2021 Yamaha YZ250F Specifications

Name: 2021 Yamaha YZ250F
Brand: Yamaha

Cross / motocross • Specs last verified 13 July 2026

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2021 Yamaha YZ250F Overview

The 2021 Yamaha YZ250F is a cross / motocross motorcycle built around 250 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Single cylinder, four-stroke engine running Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) valve actuation, a compression ratio of 13.8:1. The bore and stroke measures 77 x 53.6 mm. From a practical standpoint, the 2021 YZ250F tips the scales at 106.1 kg, carries a 6.06-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 970 mm and spans a 1476 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2021 Yamaha YZ250F spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.

2021 Yamaha YZ250F compared with other bikes in the Cross / motocross category

Here is how the 2021 Yamaha YZ250F stacks up against other bikes in the Cross / motocross category in our database. Each model counts once, using the model year closest to this one, and the comparison covers up to 200 models.

Seat height of 970 mm is taller than that of 173 of the other 199 bikes in the Cross / motocross category.
Only 49 of the other 128 bikes in the Cross / motocross category have a lighter wet weight than the 106.1 kg of the YZ250F.
Narrowing the field to the 97 models within five model years of it, the seat height of 970 mm is taller than that of 85 of the other 96.

Versus the 2020 model

Compared with the 2020 model, seat height was raised from 965 mm to 970 mm (+5 mm). Wet weight and displacement are unchanged.

2021 YZ250F - Pros & Cons

Strengths

Fuel injection: The fuel injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
Strong front braking: The single disc front brake gives excellent stopping power and responds well to aftermarket braided lines.

Considerations

Tall seat height: The 970 mm seat height will challenge shorter riders - tiptoeing at low speeds is something to factor into your decision.
Modest fuel capacity: The 6.06-litre tank means more frequent fuel stops on longer rides, which is worth planning around on touring routes.
Chain final drive upkeep: Chain final drive needs regular cleaning, lubrication and tension checks to get full life out of the sprockets.

Wear Points & Servicing Notes

Fuelling & injector care

Fuelling comes from fuel injection. Systems like this are largely maintenance-free beyond keeping fuel quality decent and injectors clear - a fuel-system cleaner every service interval is cheap insurance.

Valve clearance checks

Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) valve actuation on the YZ250F means clearances should be checked at the manufacturer's specified interval - they can tighten as mileage accumulates, and a light top-end tick is usually the first sign.

Brake disc and pad wear

The single disc front brake gives strong, progressive stopping power. Disc thickness and pad depth are worth checking at every tyre change, since worn pads can score the disc surface.

Suspension condition on used examples

Up front, the YZ250F runs KYB speed-Sensitive System, inverted fork: fully adjustable and KYB fully adjustable single shock at the rear. On a used example, check fork seals for weeping oil and test the rear linkage for play - seals are a relatively cheap fix but useful when negotiating price.

Final drive maintenance

Final drive is by chain - expect to clean and lube it every few hundred kilometres and check tension regularly; a neglected chain wears the sprockets faster than the chain itself.

Frame & chassis check

The frame is Bilateral beam aluminum frame - worth a visual check for corrosion or impact damage around the head-stock and swingarm pivot on any used example, since frame damage is far costlier to fix than any service item.

Low-speed handling

At just 106.1 kg, the YZ250F is light enough to manhandle easily at a standstill - one of the practical advantages of its class.

YZ250F - Buying & Maintenance Guide

What to check before buying

When inspecting a used 2021 Yamaha YZ250F with its 250 cc cross / motocross, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the drivetrain for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. This model runs chain final drive, so check chain slack and sprocket tooth profile specifically - a worn sprocket is a cheaper fix now than after it's chewed up the next chain. Now 5 years old, this cross / motocross is as likely to show age-related wear (perished rubber, seized fasteners, degraded seals) as mileage-related wear. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained YZ250F should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.

