Positioning:
This manual caters to owners and independent repair shops seeking to maintain and repair their Yamaha Bear Tracker 250 or Bruin 250 utility ATVs, emphasizing cost savings and DIY capability.
Competitors:
Competes with other Yamaha ATV repair manuals and general ATV service guides for similar displacement utility ATVs from brands like Honda, Kawasaki, and Suzuki, offering specific Yamaha YFM250 expertise.
Ease Of Use:
Designed with step-by-step instructions and clear illustrations to simplify complex repair tasks for users of varying technical skill levels.
Versatility:
Downloadable to multiple devices (PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone) and allows selective printing of pages or chapters, providing flexibility for on-the-go or workshop use.
Engine:
Full engine overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, lubrication, cooling system, exhaust system, fuel system (carburetor, fuel pump, fuel lines), ignition system (spark plugs, coil, CDI unit).
Transmission:
Automatic transmission operation, maintenance, and repair; gearcase lubrication, internal component inspection and replacement.
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive system, universal joints, drive shafts, rear differential, wheel hubs, bearing inspection and replacement.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, steering knuckle, wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (likely drum brakes for this era and model), brake shoe replacement, brake shoe adjustment, brake mechanism inspection, hydraulic system (if applicable, though less likely for this model's core braking).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system (headlight, taillight, brake light), battery maintenance, starter system, charging system (stator, rectifier/regulator), ignition switch, kill switch.
Frame And Body:
Chassis inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat, handlebars, fenders, luggage racks.
Cooling System:
Air-cooling system, cooling fins, fan (if equipped).
Fuel System:
Carburetor disassembly, cleaning, adjustment (jetting, float height), fuel tank, fuel filter, fuel lines.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, lubrication points, tire pressure checks, brake adjustments.
Repair:
Component-level repair, troubleshooting common problems, disassembly and reassembly of major systems, rebuilding of specific components (e.g., carburetor).
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for various issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault diagnosis.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, adjustments, fluid capacities, electrical specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagrams and step-by-step instructions.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, SOHC, Air-cooled, Single-cylinder
Displacement:
230cc to 246cc (exact displacement varies slightly by model year, typically around 230cc for Bear Tracker and 250cc for Bruin, though often marketed similarly).
Bore X Stroke:
Approximately 70.0mm x 64.1mm (exact figures may vary slightly).
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 9.2:1 (typical for this engine type).
Horsepower:
Estimated 15-18 HP (specific figures not provided but typical for this class of ATV).
Torque:
Estimated 14-16 lb-ft (specific figures not provided but typical for this class of ATV).
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (likely Mikuni VM series, e.g., VM26 or similar).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Oil Type:
Yamaha recommends specific Yamalube or API service SE, SF, SG, SH, SJ or higher classification, SAE 10W-30 or 20W-40 viscosity oil. (Manual will specify exact grade).
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1.4-1.6 Liters (refer to manual for precise capacity with filter change).
Transmission Type:
Automatic (CVT - Continuously Variable Transmission) with Forward, Neutral, and Reverse (F-N-R).
Optional Transmissions:
N/A (This model typically came with a single automatic CVT transmission).
Drive System:
Shaft drive, 2WD (some later variants may have had switchable 4WD, but this manual primarily covers the 2WD models). The manual will detail maintenance of the drive shafts and rear differential.
Gearcase Oil:
Yamaha recommends specific gear oil or API GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 80W-90. (Manual will specify exact grade and capacity).
Length:
Approx. 1,965 mm (77.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,055 mm (41.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,105 mm (43.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,225 mm (48.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 232 kg (511 lbs)
Payload Capacity:
Approx. 120 kg (265 lbs) for racks, plus rider.
Front Rack Capacity:
Approx. 45 kg (99 lbs)
Rear Rack Capacity:
Approx. 65 kg (143 lbs)
Safety Standards:
ATVs are subject to specific safety regulations. This manual will cover maintenance and repair to ensure the vehicle operates within its intended safety parameters.
Braking System:
Dual hydraulic disc front brakes, sealed drum rear brake (typical configuration). Manual will cover inspection and maintenance.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight/brake light. Manual covers bulb replacement and wiring diagnostics.
Seatbelt:
N/A (ATVs do not typically use seatbelts; rider safety relies on proper riding techniques and protective gear).
Rollover Protection:
N/A (ATVs do not have integrated rollover protection structures like UTVs or cars).
Engine Oil Change:
Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Manual will specify exact interval and conditions).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Clean every 500 km (300 miles) or 3 months. Replace if necessary. (Manual will provide specific instructions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Replace every 3,000 km (1,800 miles) or 18 months. Inspect at 1,000 km (600 miles). (Manual will specify plug type and gap).
Gear Oil Change:
Change every 2,000 km (1,200 miles) or 12 months. (Manual will specify exact interval and procedure).
Engine Oil Specification:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent API SE, SF, SG, SH, SJ or higher) 10W-30 or 20W-40. (Manual will be definitive).
Gear Oil Specification:
API GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 80W-90. (Manual will be definitive).
Common Problems:
Potential issues may include carburetor clogging due to fuel varnish, wear on suspension bushings, aging electrical connectors, and normal wear and tear on brake components. The manual provides diagnostic steps for these.
Maintenance Importance:
Regular adherence to the maintenance schedule outlined in this manual is crucial for prolonging the life and performance of the YFM250.
Yamaha Atv History:
Yamaha has a long-standing history in the ATV market, known for producing reliable and capable off-road vehicles. The Bear Tracker and Bruin lines are part of Yamaha's extensive utility ATV offerings.
Bear Tracker Bruin Lineage:
The Bear Tracker (YFM250X) was introduced as a more affordable, entry-level utility ATV, often featuring a 2WD drivetrain. The Bruin (YFM250B) was a similar model, often with minor cosmetic or feature differences, also focusing on utility and recreational use. This manual covers the core generation of these 250cc models.
Manufacturing Location:
Likely manufactured in Japan or at Yamaha's overseas facilities.
