I have owned many, many motorcycles over the past 12 years. Usually I only keep two in my garage. For some reason I never sold my XT250....not sure why, I had much nicer more advanced bikes, but this bike is truly superfun to ride on street and dirt and is indestructible. This is a bike you keep for life.
I am 56 and I have a Kawasaki KLX250 and I love it. I never knew a small slow bike could be so fun. I find myself looking for a backroad to take everywhere I go.
Whenever i am on my XT250, locally it is specifically the Serow 250, I see more of wherever i am going, great bike too, very reliable fun and plenty of power
I love to hear these stories! Simple and fun...I'd love to have a TW, also. Ten years ago or so you could find a deal on a used one but now their popularity and the prices have really climbed. I'm keeping my eyes open, though...
Ive bought n sold a few bikes over the years since 1974. My first bike to get my first lic. at 16 was a brand new '74 Kawi 100cc enduro model. Bro n law co- signed for me. I worked part-time to pay that note. My friends got Yam/Honda 100-125's as their first. We spent summers riding to, on-street, then off street into the Houston area bayous. A blast. I spent next couple years using it as my only ride, year round to school, work, anywhere i had to be. At 18 got my car lic n never looked back. At 62 now, been thru a couple new street bikes, used Dual Sport 650s over the years. I just sold my '11 VStrom DL650 a month ago. Just wasn't riding it. It was geared up nice for full adv riding by previous owner. I only logged 350 miles in 3 years and all on local paved roads. YES. Shame on me! I already miss having a bike to just ride 1 hour now n then. Now, like you, I'm wanting a lighter, simpler, 250cc-400cc dual purpose style just to kick around on now n then. I see alot of used, bigger, expensive, loaded Adv bikes for sale locally. Nice but i don't need all that. I may have to buy my first brand new bike in many years to get what i want. Was really leaning to a new KTM 390 Adv. But now watching all these vids of the Japanese 250's, I wil probably go that route for price and reliability. Great video here, nice riding area too. peace, e.
I LOVE my TWs, and I’ve ridden everything (including an XT225, which I was also fond of). My 2016’s pretty hopped up, but my second/loaner/girlfriend bike is an almost totally stock 2019 TW, and aside from highway riding and airing it out like a slower MX bike (which I all-but don’t do anyway), it’ll do everything I need a bike to, and is just SO easy to ride ANYWHERE. Love Yamaha’s dual-sport bikes, and I’m not sure I’ll ever buy a non-TW again, I just don’t need a different bike. With distracted drivers being so ubiquitous, I have less and less desire to do my two-wheelings outside of trails and backroads these days. I’m sure emissions will force EFI and a six-speed onto the TW eventually, which would both be welcome additions in my opinion, at which point I wouldn’t be mad about another inch of F/R travel and a rear disc either, but like I said, they’re just fine the way they are, too.
We all tend to get greedy and want more power, more everything but sometimes less is more. I was terrible for always changing bikes but the last exchange was a Honda FireBlade for a new 2018 Honda CRF 250L. It was a great move and no way will l be going back to bigger, more complex machines.
I’m just getting into motorcycles now, starting on a ‘92 XT225 and I’ve loved it so far. It’s been great, and with only 3000 miles I’m hoping it’ll last me a good long while. I’m glad they’re keeping stuff like this in production, I’m not one for change
@@jimmytmoto You’d be hard-pressed to find one. They’re just super fun, tough, easy-to-ride ANYWHERE little bikes, even my speed-demon MX/sportbike/Harley friends can’t help but enjoy a ride on my TWs in spite of themselves.
Honda's 300 rally would make sense that Yamaha would match it in this category. They are just slow. They should at least leak the information, but they don't seem to care about these things. If they build it they will come kind of attitude from Yamaha.
I had a XT 225 for many years, put it in places nobody could walk through, muddy bogs, slimepits and swamps and it rarely gave me any problems, I kept it until it was burning oil and sold it to a guy who restores them, he had a motorcycle shop and he rebuilt bikes and resold them. Now I have a XT 250 and its a good bike but the 225 was better in some aspects, the front was lighter, it turned easier, had a 6th gear, had a faster top end, lighter weight, better seat, lower to the ground, they also made more aftermarket parts for it such as footpegs and windshields.but the XT 250 has a few things the 225 is missings, disc brakes, higher ground clearance, sturdier rear wheel, wider handlebars, better speedometer and gauges, and fuel injection, cranks up in the coldest weather easily.
I had an '80 XT250 when I lived in NM in the mid '90's. I loved that bike! The only issue I had was when I went up in the mountains it was a pain to get started if I shut it off.
Hi Jimmy. Mega thanks for this video, watched the end of it showing your trip. Sorry if you know this technique already, but I went on a off road holiday for a week in Spain on Suzuki 400, and we were taught to stick our elbows out on rougher terrain as it gives more control of the front of the bike. I found it really worked. Cheers. Ange, Preston, UK
Just bought a new XT250 last month. Love it. It really was the only bike that needs and inseam size. Haven't owned a bike since the early 90s which was a CX650. My Dad passed recently and left behind a 75 XL250. Getting that bike up and running again inspired me to get a new one. The new XT brought me back to my roots in that the first bike I had on the road "legally" in the early 80s was a 1971 DT1. After that I moved to a 73 XL250 and then in the mid 80s a 83 XL600.
I had a early xt250 and more recently a TW200. Last month went and bought a 2021 Xt250M with fuel injection , disk brakes, 5 speed trans, and an electric start. I lowered it two inches right off and its just about a perfect bike for me at 5' 3" an 112 lb. What an exciting ride at 71 years old!....
That's great to hear, Joey! At 57 I plan on riding my XT225 until it absolutely gives up the ghost. At that point I'd imagine moving to the XT250. Enjoy the ride!
Great thoughts in this video; guy knows what he's talking about. I'm an XT250 owner & I picked it for the same reasons you mentioned in this video. I love your 225 btw ;-)
It can be quite interesting to peruse major motorcycle manufacturers websites from various countries around the world to see what bikes are available and surprisingly still in production. The little Suzuki GN 125 cruiser was first introduced and sold in the United States in 1982. It was available for one more year then sales here discontinued. Surprisingly you can still buy a brand new 2020 model unchanged after 38 years shown on Suzuki Mexico and Colombia. The most mind blowing bike I found is on Suzuki of Kenya. A BRAND NEW 2020 TS185ER two-stroke dual sport that's been in continuous production since 1971.
@@TK-cl1jm, if only there was a way to ship a brand new 2020 TS 125 out of Africa, lol. The reason Suzuki still makes these bikes is the lack of emissions regulations in Kenya and the fact they can sell so many.
Thanks a lot for great content I can watch with my two little boys. We all really enjoy it. It both stokes the desire for a dual sport and helps me to live vicariously through watching you ride. It’s hard to find clean content, and I really appreciate you sharing.
My 2015 TW has black wheels.👍🏼 I would love to see/own a 6 speed TW200 (TW250) with fuel injection, dual disc brakes, and bumped up to a 250cc. All while keeping the same form factor and seat height.
First off, I love your vids - I'm a fan and have subbed! If they made the TW250 you described I would buy one, without a doubt. That would make it capable of farther road travel and would be a BLAST off road. It really doesn't seem like it's asking for too much...
V Alaudae honestly, a very good lock and chain, alarm, disc brake too and theft insurance lol, the one night I didn’t have my alarm/disc brake on it, and I didn’t have theft insurance. I think the bike had been watched too.
I wish the xt250 had a 6 speed transmission like the xt225 had. It also had a huge weight gain over the Xt225. 291lb vs 238 for the XT225. Now one is wet, the other dry weight, but fluids don't add up to 53 lbs. I have a XT225 and love it but wanted a bit more. I looked at the KTM's but the maintenance was much higher I ended up getting a Suzuki DR650. I rode the 225 today. it is still fun and if just going on trails is perfect. The TW would also be a deal with a 6 speed and maybe 300cc.
