WR250R is the best bike to learn adventure riding on. It's very forgiving and super stable on gravel roads. Just get one that is fully kitted out with a big tank, comfy seat, suspension upgrade, rally pegs, screen etc. It's a fantastic bike and a WR350R would be a big success for Yamaha.
Trials bike is best for learning, WR-R for dual sport riding. Something lighter than the T7 that's more capable of long highway rides would be nice. (I still did hour long freeway rides on the WR250R. Just scary if people go over 75). An alternative to the KTM 690 enduro R. Like the XR650L or DR650 I guess, those are ok. But if they could be lighter, more modern and 500cc even if not as crazy and high revving as a KTM, it would be sweet. The Kove 450 and Himalayan 450 are too heavy
Agree. I’ve seen some videos of upgrading the crf300l with a big bore kit -and wonder why Honda didn’t do that in the first place. That extra nudge of power made it even better, without being a competitor to the 450
I would LOVE to see Yamaha bring the WR250r back as a 350cc model. The WR was a little too MX in terms of the seat ergonomics for my liking, but otherwise it was an awesome bike. I still say the 350's of the 1980's and 1990's were the best all around dual-sport/enduro-type bikes ever made and considering how well they sold in their day it amazes me not one of the Big 4 has ventured back into that mid-size niche` of the market in the last 15-20 years. Closest thing we have is the DRZ 400S which itself hasn't gotten any real update since it's introduction in 2000 as a more modern replacement for the DR350's which were dropped the following year. It also still baffles me to no end why Honda never released a dual-sport electric start version of the XR400r (a XR400L) after they added the e-start to the engine for use in the EX400 quad in 1999. Major missed opportunity there on Honda's part. The XR line of bikes was still hugely popular at that time for Honda and the only dual-sport offering they had at that time was the XR650L (the XR250L had been dropped in 1996 in the U.S. market), so a street legal version of the XR400r with e-start would have filled a HUGE gap in their line-up, would have been notably cheaper than it's nearest competitor - the DRZ 400S, and it needed little to no resources for R&D to bring it to market. Personally I'd like to see someone - anyone - bring back something similar to the dual-sports of the 1980's and 90's with modern engines featuring fuel injection and electric start, and better fully adjustable suspensions. Keep the rider ergo's more relaxed like a DR or KLR rather than the skinny rock-hard MX-style seats most of the smaller dual-sports now feature. Also no more nose bleed seat heights on everything; bring them back down to a more manageable 30-32" height rather than the 33"+ height most of the dual-sports have today. Something that's not just a "dirtbike with mirrors and turn signals," but something that's also still comfortable to ride on the pavement as well while still offering good off-road performance for trail riding. Let's be honest and face facts, the vast majority of dual-sport owners aren't out there attacking gnarly single track trails littered with obstacles worthy of a hard enduro course. The vast majority just want something simple and fun that's bulletproof reliable for tooling around on managed trail systems, forestry roads, snowmobile trails, etc. They don't need 13" of suspension travel or 12"+ of ground clearance, nor do they need 40+ horsepower or suspension suitable for desert or hard enduro racing. The only bikes currently on the market in the U.S. that come close to fitting this description (IMO) would be the Suzuki DR 400S and the Yamaha XT250 - the latter being on the smaller side in terms of displacement. Something similar to the XT250 in a 350-450 displacement is what we really need, and preferably - if possible with emissions - keep it air-cooled for simplicity and as a cost saving measure to leave more money available for a little better (adjustable) suspension. How about a proper update for the Suzuki DRZ400S? Or how about a larger 350-400cc version of the old Kawasaki KLR250 Super Sherpa How about bringing back the old Yamaha XT350 or upping it to a XT400? And finally Honda...oh Honda! If they can waste time/money on things like the Rune and the Fury, then by God they should be able to find some time and resources to make a proper 350-400cc big brother to the new XR150L for Christ's sake. I don't think that's asking too much of the Big 4, but apparently it is since not one of them has brought something like that to market in nearly 20 years now. *stepping off my soap box* 😁
XT500 with a lightweight air cooled engine would be nice. Only reason I like taller seats as a taller rider is less cramping. The WRR's is about perfect at 6'1"
Absolutely 💯, why oh why haven't the Japanese bikes (Yamaha, Kawa etc) MADE a 350 ???? Come on DO IT.... it will be awesome....10 years to late , but awesome !
I've had mine for 5 years. When it gets tired, I plan on rebuilding with cylinder works and a 2mm stroker crank, making it a 283. The downfalls are lack of freeway power, and the rear shock. I'd put money down on a WR350R.
All you have to do the the WR is spend $150 to unleash the motor and it is the same engine/power of the YZ. And, then live in a free state. In my state you can tag anything with two wheels.
I had two WR250Rs, but sold them both due to anemic power. But would buy another if it was a 350 (minimum) - 500 (preferred). If the Japanese keep dragging their feet, KTM is going to jump in and own this hole that has been in the market for almost 20 years.
Modular platform ,450 to 600 ,4 gallon tank ,tft display, ,6 speed ,35 to 36 inch seat height, with decent suspension for someone over 200lbs, fun to ride easy to wheelie, with long service intervals, 50 to 60 hp,40 to 50 lb feet of torque. With a dry weight around 310 to 370 lbs.
Modular platform ,350 to 500 ,4 gallon tank ,6 speed ,32 to 33 inch seat height, with decent suspension for someone over 200lbs, fun to ride easy to wheelie, with long service intervals, 40 to 50 hp,40 to 50 lb feet of torque. With a dry weight around 250 to 270 lbs.
I just spent 7 days straight riding the wr250r with my enduro riding mates, its such a versatile bike, could it do with more power yes but can you use more power most of the time offroad NO. Id like to see a 300-350 rally version, Honda got it right except for the suspension.
