Yamaha says it's raised the motocross bar yet again with the arrival of its 2017 YZ250F, which it says boasts a claimed 15 per cent more horsepower, an all-new reverse cylinder head and improved handling.
Yamaha says the engine's new reverse cylinder design delivers numerous benefits, including increased intake and exhaust efficiency and enhanced mass centralisation. The engine is said to offer better pulling power in the mid to high rev range and improved acceleration, while the gearbox offers a more refined shift.
Other engine changes span the use of stronger intake and exhaust valve springs to suit the new higher-lift camshafts, while a new nickel-chromoly steel con-rod has been adopted to handle the extra performance.
Capping off the new unit are new high-strength engine cases, with a new manufacturing process said to increase strength by five per cent.
The bike also uses a new ECU with new fuel mapping, while an optional Yamaha Power Tuner allows riders to fine-tune engine performance without the need for a PC.
Yamaha says the bike's alloy beam chassis features a revised balance of frame rigidity and a lower centre of gravity, while the suspension has been refined for an even better ride.
The footrests have been lowered by 5mm to accommodate a wider range of riders in comfort, says Yamaha.
The KYB Air Oil Separate (AOS) fork now has a more rigid outer tube design and a slightly reduced oil capacity, giving – says Yamaha – improved rider feedback.
The rear 245mm disc is now made from the same heat-resistant steel as the front 270mm disc and the bike features new graphics on the shrouds and fenders.
Click here to see what Yamaha had to say about its latest major update to the model, the 2014 YZ250F. Available in Team Yamaha Blue and White, the 2017 Yamaha YZ250F is priced at $11,099. See your nearest Yamaha dealership for more information.