Agreed on all of that, DannyB. It's cool you went with the DR650 - I'm a fan of the DR and the fact that they give an easy stock lowering option for the suspension. We definitely do need a good, affordable option in the middle, something in the 300cc to 350cc range. On the TW that would be way cool!
I recently bought an Africa Twin. I'm 65 and very short. You make a lot of sense. I wish I had watched this video before I bought my AT. I love your footage, it really helps make your point.
I hear they are very hard to handle on tough terrain, especially for us shorter guys. Allow me to tell you what to do, lol!😉 I say sell the pig, unless it is really working out for you. Life is too short to try to round peg a square hole, especially with a passion like motorcycles! Just got back into riding after a bit more than a decade, 52. Bought a lovely V7III, but want to add either the XT or the TW to the fam. Cheers from Vermont!
I owned a 2006 TW for 8 years and just sold it 3 weeks ago for my 2017 XT250. I'm still wondering if I made the right choice. The XT is a great bike, but I loved the TW. I took the TW to hell and back and it never let me down or left me stranded. Loved the video BTW.
Thanks, it's always good to hear from another XT/TW owner! It seems like TW200 owners are among the very most loyal out there. I've never even ridden one but would love to have one in the garage. What is it that made the T Dub so special do you think? That said, I hope you do find the same connection with the XT250. Just keep riding it and I'm sure you'll discover its strengths.
Enjoyed the video. I have been riding since 1964 and currently have the Yamaha XT660R, but my wife has an XT250 and at the age of 75 still happily tackles trails and adventures. I often "steal" her XT250 to go for short jaunts as it is such a delightful little bike to ride. I really love single cylinder bikes for their light weight, simplicity and versatility. Started off on BSA and Matchless singles in the 1960's and then the first Yamaha XT500 in 1976. My current XT660R is my ninth Yamaha big single, along with a smattering of 250's and 200's. Thanks for a great video.
You're welcome, Bruce! I always love to hear about different riders' experiences and that we're not slowing down as we get older. Every ride is a gift!
Wish we had these type of back roads in Southern California. Nice video. Very relaxing to see the scenery. Just picked up an XT250, but should have waited for 2021 model, nicer color scheme. but I also wish it had 6th gear. Keep it up.
Congrats on the XT250, Rommel! And believe me, I do appreciate having these back roads nearby. Hopefully you have some fireroads, trails, or riding areas that aren't too far away? I think the XT250 is an awesome bike and if I was buying new, that's the route I'd go!
Jimmy, nice video. I wonder if you could share your opinion on a new, 62-y/o, 5'8", 185-lb, rider using a TW200 to cross country on the TAT on a TW200 vs XT250. I have no interest in riding anywhere other than trails (and there are none in VA Beach area), but obviously will require to do so as part of the TAT. I understand there are few "adventure" accessories for the XT250 as well.
I have an 83 XR200r light and nimble but I wish it had the pegs about two inches back. Changed the handlebars and that helped. I do like the black on those bikes and would love to try out a TW200. Happy trails from the PNW.
I'm a 55 yr old retired guy, I started riding a Z50 when I was 6. I agree with you 100%, my last REAL bike was a reworked DR650S I did all the stuff I did to it will be done eventually. Protection first, then tank, then preformance. The DR showed me what I "could" do, if I wanted to go hard, I don't want to git er done, by sending it on the 650. I can pick my way up a path now. I put money down on a 2022 TW, but Ive been riding one of the Coleman BT200s and its got 6.5 hp maybe. LOL. But I know i can ride the TDUB, places I would be afraid because of the weight, seat height, even after a Seat Concepts lowered seat and lowering it on the suspension linkage. But with a light torque filled motor yea I'll go there! New sub
In my opinion, the reason why the XT and TW are "back" for 2021 is that with the effects of COVID19 on lifestyles there is bit of a boom going on in anything outdoor related. Yamaha has ready made made outdoor fun machines in the XT and TW, it would be foolish for the company to stop production on them at this point.
@@YoungJay5597 Or maybe its all a huge conspiracy and Yamaha got word from the Illuminati that they would be spreading a killer virus around the world that would keep everyone from gathering indoors. Hmmm 😐
@@YoungJay5597 Okay for real... I'm not going to pretend to know how motorcycling manufacturing works...but I'd image if production on a model stop, then markets changed production could be ramped up quickly. No matter, I'm glad to see them back, both are great entry bikes and we need more new riders.
It's hard to know how or why some decisions are made. Like, why have other markets been getting the XTZ250 Lander for years and we've been getting the XT? Regardless, I'm glad it didn't just disappear and leave a hole in the lineup. I have this crazy hope that Yamaha actually sees comment threads like this and understands the many reasons we like these simple, smaller bikes.
Do you have your camera mounted on your shoulder? Do you have a video on your camera and sound set up, do you get horrible wind noise on the hwy? Edit; I see now at 13:03 , you have an extension off your helmet, the camera moves around a bit and makes it look like its on or over or on your shoulder.
Right on, Little Fishy! It seems obvious to us and I'm surprised more people haven't discovered this. I see a lot of people struggling on the trails when they could be having much more fun on a smaller bike.
Me too. I've only rode street but that's always been my preference. And now that I'm going to get a dual sport next, it will be another 250. Smaller bike are just fun.
Thanks, Mikael! I'm jealous of all the cool smaller dual sports and motorcycles you get in the islands. Here in the US most people think it has to be bigger to be better. But we know better!
Anything you can do on a SEROW you can do on a BMW 1200, just remember to take a burly film crew with you as did McGregor & Boorman. If you have any doubts about the XT225 or SEROW as we know it, read "Lois on the loose" by Lois Pryce.
Well, I found out today ( actually confirmed what I already knew to a point ) is the absolute pulling power from less than walking speed up a 25 degree rocky as heck hill. I mean it seemed the bike was going to stall at any second when I got thrown sideways several times but just twisted the throttle a tad and it just kept going. Very impressed.. I had bikes with far more power but none at less than walking speed that kept going. I did put a 14T front sprocket on it. They also have a 13T that I can't imagine how slow you could go with that one without putting your feet down..
I think you nailed it NoBs, that's something I've discovered, too. The XT allows you to navigate tough terrain at a really slow, controlled speed without having to hammer the clutch or work hard to keep the bike in control. It just...sort of...keeps...pulling...
@@jimmytmoto Back in 1975 my friend bought a new Yami 175cc Enduro. I had a Kawi 100cc Enduro. I was always so impressed how slow n strong his 175 could pull up steep dirt/mud inclines. At times with 2 up riding. I added n dropped teeth on my Kawi n it just was as good as his stock bike. Considering a used Dual purpose/Enduro now. I was gonna hunt for a old 175. But this XT250 sounds like it might be a damn mountain goat too. . I think it's just "a Yamaha thing". Nice. This would be my first Yamaha. Always owned Honda,Kawis n Suzuki.
I came very close to buying the Suzuki DR200S, because the TW200 was not available in New Zealand. Then unexpectedly a small stock if them got here, and I jumped at the chance to have one.
I'm in my late 50's and have always rode enduros, I've had the big bore bikes but I was younger then. I bought a new dr200 because I can swing my leg over it unlike my last bike where it got to the point to where I had to find a curb to get on the thing. Sure the 200 isn't powerful but it is a lot of fun and is light enough to where you can do about anything off road on it.
Great review and spot on ! Mine is a 2015 Serow, I’ll be keeping this bike till I can no longer ride. It’s more fun than my other two rides 👍 it’s built like a tank
I have been riding since 1974 and I had over 25 bikes over the years and started on 100cc road and trail bikes and the man had many bigger bikes all the way to R1 but my heart will always be with the Yamaha xt250
It's amazing Yamaha didn't up the HP and torque up a bit towards YZ levels here in the States over the years.. Are the engines that much different ? That, a 30 lb weight loss, and a 6 speed and it would be a whole new ball game. Yamaha might have a list waiting for deliveries.
