Collection: Yamaha XG250 Tricker (2005 – 2008)

Yamaha XG250 Tricker (2005–2008)

The Yamaha XG250 Tricker (2005–2008) is a lightweight, versatile off-road motorcycle designed for urban commuting, light trail riding, and beginner riders. With its compact design, reliable engine, and simple mechanics, the Tricker stands out in the entry-level dual-sport segment. It combines easy handling with off-road capability, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an approachable bike for both city streets and light off-road excursions.

Engine and Performance

The Yamaha XG250 Tricker is powered by a 249cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces around 21 horsepower and 21 Nm of torque. While the engine is not highly powerful, it delivers ample performance for light off-road work and urban commuting. The bike features a carbureted engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox, which makes the setup simple and reliable. The engine is cooled by air, helping to reduce complexity and maintenance needs. The Tricker offers both electric start and kickstart options, ensuring that riders can start the bike easily in a variety of conditions. This simplicity is a major selling point, particularly for beginner riders or those new to off-road bikes.

Suspension and Handling

The Yamaha XG250 Tricker is equipped with a telescopic fork up front with 200mm of travel and a single shock rear suspension with 180mm of travel. This setup offers a good balance between comfort and performance, allowing the bike to handle light trail conditions and city streets without difficulty. The suspension is long enough to absorb bumps and obstacles found off-road, but it is not intended for extreme off-roading. The bike’s handling is notably agile, thanks to its lightweight design and relatively low seat height, which makes it easy to maneuver, especially for novice riders.

Wheels and Tires

The Tricker uses a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel, both of which are equipped with off-road-oriented tires. This wheel setup is ideal for light trail riding and handling gravel or uneven surfaces. The larger front wheel offers better clearance over obstacles like rocks and roots, making the bike suitable for basic off-road conditions. The tires offer a balance of grip and durability, performing well both on city streets and light off-road trails.

Brakes and Stopping Power

The braking system on the XG250 Tricker is basic but effective. It features a single 245mm disc brake at the front and a 220mm disc brake at the rear, both with single-piston calipers. While this setup isn’t designed for aggressive off-road riding, it provides adequate stopping power for light trails and urban riding. The braking system is simple to maintain and is well-suited to the bike’s intended use, which is not focused on extreme off-road conditions or high-speed riding.

Weight and Dimensions

Weighing around 130kg (287 lbs) dry, the Yamaha XG250 Tricker is lightweight, making it very approachable for beginner riders or those looking for a bike that is easy to handle in both urban and off-road environments. The seat height is 795mm, which is on the lower end for dual-sport bikes, allowing shorter riders to plant their feet more easily and ride with confidence. The bike’s ground clearance of 270mm (10.6 inches) gives it enough room to clear obstacles without compromising stability. Overall, its compact dimensions make it a nimble and fun bike to ride in tight spaces or on winding trails.

Fuel Tank and Range

The Tricker comes with a 7.6-liter (2.0-gallon) fuel tank, which is relatively small compared to some other off-road bikes, but it is sufficient for short to medium-distance rides. This size is perfect for urban commuting or a day of light trail riding. The range, while not extensive, is enough for typical usage scenarios, and it makes the bike lighter and more agile.

Design and Features

The Yamaha XG250 Tricker has a minimalist design that blends elements of street bikes and dirt bikes. The steel frame is durable yet lightweight, contributing to the bike’s overall agile handling. Its simple design focuses on functionality rather than aesthetics, with basic LCD instrumentation and a range of LED lights that displays speed, fuel, and trip information. The Tricker’s design is straightforward, with no unnecessary frills, making it a highly functional and utilitarian bike.

Versatility and Use

The XG250 Tricker is a highly versatile bike, excelling at both urban riding and light off-road use. Its low seat height, lightweight nature, and small frame make it easy to handle in city traffic, while its suspension and tire setup allow for fun and confident light trail riding. The bike is not built for hardcore off-road conditions or extreme adventures but is ideal for those who want a bike for casual weekend trail rides or a reliable commuter bike. Its design is beginner-friendly, with simple mechanics that make it easy to learn on and maintain.

Maintenance and Reliability

The Yamaha XG250 Tricker is known for its reliability and ease of maintenance. The air-cooled, single-cylinder engine is simple and durable, requiring basic maintenance such as oil changes, air filter cleaning, and valve adjustments. Because it lacks a liquid cooling system or complex electronics, the bike is relatively low-maintenance compared to other off-road motorcycles. The simple mechanics, combined with the easy-to-service carburetor and straightforward suspension, make the Tricker an excellent choice for riders who prefer a more hands-on, low-maintenance motorcycle.

Conclusion

The Yamaha XG250 Tricker (2005–2008) is an ideal bike for riders who want a lightweight, easy-to-handle motorcycle that can tackle both urban roads and light off-road trails. We also have a range of spare parts for Yamaha Tenere 700 (2019)