Motorcycle specifications Yamaha YZ 250 F 2016 Quest for superiority

The Yamaha YZ 250 F, completely redesigned in its 2014 model year, has been acclaimed by the specialist press in both Europe and the United States. Thanks to the success of Cooper Webb (AMA Supercross West Coast 250 Champion in 2015) and Jeremy Martin (AMA Motocross 250 Champion in 2014), the YZ 250 F positions Yamaha among the best in the 250 cm3 4-stroke category.

equipped with a rear-tilted engine and forward-facing intake, the YZ 250 F combines a wide, easily exploitable power range with exceptional agility.

yZ 250 F 2016: superior in the corners

renowned for its excellent cornering performance, the YZ 250 F has evolved in a number of areas to enhance its overall competitiveness.
In particular, the development team focused on improving four major functionalities: mid- and high-rpm power; engine flexibility; suspension performance; braking power and handling.

new, lighter piston and connecting rod

in order to reduce the weight of the moving part (connecting rod-piston) and thus achieve evenponse and acceleration, the 2016 YZ 250 F features a new flat-head piston. Aided by a thinner piston skirt and shorter piston pin, this forged design reduces weight by over 18g. The new flat crown enhances combustion efficiency for greater traction and high-speed performance.

for enhanced reliability, the lightened piston features additional ribs at the bottom and a modified piston cooling nozzle. The result is operating temperatures around 10°C lower than before, for a more consistently efficient engine.

optimized crankshaft and balance design

to achieve more linear torque, the 2016 model uses an additional crankshaft counterweight and a redesigned balance beam. This new design improves engine balance, while delivering high torque over a wider rpm range: the rider better anticipates the terrain profile and adapts his riding position more quickly.

these modifications also reduce vibrations. A modified injection box smoothes engine behavior when the rev limiter is activated.

clutch and transmission improvements

as with the YZ 450 F, the 2016 YZ 250 F adopts a new clutch nut, as well as a new selector finger equipped with a 20% stiffer spring and a revised roller for smoother, more precise shifting under pressure.

new front and rear suspension settings

new suspension settings have been chosen, directly inspired by feedback from Yamaha factory riders, to improve handling and directional stability on heavy shocks.

larger diameter front brake disc (270 mm)

the 2016 YZ 250 F uses a larger diameter front disc (270 mm) and new brake pads. The result is not only later braking, but also a more accurate feel.

yZ 250 F - 2016 Evolutions

- New, lighter piston
- New connecting rod
- Optimized crankshaft and rocker arm design
- New fuel injection mapping
- Larger diameter front brake disc (270 mm)
- Revised clutch and gearshift mechanism
- Revised suspension settings

technical specifications YZ 250 F

- 250 cm3 liquid-cooled, 4-valve, DOHC engine
- Forward-facing intake, fuel injection, rearward-facing cylinder and rearward-facing exhaust
- Wet sump lubrication
- Silencer designed for improved mass centering
- Double-sided aluminum frame
- Inverted front forks with air/oil separators (AOS)
- Progressive monocross suspension

Photo credits: Yamaha