Yamaha YP 250 R RA X Max (2005-2009): A Timeless Maxi-Scooter for Urban Adventures

When Yamaha introduced the X-Max 250 in 2005, it wasn’t just launching another scooter—it was redefining urban mobility for riders who demanded practicality without sacrificing style or performance. As I swing a leg over this 2009 YP 250 R RA X Max, its design language immediately whispers "TMAX DNA," but with a compact twist tailored for city streets and weekend escapes. Let’s dissect why this generation remains a compelling choice even today.

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Design & Ergonomics: Sporty Meets Functional

The X-Max 250’s aesthetics strike a balance between aggressive sportiness and functional minimalism. The angular front cowling, inspired by Yamaha’s flagship TMAX, channels a "miniature superbike" vibe. The twin-headlight setup isn’t just cosmetic—it projects a broad beam for nighttime visibility, a feature I appreciated during an evening ride through poorly lit suburbs.

At 785 mm (30.9 in), the seat height feels accessible for riders around 170 cm (5’7”), though taller riders might find legroom slightly cramped on longer journeys. The redesigned footboard (compared to earlier Yamaha scooters) offers a natural knee angle, and the single-piece seat cushioning is firm yet supportive—no numb butt syndrome after a 2-hour ride.

The dashboard deserves applause. Yamaha borrowed luxury sports car elements here: a red-backlit analog tachometer flanked by a digital display showing speed, fuel, and trip data. It’s legible under direct sunlight, though the lack of a gear indicator (common in CVTs) takes minor getting used to.

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Engine & Performance: Urban Agility with Highway Legs

Powering this maxi-scooter is a 249.8 cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. Earlier models (2005-2008) used a carburetor, but my 2009 test unit boasts fuel injection—a welcome upgrade that eliminates cold-start fuss. With 20.9 HP (15.3 kW) @ 7,500 RPM and 21.3 Nm (15.7 lb-ft) torque @ 6,500 RPM, acceleration is brisk but not overwhelming.

• 0-60 km/h (0-37 mph): ~6.5 seconds—enough to outpace city traffic.
• Top Speed: GPS-verified 125 km/h (78 mph). Cruising at 100 km/h (62 mph) feels relaxed, though steep inclines demand patience.
• Fuel Efficiency: Averaged 29 km/L (68 mpg) in mixed riding. The 12.5L (3.3 gal) tank grants a 360 km (224 mi) range—ideal for commuters.

The CVT transmission is butter-smooth. Throttle response lacks the initial jerkiness of cheaper scooters, making stop-and-go traffic less fatiguing. However, steep hill climbs reveal the engine’s limits—the RPMs climb, but speed plateaus.

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Handling & Ride Quality: Carving Corners Like a Pro

Weighing 178 kg (392 lbs) wet, the X-Max hides its heft well. The 36 mm telescopic fork and rear unit swingarm (with 110 mm/4.3 in and 95 mm/3.7 in travel, respectively) handle potholes with composure. Pushing hard into a corner, the chassis remains planted, aided by the grippy 120/70-15 front and 140/70-14 rear tires.

Braking is confidence-inspiring. The 267 mm front and 240 mm rear discs (single-piston calipers) offer progressive bite. ABS wasn’t available in this generation, but the combined braking system (CBS) intelligently balances front-rear pressure during hard stops.

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Storage & Practicality: Two Helmets? No Sweat

Yamaha nailed the storage game here. The underseat compartment swallows two full-face helmets—a rarity in 250cc scooters. The lockable glovebox (large enough for a 1L water bottle and phone) includes a 12V socket. I’d recommend adding a MOTOPARTS.store cargo net to secure smaller items in the footwell during spirited rides.

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Competition: How the X-Max 250 Stacks Up

Honda Forza 250 (2006-2009)

• Pros: Slightly more storage, smoother engine.
• Cons: 15 kg (33 lbs) heavier, less agile in traffic.
• X-Max Edge: Sportier styling, better fuel economy.

Suzuki Burgman 250

• Pros: Plush seating, superior wind protection.
• Cons: Feels bulkier, dated design.
• X-Max Edge: Nimble handling, modern dash.

Kymco Xciting 250Ri

• Pros: Cheaper, decent specs on paper.
• Cons: Inconsistent build quality, resale value.
• X-Max Edge: Yamaha’s reliability, refined CVT tuning.

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Maintenance: Keeping Your X-Max in Peak Shape

Owners praise this generation’s reliability, but neglect is its nemesis. Key tips:

1. Oil Changes: Use JASO MA2-certified 10W-40 oil. With filter: 1.2L every 4,000 km (2,485 mi).
2. Coolant: Replace every 24,000 km (15,000 mi). The 800 ml system prefers ethylene glycol-based mixes.
3. Belt & Rollers: Inspect every 12,000 km (7,456 mi). MOTOPARTS.store offers OEM-spec replacement kits.
4. Valve Clearances: Check every 10,000 km (6,214 mi). Intake: 0.08-0.12 mm (0.003-0.005 in), exhaust: 0.16-0.20 mm (0.006-0.008 in).
5. Tires: Stick to OEM sizes. Overinflating beyond 2.5 bar (36 psi) rear degrades ride quality.

Pro Tip: Upgrade to NGK CR7EIX iridium plugs for smoother cold starts and better fuel atomization.

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Final Verdict: A Scooter That Ages Gracefully

The 2005-2009 X-Max 250 isn’t about raw power or tech gizmos—it’s a masterclass in balanced design. Whether you’re filtering through gridlock or embarking on a coastal weekend ride, this Yamaha delivers competence without drama. While newer rivals offer flashier features, few match its blend of practicality, style, and Yamaha’s bulletproof engineering.

For owners looking to personalize or refresh their X-Max, MOTOPARTS.store stocks everything from performance air filters to custom seat covers—because even trusty steeds deserve a modern touch.

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Specifikacijų lentelė

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