Top 8 Best Yamaha Dirt Bikes of All Time

Regarding Yamaha dirt bikes, no collection is complete without a few of these legendary off-roaders. Although many other brands produce off-road motorcycles, Yamaha has been a leading player for quite some time. Here, you can find the perfect dirt bike of Yamaha, whether it’s your first ride or you’re seeking to upgrade.

By the end of this post, you will be an expert in selecting a dirt bike, knowing which models are available from Yamaha (both new and used), and having a good idea of how to prioritize your demands and budget when purchasing a dirt bike.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Dirt Bike

There are several great Yamaha dirt bikes to choose from, so it’s not an easy task. Yamaha is a reliable motorcycle manufacturer, but there are a few things to consider before buying one of their bikes.

Before you buy a bike, some of the factors to consider are:

• The size of the bike is directly linked with the safety of the rider, so choose it wisely.
• Height, weight, and level of experience impact the riding experience.
• Pick a bike that’s perfect for you and your riding style.
• A bike with 125 or 150 CC engines would be ideal for shorter-stature beginner riders, while 250 up to 450 CC is better for intermediate or experienced bikers.
• Deciding the budget and specific needs before purchasing the bike saves a lot of money and time.

#1: Yamaha YZ450F

If the Yamaha YZ125 is a good option and the Yamaha YZ250F is even better, then the Yamaha YZ450F is the pinnacle model, being king of every Yamaha dirt bike. Being the larger sibling of the YZ range, the YZ450F incorporates the most advanced features from all of the previous models into one fearsome package.

This bike features a 449cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke engine, class-leading suspension, and top-tier performance, making it ideal for intermediate or advanced riders with an eye for racing. Along with a smaller engine, a more refined frame, and better ergonomics, this model also features spring-style forks with a stronger dampening response to changes in speed.

#2: Yamaha YZ125

Thanks to its overall performance, suspension, handling, and dependability, the YZ125 has been regarded as one of the top 125cc 2-stroke motocross bikes since the late 90s.

This Yamaha dirt bike has an excellent power-to-weight ratio, is lightweight, and is incredibly nimble. With its titanium footpegs, aluminum bars, gripper seat, and 125cc liquid-cooled two-stroke motor, it is an ideal bike for novice motocross riders.

#3: Yamaha YZ250F

There has never been a better 250F MX bike than the YZ250F. In addition to being one of the most potent dirt bikes in the world, the Yamaha YZ250F has been named to numerous MX and SX championships, solidifying its status as one of the greatest dirt bikes now available from Yamaha.

The Yamaha YZ250F’s engine is a potent 250cc single-cylinder four-stroke liquid-cooled motor with a reverse cylinder head arrangement that provides respectable low-end torque and mid-range pep.

The Yamaha can glide up steep inclines or negotiate difficult routes with ease because of its smart weight distribution, which makes the bike remarkably light at the front and rear and provides outstanding handling and balance.

#4: Yamaha WR250R

This dual-sport bike has exceptional dirt capability and is designed for both road riding and trail riding. A sophisticated fuel-injection system with electronic direct injection (EDI) and lightweight engine components complement the 250cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke engine. If you’re seeking a dirt bike that you can use both on the trails and the street, this Yamaha is a great pick.

#5: Yamaha TT-R230

Despite its greater size, this bike is surprisingly easy to handle because of its 223cc air-cooled SOHC four-stroke engine. With its 11.6-inch (0.29 m) ground clearance, low seat height, and long-travel suspension, this bike is ideal for those just starting out on the trails as well as those with some experience.

A strong steel frame with a diamond shape improves handling and strength, and ergonomics inspired by racing allow for greater rider movement thanks to features like a flat seat/tank junction.

#6: Yamaha WR450F

The 450cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC four-stroke engine makes this bike ideal for off-road riding and improves its performance. It’s designed for riders with some experience and an eye for speed who want to take it to the trails with greater aggression.

It combines the best aspects of motocross and cross-country racing bikes with those specifically made for enduro riding, making it the pinnacle of enduro machines. You can handle those bumps with ease, thanks to its class-leading suspension.

#7: Yamaha YZ400f

This choice is sure to stir some controversy. The 1998 Yamaha YZ400f may not have been the most enjoyable motorcycle to ride on the track. Despite its groundbreaking power-to-ground technology, it was cumbersome to start and large in size and weight. However, the YZ400f is included in the list because of the revolutionary wave it symbolizes.

We were now in the four-stroke age. No matter how you feel about four strokes, this is the original model, and they’re not going anywhere. The YZ400f may not be the most talented dirt bike ever, but it is undeniably one of the most iconic models of all time, which is why it makes the cut.

#8:Yamaha PW50

We know you weren’t hoping to see the Yamaha PW50 ranked here, but it is one of the best dirt bikes of all time, especially for beginners. The PW50 is undeniably a classic that will always be loved by dirt bike enthusiasts, even though times are changing due to the popularity of electric balancing bikes. 

Over the years, the ‘Pee Wee’ has introduced countless petrol heads to off-road motorsport. Most motorcyclists probably learned the ropes on a PW, and that claim could be made with relative ease. For millions of people all across the world, this bike was the spark that ignited a passion for dirt bikes that has never faded.

Conclusion

Yamaha has a well-known history for bikes, and dirt bikes are one of its best-selling lineups. With numerous Yamaha dirt bikes available in the market, learning which one is best is always helpful. Although there isn’t a universally accepted “best” Yamaha dirt bike or impartial buyer’s guide, we have compiled a list of 8 of our favourite models from Yamaha’s extensive off-road machinery lineup to conclude your research.