Oil and filter changes

Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task for the YZ250F's 250 cc single cylinder, four-stroke. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. The sump holds 0.90 litres, so budget for that volume of quality motorcycle-specific engine oil. With a 13.8:1 compression ratio, running the octane grade specified in the manual matters more than on a lower-compression engine. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.

Fuel system care

The YZ250F's fuel injection system is durable but benefits from quality fuel and the occasional use of a fuel-system cleaner additive. If the bike has been stored for more than three months, drain and replace the fuel to prevent varnish deposits in the injectors.

Valve clearance service

Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used YZ250F. A bike with clearances out of spec doesn't always feel obviously wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for service documentation proving it's been done.

2021 Yamaha YZ250F - Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 2021 Yamaha YZ250F have?

The 2021 Yamaha YZ250F uses a Single cylinder, four-stroke engine with 250 cc of displacement.

How much does the 2021 Yamaha YZ250F weigh?

The 2021 Yamaha YZ250F weighs 106.1 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2021 Yamaha YZ250F?

The 2021 Yamaha YZ250F has a 6.06-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 101-121 km between stops.

Is the 2021 Yamaha YZ250F suitable for shorter riders?

The 2021 Yamaha YZ250F has a seat height of 970 mm. This is towards the tall end of the spectrum and will require most riders under 175 cm to tiptoe at stops.

What brakes does the 2021 Yamaha YZ250F have?

The 2021 Yamaha YZ250F uses single disc with hydraulic at the front and single disc with hydraulic at the rear.

What tyre sizes does the 2021 Yamaha YZ250F use?

The front tyre size on the 2021 Yamaha YZ250F is 80/100-21.

How much oil does the 2021 Yamaha YZ250F take?

The 2021 Yamaha YZ250F takes 0.90 litres of engine oil at a full oil and filter change. Always verify against the dipstick or sight glass after filling.

Yamaha YZ250F Spec Evolution

The Yamaha YZ250F was produced across 21 model years (2002-2023). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.

Specification	2002	2004	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021	2022	2023
Wet Weight	-	-	-	-	-	-	102.5 kg / 226.0 lbs	102.0 kg / 224.8 lbs	102.0 kg / 224.8 lbs	103.0 kg / 227.0 lbs	103.0 kg / 227.0 lbs	103.0 kg / 227.0 lbs	104.8 kg / 231.0 lbs	104.8 kg / 231.0 lbs	105.0 kg / 231.5 lbs	104.8 kg / 231.0 lbs	106.1 kg / 234.0 lbs	106.1 kg / 234.0 lbs	106.1 kg / 234.0 lbs	106.1 kg / 234.0 lbs	106.1 kg / 234.0 lbs
Dry Weight	96.5 kg / 212.7 lbs	97 kg / 213.8 lbs	-	93.5 kg / 206.1 lbs	92.7 kg / 204.4 lbs	92.5 kg / 204.0 lbs	-	-	-	-	210.5 kg / 464.1 lbs	59 kg / 130.1 lbs	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
Engine Detail	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	Titanium valves	-	Titanium-valves	Titanium-valves	Titanium-valves	Titanium-valves	Titanium-valves	Titanium-valves	Titanium-valves	Titanium-valves	-	-
Engine Type	Single cylinder	Single cylinder	Single cylinder	V2	Single cylinder	Single cylinder	Single cylinder	Single cylinder, four-stroke	Single cylinder, four-stroke	Single cylinder, four-stroke	Single cylinder, four-stroke	Single cylinder, four-stroke	Single cylinder, four-stroke	Single cylinder, four-stroke	Single cylinder, four-stroke	Single cylinder, four-stroke	Single cylinder, four-stroke	Single cylinder, four-stroke	Single cylinder, four-stroke	Single cylinder, four-stroke	Single cylinder, four-stroke
Seat Height	998 mm / 39.3 in.	995 mm / 39.2 in.	991 mm / 39.0 in.	994 mm / 39.1 in.	983 mm / 38.7 in.	986 mm / 38.8 in.	986 mm / 38.8 in.	988 mm / 38.9 in.	988 mm / 38.9 in.	991 mm / 39.0 in.	991 mm / 39.0 in.	991 mm / 39.0 in.	965 mm / 38.0 in.	965 mm / 38.0 in.	965 mm / 38.0 in.	965 mm / 38.0 in.	965 mm / 38.0 in.	965 mm / 38.0 in.	970 mm / 38.2 in.	970 mm / 38.2 in.	970 mm / 38.2 in.
Fuel Capacity	-	-	6.81 litres / 1.80 gallons	7.00 litres / 1.85 gallons	6.81 litres / 1.80 gallons	6.81 litres / 1.80 gallons	6.81 litres / 1.80 gallons	6.43 litres / 1.70 gallons	6.43 litres / 1.70 gallons	6.06 litres / 1.60 gallons	6.06 litres / 1.60 gallons	6.06 litres / 1.60 gallons	6.06 litres / 1.60 gallons	6.06 litres / 1.60 gallons	7.50 litres / 1.98 gallons	7.50 litres / 1.98 gallons	6.06 litres / 1.60 US gallons	6.06 litres / 1.60 US gallons	6.06 litres / 1.60 US gallons	6.06 litres / 1.60 US gallons	6.06 litres / 1.60 US gallons
Oil Capacity (l)	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	1.20 litres	-	-	-	-	-	0.90 litres	0.90 litres	0.90 litres	0.90 litres	0.90 litres	0.90 litres	0.90 litres
Oil Capacity (Quarts)	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	0.08 quarts	-	-	-	-	-	0.06 quarts	0.06 quarts	0.95 US quarts	0.95 US quarts	0.95 US quarts	0.95 US quarts	0.95 US quarts