Just bought a farkled out Wr after owning a klx300 and crf250L and this bike is so much better than both of them. So much fun, the motor is a blast, very refined and smooth. Absolutely love the WR. This is my 11th motorcycle and my favorite. Don’t sleep in the Wr
I am an American living in Thailand and I have the Yamaha wr155. Yes it's heavy, minimal suspension adjustments but this little bike will take me all over Thailand. It's made in Thailand but I am not sure it's sold outside of southeast Asia. Cheers
They are my favorite machines. Nice video. It would be cool if Yamaha put out another model. But it has to be all Japanese made. That to me is #1 reason this is the best bike for me.
why would they not just put a bigger engine in that frame? Pretty sure they can fit even an 600cc singe in there and the main frame is sold and actually looks like a proper dritbike frame as well. Pretty sure there are plenty of garage mods where they have done that, so why cant Yamaha do it?
I ask the same from Honda, because people (in their garage shops) have been putting the CB500X drivetrain into the CRF250L frame. There's only 20 lbs difference between the two powerplants. And then you have a sub-350lb offroad highway-capable twin.
I imagine it has something to do with emmissions. Im pretty sure that's why they had to discontinue the 250R in the first place, even though it was far from a gross polluter. The way emmissions regulations are structured around the world are totally backward. They punish small lightweight vehicles (like mini trucks and single cylinder dual sports) while promoting behemoths. That's why even commuter cars weigh as much as a small sun these days and pickup trucks keep getting bigger, heavier and more expensive.
WR 450 adventure bike needed. Less compression to run cooler. 100ml bigger radiators to run cooler. 7:20 100 ml more oil for longer services Maybe a 400cc would be better. Just a smaller bore.
I'd like to see a light adventure version of my Beta 390 RRS. The motor is incredible, but it needs a 6th gear, higher oil capacity and a smidge of wind protection.
Right you are! Yamaha definitely needs to reintroduce the WR in 300-350! The WR250R was the best dual sport out there! Really bad move to not only take it off the market but at the same time Honda & Kawasaki introduce their 300s. Yamaha is no longer relevant unless you find a used WR in good condition. However, as technology changes, Yamaha could totally introduce a cutting edge WR300-350R and blow the other two out the water. I mean it’s a no brainer! What is Yamaha waiting on? They’re losing customers & revenue! Come on Yamaha!!! Great video!🤙🏽 You’re saying what we’re all thinking!🤓
Would love to see WR250R successor. My idea is to use R3/MT03 engine in WR250R frame(maybe with some update?) - this engine have plenty of power and even could be geared slightly for more torque. In this case engine bike would be very smooth becasue of 2 cyliders. Second idea for engine would require more r&d - yamaha could chop down their CP2 engine to leave one ~350ccm cylinder. In both cases it would require a lot of r&d from Yamaha. Bike would probably be heavier than WR250R - especially when using 2 cyl engine. And switchable ABS is a must have to sell in whole world - otherwise it would be like KLX300 that is not available in EU :/ We need more competition in this segment - Honda cant be only one producing small dualsport.
A WR550 with a decent tank and seat I'd be very interested in. For the street end of dual sport a little more displacement goes a long way. to making a bike fun to ride.
Loved the vid. As a current WR250R and KTM 990 rider, I agree with everything you said about this little bike. I still ride these bikes on and offroad and dread the day when I finally need to move on. With a bit of a suspension upgrade, the little WR became an incredibly capable bike, and it has never let me down. While I do still hope for an upgraded WRR, I'm not getting my hopes up and hope to keep her chugging along for years to come. But who knows? Maybe with a little luck I'll have the WRR and 990 gen 1 & gen 2 in the stable. Thx
If we start hearing rumblings about it today, we can expect a 2030 release... Just in time for the globalist nanny state to ban motorcycles altogether.
One thing a lot of people miss is how tractable the power is on this bike. I’ve seen people goating around places on this bike that give absolute headaches to the 450s and 500s.
It’s weird how a brand gets under your skin, I spent the last years of my racing career on Yamaha and would never part with my WR, even if they did bring out a 300 I’d probably just buy one of those too as it’s so iconic.
If Yamaha were to develope a 360 or 400 liquid cooled 2 stroke that could meet emmisions with high tech 2 stroke tech and bring back a low seat height version of their old DT in a ralley style bike with fulley adjustable Ohlins susp it would sell like hot cakes at a fatty convension
Good video, I believe 400 is a good balance between torque and lightness. Keeping the platform as close to the original would be the goal here. Of course 400cc and ABS will add weight and change the character immensely. Tweak the shock rebound but otherwise leave it the same. The sub frame could use a bit of a tweak to guard against fatigue.
I have a WR250R, it's a good bike, would be a great bike if they had shaved 50 pounds off it. I wish they would make a street legal version of the YZ450WR.
Hi solid enjoy very much watching your videos mate thank you keep them coming and yeh i love my wr250r ive owned it for nearly 7yrs now just wish it had that little bit more I'm not greedy dont need something with a shit load of power and weight would be very great full for a wr350r safe riding solid
I'd buy it. I'm getting older now and want to downsize to a lighter adventure type of riding but I want that higher spec suspension and motor off the shelf. If they don't do something soon, I would buy an e-MTB instead. More importantly, the manufacturers need entry level bikes to capture the next generation.
Wr500r is what we need. Long maintenence intervals, relatively low HP for a 500cc but far more hp than a drz400, large oil capacity, under seat fuel tank, super rigid pannier rack system, and a center stand.
I'm done waiting for a WR350R, WR450R, 390 Enduro R or any other new lightweight 400-500cc dual sport from the major manufacturers. As far as I'm concerned there's two lightweight unicorns already available for long distance adventure rides if you make enough mods. Just bite the bullet and get either 1) a drz400E and install the ACT wide ratio gearbox, EFI kit, and make major changes to the ergos to suit your taste. Suitable choice in Oz. Or 2) a DR350 and install a 9.5:1 CR 440 big bore kit, EFI kit, factory oil cooler to increase oil change intervals from 5k km to about 7k/8k km, and change ergos as well. More suitable in the states since we don't have many drz400e. Each of these are < 310lbs wet and each have a strong enough rear sub frame for pannier racks and luggage. Will take some work to get either of those going but when the new dual sports come out sometime in the next 10 years they probably won’t be as light as these bikes. Might as well put in the work on one of these now and get it done. One advantage of the DR350 over the DRZ is that it has a lower CG and less weight on the front end. I've always found the DRZ ergos, steering and handling to be a bit off. DR350 might solve that. Much prefer the geometry of a DR650...
