1988 Yamaha YZ250 review from United States of America
"1988 was a good year for YZ250's"
What things have gone wrong with the motorcycle?
Steering head bearings.
Top end needed rebuilt, but normal for a two-stroke.
One of the plugs in the crank web worked loose and needed to be welded in place. Had the crank rebuilt at the same time, even though it was still sound.
Rear wheel cracked, due to rider hitting a very big rock.
Parts aren't too hard to find, Yamaha interchangeability is great.
Overall it is very reliable for its age.
General comments?
Power on the 1988 YZ250 is very strong in the low- end and mid-range. Top-end is OK. With Carbontech reeds, drilled out Boost ports and a flywheel weight, the low-end and mid-range is excellent for a bike this old. It is very tractable, and can be lugged like a four-stroke.
Front brake is good, back is kind of weak.
Clutch holds up to abuse well and doesn't drag. Transmission isn't easy to shift, but it doesn't miss shifts either.
Starts easy, runs clean and doesn't foul plugs.
Suspension is alright, nothing great, but it is 20 years old. Handling through tight trails is light and nimble.
| Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1988 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Acceleration marks | 8/10 |
| Roll-on Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Handling marks | 9/10 |
| Braking marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 0 miles |
| Previous motorcycle | Honda CR500 |
| Date of Entry | 12th June, 2008 |