Small bore single-cylinders are increasingly popular; they’re inexpensive to run and they’re also fun to ride. So it’s good news that Yamaha has just introduced two new lightweight 250 singles, but alas, only in Brazil.
Modelled after the firm’s Super Ténéré 1200 adventure tourer is the XTZ250 Ténéré.
It’s not as high-tech as its full-sized cousin, rolling on a double-cradle steel tube frame and powered by a 249 cc air-cooled, two-valve single based on the humble XT 250 engine. But the engine is fuel-injected, producing a modest 21 hp.
Wheels are 21-inch front and 18-inch rear and tires are street-friendly Pirelli Scorpions. Yamaha has also fitted the Ténéré 250 with a 16-litre fuel tank, which is titanic by 250 standards.
Unfortunately, Brazilians must dig deep into their pockets to buy the Ténéré 250, which retails for a hefty R$12,900, or about $7,800 CDN. In comparison, the 2011 XT250 retails for only $5,899 over here.
Also new is the Fazer 250 naked bike, using the same fuel-injected single and similar steel chassis, though rolling on smaller 17-inch wheels. Seat height is 805 mm (31.7 in) and claimed wet weight is 153 kg (337 lb).
We think that both these machines would likely make great urban runabouts if they were to come to Canada – and at a reasonable price. Yamaha?
I have had the Fazer 250 for the last 2 1/2 years here in Brazil. Its the ideal urban machine for those who like to be a little agressive at times. Flawless Fuel injection is a big plus. Light and very flickable handling. However the Pirelli Sport tires suck big time on gravel roads. Its a Paved road only machine.
Air cooled 250cc for 6-7K projected price, not very attractive if you ask me. I can accept old technology, but the price must be reflective somewhat.
I’m with you guys … we NEED more 250cc options here in North America. Kawasaki must be laughing with the Ninja 250R not only being their best-selling Bike but also the only game in town. I’d be all over that 250 Fazer in a heartbeat!
We have several Brazilian-spec Honda Titans as Trainers at our local MTP and they’re pretty reliable and have stood up to a lot of abuse. Have heard that Transport Canada testing for new models costs manufacturers somewhere in the order of $70K? That’s peanuts for oufits like YamHondKawaZuki!
I’ll be on the market for my first bike this upcoming spring and I’d be all over that Tenere 250 if it was available. *sigh* I wish there were more 250cc options.
Yup
Great easy bikes to ride and maintain. Id jump on one to bomb around town on and keep the antique for longer rides.
Bondo’s right. Money grab.. Euro is so far ahead of us regarding standards/emissions.
“Is the Brazilian model an alcohol motor?”
No, but there’s a small, triangular area around the steering head that’s waxed.
If Yamaha USA doesn’t bring the bikes in, you likely won’t see them here as Transport Canada’s certification is very expensive. Why they just can’t “piggyback” onto Euro standards is beyond me. It’s not as if Europe has life threatening standards or no pollution levels to meet.
Your government at work again.
Is the Brazilian model an alcohol motor?
There are a ton of small displacement bikes from the major manufactures going to Brazil, India, etc. They have been for years. Don’t expect to see too many on this continent.
Something new to compete with the Honda CBR 125 and the Kawasaki Ninja 250. I’d like to see the Suzuki TU250 imported as well to Canada.