Scratch that i just spoke with bill blue and found out that he has a 351 big bore kit for both the crf300L and klx300 which still run on regular gas. These bring up the power of these 300’s to within a few hp of the drz and i believe should be good enough to easilu cruise at 75mph on freeway for extended duration. He also provides an EJK kit loaded some base tuning to get the big bore running. Should be a lot more straightforward than trying to build a modern dr350 or drz.
690 enduro r, but the newer ones. I went from a 250L to the 690 in 2023 and I do not regret it, I just I regret not getting one sooner. The weight is much much better balanced due to where KTM puts the fuel tank compared to the Crf250L, as they weigh the exact same. My wife still has a 250L. Anyone who says a 690 weighs more is full of crap, I own both...they weigh the same. a 350R will cost a lot more than the 250 did, nearly KTM territory.
I think the issue here is that the T7 is a totally different class. I will not own a mid weight adv. I would own a wr. As it stands I have no Yamaha's in the garage.
I would like to see a WR330 - 350 R, a few more horses than the opposition. WITH better suspension, headlights, foot pegs, foot & hand levers, already tail tidied. No cheap plastic protection or guards but high quality ally and items interchangeable with the 250 like 18l IMS tank, Seat concepts seat (all those expensive items already purchased for the 250. Throw in 14/49 sprockets as well. A touch lower so no need for yama links etc 🙏🏻
I think they'd be better off making a mini tenere and add another cylinder and make it around a 500cc Rally or Adventure bike. I think that would be the sweet spot and totally take the competition off guard.
But if I could get a Chinese bike or a Yamaha I know where I would put my money... But they won't built a lighter/smaller Tenere, as it would dig into the market of the actual Tenere @@ERUtheWINDRIDER
Reason i love the WR250R You have to ride it like a 125! Its YZ125 of dual sports, gotta get it up top before it comes alive. As they say, it's better to ride a slow bike at 100% than a fast bike at 50%. Less likely to hurt yourself also 😉 Go the WR250R!
all i need for my wr450f is rear support for rackless bags, everything's already perfect. if i want it to be less aggressive, changing the gearing would do the trick and for the current bikes also come with free tuner, another version of the wr might just be a waste of R&D
In Europe we got the Fantic with Yamaha WR motor and frane and so on. There is a export treaty i think its not available in the US. Abaut Australia i dont know.
Irrational those decisions mostly are. Yamaha should make a better CRF300. A 350-400 displacement would be perfect. Weight under 150kg. 2 Person capability. Around 33-40PS with about 30-40 Nm. Fuel consumption about 3,5l/100km. 12l tank volume and about 2-3l oil volume. LED lights, ABS, E-start. Dont wait for the Chinese.
I live in Italy and now have a 2016 WR 250 F (with Athena Big Bore 300 cc Kit) that is a great bike but may be I would go back to a 300 cc 2t for technical riding and buy also a used WR250R. I would be really curious to see the difference and see how far can I go in enduro and how confortable could be going adventure riding (that I know do with a Caballero 500 Rally, pretty fun bike to ride). What do you think about ? What about compered to a modified CRF 300 L with new suspension ? Anyway I do not think Yamaha will update this bike, at lieast not in Europe, unfortunately. They are not any more intersted in small displacement enduro or dual sport...
I think it’s a shame. People are learning of other brands and developing other brand followings the more time goes by. I don’t even hear much about the XT250 but even that is being beaten out by the other 300s.
I love my WR250R don't know if I will ever sell it ya don't need really anymore power in the bush well yes a 300-350 option would go well , its just that highway speed where the power is needed. I've got a old 1200 GSA some old YZF 1000's and its nice to take the bigger displacement bike for a ride but the most fun is the WR on the dirt or the twisty hard top roads 🙂🤙
All 4 Japanese motorcycle manufacturers are missing the boat. I figure the first one who makes a modern 400cc dual sport will sell them like hotcakes. Honda seems to be the closest to it with the CRF450RL. It would be great if they'd offer an optional engine in that platform that required less maintenance that was a more true dual sport engine. I love my DRZ400S and it seems like it wouldn't take much for Suzuki to modernize it. Yamaha is in the same boat with the WR250R. A new 400 cc engine could be used in the WR250R chassis. It could also be used in a naked sport bike and a small Tenere.
I have a 2019 cb500X, my buddy just got a '21 V-Strom 650... I thought the Honda was a little slower but my buddies on the Harleys & V-Strom were like dude that little Honda runs! Keeping up when we're doing 90 mph like nothing. My friend on the V-Strom 650 set WTF I was going 95 trying to catch you 😂... Many yrs ago use to have the WR250X fun but to tall & stiff suspension personally I enjoyed the CRF 250 rally more. Both look great tho
I feel this 'half-engine' solution could easily be done again. Like, take that great parallel twin from Tenere, cut it in half figuratively speaking, and here's your 350 single for a lighter ATV bike.
If they ever go ahead and make a WR300 or 400r dualsport again they won't make an expensive high end one as it was the WR250r, motorcycle prices are already going out of hand.
Just need to slap a bigger sump onto the wr/yz450 and add 1 extra gear in the transmission boom done! Also wish the new yz250x was road legal or made a yz450x 2 stroke would really break the ktm dominated market.
YEP👍 have had 3 offs because of the unexpected Donkey Kick after a few hours of hard riding. 2 sets of broken ribs and a collar bone! One time the guy behind me said I have never seen a bike do that before😳
look we all know yamaha doesn't like to have too many motor options across its lineups, lets make it easy for them. a performance dual sport wr250f with the mt-03 drivetrain. that would absolutely smoke the entire market. more power isnt more better especially technical riding, enough to cruise stretches at 65 without revving its nuts off.
