Yamaha WR250F

The WR250F is the YZ250F with a wide ratio gearbox, softer suspension, an 18 inch rear wheel, a bigger tank, a kickstand and everything needed for registration. It got the reverse cylinder engine in 2015 and has had electric start since then. It is the most common 250 enduro bike in Australian bush because it is reliable, easy to ride and holds its value.

It suits a trail rider who wants a light bike for tight single trail, an enduro racer in the 250 class, or a rider stepping up from a trail bike who wants a real competition engine without the weight of a 450. Against the KTM 250 EXC F it is a little heavier and a little softer; against a CRF250L or KLX300 it is a completely different level of bike.

Same engine as the YZ250F, and a 250 that lives at high revs wants clean oil. Change it every 8 to 12 hours for trail riding, sooner if raced, with a filter every second change. It takes just under a litre with a filter and a 10W 40 full synthetic is what most owners run. Air filter every ride in dust.

Valves hold well but check them at the interval in the table and any time the bike starts getting hard to start. Trail bikes cook in slow going, so keep the radiators straight and the coolant fresh. Grease the linkage and swingarm bearings after any wet ride.

Ask whether the bike has been de restricted and what was done. Check rego status and whether it has a roadworthy. Look for bent radiators, a dented sump guard, a dirty airbox and a chain that has been adjusted to the end of the slots. On the electric start bikes make sure it cranks strongly hot and cold.

Recent sold prices for each year are on the Marketplace page linked below.