The Yamaha XT250 returns with no appearance changes. (Yamaha/)

When “bold new colors/graphics” updates are constant, it’s somewhat surprising when a motorcycle’s appearance doesn’t change. Yamaha’s 2023 XT250 will carry on with the same look that’s actually been around since 2021. The only news for this year is a $100 price increase from the 2022 MSRP.

Despite this small price hike, Yamaha’s go-anywhere-anytime dual sport is still an affordable $5,299 piece of fun-loving machinery.

The XT250’s five-speed transmission works with a fuel-injected engine. (Yamaha/)

The XT250 uses a modern 249cc fuel-injected single-cylinder and chain final drive. Its power is docile for new or returning riders, great for weekday rides around town or hitting up the local trail on the weekend. The XT’s claimed 76 mpg and 2.5-gallon fuel tank will ensure that many miles can be logged on either surface.

Spoked rims, knobby tires, and long suspension travel, the makings of a trail-ready machine. (Yamaha/)

When out on rugged terrain, the 11.2 inches of ground clearance gives the engine a substantial buffer of space for clearing obstacles. Dirt-bike-size 21- and 18-inch wheels help carry the dual sport over obstructions on the trail, and long-travel suspension tames the bumps with little chance of bottoming out. The 35mm telescopic fork and preload-adjustable single shock have 8.9 and 7.1 inches of travel. Its claimed 291-pound wet weight and dirt-bike slimness help make it a nimble and maneuverable machine.

The front disc is 245mm in diameter. (Yamaha/)

Unlike its big-wheel TW200 sibling, the XT250 utilizes disc brakes at both ends. There’s a 245mm single disc up front and 203mm disc out back.

Behind the bars, the command center is minimalistic. (Yamaha/)

Electronics are straightforward. The green-backlit LCD dash is compact and understated. If the day creeps away from you, a 60/55-watt headlight helps with the darkness.

Street or dirt versatility and overall approachability make the XT250 an attractive dual sport for adventurous new and returning riders. (Yamaha/)

Although the 2023 XT250 doesn’t even get to use the phrase “bold new colors and graphics,” it remains an all-rider-friendly dual sport with the chops for dirt or paved roads.

Radical Gray is the only color available for the $5,299 dual sport. (Yamaha/)

2023 Yamaha XT250 Technical Specifications And Price

PRICE:	$5,299
ENGINE:	249cc, SOHC, air-cooled single-cylinder; 2 valves
BORE x STROKE:	74.0 x 58.0mm
COMPRESSION RATIO:	9.5:1
FUEL DELIVERY:	Fuel injection
CLUTCH:	Wet, multiplate
TRANSMISSION/FINAL DRIVE:	5-speed/chain
FRAME:	Semi-double-cradle steel
FRONT SUSPENSION:	35mm telescopic fork; 8.9 in. travel
REAR SUSPENSION:	Monocross single shock, preload adjustable; 7.1 in. travel
FRONT BRAKE:	245mm disc
REAR BRAKE:	203mm disc
WHEELS, FRONT/REAR:	Spoked aluminum; 21 in./18 in.
TIRES, FRONT/REAR:	2.75-21 / 120/80-18
RAKE/TRAIL:	26.4°/4.2 in.
WHEELBASE:	53.5 in.
SEAT HEIGHT:	32.7 in.
FUEL CAPACITY:	2.5 gal. (2.2 gal. CA model)
CLAIMED WET WEIGHT:	291 lb.
WARRANTY:	1 year
AVAILABLE:	Now
CONTACT:	yamahamotorsports.com

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com