You've seen the rumour Yamaha is developing a wr200r and wr200rx ? This was reported by the magazine out of Japan called Young Machine that is noted for scooping new rising sun models. They have a web page and the only visible hint is it's on the cover of their latest mag as I don't subscribe or read Japanese.
I'm gutted that Yamaha stopped producing the 1200 Tenere as it's engine couldn't get Euro 5 compliance. I wish they'd get their finger out and produce it again as there are plenty of people who would snap them up for long distance touring. The T7 just doesn't tick enough boxes for me yet.
The better idea for Yamaha will be to up their game to a 450~550 cc engine, killing the Kawy and Hinda and competing with Himalayan, 450MT, 450Rally etc
If Yamaha copy and pasted Hondas' 300L, and moved production to Thailand/ south east Asia, they could sell the numbers to make it worthwhile....Thailand has strong protectionism for their motorcycle industry, imported bikes are expensive, look up the price for a Honda 300L in Thailand.
Yeah, but then what would be the point? We dont need another SE Asian market budget commuter in dual sport drag with a Yamaha badge. We need a high end Japanese built performance dual sport.
Seat height was too limiting for many people. They sell buckets of xt250's all over the world because of the approachable seat height. Personally I think that the most you could hope for would be a 300 ish version of the xt. Reality though may be more like, sell xt250's until nobody can sell internal combustion motorcycles anymore.
I can't see a true successor coming out with everyone moving to a modular system. Honda's 300 single powers a few of their motorcycle models. And building motorcycles is more of a passion project for Kawasaki, who seem to want the crown for most models in their lineup. Yamaha has already moved to a twin with the R3/MT-03, so they'd probably be more likely to release a mini Tenere using the same 321cc engine.
I have a WR450F and converted my 'Popeye' (mean power & torque) into a light weight adventure bike. I sense that your inspiring view of the WR250R applies to my 'Popeye'. Any comments from your side??
I’ve only ridden the WR450F twice. All I will say is that the only similarity they share is that they are both blue 😅 I’ve seen some set up real nice for ADV but a bit too raw for my lacklustre skills 🙃
I am selling my CRF300l it just doesn’t do it for me. I would buy that Yamaha in a heartbeat. I absolutely will never buy another bike that doesn’t have KYB suspension.
With the new KTM 390's coming.... and the market shifting twards that magic 400ish displacement I think they either need to target that or stay out of it entirely.
I don't think the Honda and Kawasaki dual sports are doing well. Rarely ever see them in the wild so I doubt that's giving Yamaha any confidence to compete with the small adventure bikes again.
We may see one, from a distance. Sure there will be a modular product produced for the up and coming 3rd world countries. That's where the market and money is gir these size motorcycles. The market is almost dead in USA. There are all kinds and sizes of adv bikes sitting at deslerships. When we wanted them we couldn't have them. Buyers have moved on.
Best 50/50 dualsport ever made!!!! WR350R would have us all begging Yamaha to take our money.
Suzuki already made the DR350 long time ago, and dropped the ball with the DRZ400
i think a 333-350cc chassis could still fit in the WR250R/X frame. I would buy 1 for sure
I did South Korea, Russia, Mongolia and the Stans to Bulgaria on a WR250R...perfect weapon of choice 👍
Nice 😎
WR250R is the best bike to learn adventure riding on. It's very forgiving and super stable on gravel roads. Just get one that is fully kitted out with a big tank, comfy seat, suspension upgrade, rally pegs, screen etc. It's a fantastic bike and a WR350R would be a big success for Yamaha.
Learn? I started on a klr, then an xr650l, then another klr, then a vstrom, and finally a wr250r. This is where it ends.
Trials bike is best for learning, WR-R for dual sport riding. Something lighter than the T7 that's more capable of long highway rides would be nice. (I still did hour long freeway rides on the WR250R. Just scary if people go over 75). An alternative to the KTM 690 enduro R. Like the XR650L or DR650 I guess, those are ok. But if they could be lighter, more modern and 500cc even if not as crazy and high revving as a KTM, it would be sweet. The Kove 450 and Himalayan 450 are too heavy
@@autismion my wr250t wont go more than 75 but i can jump it and run it through whoops!
I reckon they could take a fair chunk of Honda's market if they went for a 350 rather than a 300.
A 350 would be the sweet spot. Honda's 300 is actually a 286 anyway :(
Agree. I’ve seen some videos of upgrading the crf300l with a big bore kit -and wonder why Honda didn’t do that in the first place. That extra nudge of power made it even better, without being a competitor to the 450
@@funkygas Bingo. Injected & 6-speed 350 would be a win.
I would LOVE to see Yamaha bring the WR250r back as a 350cc model. The WR was a little too MX in terms of the seat ergonomics for my liking, but otherwise it was an awesome bike. I still say the 350's of the 1980's and 1990's were the best all around dual-sport/enduro-type bikes ever made and considering how well they sold in their day it amazes me not one of the Big 4 has ventured back into that mid-size niche` of the market in the last 15-20 years. Closest thing we have is the DRZ 400S which itself hasn't gotten any real update since it's introduction in 2000 as a more modern replacement for the DR350's which were dropped the following year.
It also still baffles me to no end why Honda never released a dual-sport electric start version of the XR400r (a XR400L) after they added the e-start to the engine for use in the EX400 quad in 1999. Major missed opportunity there on Honda's part. The XR line of bikes was still hugely popular at that time for Honda and the only dual-sport offering they had at that time was the XR650L (the XR250L had been dropped in 1996 in the U.S. market), so a street legal version of the XR400r with e-start would have filled a HUGE gap in their line-up, would have been notably cheaper than it's nearest competitor - the DRZ 400S, and it needed little to no resources for R&D to bring it to market.
