WR250R Big & Tall (6’7”) Review

[@improbablehandle]

The perspective of someone tall & hefty is always welcome, thanks.

[@DB-sd3cw]

Lose weight bruh

[@karl7feet]

I’m 6’11” and 250 lbs and I appreciate the perspective you bring in your review.

[@citizendualsport8743]

i dont usually sit thru 19 min vids but this was one of the most comprehensive wr250r review if seen so far, and entertaining, much appreciated man! now .... can you do a 19 min vid on how i can be big and tall too ;-)

[@GiorgosC-rp5ms]

lol

[@jeremygeurtjens7593]

Awesome man...I've been looking at picking up a WR250R for a while now but I had reservations/concerns as I'm 6' 6" and about 250lb. You just confirmed that the WR250R will work for me. Thanks man.

[@OgreMoto]

You're welcome man. Just rev the piss out of that little 250 constantly and you'll have a blast!

[@FullArmorE6]

Your thorough and honest review is greatly appreciated. I'm a big and tall guy also. Not many reviews for guys like us. Going to keep saving and eventually purchase the WR250R.. Thank you.

[@208SledHead]

This is how a review is done. So many people will read from a spec sheet and call it a "review." You pronounce your words correctly, you're not an idiot, and you make valid points. Well done sir - and thank you. Sub'd.

[@TommyNitro]

Man, what a great review. I was on the border, and you have soundly put me in wr territory. Thanks for the great content.

[@kevinsmith2747]

I’ve owned a WR for 5yrs. I concur with everything you said. Good video bro

[@morphius747]

what's your mileage? what kind of maintenance have you done?

[@SigmaSheepdog]

Excellent video! At 10:22, that is very "sound" advice. About six years ago I purchased a WR250R that was modded with the usual FMF Mega Bomb header with PC4 muffler, air box flapper mod, FMF programmer, No Toil air filter, EXUP delete, air injection delete. All of these mods / accessories were performed / installed by a very reputable performance shop. After a while I grew tired of the noise and decided to put the bike completely back to stock. I was shocked on the minimal amount of power increase that the mods provided vs stock. In addition, the fuel mileage suffered a bit with the mods. Those mods are definitely not worth it unless you are in to throwing money away and having an annoyingly loud bike. I prefer being a bit more stealthy.

[@FlameHazeist]

No replacement for displacement (whether natural aspiration or forced!)

[@finerbiner]

I love my WR as well. I'm 5'7" and 140lb. What a couple we would make.

[@14moldyhamsandwich]

Larry Burke lmao

[@TapioBlue]

5'11 150 lbs 55,000 km

[@oscarbear7498]

I'm 5'7 145lb. I was thinking the WR looks good but I'm not sure how it is for a guy that's 5'7 😅. Do you have any trouble with the height?

[@Parabloop3r]

Ben Shabibo?

[@OgreMoto]

No clue how I hadn't seen this sooner! LOL!

[@tomcat6933]

Wow thx for sharing all the bikes you have ridden and compared the wr to. I have had many bikes also and think the beta 300rr was the best bike i have ever owned but i sold it because it absolutely sucks on the roads. I need a dual sport. I know the wr250 was discontinued but yamaha absolutely has to have an upgrade coming to slaughter the new klx300 and crf300 coming out. A quick edit: Yamaha needs to contact you and review this video for their next WR they need to come out with.

[@kojack635]

6'7"?!? Holy crap dude I thought I was tall at 6'4"!! Awesome video man really. It's really good to see a video review from someone who's ridden many bikes

[@bonjovi1354]

Can I get few inches !! Plz I am 5.5

[@kojack635]

@@bonjovi1354 sure, anything for Bonnie Jovi

[@baymoto553]

Thanks for the video. I just bought one of the few remaining 2020 models (in my area) yesterday. They seem to be disappearing quite quickly these days from the dealer room floors. I have been monitoring the dealer websites for the last few months and they are going fast. Your reviews played a big role in my decision to get this over the DRZ. Cheers

[@jamesfairmind2247]

Awesome review Ogre, the most enthusiastic and helpful one I have seen on the WR. All the more useful because it is doing all that so well with such a big guy aboard, really proves how good it is. I would love to know what gearing you normally run and also which aftermarket seat you use.

[@boatman2628]

Spot on! My WR is one of those bikes that always put a smile on my face!

[@OgreMoto]

Completely agree! Thanks for the comment!

