2009 Yamaha YZ250F First Ride Photo Gallery

It didn't take much to wake up the 2009 Yamaha YZ250F. Minor changes have a big impact on this Lites class motocrosser which features a better motor and customizable fit. Check out the full story in our 2009 Yamaha YZ250F First Ride.

2009 Yamaha YZ250F

The rear end received mostof the upgrades with a new swingarm, wheel hub and gold chain.

Moving around on the YZ250F is easy with a comfortable layout and extra amounts of adjustability. Sean Collier looked right at home on the blue Thumper.

2009 Yamaha YZ250F

The Yamaha holds its line when headed towards large mid-corner ruts.

2009 Yamaha YZ250F

The engine side cases were blacked out last year, and they still show wear after minimal time, but the freshly darkened magnesium valve cover doesn't take near the abuse and adds some extra style.

It sure looks better, but our testers weren't blown away with improved handling characteristics.

The midpipe is a consistent 50.8mm throughout now and the aluminum muffler is almost two inches shorter.

Sean Collier says the 250F has a tendency to push mid-corner under aggressive delivery.

A well-balanced suspension package keeps the bike tracking and flying straight.

If there was something the 2008 Yamaha YZ250F needed, it was extra punch from the motor.

Yamaha has offered a competent, if somewhat plain, YZ250F for years now, but the 2009 model has simple upgrades that make the new YZinger a real blast.

Yamaha's 35mm diameter titanium header has been lengthened nearly 2.4-inches which gives it a boost early in the revs and better response throughout the rpm range.

One of the features we like most about the new Yammie is the new top triple clamp which allows for riders to choose how much pressure they put on that front rubber.