2013 Yamaha XT Review

Intro

Bikes that are equally adept at handling the road and the open trail are rarer than one might think. The Yamaha XT250 is one model that has particularly distinguished itself for having the ability to go on-road and off-road with equal aplomb. The new 2013 Yamaha XT is a versatile on and off-road bike that’s got a 250cc single-cylinder engine. With an easy-to-operate electric starter and fuel injection, the XT250 is a great bike for people who want a versatile bike that’s capable both on-road and off. A light and nimble bike with a low seat, a low price, the durability you’d expect from a Yamaha, the 2013 XT250 is a good all-purpose bike. Over the years the dual sport nature of the Yamaha XT250 has endeared the model to many fans.

A 249cc air-cooled SOHC engine that’s been paired with a five-speed transmission powers the 2013 Yamaha XT250. The engine remains essentially unchanged from last year’s model. Some of the XT’s key features include a long-travel suspension that provides more than 11.2 inches of ground clearance and a seat that’s only 31.9 inches up from the ground. The bike’s electric start makes it easy to fire up all 249ccs of its four-stroke engine. Meanwhile 245mm front disc and 203mm rear disc brakes provide stopping power that’s equally superb on both paved and unpaved surfaces. The bike’s 249cc four-stroke engine is air cooled with 9.5:1 compression. It makes maximum power at 7500 rpm and maximum torque at 6500 rpm. The bike’s suspension remains unchanged from years past. It’s got the same 35mm telescopic fork with 8.9-inches of travel and a swingarm with rebound-adjustable monoshock with 7.1-inches of clearance.

The XT250 is appreciated for its versatility and quick responsive power. The latter can be attributed in part to the bike’s light crankshaft. Meanwhile the wide-ratio five-speed transmission delivers maximum power and performance across a wide range of different terrains and conditions. Having the engine mounted high up in the frame provides an impressive 11.2 inches of ground clearance. Minimal maintenance and long engine life are also qualities associated with the Yamaha XT250. The bike owes much of its ability to seamlessly transition from on to off-road conditions to its suspension. The semi-double-cradle steel frame delivers a feel that is light and nimble, despite the greater mass centralization. At the same time greater lateral and torsional rigidity combined with reduced weight in the lower part of the frame result in handling that is light and stable. The handlebars of the 2013 XT250 provide a maximum turning angle of 51 degrees. Combining this with the bike’s short 53.5-inch wheelbase, results in a super-tight turning radius that provides for maneuverability that’s excellent. With a 21-inch wheel up front and an 18-inch wheel in the rear, suspension performance and handling are also excellent. In all, the 2013 Yamaha XT250 delivers everything its predecessor did. However the replacement of the old 33mm Teikei carburetor with the new fuel injection system really does represent a significant step forward for the 2013 Yamaha XT.

New For 2013

  • The 2013 XT250 has been given a fuel injection to help facilitate smooth throttle responses and easy starts in practically all conditions.
  • Thanks in part to the new fuel injection system, the 2013 Yamaha XT250 has an improved fuel economy of 76 mpg, a three mpg improvement over the old rating of 73 mpg.
  • The bike has also been outfitted with a larger more stylish looking fuel tank to expand its range and improve its profile.
  • The old CDI (Capacitive Discharge Ignition) ignition system has been replaced with an upgraded TCI (Transistor Controlled Ignition) system.
  • Multifunctional digital LCD instrument panel with cool green background lighting that makes it easy to read gauges by day or night, and facilitates a lightweight handlebar for precise handling.
  • Long, thick seat helps to create a riding position that is more balanced and helps facilitate optimal rider movement and comfort.
  • Frame-mounted passenger footpegs provide riding capacity for two.
  • Enduro-style 60/55-watt halogen headlights feature a cool 133mm lens for better visibility at night.

2013 Yamaha XT Specs

  • Model: Yamaha XT250
  • Engine Type: Single-Cylinder, four-stroke
  • Bore and Stroke: 74.0 X 58.0mm
  • Compression ratio: 9.5:1
  • Valve Train: SOHC
  • Induction: Fuel Injection
  • Ignition: Electric
  • Transmission: Manual
  • Final Drive: Chain
  • Fuel Capacity: 2.6 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: 73 mpg
  • Brakes (Front): Hydraulic Disc
  • Brakes (Rear): Hydraulic Disc
  • Suspension (Front): 35mm telescopic for; 8.9-in travel
  • Suspension (Rear): Swingarm w/rebound-adjustable single shock
  • Wheelbase: 53.5 / 1358.9
  • Rake: N/A
  • Trail: N/A
  • Seat Height: 31.9
  • Curb Weight: 291 lb.
  • Tires (Front): 2.75 X 21
  • Tires (Rear): 120/80 R18

Accessories

  • Garmin® zumo® 655 Navigation Module
  • Optional VPN Skid Plate Set by Barkbusters
  • Yamaha Half Cover
  • Timing Plug
  • Fused Ring Terminal
  • OptiMate® 1 Battery Charger
  • Slim Line Sports Horn

Key Competitors For The 2013 Yamaha XT

  • Kawasaki KX250AF
  • Honda CRF250L