YAMAHA WRX-250 test

Intro: Fun for new license holders

Two models have arrived on the scene, the WR250 R and the WR 250 X. Built on the same base; they have built an all –terrain machine the R and a super-moto, the X. Facility and fun are the selling points of these two bikes, but we will focus our attention on the more urban, the WRX.

Esthetique: A family ressemblence

At first glance, you get the feeling the WRX is largely inspired by Yamaha’s racing bikes with its aggressive lines. What makes it different from the all-terrain version is first of all the wheels with its very super-moto like 17-inch wheels shod with radial tyres. The brake system is also more consequent with this handsome 290mm disc with double calliper piston. The 46mm fork is stiffer as is the single shock absorber. Pollution standards require the use of a large and not very eye pleasing muffler that is covered with a fine looking cover. Both models could be considered as descendents of the 250TTR. A pleasure and easy to ride bike derived from a race machine. There are more than a few elements taken from the enduro and motocross bikes like the three part semi double sub frame, which is plenty rigid and solid, which leaves with you the impression that the WRX is a super-moto more than in just its name

Motorization: Enough to have some fun

The engine block is brand new, the 250 four-stroke is injection fed to limit fuel consumption and pollution. Titanium valves, inversed air intakes, everything has been done with improved performance and limiting weight in mind. This Yamaha has almost 31 brake horsepower and tips the scales at 128 kilograms. While these two bikes are accessible they are hardly cheap.

On the road: Easy to ride

When you get an eyeful of this nifty bike, the first thing you want to do to is give it a go...and there’s no better place than the Alés motorsport complex...a few laps to heat up the tyres and the WRK show’s why it is such a fun machine to ride. Lightweight, easy to get used to and safe, you need very little time to understand how this bike works. The small motor isn’t the most powerful engine in the world but it has plenty of character when accelerating and has a good amount of torque. The six speed gearbox is smooth and to slide when using the brakes, you just have to give the clutch a light squeeze, if you don’t the back end will begin to dribble...the front brake is very precise and efficient. The rigidity and liveliness of this machine is surprising and goes from one corner to the next with the greatest of ease....clearly the WRX will be right in its element in urban conditions, but its real predilection is elsewhere. Yamaha offers from the same mould, a playful super-moto bike that is easy and safe, as well as being an urban trail bike that has real all-terrain potential. This machine is made for young riders with the unrestricted engines that stay loyal to their character, while having an intuitive and safe comportment. The technology derived from competition comes at a price, 6290 euros for the R and additional 200 euros for the super-moto version.