Segment:
Entry-level to mid-range utility ATV.
Target Audience:
Recreational riders, farmers, estate owners seeking a reliable and manageable ATV.
Key Competitors:
Honda FourTrax 300, Suzuki QuadSport 250 (LT-F250), Kawasaki Bayou 250.
Model Positioning:
The YFM 250 Bear Tracker was Yamaha's offering in the popular 250cc utility ATV segment, known for its straightforward design and reliability.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential information for maintaining and repairing the YFM 250 Bear Tracker, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for all major components.
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment, cleaning, and rebuilding; fuel pump diagnosis and replacement; fuel tank and line maintenance.
Ignition System:
Spark plug specifications, testing, and replacement; ignition coil diagnosis; CDI unit testing and troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Clutch operation and adjustment; gear shifting mechanisms; internal transmission component inspection and repair.
Drive Train:
Shaft drive system maintenance, including universal joints and differential.
Suspension System:
Front and rear shock absorber adjustment and replacement; A-arm bearing inspection and lubrication; steering linkage.
Braking System:
Brake caliper overhaul; brake pad replacement; brake fluid bleeding and replacement; brake cable adjustment.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery testing and maintenance, charging system diagnosis (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting system troubleshooting.
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine maintenance, including cylinder head and barrel cleaning.
Chassis And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, fender and plastic component removal/installation, seat assembly.
Preventative Maintenance:
Detailed schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and general inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based problem-solving guides for common issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, replacement, and adjustment.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners across all systems.
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification of any specialized tools needed for specific repair tasks.
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics).
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed information on identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical faults.
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Illustration Clarity:
High-resolution, clear, step-by-step illustrations and diagrams.
Text Readability:
Professional typesetting ensuring easy readability.
Digital Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Digital Paper:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, single-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
67.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Horsepower Estimate:
Approx. 15-18 hp @ 6500 RPM (varies by specific model year and tuning)
Torque Estimate:
Approx. 14-16 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM (varies by specific model year and tuning)
Carburetor:
Mikuni VM26SS (typical specification, refer to manual for exact part number)
Fuel Capacity:
2.8 L (0.7 US gal) including reserve (refer to manual for exact capacity)
Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent SAE 10W-30 API SE, SF, SG type) motorcycle oil.
Oil Capacity:
1.7 L (1.8 US qt) for oil change without filter replacement, 1.9 L (2.0 US qt) with filter replacement.
Recommended Spark Plug:
NGK CR7HSA or similar (refer to manual for definitive specification)
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Type:
Constant mesh, 5-speed sequential with automatic clutch
Clutch Type:
Wet, centrifugal, multiple-disc
Drive Type:
Shaft drive to rear wheels
Reverse:
Yes (manual engagement)
Transmission Oil:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent SAE 10W-30 API SE, SF, SG type) motorcycle oil.
Transmission Oil Capacity:
0.55 L (0.58 US qt)
Overall Length:
Approx. 1820 mm (71.7 in)
Overall Width:
Approx. 1095 mm (43.1 in)
Overall Height:
Approx. 1060 mm (41.7 in)
Seat Height:
Approx. 820 mm (32.3 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 202 kg (445 lbs)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 216 kg (476 lbs) (with all standard equipment and fluids)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 145 mm (5.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1200 mm (47.2 in)
Front Suspension Travel:
Approx. 140 mm (5.5 in) (Double A-arm)
Rear Suspension Travel:
Approx. 142 mm (5.6 in) (Swingarm)
Front Tire Size:
AT23x7-10
Rear Tire Size:
AT22x10-10
Front Brake Type:
Dual hydraulic disc
Rear Brake Type:
Dual sealed drum
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (ATVs are typically not subjected to standardized automotive crash testing.)
Braking:
Hydraulic front disc brakes and sealed rear drum brakes offer reliable stopping power.
Lighting:
Headlights and taillight for visibility.
Ergonomics:
Designed with rider comfort and control in mind, featuring thumb throttle and handlebars with grips.
Operator Training:
Manual emphasizes safe riding practices and operator training.
Display:
Basic instrument cluster with speedometer, odometer, and indicator lights.
Assistance Features:
N/A (No electronic driver assistance systems typical for this era and class of ATV).
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No integrated connectivity features).
Engine Oil Change:
Every 1000 km (600 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first, or more frequently with heavy use.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 500 km (300 miles) or 3 months; replace as needed.
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 1000 km (600 miles) or 6 months.
Brake Fluid Check:
Check level monthly and replace every 2 years or as needed.
Gear Oil Change:
Every 2000 km (1200 miles) or 12 months.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-30
Engine Oil API Service:
API SE, SF, SG
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation)
Carburetor Fouling:
Common with older ATVs due to fuel sitting; requires periodic cleaning and proper fuel stabilization.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and bearings in the A-arms and swingarm can wear over time, leading to play and reduced handling.
Electrical Connector Corrosion:
Outdoor exposure can lead to corrosion in electrical connectors, causing intermittent issues.
Starter Motor Brushes:
Brushes in the starter motor can wear down, requiring replacement.
Manufacturer:
Yamaha Motor Company, Ltd., a Japanese multinational corporation known for its wide range of products including motorcycles, ATVs, marine products, and musical instruments.
Introduction Year:
The YFM 250 Bear Tracker was introduced in the late 1990s as a successor to earlier Yamaha 250cc ATVs, aiming for a balance of utility and ease of use.
Updates During Period:
Minor cosmetic and specification updates may have occurred across the 1998-2001 model years, but the core design remained consistent.
Production Period:
1998-2001 (for the specific manual coverage)
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured by Yamaha, likely in Japan or at one of its international facilities.
