2020 Yamaha WR250F

The 2020 Yamaha WR250F is for those looking to join in on enduro competitions or tackle some aggressive trail riding. The WR250F’s bilateral beam aluminum frame was built off of Yamaha’s championship-winning motocross racer—the YZ250F, with mass centralization being one of the key objectives during development. The internals of this 250cc four-stroke engine can also be found in the YZ250F’s, but the WR250F powerplant is tuned and equipped for enduro with its smoother midrange power and wide-ratio six-speed transmission. Full-size 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels maneuver over the terrain, while bump absorption is left to the Tuning Fork brand’s notoriously plush KYB suspension with more than 12 inches of travel, front and rear.

Back when the 2015 WR250F received updates, we claimed that Yamaha was serious about challenging KTM for off-road supremacy and with another round of updates this year, that battle is still on. This segues into the competition for Yamaha’s enduro model, which would include the KTM 350 XCF-W and Husqvarna FE 350. Additionally, although they are more geared toward cross-country racing, potential WR250F buyers may also consider the Yamaha YZ250FX, KTM 250 XC-F, or Honda CRF250RX.

The 2020 model year features a complete overhaul that brings the WR250F closer to the YZ250F, though still maintaining an enduro focus. Changes include internal engine and transmission updates, a new air filter, different suspension settings, a redesigned chassis, revised exhaust, stiffer seat, and newly designed 2.2-gallon fuel tank. In order to reduce some weight, Yamaha has also removed the kickstarter. For more on the specifics of these changes, visit our sister brand Dirt Rider.