The New Adventure Bike

Yamaha  WR250R.  They are calling it "The New Adventure Bike".  In 2008 Yamaha began to manufacture this  model of their dual-sport line. Capable enough to ride on the road or off. While it's comfortable to sit on, the WR250R encourages you to get up on the pegs and push the bike to it's limits--which are surprisingly high for a Japanese dual-sport.  Its versatility comes from some big bike features that enhance its great off-road manners.  A wide 6 speed transmission, fuss free fuel injection that here is connected to a FMF programmer.  For accessory junkies the alternator puts out over 350 W @5K rpm ... more than the BMW F800 twin!!

Fortunately there are some great aftermarket tanks available to extend the modest stock tank from Safari and IMS.

 

The WR250R has slightly shorter legs, though the components themselves are as feature-laden as the ones on race bikes. The 46mm inverted KYB cartridge fork offers both compression- and rebound-damping adjustability with 10.6 inches of travel, a bit less than the 11.8 on the WR250F.

In the rear a Soqi shock (a subsidiary of Yamaha that manufactures the shocks found on some of the high-end sport bikes like the R1) is adjustable not only for preload, compression and rebound, but it lets you vary the ride height. Travel at 10.6 inches, at the seat -  that’s 36.6 inches tall.

If you’re, say, 5-foot-4 or less (like my wife who I know will want to try this one out) you may want to play with the ride height (and don’t forget to lower the fork legs in the aluminum triple clamps at the same time or else chassis geometry goes to pot).  

Still too high, take heart, if it's still too high - try one of these.  YAMA LINKS  .  Yamaha WR250R, 250X & Super Trail riders of all heights & ability agree this Yamaha lowering link is a "MUST HAVE" for its tremendous increase in traction & improved handling. Gain almost 2 inches closer to the ground (when combined with stock lowering option).

  

And yes, I've carved out just enough room in my garage to fit one in!  Arrived yesterday  I've got the upgraded light on the back and it's detailed to the max. 

Now if spring would just arrive!!!