2000 YAMAHA COMPETITION MODELS

2000 YAMAHA COMPETITION MODELS

Jan. 01, 2000 By Rick Sieman
MODELS

PW50
PW80
RT100
TT-R90
TT-R125
TT-R125L

TT-R225
TT-R250
TW200
XT225
XT350
YZ80
YZ125
YZ250
WR400F
YZ426

THE 2000 YZ250.

  THE 2000 YZ250.

The Yamaha YZ250 has proven to be one of the most competitive 250cc motocross bikes in the world today. The YZ250 benefited from a wide range of major changes for the 1999 season, including a new long-stroke engine and new slide-type Yamaha Power Valve System, as well as a completely redesigned swing arm, lighter rear hub, a large 240mm rear disc brake and Excel rims.

One of the most significant changes is the all-new Keihin PWK38 power jet carburetor, which features a Throttle Position Sensor (TPS). Utilizing a repositioned power jet system, together with the TPS, makes for superior throttle response at all rpm ranges. The TPS sends data to a new 3D-mapped CDI unit that constantly adjusts the YZ250's ignition timing to suit both rpm and throttle position.

This combination ensures that the new PWK38 carburetor operates at its optimal level. Combine this with the use of a lighter piston pin, reducing reciprocating mass, and the rider can expect improved throttle response.

Another important change is the use of a new clutch design. A more rigid pressure plate, longer clutch springs and a lower rate, coupled with a new "works-style" adjustable clutch perch and lever, makes for lighter action and a superior feel, resulting in less rider fatigue. As with the YZ426F and YZ125, the YZ250 features both the fully detachable aluminum subframe, that is not only 10mm lower in the rear for a flatter seating position, but less weight than the previous steel construction. Overall weight loss is also achieved via a thinner, yet stiffer, HT-780 high tensile steel tubing on the main tube.

Click For Larger Image
Detail of Triple Clamp
The suspension of the YZ250, like the 426F and 125, is upgraded at both ends. The forks feature new anti-stiction dust seals, new outer tubes with low friction internals and a lightweight aluminum piston rod for smoother suspension performance. The rear shock benefits from an aluminum bearing in place of the '99 steel item, and completely new adjustable compression damping adjuster.

 Out back, Yamaha's finishing touches include a rear suspension design that results in less unsprung weight. Excel rims, previously expensive aftermarket additions, are now standard items and grace the YZ250 in the front and rear (as with the YZ125 and YZ426F), providing superb strength. Yamaha's lightweight hub, aluminum spoke nipples, and all-new Dunlop 739Fas, complete an aggressive rear setup.

To provide superior shifting, the highly acclaimed "3 bar" shifting mechanism graces the YZ250's internals. The three shift fork guide bars are used to improve the power shift feeling when slamming the gears.

The 2000 YZ250 will be available in the popular Team Yamaha Blue/White with Yamaha's Tuning Fork logo, and the manufacturer's suggested retail price is $5,699.


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