Record-Breaking WR250R Rally

As we reported a couple of months back, Greg Yager and his Ride ADV team were aiming to entice the biggest ever collection of Yamaha WR250Rs to congregate in one spot at this year’s third annual running of the WR250R Rally adventure ride.

And sure enough, in late March in the NSW Hunter Valley region, 62 owners of the tough adventure bike converged on Cessnock, NSW, for the two-day WR250R Rally adventure ride, which set a new world record (albeit unofficial).

Riders from as far away as Alice Springs congregated at Chris Watson Motorcycles for a pre-ride BBQ and briefing, with two participants travelling from the USA to hire bikes from Ride ADV organisers. The diverse bunch ranged in age from 19-year-old Lochie Caldwell to 84-year-old Brian Rooney. Trails were varied – from wet and muddy to dry and dusty, and from beautiful lush green forests with red clay surfaces to the dry and rocky terrain around Yengo, Watagan, Corrabare, Werakata, Heaton, Sugarloaf, Pokolbin and Wollombi Forests.

“This was another awesome event for owners of the cult classic adventure bike,” said Ride ADV’s Greg Yager. “The weather produced some challenging conditions, but once again there were few dramas and heaps of happy punters. We’re claiming this as the largest ever gathering of WR250Rs in one place. If anyone knows different, please get in touch with us at www.rideADV.com.au or via our FB page,” Yager went on to say.

According to Yamaha Motor Australia’s Sean Goldhawk, “The WR250R Rally continues to grow as adventure riders tune into the fun of covering big distances on the small yet surprisingly capable motorcycle. And next year’s event is set to smash the current 250R rider world record.”