Personally I'd like to see someone - anyone - bring back something similar to the dual-sports of the 1980's and 90's with modern engines featuring fuel injection and electric start, and better fully adjustable suspensions. Keep the rider ergo's more relaxed like a DR or KLR rather than the skinny rock-hard MX-style seats most of the smaller dual-sports now feature. Also no more nose bleed seat heights on everything; bring them back down to a more manageable 30-32" height rather than the 33"+ height most of the dual-sports have today. Something that's not just a "dirtbike with mirrors and turn signals," but something that's also still comfortable to ride on the pavement as well while still offering good off-road performance for trail riding.
Let's be honest and face facts, the vast majority of dual-sport owners aren't out there attacking gnarly single track trails littered with obstacles worthy of a hard enduro course. The vast majority just want something simple and fun that's bulletproof reliable for tooling around on managed trail systems, forestry roads, snowmobile trails, etc. They don't need 13" of suspension travel or 12"+ of ground clearance, nor do they need 40+ horsepower or suspension suitable for desert or hard enduro racing.
The only bikes currently on the market in the U.S. that come close to fitting this description (IMO) would be the Suzuki DR 400S and the Yamaha XT250 - the latter being on the smaller side in terms of displacement. Something similar to the XT250 in a 350-450 displacement is what we really need, and preferably - if possible with emissions - keep it air-cooled for simplicity and as a cost saving measure to leave more money available for a little better (adjustable) suspension. How about a proper update for the Suzuki DRZ400S? Or how about a larger 350-400cc version of the old Kawasaki KLR250 Super Sherpa How about bringing back the old Yamaha XT350 or upping it to a XT400? And finally Honda...oh Honda! If they can waste time/money on things like the Rune and the Fury, then by God they should be able to find some time and resources to make a proper 350-400cc big brother to the new XR150L for Christ's sake.
I don't think that's asking too much of the Big 4, but apparently it is since not one of them has brought something like that to market in nearly 20 years now. *stepping off my soap box* 😁
XT500 with a lightweight air cooled engine would be nice. Only reason I like taller seats as a taller rider is less cramping. The WRR's is about perfect at 6'1"
I miss my WRR! Sold it for a DRZ because I wanted more power. But it was one step forward and two steps back.
I did exactly the same, I love my new DRZ but part of me misses the Yamaha. I think I may have to buy back my WR one day and just own them both.
@@LemonsGD i have 2 WR250X and they are not for sale :D
Absolutely 💯, why oh why haven't the Japanese bikes (Yamaha, Kawa etc) MADE a 350 ????
Come on DO IT.... it will be awesome....10 years to late , but awesome !
Bring back the Banshee engine and put it in a WR frame. C'mon Yamaha, you can do it :)
@@Jonathan-Lanother meme bike how cool bro
I've had mine for 5 years.
When it gets tired, I plan on rebuilding with cylinder works and a 2mm stroker crank, making it a 283.
The downfalls are lack of freeway power, and the rear shock.
I'd put money down on a WR350R.
WR450R now please….. the unicorn that we all want!
Japan is dying, dude. It'll never happen
All you have to do the the WR is spend $150 to unleash the motor and it is the same engine/power of the YZ. And, then live in a free state. In my state you can tag anything with two wheels.
@@zokhrozzWoomzy dying of what??
@@lhurst9550 impossible, the YZ motor is completely different from the WR250R
@@sandrider1406 I was talking 450. The 24 WR is the same as current YZ.
I had two WR250Rs, but sold them both due to anemic power. But would buy another if it was a 350 (minimum) - 500 (preferred). If the Japanese keep dragging their feet, KTM is going to jump in and own this hole that has been in the market for almost 20 years.
Modular platform ,450 to 600 ,4 gallon tank ,tft display, ,6 speed ,35 to 36 inch seat height, with decent suspension for someone over 200lbs, fun to ride easy to wheelie, with long service intervals, 50 to 60 hp,40 to 50 lb feet of torque. With a dry weight around 310 to 370 lbs.
Heck ya and dont forget the comfy seat! and how about a 750 thumper?
Modular platform ,350 to 500 ,4 gallon tank ,6 speed ,32 to 33 inch seat height, with decent suspension for someone over 200lbs, fun to ride easy to wheelie, with long service intervals, 40 to 50 hp,40 to 50 lb feet of torque. With a dry weight around 250 to 270 lbs.
Still love my WR
I just spent 7 days straight riding the wr250r with my enduro riding mates, its such a versatile bike, could it do with more power yes but can you use more power most of the time offroad NO. Id like to see a 300-350 rally version, Honda got it right except for the suspension.
Just like a new DR650, we can hope. Great vids. Thanks
YAMAHA - Just Do It... WR325/350R please
Just bought a farkled out Wr after owning a klx300 and crf250L and this bike is so much better than both of them. So much fun, the motor is a blast, very refined and smooth. Absolutely love the WR. This is my 11th motorcycle and my favorite. Don’t sleep in the Wr
I am an American living in Thailand and I have the Yamaha wr155. Yes it's heavy, minimal suspension adjustments but this little bike will take me all over Thailand. It's made in Thailand but I am not sure it's sold outside of southeast Asia. Cheers
It sold across SEA, indonesia has wr155r too..
They are my favorite machines. Nice video. It would be cool if Yamaha put out another model. But it has to be all Japanese made. That to me is #1 reason this is the best bike for me.
why would they not just put a bigger engine in that frame? Pretty sure they can fit even an 600cc singe in there and the main frame is sold and actually looks like a proper dritbike frame as well. Pretty sure there are plenty of garage mods where they have done that, so why cant Yamaha do it?
I ask the same from Honda, because people (in their garage shops) have been putting the CB500X drivetrain into the CRF250L frame. There's only 20 lbs difference between the two powerplants. And then you have a sub-350lb offroad highway-capable twin.
I imagine it has something to do with emmissions. Im pretty sure that's why they had to discontinue the 250R in the first place, even though it was far from a gross polluter. The way emmissions regulations are structured around the world are totally backward. They punish small lightweight vehicles (like mini trucks and single cylinder dual sports) while promoting behemoths. That's why even commuter cars weigh as much as a small sun these days and pickup trucks keep getting bigger, heavier and more expensive.
