XT250 Quick Riding Impression and comparison to XT225
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- Опубліковано 9 лип 2024
- I was able to take a quick spin on a clean 2015 Yamaha XT250 this past weekend and thought it was a great opportunity to share some impressions and to offer a comparison to my XT225. The 2015 Yamaha XT250 in the video is fuel injected and is basically the same as the very latest model except for color and graphics. A big thanks to Jim B. for the offer!
Dualsport Jeff's mod video on his XT225: • mods i did to my 2002 ...
If you’ve enjoyed this video I hope you’ll give it a “like” and will consider hitting that subscribe button! Have a comment or thought? Please leave it below…comments are always encouraged and appreciated. For more content you can also follow me on Instagram at / jimmytmoto and at my website, jimmytmoto.com .
This channel is for motorcycle riders, mechanics, and enthusiasts who enjoy the simple joys of motorcycling, from dual sport riding to fixing up old bikes on a budget. My videos also consider the perspective of short motorcycle riders (when it’s helpful and relevant) in choosing and modifying bikes and equipment.
I’ve been hooked on motorcycles since 1975 when, at the age of 11, my dad brought home a shiny new Suzuki TM75 for me and a Suzuki TC185 for himself so that we could trail ride together in the hills of West Virginia. Since then I’ve worked as a mechanic, owned countless bikes, and even worked in the motorcycle industry for a number of years as a photographer and journalist. Now I do mainly video production and enjoy nothing more than making and sharing these motorcycle videos on UA-cam.
Thanks again for watching. Ride safe!
- jimmytmoto - Авто та транспорт
Here are the comparison comments from exploder69 that I mentioned in the video:
"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."
Great video! I would also like an XT250, fuel injected, in my garage to play with. So far they are out of my social security budget, maybe some day If I live that long.
"one day its gonna wear out, its a 2006" lmao, my 1993 is still kicking.
I hear you, Mike. There's only so much time and so much money, we have to get out there on what we can, when we can!
I love hearing this! I'm only at 12k right now and gunning for 40k someday...
Thanks for the shout out Jimmy, glad I could contribute even a tiny bit. Your comparison of the difference in how the power is delivered between the 225 and 250 was really interesting, something I had not thought about before. Also great thanks for the link to Jeff's video. My thinking for the following ideas is that the XT225 is such a great and rare gem, and I'm willing to invest in it to keep it alive and to improve it, because so far I am just not seeing anything that looks like a happy way to replace it. How many thousands would it cost me to buy another bike and get it even close to what I want? Might as well play with my 225 instead, it's already so good. So on that note, I think I'm going to have to dive in and put some valves and springs in my forks, even though a rear shock will have to wait at that price (there must be other great options if we can just work out how to spec them). I am also pondering the idea of putting a Lectron carb on the bike, they have a stellar reputation for being really superior, easily the match of fuel injection systems. Or maybe a Keihin? I know the Lectron is very expensive, and it would be an experiment to get it tuned up properly, but combined with improved airbox/filter, and maybe a larger quiet muffler like the XT350 muffler mod, there's a real possibility of squeezing a fair bit more bang out of the 225, possibly enough to fully mitigate any temptations we might have for improved power performance. Adding an oil cooler might also become wise, and should not be hard or expensive to do.
My first bike was a 1980 DT175, 84 KX125, 85 KX250, 88 CR500 and after a 25 year sabbatical, an 02 RM250 and about to purchase a late model DRZ400.
As long as you bike holds together they all have something in common, a sense of freedom and fun......the DT has a special place in my heart. 😍
I had a 1979 DT175 when I was in my teens and rode it everywhere in the high desert of California where I grew up. I’ll always remember that bike with great memories.
I am exactly the audience for this video. Thanks for making it!!!
Great info Jimmy.Cheers! Being a taller chap I find it especially usefull. Team 225!
Thanks for the informative and honest review! Im a street bike guy (Kawasaki Z900rs) but have been thinking of picking up a a small dual-sport to get back to my trail riding roots!
Great video .
