Order your parts and riding gear using this link to support Big Rock Moto. Please bookmark it! While there is zero cost to you and nothing will be visible on your end, my channel receives a small commission from each sale which I invest back into content creation. www.rockymountainatvmc.com/?ref=1053&BigRockMoto&
Bought one. Learned to ride on it. Put a MT21 front/D606 back, ASV levers and 14/51 gearing on it. Ride it through desert, mountains, rivers, singletrack, sand/mud/snow/ice - no problem. Couldn't be happier. Started my own TH-cam channel (Temple of Dirt) dedicated to WR250R adventures.
@Piet-Schniet - Lol, well, sadly I stopped recording over a year ago because I was having more fun riding than video editing. I still have some videos up. th-cam.com/channels/GUN7ifiJGIvaWmzVyi15hQ.html I still ride and love my WR250R thoroughly, having owned/rode it 4 years now.
Lol This wr ok its not so quick its for girls no for macho man like you But it will never disappoint It will take you where you want to go 100 % and its light And zero maintenance So go to your ktm to make them rich ...no problem ...
@@BigRockMoto Oh, you Definitely WERE Funny! 🤣 I bought a new 2017 WR250R when I decided to get back into DS after many years of not riding, they're great little bikes... The keyword is "Little"! Didn't take me long to upgrade to a new 2019 KTM 790 Adventure R... As I said, DEFINITELY Funny! I still have my WR though!
@@TStriegel1977 Upgrade is a strange word, it may have been an upgrade for your type of riding, but on the tight trails and single track we do that 790 would be left in the dirt. Its all in perspective, just like the ktm would leave the wr in the dirt on the black top.
Not sure where you get 23hp from. It's 30hp at the crank, and dyno readings vary a lot but typical rear wheel figures for stock bike are 25hp to 27hp. It's at least 5hp more than the other 250's. Also it makes it's power high in the rev range and the motor will take the punishment. I think people miss that.There are hills where I have to change down to 5th if I climb them at 55 - 65mph (93 - 102kmh) BUT if I hit them at 75mph (120kmh) not only can I hold that speed up the hill, I can twist the throttle amd accelerate to 85mph if I want to. In 6th going up the same hill! Torque and power are high in the rev range, don't be afraid to wring its neck. It will do 80mph in 5th and yes, I bump off the rev limiter all the time. Didn't affect reliability, motor still strong at 50,000 miles
Best 50/50 dual sport you can buy. I've ridden single track with my dirtbike buddies, camped solo off it, road it to work everyday and never had to do anything but basic maintenance. Love it to death!!
Hi there the Yamaha revs your heart yes that's for sure . The 250 is enough to go anywhere u want to go . & any hights u want to climb but at the end of the day it's 80 percent rider . at the end of the day . U can have all the bells & whistles on any bike . But rider fitness mental ability are key .
I sold my WR250X 2 years ago and went with an MT-09. I love my MT but regret selling my WR everyday. That little bike was just so much fun to ride and so easy to work on. For a 250 that WR ripped.
He had a 690 enduro. 6000 mile oil change intervals and valve clearance checks. the lc4 engine has been in production for 30 years so its bulletproof. The dirt bike will go 125 miles and hour. I don't know why he ditched it.
I've been saving for the past 3 years for this bike and I finally got it this past Saturday. People tried to convince me to buy something cheaper or more powerful, but I had already fallen in love and have stayed faithful all this time. ;)
@@jimperry4420 I've been having the time of my life with it. I may eventually get a second bike at some point in my life, but I'm keeping this thing as long as it stays running. 😅
@@jimperry4420 If I remember correctly the klx300 makes just a bit less power than the wr250 stock, but has more punch in its mid-range instead of up high like the wr. Personally I would go with a used wr in good condition, it would definitely be cheaper than a klx after dealership fees. Suspension is a bit better on the wr as well, but both would need to be worked on for intense riding. I guess the biggest question is if you like green/camo or blue, because both are good bikes.
I ride steep mountain high altitude single track. Wr250r does great. Change the sprockets and put good tires on it. Add a 3 gallon gas tank and you are set. Reliable like no other. Lost it off a sketchy trail once and it rolled 6 times before it hit a tree. Once back on trail it fired right up.
Yep. When I first got mine the stock gearing was actually rubbish on the high away. After I geared it down i had more power across the board without a doubt.
Good Review...I Have a 2008 WR with 35,000 miles on it....3,5 gal Clark tank, when doing tech stuff off road don't fill the tank, ...FMF pipe with a programmer, puts out 27 RW HP on the dyno, also have dirt bag racks with Wolfman Bangs, Seat Concepts, heated grips, Universal Windscreen that comes off when you want super easy, bullet proof, machine 1st valve adjustment at 26K miles, mine were still dead on....been lots of places on this bike, It's been to Western Canada, no big deal there as I live in Montana, but the bike's been all over Arizona, Utah (Moab), Wyoming, California (lost Coast my fav), Nevada, Oregon, Washington with the 6 speed trany it can cruse 70 on the interstate but with head wind or hills you will be looking for 5th gear, it's really a better 55 mph cruiser...it's done the Lolo Motorway, Alpine Trail #7... oh I also have a KTM 990 ADV, KTM 690 and a new 701 Husky Enduro.... already have 11, 000 miles on it....yes I'm a two wheel junkie!
Fred Baker ... 701 and 690 are basically the same bike? Why would you have both? Newer engine with double counter balancing on 701 the reason? WR or 701? I’m pondering. Don’t do single track or rough rough double track. Fire roads and forestry roads and gravel roads with as little pavement as possible. Thanks Fred.
@@f1flick Hi Greg, you are right about the 690 and 701, my 690 is a Duke..the 701 is a Nomad Rally Machine....now my WR has 38k miles...sold both of my 990 and 690, put a couple hundred miles on a fiends 1290 Super Duke GT...just might pull the trigger on a 2020 model 🤔, on sale for $17k...what a thrill to ride...