@@alphacapo I don't think the WR 250 r is street legal for one thing which if true, is a major difference. The WR 250 has more power, better suspension and a better ( higher ) price tag. The XT has gobs of torque and if a 14T sprocket is installed, it's a real tractor but still capable of dishing out some speed. It's not an MX bike and neither is the WR. The YZ will smoke both bikes. Some guys mention the lack of torque in the WR as a concern. 2 different bikes for different purposes. A couple more ponies and the XT would be even more fun than it already is.. and of course a tad better suspension to match the power output.
@@ngzcaz it is street legal....that's why they don't give the XT major uprades they want you to spend money for the WR. The XT is fine for what it is. Its a back road & farm bike. Not a performance race machine like the YZ ....or a full dual purpose like the WR
@@alphacapo Quite frankly, if the WR is street legal I can't think of a good reason except it's a better/quicker version of the XT250.. at more money of course. Which maybe is one of the reasons for the XT250's existence. One other possibility is the seat height. If the WR is 2 inches higher or more, it becomes less desirable to a shorter rider. I'm one of them. I passed on several other bikes after mounting them. In off camber mountainous/rocky terrain putting your feet down occasionally is a frequent occurrence. 2 feet down is over twice as good as one foot.
Oh, man, that's the big question. Spec-wise the CRF250L wins for most people, with the water cooling, longer suspension travel, and six speed transmission, and there are a lot of aftermarket goodies you can have fun with. The engine is a descendant of the CBR250R road bike so it's probably better for higher speed road riding, too. The area where the XT250 shines is with its lower seat height, lower weight, and the bike's simplicity. So, for me as a short rider, I'd probably go with the XT. But if I was taller then the decision would be harder.
The biggest issue I have with CRF250L is the weight. Any bike that weights more than 300 lbs is not considered dual-sport for me. The XT250 on the other hand is just like a dinosaur for me. I am waiting for new CRF250L with dual spark technology coming up soon.
@@mattingray5651 Sheesh, do you have to do this to me?! I have been trying to decide between the TW and the XT, and NOW you have me googling the CRF!! 😄
This really is great news, the market still very much needs the XT250 and TW200, for all the reasons you give and more. Simple and bullet proof with air cooling, no radiators or hoses to get holed by sticks in the bush making you walk home. Low seat allows both feet on the ground for stability, which is very helpful for slow, older and non-aggressive riders, especially in tricky spots. Wonderfully quiet stock exhaust is a rarity in the industry, and plays very well when sharing trails with walkers and cyclists, allowing us to be examples of polite riders who help them not mind allowing motorbikes on the trails. As a guy who rescued myself from having no bike by buying a brand new 2015 XT250, and then "upgraded" a year later to a 2007 XT225 because of your video Jimmy, I happen to be unusually qualified to weigh in on a few points here ;) 1. The XT225 ran until 2007, the XT250 replaced it in 2008 (at least here in Canada). 2. The fuel injection on the 2013 and later XT250 is OK, it starts instantly and runs very well, but I consider it a liability because it can't be tuned or adjusted at all. This means no alternate mufflers or airbox mods. Worst, it is tuned WAY too lean, such that it hesitates, stutters and easily stalls when you squirt the throttle from or near idle, and such low RPM riding happens all the time on tight technical single track, and this means you stall the bike WAY too often for comfort. The XT225 lets you adjust the low speed pilot jet to be a bit richer near idle (the "three turn mod"), so the bike is much harder to stall in technical low speed riding, and that is a huge improvement. 3. The XT250 desperately needs a 6th gear. Putting on a 16 tooth front sprocket is a VAST improvement for all street and back road riding, but it does make tight technical single track even worse than the stock 15 tooth in first gear, which is just a bit higher than it should be for such slow riding. And if you gear it down, with a 14 or 13 tooth front sprocket, you lose too much from 5th gear to cope with highway speeds any more. Finally, changing the front sprocket is hard because it has one huge nut holding it on, that needs very high torque, and has a washer with fold-over tabs to secure it. That means you can't change sprockets on the road with your tool kit, you need to be in the shop, unlike the XT225 that just has 2 small bolts holding a spline-locking retainer. The ultra wide ratio 6 speed on the XT225 really is a miracle, and the trivial ease of changing front sprockets only makes it better. And all that said, the XT250 is still a great bike, and I am very glad it will stick around.
Thanks so much for the info and the reminders, you're so uniquely qualified to compare these bikes! I really didn't know the XT250's lean idle could be a liability on the trails. I think Dynojet was offering a programmable ECU for the XT250 for a time but now it's illegal in the US (though still available overseas)...? And it's a bummer they didn't space the 5-speed just a little wider. I'd love to have them both in the garage, like you, to make those comparisons myself. You know how it goes, it's always fun to try something new. :)
I've had my 2015 XT250 for a year and put nearly 7000km on it and I love it. I really wish they made it a 6 speed with a lower 1st gear and a taller 6th gear for highway riding like the xt225. After becoming a better rider though, the 1st gear is quite manageable and not much of an issue for me anymore. Personally I've never had an issue with the fuel injection though, but that's probably because I learned to ride offroad with this bike so it's what I'm used to. It's awesome for commuting since the bike fires right up every time, even when it's very cold out. Compared to all the other dual sports I've tried, the xt250 also happens to have a very soft and comfortable seat which makes it much more bearable for long rides. One of my favourite parts about the xt250 is that it is very fuel efficient and has a 9.6L tank giving it a great fuel range compared to most other dual sports (250ish km I believe). My brother has a 2017 TW200 which is also a blast to ride. Crawling up hills in 1st gear like a tractor with the TW is just glorious :)
I would like to add the big nut is not a huge deal. It’s a 30mm and 80ft/lbs to tighten. This is no more than an average lug nut on a passenger car. I can definitely change my front sprocket on the trail. I stand on the right side standing on the rear brake, crack the 30mm nut loose and then loosen my chain and replace. I upgraded to a sun star 16 tooth which allowed for my speedo to be accurate instead of reading high, and allows me to cruise at 60-65 comfortable. It does suffer on the low end but that’s okay because I’ve yet to have any serious setbacks even out on single track.
I liked watching your video as you make some good points for enthusiasts to consider. I just purchased an '83 xl 600r, and also have a '86 klr 600 as well. I love the 80's vintage dual sports, and like you have been riding since I was 12 (same yr. as you - 1975). Some years ago I had a Suzuki SP 200 when I got back into dual sporting with a military friend. I loved the lightness of that bike, and it was great for the kind of riding you were doing in this video. The SP was really not great above 55ish on the road (at least not for me). It is really important to consider what kind of riding you want to do b/f purchasing a dual sport. I see that their are now many offerings in the 250 class with chineese bikes (hawk, Bashan etc).
Hey, Chris, this is in Dearborn County, Indiana, just over the state line from Cincinnati, Ohio, where I live. It's a favorite local route. While there isn't much within the city of Cincinnati there are some nice rural routes just over the river in Indiana and northern Kentucky.
In south america we don't get TW200. We get the XTZ 125, 150 and 250. And yes it's alot more plastic and cheap stickers on them. The XTZ 250 is pretty good although only 20hp In it. But I'm leaning towards the DR650 as it can do highways.
