2021 Yamaha YZ250F

Due to its well-rounded engine, high-quality suspension, stable chassis, and world-class (and free!) EFI tuning, the 2021 Yamaha YZ250F is the best 250 four-stroke motocrosser this year.

Every year Dirt Rider puts the 250 four-strokes head to head to determine which motocross bike is best. 2021 sees a new king of the 250 four-strokes and that is the 2021 Yamaha YZ250F. It garnered top marks in engine, chassis, and suspension categories making it a top competitor in the popular quarter-liter MX class.

Yamaha made significant updates for 2021. The bLU cRU improved its total performance package by not only updating its engine, but chassis and suspension as well, namely a new cylinder head, intake, bilateral frame, and new suspension settings and braking system.

The Yamaha YZ250F is priced at an MSRP of $8,299.

Nestled in the new aluminum frame lies the YZ250F’s liquid-cooled, DOHC, 250cc four-stroke engine. As part of the necessary research for Dirt Rider’s comparison, the real horsepower and torque figures were pulled from our in-house dyno. The YZ-F’s results were 39.0 hp at 12,950 rpm and 18.0 pound-feet at 9,720 rpm. Although this power was not the highest of the comparison, it still performed very well on the track with its class-leading low- to midrange power and torque feel throughout the rpm range, crisp throttle response, and quick acceleration.

Its easy pull at the cable clutch also aids in simplified shifting through the five gears. We noted it was the best cable clutch in the shootout.

The overall handling of the YZ250F is confidence-inspiring. It is stable and planted regardless of terrain or track, even if the measured 235-pound wet weight gives a heavy feel on track.

The KYB Speed Sensitive System fork and KYB shock impressed test riders with the most riding comfort of the comparison, so much so that test rider Allan Brown stated, “There are only minimal changes to be made to the YZ250F’s suspension depending on the track conditions because it is so close to perfect in stock form. The balance is very close. I made no adjustments to the ride height and didn’t notice any excessive pitching either.”

Nissin units work with 270mm and 240mm discs (front/rear) for plenty of stopping power, though not as strong as the Brembos seen on the competition. It is also noted that there is a remarkably progressive feel at the lever.

Fuel economy and real-world miles per gallon has not been recorded or claimed.

The YZ-F’s broad radiator shroud and upper part of the midsection by the fuel tank were noticeably wider than the other 250s and the rider triangle is not as neutral as one would hope. The handlebar is positioned forward and the peg-to-seat distance is short; however, an aftermarket seat could be a solution to the latter.

A huge plus side to this model is its tunability. Yamaha is currently the only manufacturer to offer free and wireless EFI tuning through its Power Tuner app.

The YZ250F has a 30-day limited factory warranty.

The Yamaha YZ250F stood out above the competition with its engine character, EFI tuning, chassis, and suspension, and if the extra front-end girth and slightly disproportionate ergonomics are easily overlooked for you, then you will have yourself a solid motocross machine with the latest tech.