Since the release of the updated, reverse cylinder YZ250F in 2014, Yamaha have really made life hard on their competitors in the 250cc category. With multiple championships, both domestic and international, and a substantial amount of the units being sold off the showroom floor, the latest generation of YZ250F has been a hit.

Since then Yamaha have slowly refined the model and for 2017 we once again see a range of updates that have made quite a noticeable difference on track. Yamaha technicians have massaged the bike and tweaked it in the spots in needed, but left the rest as is. Firstly, let’s start off with the engine package for 2017.

For 2017 the YZ250F four-valve cylinder head features a revised intake geometry for additional downdraft effect, matched to shorter intake funnel in the airbox, for improved top-end power. Inside the head, more aggressive camshaft profiles and valve springs boost output further, while larger valve seats ensure excellent sealing and reliability.

In addition to those updates, the entire die-cast crankcase features a new heat-treating process to increase strength. Inside, a new nickel-chromoly steel connecting rod offers additional durability to handle the increased power output. For 2017, new ECU settings also help increase power output and provide a smoother feeling as the rider reaches the rev limiter.

The 2017 Yamaha YZ250F uses an adjustable fuel injection system with a 44mm throttle body fed by a high-pressure battery-less electric fuel pump. This ensures optimum fuel atomisation and air/fuel calibration for excellent rideability in a wide range of riding conditions. The system controls the volume of fuel injected and the ignition timing based on engine rpm and throttle opening, providing hesitation-free response and controllability.

The gearbox has also been updated with new gear dogs, revised gear tooth designs and a host of smaller changes to create a smoother overall transmission with improved shifting, as well as a stronger overall power train for improved durability. All of these updates combined really make for an impressive engine package, I feel it will surprise people the first time they get on the bike.

The 2017 YZ250F engine package has been improved from the bottom to the top, it pulls very well from down low and just continues to pull high into the rev range. Right out of the box, the 2017 YZ250F is a serious piece of equipment when it comes to a 250cc four-stroke. I was also able to ride a gear higher than I usually would on the Appin circuit in most areas, something that I think is a huge plus when it comes to remaining smooth on track.

Yamaha also widened the swingarm pivot section of the frame by 12mm to improve lateral rigidity, at the same time they updated the engine mounts and lowered the footpegs 5mm. The lowered footpegs allow a more comfortable riding position for a taller rider like myself, and they also lower the centre of gravity. Low centre of gravity and mass centralisation are key points of the YZ250F, Yamaha engineers place a huge amount of focus on this to ensure the bike handles well.

Speaking of handling well, the 2017 Yamaha YZ250F sure does handle well, it handles very well. Retaining the KYB spring-type fork with speed sensitive damping for 2017, the YZ250F continues to have that instant comfort on track. The KYB spring fork has served the Yamaha well in recent years and for 2017 it features revised valving for improved suspension feel and balance. The KYB rear shock also features settings optimised for ideal damping characteristics.

The overall chassis and suspension combination on the 2017 Yamaha YZ250F is solid as expected. Yamaha are known for sticking with the settings and components they know work best for them, so the choice to remain on a spring fork isn’t a surprise at all. The way this bike turns is very impressive and it remains stable at speed, what more could you ask for?

The 2017 YZ250F features a large 270mm front brake disc, the same system fitted to the YZ450F, and uses an aggressive pad material for exceptional stopping power and braking control. Obviously having a strong motor package is great, but you need to be able to stop the bike too! Yamaha’s braking system front and rear offer great stopping power and a smooth progressive feel through the lever and pedal.

Ergonomically the 2017 YZ250F is a dream. The bodywork design and unique fuel tank location allows for a super flat and streamline cockpit that allows you to slide back and forth with ease. The absence of a fuel cap also means you can really get right over the front of the bike when cornering for optimum front end grip. The stock, rubber mounted handlebars are a super comfortable bend and can be adjusted back and forth using the four options on the triple clamps.

In the looks department the 2017 Yamaha YZ250F again features embedded graphics built into the bodywork for extended durability and to resisting both peeling and damage. The 2017 model features new race-inspired styling and is matched up with black Excel rims for that factory look right off the showroom floor. The 2017 Yamaha YZ250F looks super sharp, we’re a big fan of the styling on this revised model.

Overall the 2017 Yamaha YZ250F is a seriously impressive 250cc four-stroke motocross machine. Yamaha have one of the strongest engine packages on the market and a unique chassis design paired with a tried and true suspension package to provides great handling characteristics. If you’re in the market for a 2017 250cc four-stroke, you definitely should take a look at this bike. The 2017 Yamaha YZ250F comes in at a recommended retail price of $11,099, visit www.yamaha-motor.com.au for more.