So what dual sport could you recommend for a 5’ nothing girl? I know there are lowering links and deeper seats out there. I would do that for her but I’m looking for a small bike that she can come ride off road and on road with me :)
Hey, Kyle, there aren't a ton of dual sport options for short, inexperienced riders but there's a GREAT thread on this over on ADVRider titled "Shortypants Thread: We are short women and this is what we ride:" bit.ly/2D7T0yG . Spend a little time on there and I think you'll get some great ideas. A kind of common theme seems to be that both height and bike weight are concerns when learning, so it's easiest to learn on a lightweight, low to the ground off road bike like a TTR125, DRZ125, CRF125F, etc., before moving up to a road legal bike. Then, the shortest, lightest dual sports currently are the TW200, XT250, and DR200 (or an older XT225 like mine). One thing I'll mention is that it can be kind of misleading if you go to a dealership and just hop on new bikes before they're broken in...the stiff seats and suspensions make them seem taller than they'll be after just a few rides, so keep that in mind. I hope this helps point you in the right direction and let me know if she gets a bike!
Yamaha XT 225 is best, You can find them used in cycle trader newspapers, or a Yamaha TW 200, A Suzuki DR 200, a Yamaha XT 250, A Kawasaki KLX 230, A Honda CRF 230 used bikes. anything else will be too high.
Looks like the DR250 and djabel 250. The interesting thing on those they were 6 spds. of course those came out in the 90's and the 2000. And one word lowering links would put almost all the the 250's in 5' range.
One of the nicest features of the XT250 is the alum finished rims, I would never buy a bike with blacked out rims, though I realize black rims are popular.
I'm 62yo and want to get back into riding. I foolishly gave up my motorcycle endorsement license and now due to covid it is difficult to get it back. So I'm here watching videos to get some vicarious enjoyment.
I was 61 last year when my wife and kids finally agreed to get me a Serow xt250 2019 in Philippines. But then still hesitant to ride because of too much aggressive drivers around our place unlike the old days on the 80s. I used to ride a beat up Suzuki TS100 and Honda 400 then but haven’t ridden again since 2004 😭. Well, my son enjoys riding them on light trails (no boulders and logs around) and to work more often than our Navara 😂. I’m just worried getting hurt seriously because I still need to be 100% fit for overseas thats all. But next year, I will just try the backroads and up the nearby hills in Rizal area together with my son and friends with our Navara with us for sure 😜🙏🏼✌️. Keep safe and God Bless😷🤗
Greetings, I am at that point where my body is telling me to downsize, lol (large BMW tourbike) and I confess the idea of getting back into some adv exploring off-pavement is in my head now after even earlier than 1975 on a Trail 90 :), but I am going back and forth about carb versus FI. I live at 1200' so carb wouldn't be an issue around here but I also dearly love Ouray and New Mexico and after probably 12-15 years of dragging 4X4s to Ouray I swore I would never do carb again there..and yet I NEED to go over those passes on a bike before it becomes obviously too stupid for me to attempt ROFL. So...has anyone done the major trails around Ouray on a TW200? Do they turn into 5 HP gasping for air paper weights trying to get up Imogene? I have seen some clips on xt250s doing it so no worries there, I guess, but it seems the fatter tires on the tw are more forgiving if they slide into a rut with all the tread on the sides of the tires versus a skinnier tire, so I am very indecisive on making the decision between a TW or XT, need some underpin on the TW, toward which I am leaning even though I am 5'10 and 210 at least, lol. Thanks, thumbs up!
Have you watched the TDubsKid channel on UA-cam? He's a smaller rider but he goes EVERYWHERE on his TW200, including elevation. I think he'd be able to offer some great insight into your questions about the TW. Good luck!
I had a tw200, loved it. Traded i to a wr250r, also a fantastic bike, Im currently on my second WR250r. My dads got an XT250, its also really fun to ride. Theyll go anywhere
It sounds like you guys are the ultimate Yamaha family! All great bikes you've described. It's cool you and your dad can enjoy motorcycling together...that's how I got started years ago and I've continued with it my whole life. :) Thanks for watching!
I’m pushing 70 with a very short stick and went for the TW primarily for the lower stature and comfort. I do wish however that it came in a 250 configuration. I’ve had the Suzuki DR 400 and a Kawasaki 250 but found them too uncomfortable, the TW is much kinder to my old body plus it’s not going to doing any serious trails, mostly gravel backroads to take me fishing. Plus, I’m not fussed with no fuel injection. So it goes.
I wish that they upgrade the lighting for the XT250 and give it a new instrument panel (so that it does not look like a dinosaur) That would make the bike more valuable, since it is still a light weight dual-sport, with low seat height (almost non-existing out there).
Hey 212driller, I'm using a GoPro Hero 5 Black and the standard adhesive helmet mount and connectors that GoPro makes. The Hero 5 is an older model but it suits my purposes well!
I have owned many, many motorcycles over the past 12 years. Usually I only keep two in my garage. For some reason I never sold my XT250....not sure why, I had much nicer more advanced bikes, but this bike is truly superfun to ride on street and dirt and is indestructible. This is a bike you keep for life.
I am 56 and I have a Kawasaki KLX250 and I love it. I never knew a small slow bike could be so fun. I find myself looking for a backroad to take everywhere I go.
Whenever i am on my XT250, locally it is specifically the Serow 250, I see more of wherever i am going, great bike too, very reliable fun and plenty of power
After 28 years of riding I downsized from my old bike (a 650) to a 2019 TW200. What a fun bike!
I love to hear these stories! Simple and fun...I'd love to have a TW, also. Ten years ago or so you could find a deal on a used one but now their popularity and the prices have really climbed. I'm keeping my eyes open, though...
I love my tw200. Such a great bike!
Ive bought n sold a few bikes over the years since 1974. My first bike to get my first lic. at 16 was a brand new '74 Kawi 100cc enduro model. Bro n law co- signed for me. I worked part-time to pay that note.
My friends got Yam/Honda 100-125's as their first. We spent summers riding to, on-street, then off street into the Houston area bayous. A blast.
I spent next couple years using it as my only ride, year round to school, work, anywhere i had to be. At 18 got my car lic n never looked back.
At 62 now, been thru a couple new street bikes, used Dual Sport 650s over the years.
I just sold my '11 VStrom DL650 a month ago. Just wasn't riding it. It was geared up nice for full adv riding by previous owner.
I only logged 350 miles in 3 years and all on local paved roads. YES. Shame on me!
I already miss having a bike to just ride 1 hour now n then. Now, like you, I'm wanting a lighter, simpler, 250cc-400cc dual purpose style just to kick around on now n then.
I see alot of used, bigger, expensive, loaded Adv bikes for sale locally. Nice but i don't need all that. I may have to buy my first brand new bike in many years to get what i want.
Was really leaning to a new KTM 390 Adv. But now watching all these vids of the Japanese 250's, I wil probably go that route for price and reliability. Great video here, nice riding area too. peace, e.
I LOVE my TWs, and I’ve ridden everything (including an XT225, which I was also fond of). My 2016’s pretty hopped up, but my second/loaner/girlfriend bike is an almost totally stock 2019 TW, and aside from highway riding and airing it out like a slower MX bike (which I all-but don’t do anyway), it’ll do everything I need a bike to, and is just SO easy to ride ANYWHERE. Love Yamaha’s dual-sport bikes, and I’m not sure I’ll ever buy a non-TW again, I just don’t need a different bike. With distracted drivers being so ubiquitous, I have less and less desire to do my two-wheelings outside of trails and backroads these days.
I’m sure emissions will force EFI and a six-speed onto the TW eventually, which would both be welcome additions in my opinion, at which point I wouldn’t be mad about another inch of F/R travel and a rear disc either, but like I said, they’re just fine the way they are, too.
We all tend to get greedy and want more power, more everything but sometimes less is more.
I was terrible for always changing bikes but the last exchange was a Honda FireBlade for a new 2018 Honda CRF 250L. It was a great move and no way will l be going back to bigger, more complex machines.
I’m just getting into motorcycles now, starting on a ‘92 XT225 and I’ve loved it so far. It’s been great, and with only 3000 miles I’m hoping it’ll last me a good long while. I’m glad they’re keeping stuff like this in production, I’m not one for change
Enjoyed the video, thank you Yamaha for keeping a great bike around!
Right on, Mike! I like to hope they might actually be listening to us. :)
After my Harley day, after a Razr, happy to be back on the trails at 75 on my Tdub.. fun and great for exploration 👍
That's great! Now that I think about it, I've never, ever heard of an unhappy Tdub owner.
@@jimmytmoto You’d be hard-pressed to find one. They’re just super fun, tough, easy-to-ride ANYWHERE little bikes, even my speed-demon MX/sportbike/Harley friends can’t help but enjoy a ride on my TWs in spite of themselves.
what elevation are you riding at?
It's discontinued here in Japan, there's a rumor that a 250 possibly (300) tenere will come out.
But it is still unclear, XT might come back.
Honda's 300 rally would make sense that Yamaha would match it in this category. They are just slow. They should at least leak the information, but they don't seem to care about these things. If they build it they will come kind of attitude from Yamaha.
I hope they (the big four) recognize the need for these simple little bikes.
I have a DR 200 and absolutely love it.
I had a XT 225 for many years, put it in places nobody could walk through, muddy bogs, slimepits and swamps and it rarely gave me any problems, I kept it until it was burning oil and sold it to a guy who restores them, he had a motorcycle shop and he rebuilt bikes and resold them. Now I have a XT 250 and its a good bike but the 225 was better in some aspects, the front was lighter, it turned easier, had a 6th gear, had a faster top end, lighter weight, better seat, lower to the ground, they also made more aftermarket parts for it such as footpegs and windshields.but the XT 250 has a few things the 225 is missings, disc brakes, higher ground clearance, sturdier rear wheel, wider handlebars, better speedometer and gauges, and fuel injection, cranks up in the coldest weather easily.
I had an '80 XT250 when I lived in NM in the mid '90's. I loved that bike! The only issue I had was when I went up in the mountains it was a pain to get started if I shut it off.
Looking to get a TW200 next season looks like a great all around enduro
Hi Jimmy. Mega thanks for this video, watched the end of it showing your trip. Sorry if you know this technique already, but I went on a off road holiday for a week in Spain on Suzuki 400, and we were taught to stick our elbows out on rougher terrain as it gives more control of the front of the bike. I found it really worked. Cheers. Ange, Preston, UK
Just bought a new XT250 last month. Love it. It really was the only bike that needs and inseam size. Haven't owned a bike since the early 90s which was a CX650. My Dad passed recently and left behind a 75 XL250. Getting that bike up and running again inspired me to get a new one. The new XT brought me back to my roots in that the first bike I had on the road "legally" in the early 80s was a 1971 DT1. After that I moved to a 73 XL250 and then in the mid 80s a 83 XL600.
2021 already looking up!
I had a early xt250 and more recently a TW200. Last month went and bought a 2021 Xt250M with fuel injection , disk brakes, 5 speed trans, and an electric start. I lowered it two inches right off and its just about a perfect bike for me at 5' 3" an 112 lb. What an exciting ride at 71 years old!....
That's great to hear, Joey! At 57 I plan on riding my XT225 until it absolutely gives up the ghost. At that point I'd imagine moving to the XT250. Enjoy the ride!
Great thoughts in this video; guy knows what he's talking about. I'm an XT250 owner & I picked it for the same reasons you mentioned in this video. I love your 225 btw ;-)
Right on, Night Fury! Us XT owners (225 OR 250) do love our bikes.
It can be quite interesting to peruse major motorcycle manufacturers websites from various countries around the world to see what bikes are available and surprisingly still in production. The little Suzuki GN 125 cruiser was first introduced and sold in the United States in 1982. It was available for one more year then sales here discontinued. Surprisingly you can still buy a brand new 2020 model unchanged after 38 years shown on Suzuki Mexico and Colombia. The most mind blowing bike I found is on Suzuki of Kenya. A BRAND NEW 2020 TS185ER two-stroke dual sport that's been in continuous production since 1971.
Wow! Very cool! I had a little TS125 back in the late seventies!
@@TK-cl1jm, if only there was a way to ship a brand new 2020 TS 125 out of Africa, lol. The reason Suzuki still makes these bikes is the lack of emissions regulations in Kenya and the fact they can sell so many.
I've owned numerous bikes since 1968 and my favorite one is my 81 XT250. I ride it every chance I get.
Its hard to improve on perfection! Nice video.
So true! Thanks, Charles!
Thanks a lot for great content I can watch with my two little boys. We all really enjoy it. It both stokes the desire for a dual sport and helps me to live vicariously through watching you ride. It’s hard to find clean content, and I really appreciate you sharing.
My 2015 TW has black wheels.👍🏼 I would love to see/own a 6 speed TW200 (TW250) with fuel injection, dual disc brakes, and bumped up to a 250cc. All while keeping the same form factor and seat height.
First off, I love your vids - I'm a fan and have subbed! If they made the TW250 you described I would buy one, without a doubt. That would make it capable of farther road travel and would be a BLAST off road. It really doesn't seem like it's asking for too much...
jimmytmoto Thanks for subscribing! Agreed. The long distance road miles on the TW are harsh!
7 speed. Another gear on top for low rpm cruising while keeping down low ratios for off road. My DR350 has 6 gears and I’d love 7!
Xt’s are so great that even the idiot who stole mine wanted one so badly.
Oh, man, I'm laughing and crying for you at the same time.
Sorry for your loss. Maybe you could have explained how and we could all learn a lesson? 👍🏻
V Alaudae honestly, a very good lock and chain, alarm, disc brake too and theft insurance lol, the one night I didn’t have my alarm/disc brake on it, and I didn’t have theft insurance. I think the bike had been watched too.
@@braydicus Bastards.
I wish the xt250 had a 6 speed transmission like the xt225 had. It also had a huge weight gain over the Xt225. 291lb vs 238 for the XT225. Now one is wet, the other dry weight, but fluids don't add up to 53 lbs. I have a XT225 and love it but wanted a bit more. I looked at the KTM's but the maintenance was much higher I ended up getting a Suzuki DR650. I rode the 225 today. it is still fun and if just going on trails is perfect.
The TW would also be a deal with a 6 speed and maybe 300cc.
Agreed on all of that, DannyB. It's cool you went with the DR650 - I'm a fan of the DR and the fact that they give an easy stock lowering option for the suspension. We definitely do need a good, affordable option in the middle, something in the 300cc to 350cc range. On the TW that would be way cool!
I recently bought an Africa Twin. I'm 65 and very short. You make a lot of sense. I wish I had watched this video before I bought my AT. I love your footage, it really helps make your point.
I hear they are very hard to handle on tough terrain, especially for us shorter guys. Allow me to tell you what to do, lol!😉 I say sell the pig, unless it is really working out for you. Life is too short to try to round peg a square hole, especially with a passion like motorcycles!
Just got back into riding after a bit more than a decade, 52. Bought a lovely V7III, but want to add either the XT or the TW to the fam.
Cheers from Vermont!
@@TK-cl1jm Wise words.
Excellent video, considering getting my first Dual Sport, this has been very helpful...
I owned a 2006 TW for 8 years and just sold it 3 weeks ago for my 2017 XT250. I'm still wondering if I made the right choice. The XT is a great bike, but I loved the TW. I took the TW to hell and back and it never let me down or left me stranded. Loved the video BTW.
Amod here
A mod here and there and you'll be happy . .
Thanks, it's always good to hear from another XT/TW owner! It seems like TW200 owners are among the very most loyal out there. I've never even ridden one but would love to have one in the garage. What is it that made the T Dub so special do you think? That said, I hope you do find the same connection with the XT250. Just keep riding it and I'm sure you'll discover its strengths.
i had both bikes! both are great bikes but i like xt250 better!
Enjoyed the video. I have been riding since 1964 and currently have the Yamaha XT660R, but my wife has an XT250 and at the age of 75 still happily tackles trails and adventures. I often "steal" her XT250 to go for short jaunts as it is such a delightful little bike to ride. I really love single cylinder bikes for their light weight, simplicity and versatility. Started off on BSA and Matchless singles in the 1960's and then the first Yamaha XT500 in 1976. My current XT660R is my ninth Yamaha big single, along with a smattering of 250's and 200's. Thanks for a great video.
You're welcome, Bruce! I always love to hear about different riders' experiences and that we're not slowing down as we get older. Every ride is a gift!
Nice video with competent concise summaries. Thanks!
Wish we had these type of back roads in Southern California. Nice video. Very relaxing to see the scenery. Just picked up an XT250, but should have waited for 2021 model, nicer color scheme. but I also wish it had 6th gear. Keep it up.
Congrats on the XT250, Rommel! And believe me, I do appreciate having these back roads nearby. Hopefully you have some fireroads, trails, or riding areas that aren't too far away? I think the XT250 is an awesome bike and if I was buying new, that's the route I'd go!
Jimmy, nice video. I wonder if you could share your opinion on a new, 62-y/o, 5'8", 185-lb, rider using a TW200 to cross country on the TAT on a TW200 vs XT250. I have no interest in riding anywhere other than trails (and there are none in VA Beach area), but obviously will require to do so as part of the TAT. I understand there are few "adventure" accessories for the XT250 as well.
Agree with all your comments. Are you going to share a video about your headlight mod?
Yep, you can look for that next week!
That to me looks like a very relaxing way to spend the day just enjoying your little bike and riding it along
Was looking for a TW200 or Suzuki Vanvan200 for months, Just had a dealership call me and say they're bringing in 3 Tw200's so of course I bought one
TW300 with a larger fuel tank. That would be a gamechanger.
Great video! I can`t help but be curious about the location; with tunnels, creeks, bridges and narrow sections, it`s just fantastic!
Yep, this is my favorite close-to-home riding loop. It's near Guilford, Indiana, just 20 or so miles outside of Cincinnati, Ohio.
It would be nice if I could find either one of these great bikes.
Excellent news.. i prefer the yamaha blue though. Shame you can't get the xt225 any more.
Thank you Sir. for sharing thoughts and consideration... great educational video. Have fun and be safe Sir.💐
Thank you that was a lot of great information. Appreciate it
I have an 83 XR200r light and nimble but I wish it had the pegs about two inches back. Changed the handlebars and that helped. I do like the black on those bikes and would love to try out a TW200. Happy trails from the PNW.
I'm a 55 yr old retired guy, I started riding a Z50 when I was 6. I agree with you 100%, my last REAL bike was a reworked DR650S I did all the stuff I did to it will be done eventually. Protection first, then tank, then preformance. The DR showed me what I "could" do, if I wanted to go hard, I don't want to git er done, by sending it on the 650. I can pick my way up a path now. I put money down on a 2022 TW, but Ive been riding one of the Coleman BT200s and its got 6.5 hp maybe. LOL. But I know i can ride the TDUB, places I would be afraid because of the weight, seat height, even after a Seat Concepts lowered seat and lowering it on the suspension linkage. But with a light torque filled motor yea I'll go there!
New sub
A little more fuel capacity and a kick start, please. Still a fun bike as is.
I think I would like the TW200 more if it had a kick starter as well as te electric start. It's always nice to have options!😊
In my opinion, the reason why the XT and TW are "back" for 2021 is that with the effects of COVID19 on lifestyles there is bit of a boom going on in anything outdoor related. Yamaha has ready made made outdoor fun machines in the XT and TW, it would be foolish for the company to stop production on them at this point.
@@YoungJay5597 Or maybe its all a huge conspiracy and Yamaha got word from the Illuminati that they would be spreading a killer virus around the world that would keep everyone from gathering indoors. Hmmm 😐
@@YoungJay5597 Okay for real... I'm not going to pretend to know how motorcycling manufacturing works...but I'd image if production on a model stop, then markets changed production could be ramped up quickly.
No matter, I'm glad to see them back, both are great entry bikes and we need more new riders.
It's hard to know how or why some decisions are made. Like, why have other markets been getting the XTZ250 Lander for years and we've been getting the XT? Regardless, I'm glad it didn't just disappear and leave a hole in the lineup. I have this crazy hope that Yamaha actually sees comment threads like this and understands the many reasons we like these simple, smaller bikes.
I agree completely… That’s exactly why I bought the TW 200 and I am happy as a clam!
Do you have your camera mounted on your shoulder?
Do you have a video on your camera and sound set up, do you get horrible
wind noise on the hwy?
Edit; I see now at 13:03 , you have an extension off your helmet, the camera moves around
a bit and makes it look like its on or over or on your shoulder.
I have a 22 xt250 on its way, I like an hour north of Columbus, any good trails you know of up this way for a beginner?
I love lightweight low cc motorcycles. Less hassle, more fun.
Right on, Little Fishy! It seems obvious to us and I'm surprised more people haven't discovered this. I see a lot of people struggling on the trails when they could be having much more fun on a smaller bike.
Me too. I've only rode street but that's always been my preference. And now that I'm going to get a dual sport next, it will be another 250. Smaller bike are just fun.
Nice riding man. XT available here in Phils as Serow. We are close to Japan. Love the bike
Thanks, Mikael! I'm jealous of all the cool smaller dual sports and motorcycles you get in the islands. Here in the US most people think it has to be bigger to be better. But we know better!
The best improvement Yamaha could do is to make the rims tubeless. So you could fix the flats when you are in the middle of nowhere.
Anything you can do on a SEROW you can do on a BMW 1200, just remember to take a burly film crew with you as did McGregor & Boorman. If you have any doubts about the XT225 or SEROW as we know it, read "Lois on the loose" by Lois Pryce.
Well, I found out today ( actually confirmed what I already knew to a point ) is the absolute pulling power from less than walking speed up a 25 degree rocky as heck hill. I mean it seemed the bike was going to stall at any second when I got thrown sideways several times but just twisted the throttle a tad and it just kept going. Very impressed.. I had bikes with far more power but none at less than walking speed that kept going. I did put a 14T front sprocket on it. They also have a 13T that I can't imagine how slow you could go with that one without putting your feet down..
I think you nailed it NoBs, that's something I've discovered, too. The XT allows you to navigate tough terrain at a really slow, controlled speed without having to hammer the clutch or work hard to keep the bike in control. It just...sort of...keeps...pulling...
@@jimmytmoto Back in 1975 my friend bought a new Yami 175cc Enduro. I had a Kawi 100cc Enduro. I was always so impressed how slow n strong his 175 could pull up steep dirt/mud inclines. At times with 2 up riding. I added n dropped teeth on my Kawi n it just was as good as his stock bike.
Considering a used Dual purpose/Enduro now. I was gonna hunt for a old 175. But this XT250 sounds like it might be a damn mountain goat too. . I think it's just "a Yamaha thing". Nice. This would be my first Yamaha. Always owned Honda,Kawis n Suzuki.
It's funny, after coming back seeing this after the discontinuing of the wr250r, it really has me wonder what Yamaha may be planning...
Where are you riding its gorgeous!?
I came very close to buying the Suzuki DR200S, because the TW200 was not available in New Zealand. Then unexpectedly a small stock if them got here, and I jumped at the chance to have one.
The ones I have had, TT500, XT250, XT550, XT650, KLR 650, DR 400, now I am 55 and want another. The 550 was the most fun 1981
Great video!
Great to see you respecting the ecology J.
Just doing my little part to save the tadpoles.
I like the fat tires but, the front fender seems too close to the front wheel.
Do they make larger furl tanks for these 2 bikes?
