The 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke engine is lightweight, compact and fun, utilizing a revised compression ratio, revised YPVS timing and a model-specific digital CDI unit compared to its motocross sibling—all focused on creating a broad, usable power delivery specifically suited to cross country and enduro-style competition.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 Yamaha YZ250X: VICTORY: TWO‑STROKE HEART, ENDURO SOUL.
Introducing the new 2026 Yamaha YZ250X…
Engineered with all the reliability and durability you’ve come to expect from Yamaha, this two‑stroke was born to win Cross Country races. Featuring a robust 250cc engine, optimized rider ergonomics, and a long list of XC details that solidifies its position as the king of woods!
Featuring a powerful 250cc two‑stroke engine and renowned high-performance chassis, the YZ250X was born to win cross country races.
249cc DISPLACEMENT
229 lb WET WEIGHT
38.4 in SEAT HEIGHT
58.5 in WHEEL BASE
2026 Yamaha YZ250X Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- Optimized rider ergonomics to improve mobility in challenging cross-country conditions
- Optimized intake design allows for a straight, more efficient draw of air into the intake tract.
- High performance braking system features large front pistons, rigid caliper and a 270mm front rotor
- ”Re-tuned” engine vs YZ250 (Ignition, timing, & YPVS)
- Wider ratio transmission gears Vs. YZ250 (3rd gear & higher)
- Heavy duty clutch
- Expansion chamber shape
- Unique front & rear suspension settings
- 18″ rear wheel
Two-Stroke Power: Tuned for Enduro
The 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke engine is lightweight, compact and fun, utilizing a revised compression ratio, revised YPVS timing and a model-specific digital CDI unit compared to its motocross sibling—all focused on creating a broad, usable power delivery specifically suited to cross country and enduro-style competition.
Advanced Motocross-Derived Chassis
Ultra-lightweight YZ250-spec frame features carefully engineered combination of aluminum castings, forgings and extrusions for the perfect balance of rigidity and flex. The industry-leading fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System KYB® spring-type front fork is matched with a fully adjustable high performance KYB® long-travel rear shock, both tested and tuned specifically for the needs of cross country racers.
Exceptional Ergonomics
To increase rider confidence in challenging cross country conditions, smoothly integrated body panels, narrow fuel tank design, slim shroud width and flat seat all combine to enable greater freedom of movement forward and back, allowing the rider to easily shift body weight for better control.
Premium Wheels & Tires
Slick blue Excel® rims provide exceptional durability and a premium look. They come wrapped in high performance Dunlop® Geomax MX33 tires offering race-developed performance for a wide range of terrain.
Cross Country Features
The YZ250X is focused on cross country competition with an 18-inch rear wheel, wide-ratio gearing, standard side stand, sealed O-ring chain and reserve fuel petcock, all adding up to exceptional cross country performance.
2026 Yamaha YZ250X Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
ENGINE
A 249cc reed-valve-inducted two-stroke engine is lightweight, compact and fun with a wide, hard-hitting powerband.
The YZ250X is tuned for enduro with a revised compression ratio, revised YPVS timing and model-specific digital CDI unit.
High-precision Hitachi Astemo® Keihin PWK38S carburetor provides clean, crisp throttle response and superior rideability.
Intake design allows for a straighter, more efficient draw of air into the intake tract.
A compact exhaust expansion chamber improves clearance in tight terrain while providing excellent exhaust efficiency.
Smooth-shifting wide-ratio transmission ensures proper gearing from tight woods to wide-open fire roads.
Durable clutch design includes six inner pressure plates with advanced friction material for exceptional heat resistance.
Large-capacity radiator provides maximum cooling efficiency for demanding racing conditions.
CHASSIS/SUSPENSION
Best-in-class Speed Sensitive 48mm KYB® fork is tuned for cross country, offering precise damping and 11.8 inches of travel.
Ultra-lightweight YZ250-spec aluminum frame is precisely engineered for the perfect balance of rigidity and flex.
Removable aluminum rear subframe is constructed of square-section tubing for reduced weight.
Fully adjustable KYB® shock provides exceptional rear wheel control, class-leading capability and 12.4 inches of travel.
High performance braking system features 270mm front rotor, 240mm rear rotor, large front pistons and rigid calipers.
Tapered aluminum handlebar include adjustable mounts for more comfortable ergonomics.
Slick blue Excel® rims provide exceptional durability and a premium look.
