New XT250 looks fun

[Robbi]

I like the look of this, looks good for pottering about the lanes.

Yamaha XT250 2025 Launched – Powerful 250cc Engine, Adventure Styling & Smooth Control - Hofstede Insights

Yamaha XT250 2025 Launched globally as the latest version of Yamaha’s popular dual-sport motorcycle, offering a blend of adventure capability, smooth city

hofstede-insights.in

 

[leadfarmer]

AI bollocks

 

[Hairnet600]

2025 XT250 - Specifications | Yamaha Motorsports USA

With electric start and a low seat height, the light, nimble and reliable XT250 is built to go wherever you go. On‑ or off‑road. - The Yamaha 2025 XT250

yamahamotorsports.com

 

[Robbi]

AI bollocks

That's a shame.

 

[Clifton]

Sadly it appears the XT250 has finally been discontinued here for 2026. The bike got a slight update including FI in 2013 and has been the same up through 2025 other than colour. It doesn't have a lot of power or a trick suspension with lots of travel for high speed over rough terrain, but it has its own charm that I really enjoy.

What makes it an ideal trail bike IMO are it uses an old school air-cooled, 2V engine making good power down low, wide ratio 5-speed gearbox with a low 1st for trail and tail 5th for road, 11" of ground clearance but low 32" seat height, only 132kg wet, lots of steering lock, 18"/21" wheels, all made in Japan. It's probably my favourite bike to ride around on little county roads as well as trails.

 

[theoneandonly]

that lawn needs some attention !

 

[Paradiso]

What makes it an ideal trail bike IMO are it uses an old school air-cooled, 2V engine making good power down low, wide ratio 5-speed gearbox with a low 1st for trail and tail 5th for road, 11" of ground clearance but low 32" seat height, only 132kg wet, lots of steering lock, 18"/21" wheels, all made in Japan. It's probably my favourite bike to ride around on little county roads as well as trails.

I with you on that. There's no modern equivalent/replacement. I've got a Serow. Have you tried the 225 and the 250? Is there much difference between them?

 

[Clifton]

that lawn needs some attention !

Hell that's the good part!

The leaves need raked in this section.

 

[Clifton]

I with you on that. There's no modern equivalent/replacement. I've got a Serow. Have you tried the 225 and the 250? Is there much difference between them?

I've rode a friend's 225 Serow a couple times but not back to back with this 250 because he sold it prior to me buying mine in 2019. I think they feel similar with the 225's 6-speed even a bit wider, the 250 might be just a bit stronger but if so not enough to make a difference. The fuel injected 250 certainly starts easier than the 225 that my friend had though, especially if it had sat for a week or more.

 

[steve hughes]

I had a 1972 Honda Xl250 motorsport in 2022. It was a brilliant little bike to hoon around the lanes. Masses of torque, it could pull away easily in third, upright riding position, enough room for a pillion. Honda got it so right 53 years ago!

 

[NeverRodeBefore]

Is it only me who sees that AI image as closely resembling RE 450 Himmy?

On second thoughts, it's more like the original Himmy.

 

[Clifton]

I had a 1972 Honda Xl250 motorsport in 2022. It was a brilliant little bike to hoon around the lanes. Masses of torque, it could pull away easily in third, upright riding position, enough room for a pillion. Honda got it so right 53 years ago!

Brings back good memories from over 1/2 century ago, I purchased a new 1972 XL250 for my first motorcycle with the money made working part time over the previous year. Honda's first 4v single IIRC.

 

[WillieMl]

Yeah, looks like a solid little dual-sport. Nothing crazy power-wise, but for lanes and light trails it should be perfect. Simple and fun is kind of the whole point with the XT250.