The Yamaha XT250 dual sport is getting a fuel injection system for the 2013 model year, replacing the previous model’s 33mm Teikei carburetor.

Apart from fuel injection and new graphics, the only other changes are a new TCI ignition system in place of the 2012 model’s CDI ignition, and a slightly larger gas tank (2.6 gallons versus 2.4 gallons on last year’s model). The 249cc air-cooled SOHC engine and five-speed transmission remains unchanged.

Suspension is still provided by a 35mm telescopic fork with 8.9-inches of travel and a swingarm with rebound-adjustable monoshock with 7.1-inches of travel. Braking is provided by 245mm front and 203mm rear disc brakes.

The new fuel injection system adds a slight boost to fuel economy with Yamaha claiming the 2013 XT250 gets 76 mpg compared to the 2012 model’s 73 mpg claim. Continue Reading »

Of the concept models Yamaha announced it would introduce at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show, it was the heavy-duty looking XTW250 RYOKU concept that drew the most attention from our readers. Here we have new photographs of Yamaha’s “SUV motorcycle” from the show floor of the Tokyo Motor Show courtesy of Colum Wood, editor of our sister site Autoguide.com, who was in attendance.

Yamaha describes the XTW250 RYOKU concept as an “unrestricted, anytime, anywhere” mobility vehicle offering performance, operability the capacity to carry heavy loads. The fat tires and front suspension appear to be similar to those of the Yamaha TW200 (hence the TW part of its name). The XTW250has a slim gas tank and a large rear carrier that can be swapped for a tandem seat.

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Yamaha is debuting a new heavy-duty utility motorcycle concept at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show.

Described as the “SUV motorcycle”, the Yamaha XTW250 RYOKU was designed to carry heavy loads for both on and off the road. The concept’s name suggests it may share elements of Yamaha’s XT250 and TW200 dual sports. In fact, the fat front tire, wheels and forks look almost identical to those on the TW200 while the shape of the fuel tank resembles that of the XT250. Throw in a bit of the Honda Ruckus voila, the Yamaha XTW250 RYOKU.

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Yamaha unveiled a pair of 2012 dual sport models, the Yamaha XT250 and the Yamaha TW200.

Both the 2012 Yamaha XT250 and TW200 remain unchanged from the 2011 versions except for a new white and blue color scheme and white front fenders instead of last year’s black fenders.

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