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RIDE REVIEW I 2025 FANTIC XEF250 TL
THE VERDICT
If your riding skills and/or bank account are not ready
for a $9000-plus off-road bike and the entry-level
bikes on the market don't provide the performance
you are looking for, the Fantic XEF250 TL might be a
good option for you. We did not get to ride it enough
to really test its durability, but it seems well-built, and
the parts used are well above those of entry-level
bikes. The performance is also above that of most
entry-level bikes, even if the horsepower of the motor
leaves a little to be desired for more serious riders.
The XEF250 TL is stuck in the middle, and that might
be the sweet spot for you. CN
(Above) The Fantic-produced forks and shock have
adjustable preload and rebound damping. The
stock settings are adequate for spirited trail riding.
(Below) Not many "entry-level" dirt bikes come with
a carbon-fiber skid plate. Nice touch.
2025 FANTIC XEF250 TL ($6499)
Engine Single-cylinder 4-stroke
Valvetrain SOHC, 4-valve
Cooling system Liquid
Capacity 249.6cc
Bore x Stroke 77 x 53.6mm
Fueling Electronic fuel injection
Exhaust Arrow
Emissions Euro5
Final Drive Chain
Clutch Wet, Multi-Disc
Transmission 6-speed
Frame Perimeter steel chrome-molybdenum (CrMo), w/
removable aluminum subframe
Swingarm Aluminum
Front Wheel Aluminum, black anodized, 21 in.
Rear Wheel Aluminum, black anodized, 18 in.
Front Tire 90/90-21 Michelin Tracker
Rear Tire 120/90-18 Michelin Tracker
Front Suspension Fantic FRS 43mm USD fork; preload and
rebound adjustable
Rear Suspension Fantic FRS 125 piggyback shock w/
linkage, preload and rebound adjustable
Front-Wheel Travel 12.2 in.
Rear-Wheel Travel 12.5 in.
Front Brake 260mm Wave-type disc w/ braided
steel brake lines
Rear Brakes 220mm Wave-type disc w/ braided
steel brake lines
Instrument Display Speed, odometer, multiple trips, average
speed, clock, hour meter, max rpm, maintenance intervals
Seat Height 36 in.
Wheelbase 55.9 in.
Measured weight (w/ fuel) 286 lbs.
Fuel Capacity 1.98 gal.