I'm in my late 50's and have always rode enduros, I've had the big bore bikes but I was younger then. I bought a new dr200 because I can swing my leg over it unlike my last bike where it got to the point to where I had to find a curb to get on the thing. Sure the 200 isn't powerful but it is a lot of fun and is light enough to where you can do about anything off road on it.
Thinking abouts getting a 250 dual sport, yea my 89 xt600 is huge and a very tall seat height
glad to hear your shoulder is going well mate👍 yep the light bikes are the go 😉👌
keep well Sir and ride Safe ish 🤣😉🍺
I enjoy watching your video
By the way, you sound very young in 30's
Thanks
Does it have a Iron cylinder? or a Nikasil liner?
What Part of WV are you in? Northern Panhandle here, Ohio County.
Great review and spot on ! Mine is a 2015 Serow, I’ll be keeping this bike till I can no longer ride. It’s more fun than my other two rides 👍 it’s built like a tank
im gettin a xt250 2021 that black looks clean
I have been riding since 1974 and I had over 25 bikes over the years and started on 100cc road and trail bikes and the man had many bigger bikes all the way to R1 but my heart will always be with the Yamaha xt250
It's amazing Yamaha didn't up the HP and torque up a bit towards YZ levels here in the States over the years.. Are the engines that much different ? That, a 30 lb weight loss, and a 6 speed and it would be a whole new ball game. Yamaha might have a list waiting for deliveries.
Wr250r. why would you have two bikes compete direct with eachother in the same company?
@@alphacapo I don't think the WR 250 r is street legal for one thing which if true, is a major difference. The WR 250 has more power, better suspension and a better ( higher ) price tag. The XT has gobs of torque and if a 14T sprocket is installed, it's a real tractor but still capable of dishing out some speed. It's not an MX bike and neither is the WR. The YZ will smoke both bikes. Some guys mention the lack of torque in the WR as a concern. 2 different bikes for different purposes. A couple more ponies and the XT would be even more fun than it already is.. and of course a tad better suspension to match the power output.
@@ngzcaz it is street legal....that's why they don't give the XT major uprades they want you to spend money for the WR. The XT is fine for what it is. Its a back road & farm bike. Not a performance race machine like the YZ ....or a full dual purpose like the WR
@@alphacapo Quite frankly, if the WR is street legal I can't think of a good reason except it's a better/quicker version of the XT250.. at more money of course. Which maybe is one of the reasons for the XT250's existence. One other possibility is the seat height. If the WR is 2 inches higher or more, it becomes less desirable to a shorter rider. I'm one of them. I passed on several other bikes after mounting them. In off camber mountainous/rocky terrain putting your feet down occasionally is a frequent occurrence. 2 feet down is over twice as good as one foot.
Great video bro .. xt250 or crf250l which one would you choose ?
Oh, man, that's the big question. Spec-wise the CRF250L wins for most people, with the water cooling, longer suspension travel, and six speed transmission, and there are a lot of aftermarket goodies you can have fun with. The engine is a descendant of the CBR250R road bike so it's probably better for higher speed road riding, too. The area where the XT250 shines is with its lower seat height, lower weight, and the bike's simplicity. So, for me as a short rider, I'd probably go with the XT. But if I was taller then the decision would be harder.
Try drz 250 more power less weigh
The biggest issue I have with CRF250L is the weight. Any bike that weights more than 300 lbs is not considered dual-sport for me. The XT250 on the other hand is just like a dinosaur for me. I am waiting for new CRF250L with dual spark technology coming up soon.
@@mattingray5651 Sheesh, do you have to do this to me?! I have been trying to decide between the TW and the XT, and NOW you have me googling the CRF!!
😄
This really is great news, the market still very much needs the XT250 and TW200, for all the reasons you give and more. Simple and bullet proof with air cooling, no radiators or hoses to get holed by sticks in the bush making you walk home. Low seat allows both feet on the ground for stability, which is very helpful for slow, older and non-aggressive riders, especially in tricky spots. Wonderfully quiet stock exhaust is a rarity in the industry, and plays very well when sharing trails with walkers and cyclists, allowing us to be examples of polite riders who help them not mind allowing motorbikes on the trails.
As a guy who rescued myself from having no bike by buying a brand new 2015 XT250, and then "upgraded" a year later to a 2007 XT225 because of your video Jimmy, I happen to be unusually qualified to weigh in on a few points here ;) 1. The XT225 ran until 2007, the XT250 replaced it in 2008 (at least here in Canada). 2. The fuel injection on the 2013 and later XT250 is OK, it starts instantly and runs very well, but I consider it a liability because it can't be tuned or adjusted at all. This means no alternate mufflers or airbox mods. Worst, it is tuned WAY too lean, such that it hesitates, stutters and easily stalls when you squirt the throttle from or near idle, and such low RPM riding happens all the time on tight technical single track, and this means you stall the bike WAY too often for comfort. The XT225 lets you adjust the low speed pilot jet to be a bit richer near idle (the "three turn mod"), so the bike is much harder to stall in technical low speed riding, and that is a huge improvement. 3. The XT250 desperately needs a 6th gear. Putting on a 16 tooth front sprocket is a VAST improvement for all street and back road riding, but it does make tight technical single track even worse than the stock 15 tooth in first gear, which is just a bit higher than it should be for such slow riding. And if you gear it down, with a 14 or 13 tooth front sprocket, you lose too much from 5th gear to cope with highway speeds any more. Finally, changing the front sprocket is hard because it has one huge nut holding it on, that needs very high torque, and has a washer with fold-over tabs to secure it. That means you can't change sprockets on the road with your tool kit, you need to be in the shop, unlike the XT225 that just has 2 small bolts holding a spline-locking retainer. The ultra wide ratio 6 speed on the XT225 really is a miracle, and the trivial ease of changing front sprockets only makes it better.
And all that said, the XT250 is still a great bike, and I am very glad it will stick around.
Thanks so much for the info and the reminders, you're so uniquely qualified to compare these bikes! I really didn't know the XT250's lean idle could be a liability on the trails. I think Dynojet was offering a programmable ECU for the XT250 for a time but now it's illegal in the US (though still available overseas)...? And it's a bummer they didn't space the 5-speed just a little wider. I'd love to have them both in the garage, like you, to make those comparisons myself. You know how it goes, it's always fun to try something new. :)
I've had my 2015 XT250 for a year and put nearly 7000km on it and I love it. I really wish they made it a 6 speed with a lower 1st gear and a taller 6th gear for highway riding like the xt225. After becoming a better rider though, the 1st gear is quite manageable and not much of an issue for me anymore. Personally I've never had an issue with the fuel injection though, but that's probably because I learned to ride offroad with this bike so it's what I'm used to. It's awesome for commuting since the bike fires right up every time, even when it's very cold out. Compared to all the other dual sports I've tried, the xt250 also happens to have a very soft and comfortable seat which makes it much more bearable for long rides. One of my favourite parts about the xt250 is that it is very fuel efficient and has a 9.6L tank giving it a great fuel range compared to most other dual sports (250ish km I believe). My brother has a 2017 TW200 which is also a blast to ride. Crawling up hills in 1st gear like a tractor with the TW is just glorious :)
I would like to add the big nut is not a huge deal. It’s a 30mm and 80ft/lbs to tighten. This is no more than an average lug nut on a passenger car. I can definitely change my front sprocket on the trail. I stand on the right side standing on the rear brake, crack the 30mm nut loose and then loosen my chain and replace. I upgraded to a sun star 16 tooth which allowed for my speedo to be accurate instead of reading high, and allows me to cruise at 60-65 comfortable. It does suffer on the low end but that’s okay because I’ve yet to have any serious setbacks even out on single track.
