The Yamaha YZ250F embraces significant updates, mirroring the advances of its 450 counterpart in 2023. This milestone marks the celebration of Yamaha’s half-century legacy in the motocross world, commemorated with a special 50th Anniversary edition featuring a retro design.

Key Takeaways:

• Technical Upgrades: The 2024 Yamaha YZ250F inherits the chassis and aluminium frame from the 450 model, focusing on lightness, manoeuvrability, and improved ergonomics. The bike now feels narrower and more agile, enhancing the rider’s control.
• Suspension and Setup: Notable advancements in suspension calibration offer a robust setup, catering to aggressive riding styles and allowing quick adjustments. The bike’s flat, rigid saddle and narrower build contribute to a more responsive riding experience.
• Engine and Electronics: The YZ250F maintains its distinctive 180° rotated head engine, now optimized with a reprogrammed ECU for high RPM performance. Noteworthy is the new Launch Control System with adjustable Rev limit, and an updated Power Tuner app for mapping changes.
• The Yamaha YZ250F’s journey into 2024 is a blend of heritage and innovation. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Yamaha has revamped the YZ250F, infusing it with technical enhancements seen in its 450 model. This “small” 4T motorcross bike now stands leaner and more manageable, boasting a stronger suspension calibration that shines as the riding pace intensifies.

  To commemorate this historic milestone, Yamaha has unveiled a special 50th Anniversary edition. Priced at €10,399, this edition sports a nostalgic white plastic exterior with a purple saddle, black rims, and retro purple/pink graphics. This design is a tribute to Yamaha’s transition in the 1990s, marking the era of their first YZ 4T and the iconic blue color scheme.

• The 2024 model inherits the 450’s chassis and new-generation aluminium frame, aiming for greater agility and ergonomics. The bike has been streamlined, with reduced width and a reimagined filter box space, making it feel narrower and more controllable. The saddle has been raised, and the handlebars repositioned, offering more leg space and a flatter, more rigid seating experience.

  Despite these innovations, the engine sees less radical changes. The signature 180° rotated head engine of Yamaha is now paired with a reprogrammed ECU, optimised for high RPM performance. A standout feature is the new Launch Control System, allowing riders to set a maximum rpm range and concentrate on achieving the perfect start. This system automatically deactivates upon reaching third gear.

  The bike’s physical attributes, such as the high and rigid saddle, create a distinct riding experience. The suspension, perfect for experienced riders, might be less forgiving for novices. The bike demands frequent gear shifts, with a recommendation to stay in lower gears during torque-heavy manoeuvres. Understanding and utilising the engine’s power range is crucial for optimal performance.