Key Specifications

Engine

Single cylinder, four-stroke

Power

Not recorded

Torque

Not recorded

Top Speed

Not recorded

Weight

106.1 kg / 234.0 lbs

Fuel Capacity

6.06 litres / 1.60 US gallons

Full 2021 Yamaha YZ250F Specifications

Comments Power Tuner app.

Colours Team Yamaha Blue

Warranty 30 Day Limited Factory Warranty

Ground Clearance (in.) 13.2 inches

Ground Clearance (mm) 335 mm

Seat Height 970 mm / 38.2 in.

Wheelbase 1476 mm / 58.1 in.

Height 1285 mm / 50.6 in.

Length 2174 mm / 85.6 in.

Width 826 mm / 32.5 in.

Oil Capacity (l) 0.90 litres

Oil Capacity (Quarts) 0.95 US quarts

Fuel Capacity 6.06 litres / 1.60 US gallons

Wet Weight 106.1 kg / 234.0 lbs

Mods from previous model New cylinder head with an improved intake port shape, new exhaust camshaft profile, a new silencer, and an updated ECU.

Displacement (cc) 250.0 cc

Displacement (ci) 15.26 cubic inches

Engine Type Single cylinder, four-stroke

Fuel Control Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)

Bore x Stroke (in,) 3.0 x 2.1 inches

Bore x Stroke (mm) 77.0 x 53.6 mm

Engine Detail Titanium-valves

Fuel System Injection. Mikuni, 44mm

Compression Ratio 13.8:1

Engine Lubrication Wet sump

Ignition TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition

Starter Electric

Valve System 4

Clutch Multiplate wet clutch

Final Drive Chain (final drive)

Gearbox 5-speed

Frame Type Bilateral beam aluminum frame

Suspension - Front KYB speed-Sensitive System, inverted fork: fully adjustable

Suspension - Rear KYB fully adjustable single shock

Rake 26.0°

Trail 119 mm / 4.7 in.

Wheel Travel - Front 310 mm / 12.2 in.

Wheel Travel - Rear 318 mm / 12.5 in.

Brakes - Front Single disc. Hydraulic.

Brakes - Rear Single disc. Hydraulic.

Rims Bridgestone® Battlecross tyres

Tyres - Front 80/100-21

Specifications are compiled from manufacturer documentation and cross-referenced technical sources, and corrected on an ongoing basis. Spot an error? Let us know.