Category:
Performance Motocross/Off-Road Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Motocross racers, enduro riders, off-road enthusiasts seeking performance and reliability
Key Competitors:
KTM 250 SX, Honda CR250R (historically), Kawasaki KX250, Suzuki RM250
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, single-cylinder
Suspension:
Industry-leading KYB SSS (Speed Sensitive System) front forks and KYB rear shock absorber
Performance Focus:
Aggressive power delivery, agile handling, championship-winning pedigree
Engine:
Top-end (cylinder, piston, rings, head), Bottom-end (crankcase, crankshaft, connecting rod, bearings), Cooling System (if applicable, though YZ250 is typically air-cooled), Lubrication System
Transmission:
Gearbox operation, clutch, shifting mechanisms, internal components, fluid changes
Fuel System:
Carburetor disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, jetting, fuel lines, fuel tank maintenance
Ignition System:
CDI unit, spark plug, stator, ignition timing, troubleshooting
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, battery maintenance, charging system (if applicable), switches, fuses
Suspension:
Front forks (KYB SSS - Speed Sensitive System), rear shock absorber (monoshock), seal replacement, oil levels, valving, adjustments
Brakes:
Front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake pad replacement, bleeding procedures, fluid specifications
Wheels Tires:
Wheel bearing replacement, rim maintenance, tire mounting and dismounting, spoke tensioning
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, swingarm and linkage maintenance
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fenders, handlebars, controls
Maintenance:
Pre-ride inspections, oil changes, filter cleaning/replacement, chain adjustment and lubrication, brake system checks, suspension adjustments, general cleaning
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosing common performance issues, electrical problems, starting difficulties, and mechanical malfunctions with symptom-based guides
Repair:
Complete engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component servicing, brake system repairs, electrical component replacement
Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed procedures for stripping down and rebuilding major components
Torque Specifications:
Specific torque values for all critical fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for troubleshooting and repair
Depth Level:
Comprehensive Workshop Level (suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes troubleshooting trees and diagnostic charts for identifying and resolving issues
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Type:
2-stroke, liquid-cooled, reed valve, YPVS (Yamaha Power Valve System) equipped
Bore X Stroke:
66.4 mm x 72.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.3:1 (typical, check manual for specific variant)
Ignition:
Digital CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Horsepower:
Approximately 50-55 HP (estimated, varies with tuning and dyno)
Torque:
Approximately 30-35 lb-ft (estimated, varies with tuning and dyno)
Carburetor:
Keihin PWK38S (38mm) with Power Jet
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Fuel Mixture:
Pre-mix (Gasoline to Oil ratio typically 50:1 for Yamalube 2R or equivalent) - Consult manual for specific recommendations
Fuel Tank Capacity:
8.0 Liters (2.1 US gal)
Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Clutch:
Wet, multiple-disc, cable-actuated
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 2.500, 2nd: 1.786, 3rd: 1.333, 4th: 1.091, 5th: 0.917)
Final Drive:
Chain drive (DID 520 VT2 or similar)
Transmission Oil Type:
Yamaha Gear Oil 10W-30 or equivalent API GL-4
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 0.75 Liters (0.79 US qt)
Infotainment System:
N/A (Purpose-built off-road competition machine)
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (Focus on rider control and feedback)
Engine Management:
Yamaha Power Valve System (YPVS) for improved low-to-mid range power delivery.
Suspension Technology:
KYB SSS (Speed Sensitive System) front forks with adjustable compression and rebound damping; KYB rear shock with adjustable preload, compression, and rebound damping.
Oil Change Transmission:
Every 10-15 hours of riding or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for precise intervals.
Air Filter Cleaning:
After every few rides, or more frequently in dusty conditions. Refer to manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
As needed, typically inspected every 20-30 hours. Consult manual for specific plug type and gap.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every ride or every 5-10 hours. Refer to manual for proper tension.
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 2R or equivalent high-performance 2-stroke racing oil (pre-mix)
Coolant Type:
Yamaha Super Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (1:1 mixture with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid
Clutch Wear:
Can experience wear under aggressive riding; regular inspection and adjustment is key.
Carburetor Jetting:
May require re-jetting based on altitude, temperature, and modifications for optimal performance.
Suspension Seals:
Fork and shock seals can wear over time, leading to oil leaks; regular maintenance is advised.
Brand Focus:
Yamaha has a long and successful history in motorsport, particularly in motocross and Grand Prix racing.
Yz Lineage:
The YZ250 is a long-standing and iconic model in Yamaha's off-road lineup, evolving through many iterations and championships.
2009 Updates:
The 2009 model benefited from continuous refinement, including chassis improvements and continued use of the highly regarded KYB SSS suspension components.
Production Era:
Ongoing since the 1970s, with the 2009 model being part of the modern era of the YZ250.