The WR250R is a fantastic bike, I only wish they would make a 450 version of it. Still, I would definitely buy one for certain adventures. Re the KTM690, bear in mind the new ones have zero vibration on the road. Even the twin spark head versions are very smooth indeed. I did the extended TAT on one in 2015 with zero problems but frankly, given the option, I would actually pick the WR250R to do it again simply because fully tooled up and fuelled up, it is 50 lbs lighter and although it has half the power, it still has ENOUGH power.
I've owned a CRF250L big-bored to 305, a KLX250, DRZ400SM, dual-sported CRF230F, and now the WR250R. I really don't dual-sport ride anymore as with the limited time I have off-road I prefer to spend it on my YZ125X and 250X. I was using my CRF230F purely as a city-commuter to/from work and replaced it with the WR250R. I got tired of warming up a carbed bike before work and constantly smelling gas. I also felt like a poser never taking it off-road and figured it should go to someone who will use it as intended. As many Californians are aware, these rare plated bikes will never be available again. I chose the WR as my daily commuter primarily for how similar it feels to the YZs ergonomics-wise. The weight and flickability of the WR feels closer to the 230F than any of the dual-sports I've owned before. The engine and power delivery though can definitely be described as "just plain weird" compared to any other low-mid power focused dual-sport engines. The long gear ratios and high revability allow you to gear it super low and still be able to cruise comfortably at 60-65 though. I do think the majority of dual-sport riders would be better off with the DRZ400 or KLX300 though.
Why can't Yamaha also make a 350 or 400cc version of this? With more power and torque, maybe lower the seat, they'd have what I think a lot of us would buy.
Certainly no 450 when it comes to power but when we trained with these in my time in the army, they could handle anything you threw at em. It was more about the guy who sits on it. Light and nimble, climbs steep hills, crosses logs, swamps, dunes, gravel and the open road and does it all day. Of course they had to be geared down for that kind of use but i never really found myself wanting more doing those multi-hour endurance tests and the like. when u drop one all day and have to pick it up you learn to love it. :)
Ya if you actually know how to ride a bike, you will find the wr250 is more than most people would ever need, the wr250 is an amazing ride and is the most reliable thing out there.
You're such a strange character, and this was one fun review. :) WR250R is one sexy motorcycle. I am barely 5''6' with 31in inseam but this motorcycle speaks to me. if I had a chance to try it out, I sure would. The WRR's rarely appear on the marketplace here in Slovakia, but when they do, the price is fairly high...
Nobody ever mentions the KTM or Husky 250 dual sports which are by far the best 250 dual sport bikes ever made. I have had a KLX300 and XR400 made into dual sports and they were good bikes but the Husky250FE dual sport I have now is just so much better in power handling than either of those.The 250's get overshadowed by the 350 but the bikes ride very different and the 250 retailed at $1000 less and slightly less weight. If you see a used 250 KTM or Husky I would go test ride it, It will bury that WR250.
@@alexjordan1611 The WR feels taller, heavier, and about 25% less power. If I compared the stock suspension of both bikes it's almost a wash. The stock stuff on the husky is nothing special but the rear shock is better than the WR's. Can't stand the explore forks.
After I got stuck in mud with my T7 for six hours yesterday, I’m close to selling it for a lightweight dual sport. Either this or the DRZ400. Decisions decisions..
@@BigRockMoto You are very correct. I’ve listed the pros and cons of going lighter. I lose highway performance and comfort, but I gain a lot of offroad performance. I usually ride 60 mph on highways anyways, as I dont find speed any thrilling. Do you agree with my findings?
I'm looking to sell my adv bike to get a wr250r for similar reasons. If you ride alone it's a lot less dangerous to have a lighter bike. I think really people like us need an adventure bike AND a dual sport. The problem is affording it lol
That was going to be my answer to you. Since I made this comment I’ve owned both a DRZ and a 701. Sold my T7, practiced a lot on the dual sports and got much better. Now I’m back on a T7 and just bought a FE350 too. A dual sport will not replace an adventure in my experience, unless you have a lot of trails where you live. Having one of each is the answer, but it’s not cheap. Best of luck 😊
Been riding since '94, my '14 (bought new) WRR with Sumo kit is the one bike that will never leave the stable. The AT could potentially be a keeper too........
My goal is to try to get one by next Halloween 2021, I’m 15 years old and gonna be 16 in October this year and should have my license by spring of next year and I’m gonna try to get a job at McDonald’s or Wendy’s or anywhere and make enough and save up for one of these or anything like it as I really would like to cruise down the road on a lightweight dirt bike and drive away for hours on my own and feel free. Any tips or suggestions for a better bike for riding on the highway/main roads, I’m gonna do a little bit off-roading but mostly just cruising
Tom Cat go with the DR-Z400S you won’t regret in there is no replacement for displacement. The 250 motor is just too weak compared to the DR-Z400S unless you weigh 140 pounds......
@@BigRockMoto went to change the oil on your old pig and the bolt was rounded off and the inside threads were completely stripped inside the oil pan.... major bummer! Someone cranked down way too hard on my poor WR..
I have put 18,000 trouble free miles on mine in two years !! Its a hoot to ride, rev it and play in the corners, great for gravel roads we ride a lot !! I love Yamaha's tho had a few, about 10 !!
I tell people all the time, if you don't ride this bike at high rpms you're never going to get the full effect of it.. I rip my wr250r all day long and my only complaint is that the gas runs out to quick, and the stock seat is uncomfortable.. other than that I love it..
Which bike do you prefer the wr250r or the crf250l? For power wr is the best but crf is cheap and you can buy brand new hehe but still which bike do you prefer?🤔
Hey Big Rock Moto, I really enjoy your reviews. I searched your channel and couldn't find a review of a Yamaha XT250. If you haven't already done so, would mind reviewing a new Yamaha XT250?
Hands down the best manual you will ever find for this bike. Have fun on your new to you. Absolute amazing bike. What a great find with 400 miles. I bought mine brand new 2016 and put every single one of the 10,000 miles on it myself and it still runs just as good as the day I bought it.