WR 450 adventure bike needed. Less compression to run cooler. 100ml bigger radiators to run cooler. 7:20 100 ml more oil for longer services
Maybe a 400cc would be better.
Just a smaller bore.
Still got a 2017 wr250r sitting in the garage. Doesn't seem to go down in value so no point in selling it.
I initially miss-read the title as it being updated...😢
Nevermind, one can always dream 🙂
Me too! Thought we had some “breaking news!”
I'd like to see a light adventure version of my Beta 390 RRS. The motor is incredible, but it needs a 6th gear, higher oil capacity and a smidge of wind protection.
One cylinder from the T7 would be 344.5cc, that would put Yamaha back in the game.
Right you are! Yamaha definitely needs to reintroduce the WR in 300-350! The WR250R was the best dual sport out there! Really bad move to not only take it off the market but at the same time Honda & Kawasaki introduce their 300s. Yamaha is no longer relevant unless you find a used WR in good condition. However, as technology changes, Yamaha could totally introduce a cutting edge WR300-350R and blow the other two out the water. I mean it’s a no brainer! What is Yamaha waiting on? They’re losing customers & revenue! Come on Yamaha!!! Great video!🤙🏽 You’re saying what we’re all thinking!🤓
Would love to see WR250R successor.
My idea is to use R3/MT03 engine in WR250R frame(maybe with some update?) - this engine have plenty of power and even could be geared slightly for more torque. In this case engine bike would be very smooth becasue of 2 cyliders.
Second idea for engine would require more r&d - yamaha could chop down their CP2 engine to leave one ~350ccm cylinder.
In both cases it would require a lot of r&d from Yamaha. Bike would probably be heavier than WR250R - especially when using 2 cyl engine.
And switchable ABS is a must have to sell in whole world - otherwise it would be like KLX300 that is not available in EU :/
We need more competition in this segment - Honda cant be only one producing small dualsport.
A WR550 with a decent tank and seat I'd be very interested in. For the street end of dual sport a little more displacement goes a long way. to making a bike fun to ride.
Thanks!
Thanks very much 👍😎
Yamaha have the 321cc in the R3 that could have been used in a next generation WR 300
Loved the vid. As a current WR250R and KTM 990 rider, I agree with everything you said about this little bike. I still ride these bikes on and offroad and dread the day when I finally need to move on. With a bit of a suspension upgrade, the little WR became an incredibly capable bike, and it has never let me down. While I do still hope for an upgraded WRR, I'm not getting my hopes up and hope to keep her chugging along for years to come. But who knows? Maybe with a little luck I'll have the WRR and 990 gen 1 & gen 2 in the stable. Thx
What a shock that would be if Yamaha actually pulled it off. If anything it would be a long dragged-out affair like the release of the T7.
🥲
If we start hearing rumblings about it today, we can expect a 2030 release... Just in time for the globalist nanny state to ban motorcycles altogether.
One thing a lot of people miss is how tractable the power is on this bike. I’ve seen people goating around places on this bike that give absolute headaches to the 450s and 500s.
100% mate!
Look at Wayne Dowsent and the bikes he was blowing past! lol
It’s weird how a brand gets under your skin, I spent the last years of my racing career on Yamaha and would never part with my WR, even if they did bring out a 300 I’d probably just buy one of those too as it’s so iconic.
I have had both and they are two very different..I miss my wr250r
If Yamaha were to develope a 360 or 400 liquid cooled 2 stroke that could meet emmisions with high tech 2 stroke tech and bring back a low seat height version of their old DT in a ralley style bike with fulley adjustable Ohlins susp it would sell like hot cakes at a fatty convension
Good video, I believe 400 is a good balance between torque and lightness. Keeping the platform as close to the original would be the goal here. Of course 400cc and ABS will add weight and change the character immensely. Tweak the shock rebound but otherwise leave it the same. The sub frame could use a bit of a tweak to guard against fatigue.
I have a WR250R, it's a good bike, would be a great bike if they had shaved 50 pounds off it. I wish they would make a street legal version of the YZ450WR.
Hi solid enjoy very much watching your videos mate thank you keep them coming and yeh i love my wr250r ive owned it for nearly 7yrs now just wish it had that little bit more I'm not greedy dont need something with a shit load of power and weight would be very great full for a wr350r safe riding solid
Thanks Shane
I'd buy it. I'm getting older now and want to downsize to a lighter adventure type of riding but I want that higher spec suspension and motor off the shelf. If they don't do something soon, I would buy an e-MTB instead. More importantly, the manufacturers need entry level bikes to capture the next generation.
Wr500r is what we need.
Long maintenence intervals, relatively low HP for a 500cc but far more hp than a drz400, large oil capacity, under seat fuel tank, super rigid pannier rack system, and a center stand.
I'm done waiting for a WR350R, WR450R, 390 Enduro R or any other new lightweight 400-500cc dual sport from the major manufacturers. As far as I'm concerned there's two lightweight unicorns already available for long distance adventure rides if you make enough mods. Just bite the bullet and get either 1) a drz400E and install the ACT wide ratio gearbox, EFI kit, and make major changes to the ergos to suit your taste. Suitable choice in Oz. Or 2) a DR350 and install a 9.5:1 CR 440 big bore kit, EFI kit, factory oil cooler to increase oil change intervals from 5k km to about 7k/8k km, and change ergos as well. More suitable in the states since we don't have many drz400e. Each of these are < 310lbs wet and each have a strong enough rear sub frame for pannier racks and luggage. Will take some work to get either of those going but when the new dual sports come out sometime in the next 10 years they probably won’t be as light as these bikes. Might as well put in the work on one of these now and get it done.
One advantage of the DR350 over the DRZ is that it has a lower CG and less weight on the front end. I've always found the DRZ ergos, steering and handling to be a bit off. DR350 might solve that. Much prefer the geometry of a DR650...
Scratch that i just spoke with bill blue and found out that he has a 351 big bore kit for both the crf300L and klx300 which still run on regular gas.