High performance Dunlop® Geomax MX33 tires offer outstanding cornering traction, stability and feel.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
A flat seat, narrow fuel tank and well-integrated body panels combine to create greater freedom of movement.
Enduro features include an 18-inch rear wheel, wide-ratio gearing, side stand, sealed O-ring chain and reserve fuel petcock.
Premium embedded Yamaha graphics highlight the YZ family pedigree and provide excellent durability.
TOP FEATURES
Two-Stroke Power: Tuned for Enduro Racing
The YZ250X is optimized for the unique demands of Hare Scrambles and GNCC® racing. The Yamaha Power Valve System (YPVS™)-equipped 249cc two-stroke engine is mated to a wide-ratio five-speed transmission for the ultimate cross country power plant.
Advanced Motocross-Derived Chassis
Ultra-lightweight YZ250-spec frame features carefully engineered combination of aluminum castings, forgings and extrusions for the perfect balance of rigidity and flex. The industry-leading fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System KYB® spring-type front fork is matched with a fully adjustable high performance KYB® long-travel rear shock, both tested and tuned specifically for the needs of cross country racers.
High Performance Brake System
A high performance, lightweight braking system features large front pistons, rigid calipers, and 270mm front rotor and 240mm rear rotor, all combining to provide exceptional braking power and feel along with reduced unsprung weight.
Exceptional Ergonomics
To increase rider confidence in challenging cross country conditions, smoothly integrated body panels, narrow fuel tank design, slim shroud width and flat seat all combine to enable greater freedom of movement forward and back, allowing the rider to easily shift body weight for better control.
Bold YZ Styling
Along with slim, aggressive bodywork, the bold graphics scheme further highlights the YZ family pedigree. Premium Yamaha graphics are now embedded to provide excellent durability and scratch resistance.
GNCC®-Specific Features
Cross country focused suspension setup, optimized YPVS™ settings, lightweight Excel® wheels paired with Dunlop® Geomax MX33 tires, sealed O-ring chain, standard side stand and fuel tank petcock with reserve position all combine to make the perfect GNCC® racer.
ENGINE
Exhilarating Two-Stroke Power
The 249cc liquid-cooled reed-valve-inducted two-stroke engine is lightweight, compact and fun, with an incredibly wide, hard-hitting powerband.
Tuned for GNCC® Competition
The YZ250X utilizes a revised compression ratio, revised YPVS™ timing and a model-specific digital CDI unit compared to its motocross sibling””all focused on creating a broad, usable power delivery specifically suited to cross country and enduro-style competition.
Efficient Air Intake Design
Intake design allows for a straighter, more efficient draw of air into the intake tract.
Advanced Carburetor
Advanced 38mm Hitachi Astemo® Keihin PWK38S carburetor with power jet and throttle position sensor provides precise fuel/air mixing and extra-crisp throttle response.
Narrow Exhaust Pipe
Unique compact exhaust expansion chamber is designed especially for the YZ250X to improve both horizontal and vertical clearance on tight, technical courses while still providing excellent exhaust efficiency.
Wide-Ratio Five-Speed Transmission
Smooth-shifting wide-ratio transmission ensures proper gearing from tight woods to wide-open fire roads.
Durable Clutch Design
For improved clutch durability without compromising smooth operation, six inner pressure plates with advanced friction material offer excellent heat resistance characteristics ideal for extended cross-country competition.
New High-Capacity Radiator
A new high-capacity radiator with dark louvers delivers aggressive looks and improved cooling efficiency for demanding cross country racing conditions.
CHASSIS/SUSPENSION
YZ250-Based Frame
Ultra-lightweight YZ250-spec frame features carefully engineered combination of aluminum castings, forgings and extrusions for the perfect balance of rigidity and flex. Removable aluminum rear subframe is constructed of square-section tubing for reduced weight.
Industry-Leading KYB® Fork
The fully adjustable KYB® 48mm forks feature the Speed-Sensitive System which uses piston speed to control the damping force for super-precise handling, superb bump absorption and 11.8 inches of suspension travel. Additionally, a scraper between the dust and oil seal improves reliability in cross country conditions. New for 2025, the fork now includes a hand-adjustable knob for quick, toolless compression adjustments.
Advanced KYB® Shock
Fully adjustable KYB® shock features reduced-friction Kashima Coat™ internals, 12.4 inches of travel, separate adjusters for high- and low-speed compression damping, and a full lock oil rebound system for increased comfort. It all adds up to fantastic rear wheel control and a sweet ride.