Damn I'm torn. I've been out of riding for about 5 years but my last bike was an XR650L. Didn't ride it much on the road and it was super heavy compared to the XR400R and WR400F I had before that. I'm a big guy (6'1, 255lbs) and still didn't care to handle the 650L on tight steep trails. I test rode a XR650R and even though it's got balls, it really is top heavy. My XR400 had perfect power but damn it was revved out on fast fire roads and county roads- even at 55-65mph would have been nice to have a 6th gear- and i tried higher gearing with sprockets and it didn't help as much as i'd like. My riding now is going to be less trails and more higher speed dirt roads and trying some twisty pavement out in the country. I'm looking at KLR's, DRs and DRZs also. The awesome thing about this WR250R is what everyone else is thinking: Fuel Injected and lower maintenance and a 6th gear for overdrive. I see the CRF300L and wonder if it would at least satisfy like my XR4 did? I also have an old XR350R that is the perfect tractor and feels like its got similar power to the XR400 i had years ago. The bigger, fuel injected dual sports out there are damn expensive and I can't justify the cost for as little as I'll be riding most likely.
I hear you. I have the KLX300 right now as a press bike, I love it so far. It might be the answer. Or the Honda 300 which I am reviewing soon. Stay tuned for the videos
Maybe I'm leaning it over and don't notice because its 285lbs, or maybe I have cartoonishly long legs, but at a whopping 5'7 155lbs the WRR has NEVER been too tall for me
Really nice review man! Im watching for wr250r parts , and it says wr250r europe 22,6kw , that's 30hp , do you think it affects the reliability of the bike or not?
i have a 2017 wr250r... i ride it mostly off road. the only things i've done to it are lower gears, skid plate and linkage plates.i wouldn't recommend larger tanks (it will make it really top heavy). i have a 1 gal roto pax in the rear that i use on longer rides. also, i wouldn't recommend uncorking it...unless you're mostly highway riding. otherwise just learn to use the clutch.
Have a 2008 WR with 35,000 miles on it....3,5 gal tank, when doing tech stuff off road don't fill the tank, duh...FMF pipe with a programmer, puts out 27 RW HP, also have dirt bag racks with Wolfman Bangs, Seat Concepts.....been lots of places on this bike, oh I also have a KTM 990 ADV, 690 and a new 701 Husky Enduro....
I'm also a mountain biker, forest trails, but no mountain stuff like you have. Perhaps it would be of interest to talk about how mountain biking contributes to strategy, skills and physical ability on a moto?
I saw a lot of wr250r reviews, no one speaks about the most annoying thing about this grest bike. The jerky snatchy throttle at low rpm from idle to power. No mod, nothing seems to cure this huge downside. Why nobody speaks about that, is a major issue? For a trail/offroad bike is a very big thing...
I was looking to buy a dual sport bike for cruising and back country trails. I was thinking about the kawasaki klx 250 but I kept hearing about this bike. So my question is is this bike worth the extra money. Would you recommend it. Thanks for the. Review. Rhannah
The Kawasaki will have slightly less power and less suspension travel. It will also be easier to reach the ground. Unless off road performance is a big priority for you, go with the kawasaki if it is cheaper.
Yes, better suspension strong frame handles more like a off road bike than a DS they r fun, just rev and have fun, it is 1 cylinder of an R1, not DS motor
The WR250 is a dirt bike frame with a street bike motor. It is bomb for fire roads and mountain roads. Want to lower gearing for single track. I am 5'6" and the height of the bike is an issue, not sure if I want to spend the bucks on custom tuning an d lowering of the suspension, but if I get extra dough, I know where to spend it.
Got a 05 ..low hours ..needed carb cleaned 500$ .. score of the year..picked up an 05 husky tc250 a week later for 800$ .that had 5 hours on it .the guy broke his leg .and she sat ..so..for under 1500$ I've got 2 of the sweetest bikes I could ever want ...oh sold my 2012 KTM 250 SXF ..for 3500$ ..do the math ..still have 2gs. for ???..if your bike wise there out there ..
This may be a tough question to answer, but whatever I'll ask away. I'm looking to buy a bike and I live in Chicago. It may sound odd, but I'm looking to buy a dual sport. Not that I have any intention of dual sporting, but I do have several reasons for wanting a dual sport: 1. I think they look cool as hell. 2. Ergonomics. I like the upright riding position, the height, the wide handle bars. 3. I learned on a TW200 and that bike was riot to ride. 4. Low end torque that (hopefully) comes with a single. I've rode a Suzuki GS500 and that bike was so boring to ride. 5. The sound of those singles. My question is; for short commutes to work in 35mph speed limits and occasionally riding out to the suburbs, either on the highway or not, what would you recommend between a DRZ400 or a WR250R? Or would you recommend something else entirely? Or am I an idiot for wanting a dual sport?
I really dont understand why honda didnt give us a better drz . instaed they gave us the crf450l . Just another over priced , high maintenance bike like the ktm's , betas and husky's. If they made a 400cc bike with a 3.5 gallon tank, better suspension ,6 speeds and FI. and maybe 35 hp and 300 lbs. it would sell like hot cakes
Honda's stated total weight limit capacity for the CRF450L is only 220lbs ... total. That's rider + gear. It's a straight up track day or single day ride bike with not much extra gear. Even the light KTM's allow for 300lbs+ cargo capacity.
@BigRockMedia...Question: Do you still have your wr250r ? How often do you ride it ? What bike do you prefer over it ? What bike do you ride the most that compares well to the wr250r ? Thanks, Stu
my 2015 wr250r is on its 3rd stader. kept burning out. then dealer sold me on replacing timing chain and valves at 10k miles. don't know if it really broke or if I got taken for a ride by the dealer. Performance wize ive kept up with ktm 450s and a worked banshee.
