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Dual-Sport Motorcycles

1988Yamaha XT 250

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The 1988 Yamaha XT 250 is a lightweight single-cylinder motorcycle ideal for beginning riders and commuters seeking an affordable, reliable machine. Known for its simplicity, fuel efficiency, and nimble handling, this air-cooled four-stroke excels in urban environments and light trail riding. Its manageable power delivery and low seat height make it approachable for novice motorcyclists.

Capacity
249.0 ccm
Engine
Single, four-stroke
Gearbox
5-speed
Dry weight
122.9 kg
Seat height
810 mm
Power
17.0 HP (12.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM
Other years 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 18Agility 83Comfort 40Off-road 88Touring 30Road manners 35
Off-road & trail88%
Cornering55%
City riding45%
Daily riding40%
Touring30%
Two-up20%
Track10%
Best for
It's built primarily for trail riding and light off-road exploration rather than speed or highway travel.
Built for
It has a simple, forgiving, and approachable character typical of an air-cooled single-cylinder trail bike from its era.
Not ideal for
It's not a good fit for riders wanting high speed, long-distance comfort, or a passenger-friendly touring setup.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us
At 810mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1988 Yamaha XT 250, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
249.0 ccm
Power
17.0 HP (12.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM
Engine type
Single, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio
0.1383 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke
75.0 x 56.5 mm
Compression
9.2:1
Cooling system
Air
Fuel system
Carburettor
Starting
Electric
Ignition
CDI
Valves per cylinder
2
Lubrication system
Wet sump
Torque
Not on record - add it
Transmission
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Chain
Clutch
Multiple-disc wet clutch
Performance
Top speed
112.0 km/h (69.6 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Wheelbase
1359 mm
Overall length
2149 mm
Overall width
805 mm
Overall height
1161 mm
Seat height
810 mm
Dry weight
122.9 kg
Wet weight
125.0 kg
Fuel capacity
8.00 litres
Ground clearance
284 mm
Oil capacity
1.50 litres
Chassis & suspension
Frame
Semi-double-cradle steel frame
Front suspension
35mm telescopic fork
Rear suspension
Swingarm w/rebound-adjustable single shock
Front wheel travel
226 mm
Rear wheel travel
180 mm
Rake (fork angle)
26.0°
Trail
107 mm
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Expanding brake
Front brakes diameter
245 mm
Rear brakes
Expanding brake
Rear brakes diameter
203 mm
Front tyre
3.00-21
Rear tyre
4.60-17

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted
Specification 19801983198519881990
Capacity 249 cc 249 cc 249 cc 249 cc 249 cc
Dry weight 123 kg 123 kg 123 kg 123 kg 123 kg
Seat height 810 mm 810 mm 810 mm 810 mm 810 mm
Fuel capacity 8 L 8 L 8 L 8 L 8 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB Review

The 1988 Yamaha XT 250 is a reliable and capable off-road motorcycle that still holds up well today. With its 249cc engine, this bike has plenty of power to navigate through various terrains, making it perfect for off-road adventures. The XT 250's lightweight design and responsive handling make it easy to maneuver, while its durable construction ensures it can handle the rigors of off-road riding. Overall, the 1988 Yamaha XT 250 is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and dependable off-road motorcycle.

In conclusion, the 1988 Yamaha XT 250 is a fantastic off-road motorcycle that offers a great balance of power, agility, and durability. Whether you're hitting the trails or navigating through rough terrain, this bike delivers a smooth and reliable performance. If you're in the market for a capable off-road motorcycle that can handle anything you throw at it, the 1988 Yamaha XT 250 is definitely worth considering.

Common questions

What is the engine size of the Yamaha XT 250?

The 1988 Yamaha XT 250 has a Capacity of 249.0 ccm (15.19 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Yamaha XT 250 have?

The 1988 Yamaha XT 250 has a Power of 17.0 HP (12.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM.

How many gears does the Yamaha XT 250 have?

The 1988 Yamaha XT 250 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

How much does the Yamaha XT 250 weigh?

The 1988 Yamaha XT 250 has a Dry weight of 122.9 kg (270.9 pounds).

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