These bring up the power of these 300’s to within a few hp of the drz and i believe should be good enough to easilu cruise at 75mph on freeway for extended duration. He also provides an EJK kit loaded some base tuning to get the big bore running.
Should be a lot more straightforward than trying to build a modern dr350 or drz.
Tom ,of Riding with Tom would agree with you on this, Solid.
If Yamaha had a WR350R when I bought my KTM, I would have gotten it instead.
690 enduro r, but the newer ones. I went from a 250L to the 690 in 2023 and I do not regret it, I just I regret not getting one sooner. The weight is much much better balanced due to where KTM puts the fuel tank compared to the Crf250L, as they weigh the exact same. My wife still has a 250L. Anyone who says a 690 weighs more is full of crap, I own both...they weigh the same. a 350R will cost a lot more than the 250 did, nearly KTM territory.
Yamaha don't want to lose the potential T7 buyers.
I think the issue here is that the T7 is a totally different class. I will not own a mid weight adv. I would own a wr. As it stands I have no Yamaha's in the garage.
That's such a dumb attitude we don't want to lose customers to ourselves so we'll lose customers to our competitors instead.
I have a t7 and would drop the cash in a second for a 300-450 Yamaha dual sport. Completely different animal.
I would like to see a WR330 - 350 R, a few more horses than the opposition. WITH better suspension, headlights, foot pegs, foot & hand levers, already tail tidied. No cheap plastic protection or guards but high quality ally and items interchangeable with the 250 like 18l IMS tank, Seat concepts seat (all those expensive items already purchased for the 250.
Throw in 14/49 sprockets as well. A touch lower so no need for yama links etc 🙏🏻
I think they'd be better off making a mini tenere and add another cylinder and make it around a 500cc Rally or Adventure bike. I think that would be the sweet spot and totally take the competition off guard.
i'd buy it
I think you're onto something there Joe. A 500cc twin with 270 degree crank. C'mon Yamaha, I'll have one in blue please.
CF Moto already beat Yama in that regard.
I know so what better way to step up their game.@@ERUtheWINDRIDER
But if I could get a Chinese bike or a Yamaha I know where I would put my money... But they won't built a lighter/smaller Tenere, as it would dig into the market of the actual Tenere @@ERUtheWINDRIDER
Reason i love the WR250R
You have to ride it like a 125!
Its YZ125 of dual sports, gotta get it up top before it comes alive.
As they say, it's better to ride a slow bike at 100% than a fast bike at 50%. Less likely to hurt yourself also 😉
Go the WR250R!
all i need for my wr450f is rear support for rackless bags, everything's already perfect. if i want it to be less aggressive, changing the gearing would do the trick and for the current bikes also come with free tuner, another version of the wr might just be a waste of R&D
Best dual sport bike ever. I have also CRF300L and brand new Kove 450 Rally. WR250R is simply better. 🤷♀️
Cos keeping the dream alive 💛
🥲
In Europe we got the Fantic with Yamaha WR motor and frane and so on. There is a export treaty i think its not available in the US. Abaut Australia i dont know.
Irrational those decisions mostly are. Yamaha should make a better CRF300. A 350-400 displacement would be perfect. Weight under 150kg. 2 Person capability. Around 33-40PS with about 30-40 Nm. Fuel consumption about 3,5l/100km. 12l tank volume and about 2-3l oil volume. LED lights, ABS, E-start. Dont wait for the Chinese.
I heard a rumor a long time ago about a third smaller displacement Tenere based on the MT03 engine. That would be really interesting.
I live in Italy and now have a 2016 WR 250 F (with Athena Big Bore 300 cc Kit) that is a great bike but may be I would go back to a 300 cc 2t for technical riding and buy also a used WR250R. I would be really curious to see the difference and see how far can I go in enduro and how confortable could be going adventure riding (that I know do with a Caballero 500 Rally, pretty fun bike to ride). What do you think about ? What about compered to a modified CRF 300 L with new suspension ? Anyway I do not think Yamaha will update this bike, at lieast not in Europe, unfortunately. They are not any more intersted in small displacement enduro or dual sport...
I'm sad that they cancelled VMAX
I think it’s a shame. People are learning of other brands and developing other brand followings the more time goes by. I don’t even hear much about the XT250 but even that is being beaten out by the other 300s.
I love my WR250R don't know if I will ever sell it ya don't need really anymore power in the bush well yes a 300-350 option would go well , its just that highway speed where the power is needed.
I've got a old 1200 GSA some old YZF 1000's and its nice to take the bigger displacement bike for a ride but the most fun is the WR on the dirt or the twisty hard top roads 🙂🤙
I would love a 350 or 450 dual sport w/ efi, 6 speed, and long maintenance intervals. Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki? Anyone listening?
All 4 Japanese motorcycle manufacturers are missing the boat. I figure the first one who makes a modern 400cc dual sport will sell them like hotcakes. Honda seems to be the closest to it with the CRF450RL. It would be great if they'd offer an optional engine in that platform that required less maintenance that was a more true dual sport engine. I love my DRZ400S and it seems like it wouldn't take much for Suzuki to modernize it. Yamaha is in the same boat with the WR250R. A new 400 cc engine could be used in the WR250R chassis. It could also be used in a naked sport bike and a small Tenere.
Yamaha could make their 300 twin motor fit into the t7 frame and have a Tenere 300 adventure bike.
Apparently, you can get a Tenere 450 from CF Moto now.
No mention of the two small displacement dual sports already in Yamaha lineup
I want a single cylinder 450 adv bike like a mini tenere. I'm hoping it's taken so long because they are in fact working on something special.
Only if it weighs like a ktm 350. Then I’d buy a wr 350 :)
I have a 2019 cb500X, my buddy just got a '21 V-Strom 650... I thought the Honda was a little slower but my buddies on the Harleys & V-Strom were like dude that little Honda runs! Keeping up when we're doing 90 mph like nothing. My friend on the V-Strom 650 set WTF I was going 95 trying to catch you 😂... Many yrs ago use to have the WR250X fun but to tall & stiff suspension personally I enjoyed the CRF 250 rally more. Both look great tho
If the bean counters say no it will never fly. The dollar always wins.