Hmm. I have a 2012 wr250r. With 33,500 miles on it. And I will put it up against my beta 390rrs for reliability any day. It's just under powered some. But I have a EJK power bank with a mega bomb header and Q4 exahaust. It helped tremendously on low end power but I can and have run the WR 75mph for hours like 12hours at a time no stop... I'll run it as long as I can.. great bike to have so much accessories to go along with the bike..
Steve WK ahhh yes, the great debate. Good luck with that my friend it’s a tough one. Height vs weight vs high end/low end torque etc.... why can’t they just make one with everything everyone wants. Lower seat hight, capable on the highway better torque, fuel injected, and for god sakes make them lighter. All the pipes are 30 pounds but the lighter aftermarket ones are too loud for creeping around your neighbourhood trails. A more comfortable seat and can we please get a dash that’s not from 1982. Why?? I guess I’m asking for a lot
Sam then you lose the service intervals, 6 speed box, high output stator ect. If they made this bike with a 350 engine and a nice short 1-2 gearing I don’t think they could make enough of them
No torque, 295 lbs maybe good for riders that weight 150 - 175 lbs need to ride like a 2 stroke on the pipe , do not buy new as your first bike I know I purchased new wasn't happy sold with 384 miles lost a few thousand dollars need more Cc like ktm 350, beta 390 long stroke or dr400. If possible test drive before you buy!! Good luck!!
hector Cervantes lowering the front is no problem just slide the forks higher in the triple clamp, rear is harder, there are lowering links you can fit to drop it down some, I have the rear lowered a little bit and the front stock and it’s still quite a tall bike for me 5.11 same as this dude
“7:10...I can’t remember...?” This phrase should NEVER be said in a video like this. Have the info you need, on a handy notebook, Before you start your video!
Of course the 250 doesn’t compare to the bigger bikes, whole different ball game so why would you compare them. The WR is a much better bike compared to the other 250 bikes out there, price not so much but.. you get what you pay for.
Order your parts and riding gear using this link to support Big Rock Moto. Please bookmark it! While there is zero cost to you and nothing will be visible on your end, my channel receives a small commission from each sale which I invest back into content creation. www.rockymountainatvmc.com/?ref=1053&BigRockMoto&
Bought one. Learned to ride on it. Put a MT21 front/D606 back, ASV levers and 14/51 gearing on it. Ride it through desert, mountains, rivers, singletrack, sand/mud/snow/ice - no problem.
Couldn't be happier. Started my own TH-cam channel (Temple of Dirt) dedicated to WR250R adventures.
awesome
Hey I would love to see that, sadly I can't find your channel :(
@Piet-Schniet - Lol, well, sadly I stopped recording over a year ago because I was having more fun riding than video editing. I still have some videos up. th-cam.com/channels/GUN7ifiJGIvaWmzVyi15hQ.html I still ride and love my WR250R thoroughly, having owned/rode it 4 years now.
Yamaha WR250R is the Bike to buy when you don't have time to fix your KTM.
Lol
This wr ok its not so quick its for girls no for macho man like you
But it will never disappoint
It will take you where you want to go 100 % and its light
And zero maintenance
So go to your ktm to make them rich ...no problem ...
"the wr is the bike you buy when you forget ktm's exist"
Or you realize Yamaha is $3-4k less and 10x more reliable 🤷♂️
I agree, I was trying to be funny....
@@BigRockMoto Oh, you Definitely WERE Funny! 🤣 I bought a new 2017 WR250R when I decided to get back into DS after many years of not riding, they're great little bikes... The keyword is "Little"! Didn't take me long to upgrade to a new 2019 KTM 790 Adventure R... As I said, DEFINITELY Funny! I still have my WR though!
@@TStriegel1977 Upgrade is a strange word, it may have been an upgrade for your type of riding, but on the tight trails and single track we do that 790 would be left in the dirt. Its all in perspective, just like the ktm would leave the wr in the dirt on the black top.
Check and mate!
I’ve never even ridden with a KTM that can keep up with my WRR...but then again most people just suck at riding
Not sure where you get 23hp from. It's 30hp at the crank, and dyno readings vary a lot but typical rear wheel figures for stock bike are 25hp to 27hp. It's at least 5hp more than the other 250's.
Also it makes it's power high in the rev range and the motor will take the punishment. I think people miss that.There are hills where I have to change down to 5th if I climb them at 55 - 65mph (93 - 102kmh) BUT if I hit them at 75mph (120kmh) not only can I hold that speed up the hill, I can twist the throttle amd accelerate to 85mph if I want to. In 6th going up the same hill! Torque and power are high in the rev range, don't be afraid to wring its neck. It will do 80mph in 5th and yes, I bump off the rev limiter all the time. Didn't affect reliability, motor still strong at 50,000 miles
Best 50/50 dual sport you can buy. I've ridden single track with my dirtbike buddies, camped solo off it, road it to work everyday and never had to do anything but basic maintenance. Love it to death!!
Hi there the Yamaha revs your heart yes that's for sure . The 250 is enough to go anywhere u want to go . & any hights u want to climb but at the end of the day it's 80 percent rider . at the end of the day . U can have all the bells & whistles on any bike . But rider fitness mental ability are key .
I sold my WR250X 2 years ago and went with an MT-09. I love my MT but regret selling my WR everyday. That little bike was just so much fun to ride and so easy to work on. For a 250 that WR ripped.
I own two 250X and am not selling :P
"I was wanting to take a break from riding"
huh? I don't understand...
Really..... I hope that NEVER happens to me !! Or put a fork in me, I'm DONE haha
It has to have something to do with an injury or a woman. Or an injury induced by a woman.
he really means that he was tired of riding and having to do so much maintnace
He had a 690 enduro. 6000 mile oil change intervals and valve clearance checks. the lc4 engine has been in production for 30 years so its bulletproof. The dirt bike will go 125 miles and hour. I don't know why he ditched it.
@@Trickhorn dude you nailed it!!!!🤣
My favourite part is the small pause before he lies about his height. Lol.