Hey thanks for the shout out. That xt250 sounds like a great bike.
You bet. You've done a great job with your XT and I envy those suspension mods! Thanks again for making the video.
I had a 225, but wanted the fuel injection for cold mornings and altitude changes and I wanted the rear disc brake. I ride the heck out of it whenever I don’t need my work truck. I pick up my kid from school, run errands, grocery runs,estimates, meetings and bomb it through the dirt roads on the ranch and through the trails in the foothills. I have had bigger bikes, but I really think this is the best and most useful bike for the price. Its probably paid for 50% of itself in gas savings vs driving my truck for everything. Insurance is stupid cheap also. Other than a rear tire and oil changes I haven’t had to do anything to it.
Thanks for this video, it's a rare comparison, but one that 'should' be done. I like the 225 for the practical side...you get the low end power, etc. The 'boring' part you mention seems to be what makes it great. I was very impressed by the mid range of the 250...it reminded me of the power band of a 2 stroke.
For those who didn't see your other reviews, a 14T front sprocket on the XT250 makes a world of difference when in the dirt, second and third gear much more useable while still allowing for 70 plus ( short distances of course ) on the highway. The difference is tight trails and climbing hills in higher gears is simply amazing.. Guaranteed the best $ 20 you'll ever spend on an XT250..
Just found your channel. Really informative video. Thank you. Keep it up.
Congratz on 1k subscribers JimmyT!
Thanks a bunch, Jason! Hey, Bob and I were just thinking about you. After a few months of nothing happening we're starting to work on photo and video projects together again. I hope you're doing well up north... we're hanging in there in Cincinnati.
@@jimmytmoto I'm hanging in there too. Got myself a 2001 Kawasaki ZRX1200 in black a few weeks ago and having fun with it.
Note your comparison pics between both bikes. The xt225 has a much slacker head angle, ie longer trail. This will help in high speeds but less with tight single trails and vice versa for the xt250.
I agree with John Harris below. I have a 2009 XT250 (carb model). If you do your own maintenance just wait until you have to remove the gas tank to get to the valve covers. It is a PITA! that fuel connector on the tank is hard enough to get off, but coupled with the lack of space, it is a nightmare. And DON"T break that connector! Nothing wrong with a carburetor, except having to re-jet if you ride at greatly varying altitudes
Hey Roland, thanks for the info. This is the kind of stuff you never hear from most bike reviews, you have to hear it from an actual owner that's been there/done that. I appreciate the knowledge!
Nice vid! I have to agree that the handlebars could use a good set of risers. I just put a 30 mm set on my 2019 xt250. Huge improvement for me being that I am 6 ft 2 in and I spend most of my off-road time standing up. It definitely needs bigger footpegs too. I have ridden more powerful and more capable bikes but for some reason the xt250 remains my favorite general purpose dual sport.
I'm glad to hear you're liking the XT250! It's amazing how many riders share your sentiments about having ridden supposedly "better" bikes but the little XTs being their favorite. I'm in that club, too!
Great video! I’m debating which of the two bikes to get right now. 5’6” 175 and looking for a do all go anywhere cycle that’s confidence inspiring and capable. Thanks for the info and keep em coming.
Thanks, Jesse, I"m glad you enjoyed the video! You can't go wrong with either bike, they just have slightly different strengths. While I really love my XT225, they haven't been made for a number of years so finding really clean used ones is getting harder and harder. But if you do find one I'd say to scoop it up! If not, then the XT250 is a great bike, too.
TW200!
i had a 2004 225 the only bike i should of keept
and i have had alot of bikes from honda ct 110 to harleys
Thanks for your review, Jimmy.
I wonder ifYamaha have added a 6th gear to their 2021 model?
Regards from S Africa
Clive
Hey, Clive, we're still getting a 5-speed on the 2021 XT250 here in the US, unfortunately. If they put a 6th gear in it then I'd head to the Yamaha dealer for one, for sure!
How to go about buying a used xt250 for newbie?
I am most likely going to test drive a 2015, XT 250 just like this one. Tomorrow.