Ooh the clickbait is strong with this one. I fell for it. I’m ashamed of myself.
I feel this 'half-engine' solution could easily be done again. Like, take that great parallel twin from Tenere, cut it in half figuratively speaking, and here's your 350 single for a lighter ATV bike.
If they ever go ahead and make a WR300 or 400r dualsport again they won't make an expensive high end one as it was the WR250r, motorcycle prices are already going out of hand.
Just need to slap a bigger sump onto the wr/yz450 and add 1 extra gear in the transmission boom done!
Also wish the new yz250x was road legal or made a yz450x 2 stroke would really break the ktm dominated market.
Rear suspension on these units sucked off road. Like a pogo stick at speed. The reliability of mine was so good though
YEP👍 have had 3 offs because of the unexpected Donkey Kick after a few hours of hard riding. 2 sets of broken ribs and a collar bone!
One time the guy behind me said I have never seen a bike do that before😳
350- 390 six speed adventure rally. Seat not to high lower fuel tank with great suspension.
look we all know yamaha doesn't like to have too many motor options across its lineups, lets make it easy for them. a performance dual sport wr250f with the mt-03 drivetrain. that would absolutely smoke the entire market. more power isnt more better especially technical riding, enough to cruise stretches at 65 without revving its nuts off.
You've seen the rumour Yamaha is developing a wr200r and wr200rx ? This was reported by the magazine out of Japan called Young Machine that is noted for scooping new rising sun models. They have a web page and the only visible hint is it's on the cover of their latest mag as I don't subscribe or read Japanese.
I'm gutted that Yamaha stopped producing the 1200 Tenere as it's engine couldn't get Euro 5 compliance. I wish they'd get their finger out and produce it again as there are plenty of people who would snap them up for long distance touring. The T7 just doesn't tick enough boxes for me yet.
The bumblebee colour scheme 😍
The better idea for Yamaha will be to up their game to a 450~550 cc engine, killing the Kawy and Hinda and competing with Himalayan, 450MT, 450Rally etc
This
Yeah its quite a bit lighter than say the crf 250l. It would be nice. Im afraid of what the price would be on a 350
I would get one if they made a wr300r/ 350 with a little shorter seat and lower center of gravity, love my wr250r but could use some updates
If Yamaha copy and pasted Hondas' 300L, and moved production to Thailand/ south east Asia, they could sell the numbers to make it worthwhile....Thailand has strong protectionism for their motorcycle industry, imported bikes are expensive, look up the price for a Honda 300L in Thailand.
Yeah, but then what would be the point? We dont need another SE Asian market budget commuter in dual sport drag with a Yamaha badge. We need a high end Japanese built performance dual sport.
You’re so correct, but the big four don’t make bikes for the Australian market they make them for Asia, then America and Europe.
Tenere 350/400 would be nice to see
How about parts availability for those who would buy a used WR250R?
1/2 of a CP2 doesn't make much sense, but a mono version would make a nice CP1 family.
Considering how popular and capable the KTM 350 EXC-F is, I'd hope Yamaha would go 350cc to compete in that market rather than settle for 300cc.
Seat height was too limiting for many people. They sell buckets of xt250's all over the world because of the approachable seat height. Personally I think that the most you could hope for would be a 300 ish version of the xt. Reality though may be more like, sell xt250's until nobody can sell internal combustion motorcycles anymore.
I know Honda has came out with an “s” model for the crf300l (lower seat height)
With the success Yamaha are having with their T7 I don’t see any single cylinder dual sport in their future. Maybe a smaller Tenere twin sibling…
Yamaha has decided to completely ignore the dual sport market. Honda loves that decision.
I can't see a true successor coming out with everyone moving to a modular system. Honda's 300 single powers a few of their motorcycle models. And building motorcycles is more of a passion project for Kawasaki, who seem to want the crown for most models in their lineup. Yamaha has already moved to a twin with the R3/MT-03, so they'd probably be more likely to release a mini Tenere using the same 321cc engine.
I have a WR450F and converted my 'Popeye' (mean power & torque) into a light weight adventure bike. I sense that your inspiring view of the WR250R applies to my 'Popeye'. Any comments from your side??
I’ve only ridden the WR450F twice. All I will say is that the only similarity they share is that they are both blue 😅 I’ve seen some set up real nice for ADV but a bit too raw for my lacklustre skills 🙃
I am selling my CRF300l it just doesn’t do it for me. I would buy that Yamaha in a heartbeat. I absolutely will never buy another bike that doesn’t have KYB suspension.
Investing in a new platform when gasoline vehicles are starting to be banned from city centers could be giving many projects pause...
With the new KTM 390's coming.... and the market shifting twards that magic 400ish displacement I think they either need to target that or stay out of it entirely.
I don't think the Honda and Kawasaki dual sports are doing well. Rarely ever see them in the wild so I doubt that's giving Yamaha any confidence to compete with the small adventure bikes again.
I haven't tried one yet, but heard from people that the KLX300 isn't as good as either the WR250R or the CRF300L.
Best bet is to work with their current WR450F...
If they took 1/4 of the FJR1300, they would have a 325cc...perfect!
I love my CRF300L, but I’d set it on fire to get Yamaha to make a WR350R (1/2 a CP2).
😆
What if Yamaha rip off the crf450rl strategy with the wr450f but don’t screw up the efi?
😎
Yamaha's not gonna drop that in this economy.
Yamaha said WR200r for Asian version, and now a 350r for American and Australian version?
We still get them in the USA, so it is an issue with your market. Sales or emissions regulations.
No we do not. 2020 was the last year. I own one …
We may see one, from a distance. Sure there will be a modular product produced for the up and coming 3rd world countries. That's where the market and money is gir these size motorcycles. The market is almost dead in USA. There are all kinds and sizes of adv bikes sitting at deslerships. When we wanted them we couldn't have them. Buyers have moved on.