I liked watching your video as you make some good points for enthusiasts to consider. I just purchased an '83 xl 600r, and also have a '86 klr 600 as well. I love the 80's vintage dual sports, and like you have been riding since I was 12 (same yr. as you - 1975). Some years ago I had a Suzuki SP 200 when I got back into dual sporting with a military friend. I loved the lightness of that bike, and it was great for the kind of riding you were doing in this video. The SP was really not great above 55ish on the road (at least not for me). It is really important to consider what kind of riding you want to do b/f purchasing a dual sport. I see that their are now many offerings in the 250 class with chineese bikes (hawk, Bashan etc).
Where is this your riding it looks amazing
Hey, Chris, this is in Dearborn County, Indiana, just over the state line from Cincinnati, Ohio, where I live. It's a favorite local route. While there isn't much within the city of Cincinnati there are some nice rural routes just over the river in Indiana and northern Kentucky.
Looks like a fun ride.
Can you give me a better idea of the differents between the two, I'm getting one but I'm not sure the better for me
In south america we don't get TW200.
We get the XTZ 125, 150 and 250. And yes it's alot more plastic and cheap stickers on them.
The XTZ 250 is pretty good although only 20hp In it.
But I'm leaning towards the DR650 as it can do highways.
I love the DR650 - great bike!
So what dual sport could you recommend for a 5’ nothing girl? I know there are lowering links and deeper seats out there. I would do that for her but I’m looking for a small bike that she can come ride off road and on road with me :)
Hey, Kyle, there aren't a ton of dual sport options for short, inexperienced riders but there's a GREAT thread on this over on ADVRider titled "Shortypants Thread: We are short women and this is what we ride:" bit.ly/2D7T0yG . Spend a little time on there and I think you'll get some great ideas. A kind of common theme seems to be that both height and bike weight are concerns when learning, so it's easiest to learn on a lightweight, low to the ground off road bike like a TTR125, DRZ125, CRF125F, etc., before moving up to a road legal bike. Then, the shortest, lightest dual sports currently are the TW200, XT250, and DR200 (or an older XT225 like mine). One thing I'll mention is that it can be kind of misleading if you go to a dealership and just hop on new bikes before they're broken in...the stiff seats and suspensions make them seem taller than they'll be after just a few rides, so keep that in mind. I hope this helps point you in the right direction and let me know if she gets a bike!
jimmytmoto thank you so much for this insight and I will do just that! Keep you posted!
Yamaha XT 225 is best, You can find them used in cycle trader newspapers, or a Yamaha TW 200, A Suzuki DR 200, a Yamaha XT 250, A Kawasaki KLX 230, A Honda CRF 230 used bikes. anything else will be too high.
@@jimmytmoto You forgot Kawasaki KLX 230
Maybe I missed it but where are you riding? Looks like a great place for some dual-sport action!
Looks like the DR250 and djabel 250. The interesting thing on those they were 6 spds. of course those came out in the 90's and the 2000. And one word lowering links would put almost all the the 250's in 5' range.
One of the nicest features of the XT250 is the alum finished rims, I would never buy a bike with
blacked out rims, though I realize black rims are popular.
Will the XT250 still be available in 2022.
I'm debating between the xt250 and the Klx300. Any advice you can give me? Both are similar in price.
I'm 62yo and want to get back into riding. I foolishly gave up my motorcycle endorsement license and now due to covid it is difficult to get it back. So I'm here watching videos to get some vicarious enjoyment.
Cool place to ride! Wife loves her 2009 XT250!
Thanks, PA! I just checked out your channel...you have some awesome singletrack. I'm subbed and look forward to following along!
jimmytmoto hey thanks! I’ll sub back 👍. That ST is in an old coal mine. Gets pretty rocky. Which is why I enjoyed your Creek bed footage
Fellow Pennsylvania riders. Nice. Be safe on your journeys and have fun.
I was 61 last year when my wife and kids finally agreed to get me a Serow xt250 2019 in Philippines. But then still hesitant to ride because of too much aggressive drivers around our place unlike the old days on the 80s. I used to ride a beat up Suzuki TS100 and Honda 400 then but haven’t ridden again since 2004 😭. Well, my son enjoys riding them on light trails (no boulders and logs around) and to work more often than our Navara 😂.
I’m just worried getting hurt seriously because I still need to be 100% fit for overseas thats all. But next year, I will just try the backroads and up the nearby hills in Rizal area together with my son and friends with our Navara with us for sure 😜🙏🏼✌️. Keep safe and God Bless😷🤗
Mahalo braddah.
You're welcome, jusride7!
New sub here, cool channel. Massillon Ohio here, where are you riding?
I like the snail ajusters
Greetings, I am at that point where my body is telling me to downsize, lol (large BMW tourbike) and I confess the idea of getting back into some adv exploring off-pavement is in my head now after even earlier than 1975 on a Trail 90 :), but I am going back and forth about carb versus FI. I live at 1200' so carb wouldn't be an issue around here but I also dearly love Ouray and New Mexico and after probably 12-15 years of dragging 4X4s to Ouray I swore I would never do carb again there..and yet I NEED to go over those passes on a bike before it becomes obviously too stupid for me to attempt ROFL. So...has anyone done the major trails around Ouray on a TW200? Do they turn into 5 HP gasping for air paper weights trying to get up Imogene? I have seen some clips on xt250s doing it so no worries there, I guess, but it seems the fatter tires on the tw are more forgiving if they slide into a rut with all the tread on the sides of the tires versus a skinnier tire, so I am very indecisive on making the decision between a TW or XT, need some underpin on the TW, toward which I am leaning even though I am 5'10 and 210 at least, lol. Thanks, thumbs up!
Have you watched the TDubsKid channel on UA-cam? He's a smaller rider but he goes EVERYWHERE on his TW200, including elevation. I think he'd be able to offer some great insight into your questions about the TW. Good luck!
@@jimmytmoto Thanks, yeah he was the first one to catch my eye. He's about 120 so I doubt the bike knows he is on it, lol.
I had a tw200, loved it. Traded i to a wr250r, also a fantastic bike, Im currently on my second WR250r. My dads got an XT250, its also really fun to ride. Theyll go anywhere
It sounds like you guys are the ultimate Yamaha family! All great bikes you've described. It's cool you and your dad can enjoy motorcycling together...that's how I got started years ago and I've continued with it my whole life. :) Thanks for watching!
What's your take on the XT250 vs the TW200?
I don’t wish for more power, but a little bigger fuel tank and wider seat for my urs be nice.
I got the TW for the wider seat & put on a bigger tank
I’m pushing 70 with a very short stick and went for the TW primarily for the lower stature and comfort. I do wish however that it came in a 250 configuration. I’ve had the Suzuki DR 400 and a Kawasaki 250 but found them too uncomfortable, the TW is much kinder to my old body plus it’s not going to doing any serious trails, mostly gravel backroads to take me fishing. Plus, I’m not fussed with no fuel injection. So it goes.
Por favor, referencia de esta motocicleta???
Awesome video, I’m going to get one
Love the video. Good stuff... except the stop sign you totally blew through coming off the trail. Be safe
Stop for blue jays? There was another vehicle on that road 4 days earlier. : ), and
a week later...
Nice country where are you riding ?
Should make a XT300 same bike size just a little more cc maybe even add a 6 speed >_>
Soon after that you will want a 350cc and it never ends.
@@JERRYR708 True, but since the other big bike companies are making 300's
I wish that they upgrade the lighting for the XT250 and give it a new instrument panel (so that it does not look like a dinosaur) That would make the bike more valuable, since it is still a light weight dual-sport, with low seat height (almost non-existing out there).
What kind of camera and mount are you using on your helmet?
Hey 212driller, I'm using a GoPro Hero 5 Black and the standard adhesive helmet mount and connectors that GoPro makes. The Hero 5 is an older model but it suits my purposes well!
The XT-250 Definitely Changed In 2013 As It Went From Carbureted To Fuel-Injected. That's More Than Just "Graphics" . . .
The XTZ 250 in South America also has a bigger gas tank