2020 YAMAHA XT250
R I D E R E V I E W
P70
predictable.
The XT250 has a five-speed
transmission that works in
harmony with the XT's power
delivery, but you'll quickly run
out of gear on the open highway,
which again, for a motorcycle
like this, is expected. It tops out
semi-comfortably around 60 mph
which is just good enough for
those quick highway jaunts to get
you to the next trailhead. Other-
wise, steer clear of the freeways.
Shifting gears, however, is a
challenge. The shift lever is tiny
and positioned way too close to
the footpeg, which might be okay
for an infant but not for anyone
with a foot larger than a size two.
At least clutch pull is ultralight
and has a good feel.
As with the shift lever, the rear
brake pedal is also way too small
and often is hard to find.
Brake power, however, is
adequate. Experienced riders
will want more bite from the front
disc, but for beginners, there is
plenty of recovery room when it
comes to front-brake mismanage-
ment. A panic grab won't result in
an automatic faceplant. Initial bite
is weak but pull harder and things
The 1980's produced
some of the best bikes
to learn on. The XT's
heritage goes back to
1980 when the XT250
made its debut.
