Yamaha WR250F (2015-2017) Review: A Trailblazer in Enduro Evolution

Introduction

The Yamaha WR250F isn’t just a motorcycle – it’s a statement. Built to bridge the gap between motocross aggression and enduro endurance, this 250cc machine dominated trails from 2015 to 2017 with a blend of race-bred engineering and trail-friendly practicality. Having spent hours wrestling its handlebars through rocky singletracks and open fire roads, I can confidently say this bike redefined what a mid-displacement enduro could achieve. Let’s dissect why this generation remains a benchmark for hardcore riders and weekend adventurers alike.

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The Heartbeat: Engine & Power Delivery

At the core of the WR250F lies a 249cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke engine – essentially a detuned version of Yamaha’s championship-winning YZ250F powerplant. The reversed cylinder design (intake forward, exhaust backward) isn’t just for show; it centralizes mass and creates a remarkably slim profile between your knees.

Key Highlights:
- Fuel Injection: The Keihin 44mm throttle body delivers crisp response, though EPA-compliant mapping keeps low-RPM power subdued compared to its MX sibling.
- Six-Speed Wide-Ratio Transmission: First gear crawls through boulder fields without stalling, while sixth gear devours open trails at 100+ km/h (62+ mph).
- Electric Start: A godsend during hill-climb mishaps, though the backup kickstarter offers peace of mind for remote rides.

On the trail, the WR250F demands commitment. Below 6,000 RPM, power feels polite – almost apologetic. But twist the throttle past halfway, and the engine transforms. The mid-range surge pulls strongly up to 11,500 RPM, accompanied by a metallic snarl from the underslung exhaust. It’s not KTM-level explosive, but it rewards aggressive riders who keep momentum high.

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Chassis & Suspension: Dancing With Rocks

Yamaha’s bilateral beam aluminum frame – borrowed from the YZ250F – is a masterclass in rigidity tuning. At 118 kg (260 lbs) wet, the WR250F flicks between trees with the urgency of a trials bike, yet remains stable at speed.

Suspension Specs:
- Front: 48mm KYB Speed-Sensitive System (SSS) forks | 310mm travel (12.2”)
- Rear: Fully adjustable KYB shock | 315mm travel (12.4”)

Dialed for enduro, the suspension soaks up square-edge hits that’d rattle fillings out on a motocrosser. During a brutal descent down a washed-out ravine, the fork maintained composure while the shock tracked terrain without kicking. However, faster riders might find the stock setup too plush for big G-outs – a $200 suspension revalve transforms it into a desert sled.

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Ergonomics: The Rider’s Cockpit

Sliding onto the WR250F reveals Yamaha’s off-road pedigree. The 965mm (38”) seat height intimidates shorter riders, but the narrow chassis lets you dab confidently. Controls are MX-spec minimalism:
- Handlebar Bend: 809mm width with minimal sweep – ideal for standing attacks
- Footpegs: Serrated cleats bite boots even when caked in mud
- Fuel Tank: 7.5L (2.0 gal) capacity limits range to ~120km (75 miles) at race pace

The digital dash – basic but effective – tracks speed, odometer, and a clock. Missing is a gear indicator, forcing you to “feel” the transmission – a non-issue once acquainted.

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Competition: How It Stacks Up

1. KTM 250 XCF-W (2015-2017)
- Advantage: 7kg lighter (111kg vs 118kg), more aggressive power curve
- Weakness: Maintenance-intensive valve checks every 30hrs vs Yamaha’s 40hrs

2. Honda CRF250X
- Advantage: Softer power delivery for beginners
- Weakness: Carbureted engine feels archaic next to Yamaha’s EFI

3. Husqvarna FE 250
- Advantage: Premium components (Brembo brakes, Magura clutch)
- Weakness: $1,500+ pricier when new

The WR250F carves its niche as the “thinking rider’s bike” – less frantic than the KTM, more capable than the Honda. Its durability shines in multi-day enduros where mechanical sympathy matters.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive

Critical Service Points:
1. Valve Adjustments: Every 40hrs (intake 0.12-0.19mm / 0.0047-0.0075”, exhaust 0.17-0.24mm / 0.0067-0.0094”)
2. Oil Changes: 850ml (28.7 oz) with filter – use JASO MA-rated 10W-50
3. Air Filter: Clean every ride; the top-access design makes swaps a 3-minute job
4. Chain Care: 114-link 520 chain needs 1.0 bar (14.5 psi) tension – a DID ERV3 chain from MOTOPARTS.store resists desert abrasion

Upgrade Recommendations:
- Spark Plug: NGK LMAR8G (gap 0.7-0.8mm / 0.028-0.031”)
- Gearing: Swap to 13/52 sprockets for technical terrain
- Coolant: Engine Ice Hi-Performance prevents boil-overs in slow climbs

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The Verdict

The 2015-2017 Yamaha WR250F isn’t perfect – the anemic low-end and cramped fuel range irk purists. But as a holistic package, it remains one of the most adaptable enduros ever built. Whether you’re slicing through a Midwest harescramble or exploring Baja’s volcanic trails, this bike begs to be ridden hard and put away dirty. And when it’s time to rebuild, MOTOPARTS.store has the OEM-spec components and performance upgrades to keep your WR fighting fit for another decade.

About the Author
A former enduro racer turned MOTOPARTS.store journalist, the author has wrenched on every WR generation since 1998. When not testing tire compounds in Moab, he’s likely arguing why 250cc four-strokes are the ultimate desert weapons.

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Specifications sheet

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