I had the Crf250L, it’s nice but heavy! I think this may be my choice.
Let me know what you think of the XT250, Rick. The CRF250L is a phenomenal bike, no doubt, but if it's a smaller, lighter bike you're looking for (like I am), the XT is hard to beat!
Great video again. Jimmy. Also you can install a larger Clarke tank on a 225. No such luck on the 250. You're stuck with the small factory tank. When you like to explore large areas out West, or in Canada or Australia say, that surely counts for something. Why spend twice or three times as much on the XT250 that doesn''t even have 6 speeds? Mmm, I don't get it.
What tire pressure would you suggest for dirt off-road??
The reason for these power issues, they pull back on that capacity so these types of riders don't break their necks.
I'll be needing another front tire this spring. Anyone have experience with the " Fatty " tire up front ? 90/100/21 will be the size. Width shouldn't be an issue but the height might require a mode to the inner front fender. I'll also do a rear change, possibly a bit wider. Probably 70/30 dirt to road right now and the reason for the switch..
Just found your channel and looking for my first dual sport. Also dealing with a 29in inseam. I will go back and watch your other videos, but how do you like your XT225 and how is the 250? Have you also tried a TW200, looking for any input I can get since they seem to neglect the shorter riders a bit.
Hey Rich, sorry I'm just now getting back to you. The TW200 is really interesting. Though the seat is low it's wider than the other bikes, so that might affect how a person fits on it. I actually touch the ground better on the XT250 and XT225! The TW is a blast and unlike anything else. Super smooth and easy to ride on all sorts of terrain. But...it's going to be more limited on speed and distance on the road. For me, the XT225 has been the best all around compromise. That said, I wouldn't hesitate to get the XT250 if I wanted a brand new bike or found a good deal.
Hey, I had a question I've looked around a bit and I was wondering how good the xt250 is on trails. Hope someone can give me an answer, thanks.
I had a XT 225 for many years, The thing was almost bulletproof, went through terrain most hikers couldnt walk through in the swamps behind my property lines. I rode it to work on sunny days winter and summer even though it was hard to start on cold days so I would place a space heater under it to keep the engine warm overnight, the XT 250 had more power between the gears but wasnt as fast as the 225 wide open, the 225 ran single trail a little better, the 250 ruled the street between the 2 except for the top end, the 225 had a more comfortable seat and was lower to the ground, also had more accessories for the 225 at the time. Now there are plenty of 250 accessories available. the 250 handles technical trails very well and the 225 struggled sometimes, the turning radius was pretty short on the 225.. Overall, I want one of each bike. They both have their strong points and weak spots.
I own a 2006 and a 2013 so I understand the difference between the two. I wish the 250 had that 6th gear and the zerk grease fittings on the swingarm like the 2006. My 2006 has a kick start and that has been handy a few times when I left the key on accidentally. I also enjoy the fact that you can turn key the 2013 and not have to worry about the choke.
I would take the 225
Gidday from Australia .
First great video second just saw UA-cam had unsubscribed me had to tap the bell again .
Gidday mate , is I've said before I have the xt225 with rear disc brake.
You can do a straight swap rear end of the xt250 straight onto the xt225 .
A arm wheel with disc brakes.
I had to get a xt250 rear dick and sprocket for my xt225 .
I had to show photo of my bike to Yamaha dealer to prove I wanted a rear disc not drum .
So if you do that suspension up grade and xt250 rear swap , you will then have a more capable bike plus 6 speed and get a larger Clark tank that you can not do with the xt250 .
Let me know what you think .
Great video will try catch up on other videos I've missed .
Ride safe mate
@petertelford4900 The big tank, disk brake and 6th gear sounds the most awesome combo hands down. Now you got me thinking. 👍
Hi Jimmy, did you notice a difference in the peg location between the 250 and your 225? My riding buddy rides a XT225 as well, and one of the things he doesn't like that well is that the peg location causes his legs to be very bent. Thanks.