5"11 LOL on a 6 inch platform
Im 5'9 n my heels were much closer to the ground than his was
He did himself alot of favor saying 5'11 lol
I’m actually 5’11” and can comfortably flat foot my WRR in normal boots. Unless he’s all torso, I’m not buying it either.
My favorite part was the sigh as he acknowledged that's not true.
The WR250R is the best machine ever. It is so much fun, and when you own one you fall in love.
I've been saving for the past 3 years for this bike and I finally got it this past Saturday. People tried to convince me to buy something cheaper or more powerful, but I had already fallen in love and have stayed faithful all this time. ;)
@@highlymobilehobo4161 So almost a year later, do you like it?
@@jimperry4420 I've been having the time of my life with it. I may eventually get a second bike at some point in my life, but I'm keeping this thing as long as it stays running. 😅
@@highlymobilehobo4161 That’s awesome. I’m trying to decide between the Wr and the new Klx...
@@jimperry4420 If I remember correctly the klx300 makes just a bit less power than the wr250 stock, but has more punch in its mid-range instead of up high like the wr. Personally I would go with a used wr in good condition, it would definitely be cheaper than a klx after dealership fees. Suspension is a bit better on the wr as well, but both would need to be worked on for intense riding. I guess the biggest question is if you like green/camo or blue, because both are good bikes.
I ride steep mountain high altitude single track. Wr250r does great. Change the sprockets and put good tires on it. Add a 3 gallon gas tank and you are set. Reliable like no other. Lost it off a sketchy trail once and it rolled 6 times before it hit a tree. Once back on trail it fired right up.
Speaking of gearing on the wr250r - I found that a 50 tooth rear sprocket made the bike very torquey and just fast enough for occaisional highway use.
Yep. When I first got mine the stock gearing was actually rubbish on the high away. After I geared it down i had more power across the board without a doubt.
Got a 46 rear sprocket, it makes 6th gear usable on road.
Good Review...I Have a 2008 WR with 35,000 miles on it....3,5 gal Clark tank, when doing tech stuff off road don't fill the tank, ...FMF pipe with a programmer, puts out 27 RW HP on the dyno, also have dirt bag racks with Wolfman Bangs, Seat Concepts, heated grips, Universal Windscreen that comes off when you want super easy, bullet proof, machine 1st valve adjustment at 26K miles, mine were still dead on....been lots of places on this bike, It's been to Western Canada, no big deal there as I live in Montana, but the bike's been all over Arizona, Utah (Moab), Wyoming, California (lost Coast my fav), Nevada, Oregon, Washington with the 6 speed trany it can cruse 70 on the interstate but with head wind or hills you will be looking for 5th gear, it's really a better 55 mph cruiser...it's done the Lolo Motorway, Alpine Trail #7... oh I also have a KTM 990 ADV, KTM 690 and a new 701 Husky Enduro....
already have 11, 000 miles on it....yes I'm a two wheel junkie!
Fred Baker ... 701 and 690 are basically the same bike? Why would you have both? Newer engine with double counter balancing on 701 the reason? WR or 701? I’m pondering. Don’t do single track or rough rough double track. Fire roads and forestry roads and gravel roads with as little pavement as possible. Thanks Fred.
@@f1flick
Hi Greg, you are right about the 690 and 701, my 690 is a Duke..the 701 is a Nomad Rally Machine....now my WR has 38k miles...sold both of my 990 and 690, put a couple hundred miles on a fiends 1290 Super Duke GT...just might pull the trigger on a 2020 model 🤔, on sale for $17k...what a thrill to ride...
I am strongly considering this bike. My only complaint is the price. I believe it's close to 7k. 7k is a lot for a 250.
You get what you pay for. Fun on the street and good off road. Also reliable and easy to work on.
The WR250R is a fantastic bike, I only wish they would make a 450 version of it. Still, I would definitely buy one for certain adventures. Re the KTM690, bear in mind the new ones have zero vibration on the road. Even the twin spark head versions are very smooth indeed. I did the extended TAT on one in 2015 with zero problems but frankly, given the option, I would actually pick the WR250R to do it again simply because fully tooled up and fuelled up, it is 50 lbs lighter and although it has half the power, it still has ENOUGH power.
Honestly a 300 or 350 might be perfect for me. I love the WRR but could use more punch. Felt gutless above 55.
They do make a wr450 tho.
I find your reviews down to earth and refreshingly useful in a sea of biased content on popular DS bikes. Thanks a bunch!!
Glad you like them!
I've owned a CRF250L big-bored to 305, a KLX250, DRZ400SM, dual-sported CRF230F, and now the WR250R. I really don't dual-sport ride anymore as with the limited time I have off-road I prefer to spend it on my YZ125X and 250X. I was using my CRF230F purely as a city-commuter to/from work and replaced it with the WR250R. I got tired of warming up a carbed bike before work and constantly smelling gas. I also felt like a poser never taking it off-road and figured it should go to someone who will use it as intended. As many Californians are aware, these rare plated bikes will never be available again. I chose the WR as my daily commuter primarily for how similar it feels to the YZs ergonomics-wise. The weight and flickability of the WR feels closer to the 230F than any of the dual-sports I've owned before. The engine and power delivery though can definitely be described as "just plain weird" compared to any other low-mid power focused dual-sport engines. The long gear ratios and high revability allow you to gear it super low and still be able to cruise comfortably at 60-65 though. I do think the majority of dual-sport riders would be better off with the DRZ400 or KLX300 though.
I know this is one of your older video, but it is definitely one of the funniest. Thanks for the content!
I was literally rolling with the klr and gs segment!!!! Literally just made my day and morning!!!!!! Tk!!!
Crazy long intervals on those valves. 26,000 miles. I like that.
I've geared mine 14/50, makes 6th gear very usable I like the WR for the service intervals. Ive put 7K miles on mine without a hitch. Very good bikes.
Why can't Yamaha also make a 350 or 400cc version of this? With more power and torque, maybe lower the seat, they'd have what I think a lot of us would buy.
maybe because it will be too close to tenere 700.
I also ride this WR 250R. I really love it
Is this bike street legal?
@@jrforeman279 yes
The WR250R is hands down the best light weight ADV bike ever made. Super reliable, great suspension but a little more power and it would be perfect
I'm the current owner of this exact bike. It's really set up nice, doesn't look this clean anymore but the important bits are all still there!
I bought it from the guy who bought it from the guy in the video.
Cool! It's well set up. Hope you enjoy it
Certainly no 450 when it comes to power but when we trained with these in my time in the army, they could handle anything you threw at em. It was more about the guy who sits on it. Light and nimble, climbs steep hills, crosses logs, swamps, dunes, gravel and the open road and does it all day. Of course they had to be geared down for that kind of use but i never really found myself wanting more doing those multi-hour endurance tests and the like. when u drop one all day and have to pick it up you learn to love it. :)
Ian, you’re the “Rick Steves and Huell Howser of motorcycles!” Keep up the great channel!
"Garage Queen" sold me to sub...lol, stay safe.
Thanks so much for this video - I am considering buying a WR250R this week and this helped a lot.
Ya if you actually know how to ride a bike, you will find the wr250 is more than most people would ever need, the wr250 is an amazing ride and is the most reliable thing out there.
I ended up buying the crf250l because I am 5'7" . the wr is a great bike , just not an option for us vertically challenged
the useless, good for nothing OVERPAID clown midget commie mayor of London wont be getting the WR
I’m looking at getting a dual sport, but am also a short arse, so probably the Honda too
seat concept can lower 250r seat height plus a better seat. 250L is a little red pig.
You're such a strange character, and this was one fun review. :) WR250R is one sexy motorcycle. I am barely 5''6' with 31in inseam but this motorcycle speaks to me. if I had a chance to try it out, I sure would. The WRR's rarely appear on the marketplace here in Slovakia, but when they do, the price is fairly high...
Nobody ever mentions the KTM or Husky 250 dual sports which are by far the best 250 dual sport bikes ever made. I have had a KLX300 and XR400 made into dual sports and they were good bikes but the Husky250FE dual sport I have now is just so much better in power handling than either of those.The 250's get overshadowed by the 350 but the bikes ride very different and the 250 retailed at $1000 less and slightly less weight. If you see a used 250 KTM or Husky I would go test ride it, It will bury that WR250.
Have you riden a wr250r ? How does it compare in power ?
@@alexjordan1611 The WR feels taller, heavier, and about 25% less power. If I compared the stock suspension of both bikes it's almost a wash. The stock stuff on the husky is nothing special but the rear shock is better than the WR's. Can't stand the explore forks.
After I got stuck in mud with my T7 for six hours yesterday, I’m close to selling it for a lightweight dual sport. Either this or the DRZ400. Decisions decisions..
yes but they won't be good on highway like the T7
@@BigRockMoto You are very correct. I’ve listed the pros and cons of going lighter. I lose highway performance and comfort, but I gain a lot of offroad performance. I usually ride 60 mph on highways anyways, as I dont find speed any thrilling.
Do you agree with my findings?
I'm looking to sell my adv bike to get a wr250r for similar reasons. If you ride alone it's a lot less dangerous to have a lighter bike. I think really people like us need an adventure bike AND a dual sport. The problem is affording it lol
That was going to be my answer to you. Since I made this comment I’ve owned both a DRZ and a 701. Sold my T7, practiced a lot on the dual sports and got much better. Now I’m back on a T7 and just bought a FE350 too. A dual sport will not replace an adventure in my experience, unless you have a lot of trails where you live. Having one of each is the answer, but it’s not cheap. Best of luck 😊
"Made of steel and lead!" LMAO!!
just rode a klr650 today, can confirm
I'd love to see this bike with a DT200 or DT230 engine 🤤
Been riding since '94, my '14 (bought new) WRR with Sumo kit is the one bike that will never leave the stable. The AT could potentially be a keeper too........
My goal is to try to get one by next Halloween 2021, I’m 15 years old and gonna be 16 in October this year and should have my license by spring of next year and I’m gonna try to get a job at McDonald’s or Wendy’s or anywhere and make enough and save up for one of these or anything like it as I really would like to cruise down the road on a lightweight dirt bike and drive away for hours on my own and feel free. Any tips or suggestions for a better bike for riding on the highway/main roads, I’m gonna do a little bit off-roading but mostly just cruising
Any dual sport you can afford. That's how I started.
Do landscaping for real money buddy. Have that bike in no time
Ryan Lynch thanks for the tip I’ll start thinking about landscaping
Did you get your WR250R for does Hours on your own driving away?. It Will be nice to know you finally did it.
nice vid, bought my WR250R for reliablity, it also way more sexier than a drz
that is true! better looking!
I am trying to decide between this or the Drz400. I think the drz400 is so much better looking.
I agree with you.
@@tomcat6933 Drz400sm best lookin on the market. Bought a brand new Drz this year.
Tom Cat go with the DR-Z400S you won’t regret in there is no replacement for displacement. The 250 motor is just too weak compared to the DR-Z400S unless you weigh 140 pounds......
I believe I am now this exact bike's owner! Stoked to have it!
So cool! Ride safe! I do miss it - maybe I need to get another one and do the big bore kit
@@BigRockMoto I'll treat her well! I love the suspension. Super nice build.
@@BigRockMoto went to change the oil on your old pig and the bolt was rounded off and the inside threads were completely stripped inside the oil pan.... major bummer! Someone cranked down way too hard on my poor WR..
I have put 18,000 trouble free miles on mine in two years !! Its a hoot to ride, rev it and play in the corners, great for gravel roads we ride a lot !! I love Yamaha's tho had a few, about 10 !!
I love this bike I always run it higher in the rpm range so the power is there it's more for the trails not as much street for power
I tell people all the time, if you don't ride this bike at high rpms you're never going to get the full effect of it.. I rip my wr250r all day long and my only complaint is that the gas runs out to quick, and the stock seat is uncomfortable.. other than that I love it..
