Yamaha XT 250 (reduced Effect) - 1981 Specifications and Reviews
The 1981 Yamaha XT 250 is a lightweight enduro motorcycle designed for beginner and amateur off-road riders. Its modest 17 horsepower single-cylinder engine and 125 kg weight make it nimble and manageable on trails and mixed terrain. Known for reliability and affordability, it remains an excellent entry-level dual-sport machine.
1981
General information | |
| Category | Enduro / offroad |
| Year | 1981 |
| Model | Yamaha XT 250 (reduced effect) |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Chain |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Fuel control | OHC |
| Valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Bore x stroke | 75.0 x 56.5 mm (3.0 x 2.2 inches) |
| Compression | 9.2:1 |
| Power | 17.00 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | Single cylinder |
| Capacity: | 249.00 ccm (15.19 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 125.0 kg (275.6 pounds) |
Yamaha XT 250 (reduced Effect) dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake |
| Front brakes | Expanding brake |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 4.60-17 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 3.00-21 |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Top speed | 112.0 km/h (69.6 mph) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Fuel capacity | 8.00 litres (2.11 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
17 hp
Peak Power
69.6 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track10%
City55%
Cornering45%
Daily Riding45%
Touring30%
Passenger20%
Rider Profile
| Best For | This lightweight, low-powered enduro is very approachable and well suited to beginners or riders returning to off-road biking after time away. |
| Purpose | It's built primarily for light trail riding, dirt roads, and casual dual-sport exploring rather than speed or long-distance travel. |
| Rider Fit | Its low weight and low seat-friendly proportions make it easy to manage for smaller or less physically strong riders, including at low speeds or in technical terrain. |
| Character | The XT250 feels friendly, forgiving, and simple, with drum brakes and a low-stress single-cylinder engine that favors predictability over performance. |
| Not Ideal For | It's not a good fit for riders wanting highway speed, long motorway touring comfort, or carrying a passenger any real distance. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
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