2024 250 MX Shootout | Gas Gas vs. Honda vs. Husqvarna vs. Kawasaki vs. KTM vs. Yamaha

2024 Yamaha YZ250F

2024 Swapmoto Live 250 MX Bike of the Year: Yamaha YZ250F

Test Rider Scores: 1-1-1-2-2

The Yamaha YZ250F won our 2023 250 MX Shootout and the 2024 YZ250F picked up right where the old bike left off. Without a doubt, the new bike is better handling and more comfortable, ergonomically, than its predecessor. The new YZF chassis gave us some fits when it made its debut on the YZ450F last year, but thanks to all the fine-tuning we did on it, we knew exactly how to set up our new YZ250F. Power-wise, the bike isn’t detectably improved; Yamaha’s cam chain upgrade is aimed more at durability than performance. Power, though, has never been a problem for the YZ250F as it has long been the strongest in class. The same holds true for 2024, and the complete package of horsepower, best-in-class suspension, and excellent handling characteristics, make the Yamaha YZ250F the SML 250 MX Bike of the Year.

Alex Ray on the YZ250F.

“The Yamaha power is great; the engine revs forever and it is super strong in the mid-range to top-end. The ability to adjust the bike’s powerband via the Yamaha Power Tuner app makes the bike very versatile. The bike is easy to ride yet loves to be revved. There is no fault in the handling of the YZ250F. It corners amazingly well yet is stable at speed. You can really push this bike. I really like the new frame.” – Kyle Vara

“The Yamaha engine screams, but I felt that it lacks a little down low. The engine is very loud at the airbox and that was distracting at times. For me, the suspension was a bit harsh entering corners and it got twitchy a couple of times. The new ergonomics are great, though, and I was very comfortable on this bike.” – Humberto Baca

“This felt like a fully modified 250 compared to the other bikes and quite frankly the Yamaha blows all the other bikes out of the water in the engine category. It is crazy to see how much better the YZ is when riding the bikes back to back. The suspension is also best in class. I set the sag and didn’t touch a clicker. The fork especially is great, and the bike has super front-end traction and feel. I wouldn’t change a thing on this bike.” – Alex Ray

“The Yamaha offers the most low-end punch in the class, and the low to mid-range power not only hits quickly but also has a lot of depth to it, making mistakes less costly in and out of corners. Mid-range to top-end pull is strong. I like the action and delivery of the cable clutch.  I believe that the Yamaha has the best overall balance of stability and agility in the class. It is not as stable as last year on the straights, but the new chassis is sleeker, more agile, and much more willing to dive into corners. It feels significantly lighter as well. The KYB suspension Yamaha still sets the gold standard for the class. The initial stroke is extremely plush and comfortable, however, the substantial feel as it goes through the stroke is confidence inspiring to hit jumps hard.” – Pat Foster

“Having spent lots of time on the 2023 Yamaha YZ450F, I adapted to the new YZ250F instantly. I love the new chassis and with the balance set the way I like it (105mm sag, forks set at 5mm in the clamps), the bike has a great balance between stability and cornering precision. I had the least issues clearing the larger jumps at Fox Raceway on the Yamaha; this was in fact the only bike I was consistently able to downside the largest tabletop on. I have no trouble picking the YZ250F as my favorite…I just can’t decide between blue or the throwback white/purple/pink configuration.” – Donn Maeda

Test Rider Hits

Best suspension in class

Strongest powerband in class

Incredible adjustability with smart phone app

Thin feel between your legs

Test Rider Misses

Airbox intake noise is loud in rider’s lap

Refueling is more involved with the gas cap beneath the seat tip

Stock grips are terrible

Handlebar pad is ridiculous

Front brake power is lacking