Which bike do you prefer the wr250r or the crf250l? For power wr is the best but crf is cheap and you can buy brand new hehe but still which bike do you prefer?🤔
Hey Big Rock Moto, I really enjoy your reviews. I searched your channel and couldn't find a review of a Yamaha XT250. If you haven't already done so, would mind reviewing a new Yamaha XT250?
Just bought a used 2011 wr250r with only 400 miles after the owner passed away. Where can I learn how to properly maintain it?
Hands down the best manual you will ever find for this bike. Have fun on your new to you. Absolute amazing bike. What a great find with 400 miles. I bought mine brand new 2016 and put every single one of the 10,000 miles on it myself and it still runs just as good as the day I bought it.
Great little bike!
I would love to add it to my garage as my DS of choice.
Thanks 🙏
Stay safe
BB
$hit that wr250 probably still has more horsepower then the KLR650. ha ha
Damn I'm torn. I've been out of riding for about 5 years but my last bike was an XR650L. Didn't ride it much on the road and it was super heavy compared to the XR400R and WR400F I had before that. I'm a big guy (6'1, 255lbs) and still didn't care to handle the 650L on tight steep trails. I test rode a XR650R and even though it's got balls, it really is top heavy. My XR400 had perfect power but damn it was revved out on fast fire roads and county roads- even at 55-65mph would have been nice to have a 6th gear- and i tried higher gearing with sprockets and it didn't help as much as i'd like.
My riding now is going to be less trails and more higher speed dirt roads and trying some twisty pavement out in the country. I'm looking at KLR's, DRs and DRZs also. The awesome thing about this WR250R is what everyone else is thinking: Fuel Injected and lower maintenance and a 6th gear for overdrive. I see the CRF300L and wonder if it would at least satisfy like my XR4 did? I also have an old XR350R that is the perfect tractor and feels like its got similar power to the XR400 i had years ago. The bigger, fuel injected dual sports out there are damn expensive and I can't justify the cost for as little as I'll be riding most likely.
I hear you. I have the KLX300 right now as a press bike, I love it so far. It might be the answer. Or the Honda 300 which I am reviewing soon. Stay tuned for the videos
that noise you herd was road gremlins you'll need a bell for that bike, that may be the reason behind the hose too.
Starbucks gift card , sign me up ! .... Dr J
Maybe I'm leaning it over and don't notice because its 285lbs, or maybe I have cartoonishly long legs, but at a whopping 5'7 155lbs the WRR has NEVER been too tall for me
6th should only be used as an overdrive, 5'11 on 6 inch platform
"stay-tor"
Really nice review man! Im watching for wr250r parts , and it says wr250r europe 22,6kw , that's 30hp , do you think it affects the reliability of the bike or not?
David Suciu that’s normal, check out my vids!
Excellent bike review and tutorial.
Thanks for the videos! What gear ratio are you running on this please?
I just miss the black and yellow Yamaha
Any plans on doing a review on the KLX 230? A lovely bike just under the KLX 300 sizewise, but very capable, aircooled.
i have a 2017 wr250r... i ride it mostly off road. the only things i've done to it are lower gears, skid plate and linkage plates.i wouldn't recommend larger tanks (it will make it really top heavy). i have a 1 gal roto pax in the rear that i use on longer rides. also, i wouldn't recommend uncorking it...unless you're mostly highway riding. otherwise just learn to use the clutch.
Have a 2008 WR with 35,000 miles on it....3,5 gal tank, when doing tech stuff off road don't fill the tank, duh...FMF pipe with a programmer, puts out 27 RW HP, also have dirt bag racks with Wolfman Bangs, Seat Concepts.....been lots of places on this bike, oh I also have a KTM 990 ADV, 690 and a new 701 Husky Enduro....
Exhaust and fuel programmer and you're laughin
WRR is about 10 kg lighter than the DRZ. To me that’s a big advantage
Yep. It does feel lighter for sure.
I'm also a mountain biker, forest trails, but no mountain stuff like you have. Perhaps it would be of interest to talk about how mountain biking contributes to strategy, skills and physical ability on a moto?
A radiator guard helps as well!
I saw a lot of wr250r reviews, no one speaks about the most annoying thing about this grest bike. The jerky snatchy throttle at low rpm from idle to power. No mod, nothing seems to cure this huge downside. Why nobody speaks about that, is a major issue? For a trail/offroad bike is a very big thing...
I was looking to buy a dual sport bike for cruising and back country trails. I was thinking about the kawasaki klx 250 but I kept hearing about this bike. So my question is is this bike worth the extra money. Would you recommend it. Thanks for the. Review. Rhannah
The Kawasaki will have slightly less power and less suspension travel. It will also be easier to reach the ground. Unless off road performance is a big priority for you, go with the kawasaki if it is cheaper.
Yes, better suspension strong frame handles more like a off road bike than a DS they r fun, just rev and have fun, it is 1 cylinder of an R1, not DS motor
The WR250 is a dirt bike frame with a street bike motor. It is bomb for fire roads and mountain roads. Want to lower gearing for single track. I am 5'6" and the height of the bike is an issue, not sure if I want to spend the bucks on custom tuning an d lowering of the suspension, but if I get extra dough, I know where to spend it.
Leo Copper klx 250.
Did you ever end up lowering it or using a low seat? I’m 5’7” and about to look at one but wondering if I’m wasting my time. Thanks!
You need to review the KLR650 and the DR650.
klr review now live!
It’s almost perfect, the only 1 problem, 50cc scooter power. If it had 38-40hp it would be perfect.
That's the price you pay for a 4-digit oil change interval and 5 digit valve interval, unfortunately.
Yeah no problems going into limp mode on the Yam .. unlike others.
Got a 05 ..low hours ..needed carb cleaned 500$ .. score of the year..picked up an 05 husky tc250 a week later for 800$ .that had 5 hours on it .the guy broke his leg .and she sat ..so..for under 1500$ I've got 2 of the sweetest bikes I could ever want ...oh sold my 2012 KTM 250 SXF ..for 3500$ ..do the math ..still have 2gs. for ???..if your bike wise there out there ..
