Yamaha Wr 250 R
The Yamaha Wr 250 R has a top speed of 145 km/h, produces 30 hp and weighs 134 kg. Motoryk rates it 8.5/10.
The Yamaha WR250R was introduced in 2008 as a dual-sport motorcycle designed for both on-road and off-road use, featuring a liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 250cc engine that set it apart from its competitors. It remained largely unchanged through its production run, earning a reputation for exceptional reliability, high-revving performance, and outstanding build quality. The WR250R became highly regarded among adventure and dual-sport riders for its bulletproof engine and capable off-road handling, though it was discontinued in most markets around 2018-2019.
30 hp
Power
24 Nm
Torque
134 kg
Weight
145 km/h
Top Speed
3.5 L/100km or approximately 28.5 km/L (typical real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Exceptional Long-Term Reliability
The WR250R is renowned for its bulletproof reliability, with many owners reporting 20,000+ miles with minimal issues when properly maintained. Its fuel-injected engine and quality components make it one of the most dependable dual-sports in its class.
Strong Resale Value
Due to its discontinuation in 2020, the WR250R holds its value exceptionally well and used prices have actually climbed over time. A well-maintained example can sell for close to or even above its original MSRP in today's market.
Watch for Valve Issues
The primary concern to inspect is valve clearance — neglected valve adjustments (recommended every 26,000 miles) can lead to costly engine damage. Always request maintenance records and confirm valve service history before purchasing.
Generations & Specs by Year
Single generation; no major redesigns. Fuel-injected 250cc liquid-cooled DOHC engine, lightweight aluminum frame throughout production.
Used Buyer Review
"The most sensible used dual-sport purchase you can make today."
$4,500-$7,500 usedThe WR250R is one of those rare bikes that does almost everything well without being exceptional at any single thing — and that's actually its superpower. It's a proper dual-sport built around a genuinely bulletproof fuel-injected 250 four-stroke engine that'll run forever if you change the oil. Yamaha built these from 2008 to 2020 with almost zero changes because they got it right first time. That long production run means parts are plentiful and prices are stable. Used examples hold value stubbornly, so don't expect a bargain. Inspect the suspension carefully — previous owners who did serious off-road work often thrash the forks hard. Check the air filter housing for cracks and look for bent subframes on anything that's been dropped heavily. The engine itself is nearly indestructible. Mileage matters less here than how it's been treated. A well-maintained 15,000-mile example beats a neglected 3,000-mile one every single time.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Yamaha Wr 250 R — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALBattery voltage at idle, flickering lights, dead battery
Ask for valve check history, cold start behavior
Inspect rear subframe welds visually and by hand flex
Oil residue on fork tubes below seals
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Very reliable if maintained, avoid abused examples
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Yamaha Wr 250 R
Suzuki Dr-z400
Kawasaki Klx 300
Yamaha Wr250r
Suzuki Drz400s
Suzuki Dr-z 400s
Compare Yamaha Wr 250 R Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Yamaha Wr 250 R vs Suzuki Dr-z400
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Yamaha Wr 250 R vs Kawasaki Klx 300
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Yamaha Wr 250 R vs Yamaha Wr250r
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Yamaha Wr 250 R vs Suzuki Drz400s
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Yamaha Wr 250 R vs Suzuki Dr-z 400s
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More Yamaha Wr 250 R Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Yamaha Wr 250 R? +
Stator/charging system failure: Battery voltage at idle, flickering lights, dead battery (serious) | Valve clearance neglect causing hard starts: Ask for valve check history, cold start behavior (moderate) | Cracked subframe from off-road abuse: Inspect rear subframe welds visually and by hand flex (moderate)
Is the Yamaha Wr 250 R a good motorcycle? +
The most sensible used dual-sport purchase you can make today. Rating: 8.5/10. Best for: Commuters who weekend on fire roads and trails. Avoid if: You want serious single-track or track performance.
What is the horsepower of the Yamaha Wr 250 R? +
The Yamaha Wr 250 R produces 30 hp @ 10,000 rpm, with 24 Nm @ 8,000 rpm of torque. Top speed: 145 km/h.
Is the Yamaha Wr 250 R good for beginners? +
Yes — the Yamaha Wr 250 R is a reasonable choice for new riders (30 hp is manageable), weighing 134 kg. Commuters who weekend on fire roads and trails
Is the Yamaha Wr 250 R reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Yamaha Wr 250 R, notably: Stator/charging system failure (Battery voltage at idle, flickering lights, dead battery). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Yamaha Wr 250 R good for daily use? +
Commuters who weekend on fire roads and trails Fuel: 3.5 L/100km or approximately 28.5 km/L (typical real-world average).
How fast is the Yamaha Wr 250 R? +
The Yamaha Wr 250 R reaches a top speed of 145 km/h, producing 30 hp at 134 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Yamaha Wr 250 R? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Yamaha Wr 250 R, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/yamaha/wr-250-r/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
