VOL. 54 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 19, 2017 P77
KTM 250 SX-F
For 2018, KTM gave the 250 SX-F a number
of small changes hoping that it would be
enough capitalize upon Yamaha's lack of
development, and take the title of this
year's shootout champion. Changes to the
SX-F include revisions to the settings of the
highly capable WP AER 48 air forks out front,
along with the usual bold-new graphics and
an orange-painted frame—yes please! The
changes may not sound like much, but with
the Yamaha showing its age, this might
KTM's year.
SUZUKI RM-Z250
After a complete redesign in 2016, the
Suzuki RM-Z250 has yet to see any more
revisions, besides white side panels and
a blue-accented seat cover and graphics.
The RM-Z is known for being a rider-
friendly package and cornering abilities,
but there's no denying that it is one of
the heaviest and most-dated 250s in
the class. After seeing Suzuki's heavily
updated '18 450, we're expecting big
things from the RM-Z250 next year.
YAMAHA YZ250F
Yamaha's YZ250F has been the defending
champ of the Cycle News 250F Shootout
since way back in 2014, when it received a
complete overhaul. Since then, Yamaha has
given a significant amount of changes to the
YZ to keep it on top—until this year. In 2018,
the Yamaha only receives a set of blue rims
and bold-new graphics. Has Yamaha's work
over the last few years been enough give the
YZ250F one more crown? Or will this year's
shootout mark the demise of Yamaha's
winning package?
Kawasaki KX250F
Yamaha YZ250F
