The 2023 Yamaha XT250: An Entry-Level Dual-Sport That’s Ready to Go Anywhere
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If you’re just getting started in the wonderful world of motorcycles and are looking for a bike that can do it all, the Yamaha XT250 should be high up on your list of options. It’s a light, nimble, and entertaining package designed by Japan’s very best to thrive in every condition — whether pottering around town or through trails.
Like last year’s model, the XT250 part of the 2023 Yamaha lineup features a 249cc air-cooled, fuel-injected, 2-valve, single-pot engine that puts out 19 hp and 14 lb-ft of torque. It’s not much, but it’s enough to give a new rider room to grow. While it will find itself a place in the urban jungle, the XT250 is predominantly an off-road motorcycle. It’s pretty apparent when you look at the long-travel suspension or the 11.2 inches of ground travel. Yamaha has also built the bike to be highly sturdy and reliable, and you won’t have to worry about riding it hard off-road.
The 2023 Yamaha XT250 has little to offer in terms of electronic rider aids, but that’s allowed Yamaha to price it exceptionally well. It’s one of the most affordable motorcycles in the company’s current portfolio, but it has plenty to offer for what it’s worth.
The 2023 Yamaha XT250 starts at $5,299 USD / $6,199 CAD.
On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2023 Yamaha XT250 in one place.
Model Overview
General Info
- Price: $5,299 USD / $6,199 CAD
- Key Features:
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- Long-travel suspension with 8.9 inches of travel at the front
- Dirt-ready 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel setup
- Impressive 11.2 inches of ground clearance
Main Specs
- Engine: 249cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder
- Power: 19 hp
- Torque: 14 lb-ft
- Weight: 291 lbs (132 kg)
- Seat Height: 32.7 in (830 mm)
Competitors
2023 Yamaha XT250 Specifications
ENGINE |
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| Engine | 249cc air-cooled SOHC 4-stroke single; 2 valves | |
| Power | 19 HP | |
| Bore x Stroke |
74.0mm x 58.0mm
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| Compression Ratio |
9.5:1
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| Fuel System |
Yamaha Fuel Injection (YFI)
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| Starter | Electric | |
| Lubrication | ||
DRIVETRAIN |
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| Clutch | Multiplate wet clutch | |
| Transmission |
5-speed
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| Final Drive | Chain | |
CHASSIS |
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| Suspension Front |
35mm telescopic fork; 8.9-in travel
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| Suspension Rear |
Single shock, adjustable preload; 7.1-in travel
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| Brakes Front | Single disc, 245mm | |
| Brakes Rear |
Single disc, 203mm
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| Tires Front |
2.75-21
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| Tires Rear |
120/80-18
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| Fuel Tank Capacity |
2.5 gal / CA model, 2.2 gal
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| Color | ||
ELECTRICAL |
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| Ignition |
TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition
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| Spark Plugs | ||
| Headlight | LED | |
| Tail Light | LED | |
DIMENSIONS |
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| Overall Length |
84.6 in
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| Overall Width | 31.7 in | |
| Overall Height | 45.7 in | |
| Wheelbase |
53.5 in
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| Ground Clearance |
11.2 in
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| Seat Height |
32.7 in
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| Wet Weight |
291 lb
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WARRANTY |
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| Warranty | 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty) | |
| Extension | ||
2023 Yamaha XT250 Features
TOP FEATURES
Long-travel suspension with more than 11.2 inches of ground clearance live under a seat that’s only 31.9 inches from the ground.
Convenient Electric Start
Electric start makes firing up the 249cc four-stroke effortless.
Front & Rear Disc Brakes
A 245mm front disc and 203mm rear disc brakes combine to deliver superb stopping power on both paved and unpaved surfaces.
Modern Fuel Injection
The XT250’s fuel injection offers smooth throttle response and easy starting in a range of conditions.
ENGINE
A light and strong forged piston inside a plated cylinder helps dissipate heat more efficiently, increasing both performance and durability.
Convenient Electric Start
Hassle-free push-button electric starting adds extra convenience and reliability.
Efficient Intake Design
The XT250’s straighter intake tract improves performance.
Five-Speed Transmission
Wide-ratio five-speed transmission provides maximum power and performance in a wide range of terrain and conditions.
Low Maintenance Engine
Automatic cam chain tensioner means minimal maintenance and longer engine life.
Modern Fuel Injection
The XT250’s fuel injection offers smooth throttle response and easy starting in a range of conditions.
Reliable Four-Stroke Motor
The 249cc air-cooled four-stroke with 9.5:1 compression makes for great on- and off-road performance.
Responsive Power
A light crankshaft provides quick, responsive power.
Trail-Ready Chassis
The engine is mounted high in the frame for a trail-ready 11.2 inches of ground clearance.
CHASSIS/SUSPENSION
The front fork has 8.9 inches of travel to soak up the rough stuff, both on- and off-road while an aluminum lower triple clamp reduces weight.
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
Impressive 11.2 inches of ground clearance means you’ve got serious off-road capability.
Linkage-Style Shock
A rear shock provides 7.1 inches of wheel travel through a progressive Monocross® linkage system for a smooth ride.
Nimble Steering
The 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.
Strong, Compact Frame
A semi-double-cradle steel frame achieves a lighter, nimbler feel through optimized mass centralization. Greater lateral and torsional rigidity along with reduced weight of the lower frame parts help produce light, stable handling.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
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.
Bright Illumination
Enduro-style, 60/55-watt halogen headlight features a cool 133mm lens for excellent visibility at night.
Comfortable Saddle
The long, thick seat creates a balanced riding position for optimal movement and comfort.
Dual Sport Lighting
Flex-mounted turn indicators offer great durability against breakage.
Extended Fuel Range
The stylish gas tank holds a full 2.6 gallons for long-range riding.
Forest-Friendly Exhaust
A spark arrestor makes the XT trail-ready.
Fork Protection
Durable fork boots help prevent rocks and debris from damaging fork sliders.
Modern Battery
Dependable, low-maintenance battery.
Passenger-Ready
Spacious seat and passenger foot pegs provide two-up riding capability.
Protective Fenders
The durable and wide front fender is designed to keep mud and dirt off the rider when exploring off-road.
2023 Yamaha XT250 Photos
2023 Yamaha XT250 Videos
Yamaha XT250 Test Ride and First Impressions by Dork in the Road:
Is The Yamaha XT250 A Real Dual Sport Bike? By Dirt Bike Test: