Strong, Compact Frame
A semi-double-cradle steel frame achieves a lighter, nimbler feel through greater mass centralization. Greater lateral and torsional rigidity and reduced weight of the lower frame parts help produce light, stable handling.
Advanced Long-Travel Suspension
The front fork has 8.9 inches of travel to soak up the rough stuff, both on road and off. An aluminum lower triple clamp keeps the weight down.
Nimble Steering
Maximum turning angle of the handlebar is 51 degrees—almost like a trials machine. Combined with a short wheelbase of only 53.5 inches, the XT250 has a super-tight turning radius for excellent maneuverability.
Linkage-Style Shock
A rear shock provides 7.1 inches of wheel travel through a progressive, Monocross® linkage system for a smooth ride.
Dirt-Ready Wheels
21-inch front and 18-inch rear aluminum wheels are extremely durable and reduce unsprung weight for enhanced suspension performance and handling.
Generous Ground Clearance
11.2 inches of ground clearance means you’ve got serious off-road capability.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Advanced LCD Instruments
Multifunction digital LCD instrument panel with cool green background lighting is easily visible day or night. It also removes unnecessary weight from the handlebar for light, precise handling.
Extended Fuel Range
The stylish gas tank holds a full 2.6 gallons for long-range riding.
Comfortable Saddle
Long, thick seat creates a balanced riding position for optimal rider movement and comfort.
Protective Fenders
Durable and wide front fender is designed to keep mud and dirt off the rider when exploring off-road.
Passenger-Ready
Frame-mounted passenger footpegs provide two-up riding capability.
Bright Illumination
Enduro-style, 60/55-watt halogen headlight features a cool 133mm lens for excellent visibility at night.
Dual Sport Lighting
Flex-mounted turn indicators offer great durability against breakage.
Fork Protection
Durable fork boots help prevent rocks and debris from damaging fork sliders.
Forestry-Friendly Exhaust
A spark arrestor makes the XT trail ready.
Modern Battery
Dependable, low-maintenance battery.