Bikes: 2014 vs 2015 Yamaha WR250F

Just how different is the 2015-model Yamaha WR250F to its predecessor? We put the two quarter-litre Yamahas back-to-back to find out…

On paper, the all-new YZ250F-inspired WR250F makes its predecessor appear positively obsolete. Indeed, the componentry used for the 2015 model’s rolling chassis, suspension, bodywork and engine are all significantly more advanced than what you’ll find on the 2014 WR250F. But can the ‘old’ bike be written off that quickly? After all, the thing won 26 national championships in the 14 years since its arrival, and spent several years atop Australia’s motorcycle sales charts.

We didn’t want to consign the iconic five-valve WR250F to the scrapheap without so much as a final ride. So, to get a feel for how the old and new machines actually differ – to put those lofty brochure claims about the 2015 bike to the test in the real world – we rode the WR250Fs back-to-back on both the trail and enduro loops for a couple of days. Here’s what the trio of Transmoto testers had to say about that comparison…

For a comprehensive ride impression of Yamaha’s 2015 WR250F, grab a print or digital copy of Transmoto Dirt Bike Magazine’s Jan-Feb issue (#48) and check out the footage from the launch. And to see how this all-new, landmark Yami stacks up against the quarter-litre enduro class’s undisputed champ, KTM’s 250EXC-F, grab a copy of the March-April issue (#49), which goes on sale in early March.

Spec Comparo

Comparing the specs of the 2014 and 2015 machines makes for interesting viewing. Their price, bore and stroke may remain the same, but pretty much everything else on the new bike is very, very different.

Thanks to YMA and Chris Flaherty from Morisset-based Yamaha dealer, Powersport Central, for hooking us up with a 2014-model demo. If you’re after a 2014 WR250F, the guys from PSC assure us this demo unit comes with a very attractive price tag!