High Performance Brake System
A high performance, lightweight braking system features large front pistons, rigid calipers, and 270mm front rotor and 240mm rear rotor, all combining to provide exceptional braking power and feel along with reduced unsprung weight.
Premium Excel® Wheels & Dunlop® Tires
Slick blue Excel® rims provide exceptional durability and a premium look. They come wrapped in high performance Dunlop® Geomax MX33 tires for improved cornering traction, stability and feel.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Cross Country Ergonomics
A racy “gripper”-type seat and narrow fuel tank combined with a tapered aluminum handlebar and adjustable mounts create greater freedom of movement and more comfortable ergonomics for riders.
Cross Country Features
The YZ250X is focused on cross country competition with an 18-inch rear wheel, wide-ratio gearing, standard side stand, sealed O-ring chain, reserve fuel petcock and a new water-resistant PVC handle bar pad, all adding up to exceptional cross country performance.
*Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) shown. Does not include tax, title, prep or destination charges. Actual prices set by dealer.
**Fuel Economy is estimated.
***Wet weight includes the vehicle with all standard equipment and all fluids, including oil, coolant (as applicable) and a full tank of fuel. It does not include the weight of options or accessories. Wet weight is useful in making real-world comparisons with other models.
2026 Yamaha YZ250X – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $8,199 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $9,699 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ NA GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
ENGINE
| Engine Type | 249cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke; reed-valve inducted |
| Bore x Stroke | 66.4mm × 72.0mm |
| Compression Ratio | 7.9~9.4:1 |
| Fuel Delivery | Hitachi Astemo® Keihin PWK38S |
| Transmission | Constant-mesh 5-speed; multiplate wet clutch |
| Final Drive | Chain |
| Fuel Capacity | 1.8 gal |
CHASSIS
| Suspension/Front | KYB® Speed-Sensitive System inverted fork; fully adjustable, 11.8-in travel |
| Suspension/Rear | KYB® single shock; fully adjustable, 12.4-in travel |
| Brakes/Front | Hydraulic disc, 270mm |
| Brakes/Rear | Hydraulic disc, 240mm |
| Tires/Front | 80/100-21 Dunlop® Geomax MX33F |
| Tires/Rear | 110/100-18 Dunlop® Geomax MX33 |
DIMENSIONS
| LxWxH | 86.0 in x 32.5 in x 50.8 in |
| Seat Height | 38.4 in |
| Wheelbase | 58.5 in |
| Rake (Caster Angle) | 27.7° |
| Trail | 4.8 in |
| Max. Ground Clearance | 14.2 in |
| Fuel Capacity | 1.8 gal |
| Wet Weight*** | 229 lb |
OTHER
| Warranty | 30 Day (Limited Factory Warranty) |
*Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) shown. Does not include tax, title, prep or destination charges. Actual prices set by dealer.
**Fuel Economy is estimated.
***Wet weight includes the vehicle with all standard equipment and all fluids, including oil, coolant (as applicable) and a full tank of fuel. It does not include the weight of options or accessories. Wet weight is useful in making real-world comparisons with other models.
2026 Yamaha YZ250X – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details
Engine
| Engine | 2-stroke, liquid-cooled, reed-valve, single |
| Displacement | 249 cc |
| Bore and Stroke | 66.4 x 72 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 7.9 ~ 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Delivery | Keihin PWK38S |
| Ignition / Starting | CDI / Kick |
| Transmission | Constant mesh, 5-speed |
| Final Drive | Chain |
Chassis
| Suspension (Front) | Fully adjustable 48 mm inverted fork / 300 mm (11.8″) travel |
| Suspension (Rear) | Fully adjustable link Monocross / 315 mm (12.4″) travel |
| Brakes (Front) | 270 mm floating disc / twin piston caliper |
| Brakes (Rear) | 240 mm disc / single piston caliper |
| Tires (Front) | 80/100-21 |
| Tires (Rear) | 110/100-18 |
Critical Data
| Length | 2,185 mm (86″) |
| Width | 825 mm (32.5″) |
| Height | 1,290 mm (50.8″) |
| Wheelbase | 1,485 mm (58.5″) |
| Ground Clearance | 360 mm (14.2″) |
| Seat Height | 975 mm (38.4″) |
| Fuel Capacity | 8 litres (1.8 imp. gallons) |
| Wet Weight | 104 kg (229 lbs) |
| Colour(s) | Yamaha Racing Blue |
2026 Yamaha YZ250X – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
NA
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
