FIRST LOOK: 2022 YAMAHA WR250F

This time last year, we got our first look at Yamaha’s much-updated 2021-model WR450F. And today, confirming widespread speculation, Yamaha has unveiled details of the sweeping changes made to its quarter-litre sibling, the 2022 WR250F. The updates to this 250cc bush weapon are based heavily on mods made to its MX cousin, the YZ250F, but tuned for off-road riding, and include significant changes to engine, frame, suspension and brakes, along with refinements to several other components – such as triple clamps, bar mounts, instrumentation, footpegs, axles and tyres.

After coming in for a major overhaul last year, the 2022 WR450F only gets fresh graphics and the change to Dunlop’s FIM-approved Geomax EN91 hoops.

The 2022 WR250F and WR450F will both be available in Australia from December, 2021, at a recommended Ride Away Price (incl GST) of $14,899 (RRP: $13,309) and $16,499 (RRP: $14,679), respectively – which is up $800 and $1000 on their 2021-model predecessors.

For more detail about the upgrades, here’s the guts of Yamaha Motor Australia’s (YMA) PR about the all-new 2022 WR250F, which they have good reason to be excited about.

DESIGN GOALS

Increased performance based on dominant YZ250F MX machine.
Smoother power delivery and gear shifting.
Improved traction, cornering and braking.

ENGINE

The new model’s liquid-cooled, four-stroke, electric start engine features an all-new cylinder head with a larger and improved intake port shape and new exhaust camshaft profile straight from the MXGP dominant YZ250F. These mods, along with other refinements (like revised engine balancer and gear shift cam) help to produce stronger mid to top-end power and increased peak power, while retaining class-leading low-end torque.

CHASSIS

Tuned specifically for the 2022 WR250F, the updated lightweight aluminium, bilateral beam frame and new engine mounts have been redesigned with all- new flex characteristics to improve bump absorption, traction, and cornering performance.

Settings on the industry-leading, fully adjustable KYB coil spring-type fork with enhanced speed-sensitive damping have been revised to suit the new machine and off-road conditions. And the link-type rear suspension features a KYB shock with revised damping characteristics to match the updated chassis.

Other chassis components such as the top triple clamp, handlebar mounts, and front axle have also been redesigned to complement the new frame – and like the frame, these changes are based on the winning YZ250F. New Dunlop Geomax EN91 ISDE-winning tyres have been specified for improved performance over a wide variety of terrain.

Improved braking performance is achieved with newly engineered lighter front brake caliper with larger surface area brake pads and redesigned front 270mm disc.

OTHER

A new speed sensor ring sends information to an all-new user-friendly multi-function meter that houses both engine and low fuel warning lights. Riders can adjust their engine performance straight from their smartphone using the onboard wireless connectivity through the free of charge Yamaha Power Tuner app. Once settings are dialled-in, you can choose between two user-defined ECU maps on the fly via the handlebar-mounted dual-mode engine map switch.

The new model will continue to provide the edge out on the trails, with the ideal blend of user friendliness and high performance. Features such as electric start, advanced fuel injection and a front-positioned intake with rear-positioned exhaust layout delivers the widest spread of power while maintaining reliable performance and balance for excellent mass- centralisation.

When combined with a lightweight, sharp-handing chassis and industry leading suspension package, the new WR250F continues to offer the fastest way across tight and technical terrain while also providing the widest smile possible.

FEATURES & BENEFITS – SUMMARY

Complemented by new next-generation Team Yamaha Blue colours and graphics, the 2022 WR250F reflects Yamaha’s race-winning pedigree. The new model is fitted with a full power ECU and comes with ADR compliance so they can be fully road registered in all states. A free Off-Road Competition Kit is also offered for owners who wish to set up their WR250F to ride on closed courses.

New YZ250F-spec exhaust cam for better drive.
New YZ250F-spec intake port shape increases volume for improved flow rate and power delivery.

New YZ250F-spec carb joint improves power delivery.
Improved cam chain tensioner design.

New engine balancer reduces vibration and improves drive at low to mid-range.
New gearbox cam shift design for smoother gear shifting.
New Control Filled aluminium frame based on YZ250F and tuned for off-road riding.
New engine brackets tuned specifically for MY22 WR250F.

Industry-leading KYB speed-sensitive dual-chamber forks and rear shock with revised settings to suit MY22 chassis.
New YZ250F-spec footpegs, bars, holders and front axle with sealed bearing front wheel.

New Dunlop Geomax E91 tyres with new profile, overall weight saving and better performance over a wide range of conditions (front 90/90-21 and rear 140/80-18).

New multi-function meter with integrated fuel and engine warning lights. Also features odometer, tripmeters, clock, timer and accumulated fuel consumption meter indicator.

New stronger chain guide bracket.

New front brake 270mm rotor with 16% increased surface without any extra weight.
Larger front brake caliper pistons – 22.65mm to 25.4mm – with 30% increased rigidity.
New front brake pads with 25% increased surface area.

New exhaust heat guard design to avoid snagging.
New stronger muffler bracket.

AUSTRALIAN OFF-ROAD KIT

All WR250F and WR450Fs come with full ADR compliance and can be road registered to ride in Australian state forests where permitted. Each bike also comes with a free off-road kit for closed-course competition use, which includes: