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1989Yamaha XT 250

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The 1989 Yamaha XT 250 is a lightweight trial bike designed for beginner and intermediate riders seeking an affordable, manageable platform. Its compact 249cc single-cylinder engine delivers modest power ideal for learning technical trail skills, while the bike's nimble handling and low 275-pound weight make it excellent for tight terrain navigation and rider confidence building.

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

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

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

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?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 810mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1989 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	1980	1983	1985	1988	1989	1990
Capacity	249 cc	249 cc	249 cc	249 cc	249 cc	249 cc
Dry weight	123 kg	123 kg	123 kg	123 kg	123 kg	123 kg
Seat height	810 mm	810 mm	810 mm	810 mm	810 mm	810 mm
Fuel capacity	8 L	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

3.8

★★★★☆

Rider rating

MotorcycleDB Review

The 1989 Yamaha XT 250 is a legendary dual-sport motorcycle that has earned a reputation for its reliability and versatility. With a 249cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, this bike delivers ample power for both on-road and off-road adventures. Its lightweight and nimble handling make it a joy to ride, whether you're cruising through city streets or tackling rugged trails. The XT 250 also features a comfortable seat and ergonomic design, making it a great choice for riders of all skill levels. Overall, the 1989 Yamaha XT 250 is a timeless classic that continues to impress with its performance and durability.

This 1989 Yamaha XT 250 review highlights the bike's exceptional performance and versatility. With its 249cc engine and agile handling, this dual-sport motorcycle is perfect for both on-road and off-road riding. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, the XT 250's comfortable seat and ergonomic design make it a great choice for all skill levels. Overall, the 1989 Yamaha XT 250 is a timeless classic that continues to impress with its reliability and versatility.