Hey, Larry, I didn't really notice a difference in the peg position and both bikes were comfortable for my short (28") inseam. Is your friend a bit taller or does he have longer legs, maybe? If so, I'm thinking he'd probably feel a bit bent on the 250, also. Both bikes have a relatively high ground clearance and low seat height, so the peg to seat distance is probably pretty similar. A custom, taller seat and some bar risers might solve his situation. Let me know if he tries any mods to make the bike more comfortable, I'd be interested to hear. Thanks!
what your hight?? i live in latin america i have xtz 150 im 5-10.5 157pound . i feel 5-7 cant ride dirt bike
You can still do 70mph on the highway because I did that last Sunday
Your complaint about the powerband on the xt225 can be solved with a dynojet kit, removing the restrictor in the back of the XT’s muffler and adding a K&N air filter. I noticed my XT felt like that so I put a stage 1 dynojet kit in it and cut the restrictor. Then I put in the K&N filter about a year later. The exhaust manifold is also not ground smooth in the area where it meets the cyclinder head. If you grind it smooth with a dremel that also helps the powerband.
Thanks, Binney Dinney! Since this video I added a UNI filter (not a K&N but it definitely breathes better) and was able to go up one size on the main jet. The overrev is much cleaner! I'm really happy with how it's running. I probably won't modify the muffler but will use your tip and clean up the exhaust manifold next time I'm in there.
So it seems like the XT250 needs a 6th gear to really make it more versatile! How expensive/tough is it to upgrade to one with a 6th gear?
Impossible to add a 6th gear you might as well just change the sprockets or buy the xt225, im sure its cheaper to add a disc brake and more power to an xt225 than to add a 6th gear to the 250
Jimmy were are you riding at? Sorry if you mentioned it.
Hey, RickySails, this is Pike State Forest in South Central Ohio. It's a great network of well maintained off road trails. Check it out if you get a chance!
Does the semi fender above the tire have clearance for a knobby?
It seems to have plenty of clearance but, if there's one thing I don't care for on the bike, it's the front half fender. I'd probably look into getting a full fender if I had the 250.
70 mph on the XT225 seems unusually high. Is that with stock sprockets? Also is that real speed, or per the speedometer. My stock 2006 XT225 barely makes 60 real speed (per a gps). Thanks for the good review.
Thanks, MA-Rider! I have to admit, when I say 70 mph that's what's indicated on the speedo. My riding buddies and I seem to confer on speed when we're group riding so I don't think it could be TOO far off...but I'll definitely check it against GPS and will let you know. That would be a good test for a future video. As for sprockets, it's actually geared down slightly, from a 15t to a 14t on the front. Funny thing is, the lower gearing really didn't really affect top speed much, if at all, because the bike honestly felt overgeared when stock. It just wasn't as happy pulling 6th with the stock gearing, IMO. It's always great to hear from another XT owner, thanks for asking.
How well does the 250 do on highways with 5 speed? I would like to know the rpm’s on both bikes at 70 mph. Thanks.
Jeff, I haven't ridden the 250 on the highway but on a recent ride my friend's XT250 did fine on secondary roads at 65mph. Hopefully an XT250 owner will chime in...? As far as RPM I'm not sure, since my XT225 doesn't have a tach. But I can say that the XT225 will cruise at 65mph in sixth gear at half throttle, geared as it is. Opening up the throttle doesn't offer up a whole lot more in terms of speed or acceleration.
62mph at 6300rpm
Hello, I bought a gear shift indicator in anticipation of buying a Yamaha XT250, but ended up buying a new 2020 Kawasaki Versys X-300. It was too late to cancel the order. It hasn't been out of the box but I would like to send it to someone who can use it. It cost $53 but I am willing to gift it to someone who would want to have it. Let me know if you are interested. I tried two other UA-camrs that I was looking at when researching the XT250 and didn't even get a response. Take care.
Still giving that away??
@@yamaha-rb9tk Yes, still have it. Just need a name and address to send it to. I know you don't want to put that info on youtube. Not sure of how to go about doing this. Let me know how I can send it from Tucson AZ and I'll get 'er done this week.
225s are Brazilian