This may be a tough question to answer, but whatever I'll ask away. I'm looking to buy a bike and I live in Chicago. It may sound odd, but I'm looking to buy a dual sport. Not that I have any intention of dual sporting, but I do have several reasons for wanting a dual sport:
1. I think they look cool as hell.
2. Ergonomics. I like the upright riding position, the height, the wide handle bars.
3. I learned on a TW200 and that bike was riot to ride.
4. Low end torque that (hopefully) comes with a single. I've rode a Suzuki GS500 and that bike was so boring to ride.
5. The sound of those singles.
My question is; for short commutes to work in 35mph speed limits and occasionally riding out to the suburbs, either on the highway or not, what would you recommend between a DRZ400 or a WR250R? Or would you recommend something else entirely? Or am I an idiot for wanting a dual sport?
Tim Sullivan
Why don’t you just get the tw200? It tops out at 70 which is more than enough for your commute and you already know you like it
A dr650 makes a great city commuter bike if you got hwy travel as well or ride 2up. It'll be heavier tho.
I have the wr250f, how does the R compare for performance? Is it less maintenance intensive?
yes because it uses a streetbike engine design
I really dont understand why honda didnt give us a better drz . instaed they gave us the crf450l . Just another over priced , high maintenance bike like the ktm's , betas and husky's. If they made a 400cc bike with a 3.5 gallon tank, better suspension ,6 speeds and FI. and maybe 35 hp and 300 lbs. it would sell like hot cakes
Honda's stated total weight limit capacity for the CRF450L is only 220lbs ... total. That's rider + gear. It's a straight up track day or single day ride bike with not much extra gear. Even the light KTM's allow for 300lbs+ cargo capacity.
Great review of an awesome dual sport bike.
thanks!
@BigRockMedia...Question: Do you still have your wr250r ? How often do you ride it ? What bike do you prefer over it ? What bike do you ride the most that compares well to the wr250r ?
Thanks,
Stu
How would i find if these are street legal in california? looking at a 2009 wr250r
Do you still own the wr250r? Would like to see a video about your mods!
my 2015 wr250r is on its 3rd stader. kept burning out. then dealer sold me on replacing timing chain and valves at 10k miles. don't know if it really broke or if I got taken for a ride by the dealer. Performance wize ive kept up with ktm 450s and a worked banshee.
Hmm. I have a 2012 wr250r. With 33,500 miles on it. And I will put it up against my beta 390rrs for reliability any day. It's just under powered some. But I have a EJK power bank with a mega bomb header and Q4 exahaust. It helped tremendously on low end power but I can and have run the WR 75mph for hours like 12hours at a time no stop... I'll run it as long as I can.. great bike to have so much accessories to go along with the bike..
mine had the power tuner and pipe but still felt pretty dead... but I do ride at 6000+ feet most of the time
Vs. 390 reliability says a lot about the Beta. I imagine the Beta is the bike of choice for any technical riding
drop a tooth upfront or add a few in the back. I think its way more fun after you do and I have taken it everywhere off road
I did the opposite 14/50
What timing..... I’ve just recently started debating a wr vs a drz vs crf etc....:)
Steve WK ahhh yes, the great debate. Good luck with that my friend it’s a tough one. Height vs weight vs high end/low end torque etc.... why can’t they just make one with everything everyone wants. Lower seat hight, capable on the highway better torque, fuel injected, and for god sakes make them lighter. All the pipes are 30 pounds but the lighter aftermarket ones are too loud for creeping around your neighbourhood trails. A more comfortable seat and can we please get a dash that’s not from 1982. Why?? I guess I’m asking for a lot
Sam then you lose the service intervals, 6 speed box, high output stator ect. If they made this bike with a 350 engine and a nice short 1-2 gearing I don’t think they could make enough of them
Get the Wr. Ride the others and then ride it and you'll see.
Y not the 450WR
Ian, are you sure you are 5’11”? You always hesitate….lol
No torque, 295 lbs maybe good for riders that weight 150 - 175 lbs need to ride like a 2 stroke on the pipe , do not buy new as your first bike I know I purchased new wasn't happy sold with 384 miles lost a few thousand dollars need more Cc like ktm 350, beta 390 long stroke or dr400. If possible test drive before you buy!! Good luck!!
is the adjustable suspension only to make it hard or soft or also to lower it for shorter drivers thanks in advance
hector Cervantes lowering the front is no problem just slide the forks higher in the triple clamp, rear is harder, there are lowering links you can fit to drop it down some, I have the rear lowered a little bit and the front stock and it’s still quite a tall bike for me 5.11 same as this dude
@@chasp_0784 Dont comment when you dont know what you're talking about. Wr shock has rear ride height from the factory.
Suspension is fully adjustable meaning it has preload, compression and rebound adjustments. Also has ride height on rear shock.
@@motoman7445 you are adorable, yes it has the jamb nut on the rear which I tried and it gave me fuck all difference. Lay off the knob mate.
“7:10...I can’t remember...?” This phrase should NEVER be said in a video like this. Have the info you need, on a handy notebook, Before you start your video!
this, or KLX 300?
I didn't know Kip reviewed motorcycles
You forgot to mention how much easier to pick up when you’re falling all the time.
Ian you are Star
How much did you end up selling this bike for? Thanks.
I’m thinking about getting one of these as a trail bike, I already have a cr125 for the supper cross track. Is it good for all trails?
Yes, absolutely
What year is your WR250R?
What year is it?
Garage Queen....lolol.
I’d love to see that KLR video :)
Steve WK WR GANG
Wich year is it?
Any seat time?
Of course the 250 doesn’t compare to the bigger bikes, whole different ball game so why would you compare them. The WR is a much better bike compared to the other 250 bikes out there, price not so much but.. you get what you pay for.
You seem too always quote rear wheel HP so just so you know if that's a r1200gs it's 101hp