[@chriszbodula1894]

Raced 125 2-strokes for many years. Moved to NC and learned dual-sport was going to be my new life. Bought a DRZ400 and hated it. Was hard enough going to a 4-stroke but nothing nimble at all about the DRZ400 and very confusing suspension. Kept chugging out and stalling on trails. In hindsight should have re-geared but still wouldn’t have liked it overall. Then bought a KLX300R. Lighter, more nimble (still a 4-stroke) but totally lacked power and low end. Joined a riding group and a real good rider told me I should look into a KTM 500EXC. Loved the grunt and low end power. Fast enough and stable enough on the street. Could pull through any terrain in just about any gear but still didn’t love the rider position, suspension etc. Test drove a 2008 WR250 and immediately fell in love. Nimble like a motocross bike. Motocross and trail happy suspension. Loves to rev high so it’s damn close to the feeling of a 2-stroke. I think I found a keeper. Maybe, just maybe will some day do a big bore kit as long as it remains reliable. Ended up buying a 2017 fuel injection because constantly cleaning hard to access 4-stroke carbs gets old fast. Thanks for a great review.

[@Dirtpoorhomesteader]

I think this is the video that pushed me over the edge to getting a wr250r. Iv been looking at 790 ktm, t700, drz and others. I really need something that fills a niche off-road that my gs isn’t able to fill. Definitely keeping the gs which I loooove! But need something for when the riding group is on smaller displacement bikes and hitting single track. Thank you for the thorough video. Older dual sport rider told me when to never buy impulsively. Research research research and look for the flaws and compare to the other in the lineup. So far iv been patient with every bike purchase iv made and it has paid off. Test ride of course ha

[@rantANDrave1987]

Branion Woody I pulled the trigger on one of these a few days ago too (used). It may have been a bit impulsive but I got a great deal and could prob flip the bike for more than I paid if it’s not a good fit. It it helps your decision at all, the WR does seem to be the best true DS available if off road riding is your main priority. Given that your interested in single track, WR is the move

[@Dirtpoorhomesteader]

@@rantANDrave1987 thanks man! Yeah still loving it! It’s my “mini GS”. I have missed that visceral feeling that I get with relatively simple single cylinder motorcycles. I can take this thing with ease to places I wouldn’t dream taking my gs. I love the versatility!

[@longjonwhite]

Hi again Big Guy! (we “chatted” on one of your other vids). I am 6’4” myself and a lot of that is leg ! I have had my used, (2009), WR250R for a few weeks now and am enjoying it. My other bike is a GS650 twin, I like the horsepower and refinement, but HATE the weight, esp. when low speed manoeuvring. (Hey! I’m OLD !) I do most of my riding on the street, happily filtering through the stop-start London traffic; the WR is a pretty handy tool for that ! Nice “ BRAPP ! “ from the FMF zorst wakes ‘em up ! I am now running 13/45 gearing and Pirelli Scorpion A/T 90’s, these are supposedly “all terrain”, but I think they are pretty road focused. I am about to do a mod that may interest other lanky riders. I just received a set of lowered pegs, polished stainless steel, bigger and heavier duty platform set 30mm down and 20mm back. (search Bosley’s Pegs, he is in Czech Republic, I got them inside a week, very reasonable price.) I also got a larger and lower brake pedal tip to replace the ridiculously tiny stock one. Hope to fit them this weekend, should give me a bit more leg room. Unfortunately, last owner fitted a lowered seat (!!) so that is next thing I need to change. Happy Trails All !

[@kenistonjr]

Amazing review. As a big/tall guy I just got the assurance I needed. Nice work! Thank you!

[@brianrichard1768]

I agree having owned many old school dual sports. This thing is good. Best all arounder ever in my opinion.

[@rantANDrave1987]

Your videos inspired me to go out and buy a WR250r last weekend. I got a very gently used 2013 with 1770 miles (I’ve been in the market for a duel sport for a while). I also appreciate your advice on the necessary and unnecessary upgrades. I was thinking about doing a full exhaust and fuel controller too until your valid observation about reliability. I’m a brand new dirt rider but I’ve been street riding for over 4 years now and I did have a lot of people tell me the DRZ would be better bike to learn on given it’s better low down power. But as I weighed the two against each other I ultimately went with the WR because I liked the idea that I could grow into the bike as my off road skills improved. So while it may be more challenging at first with where it makes its power, if I really take to off-road riding I think I’ll find the bike more enjoyable overtime, where else it will be the opposite with the DRZ (easier at first but more eventually feeling limited by its weight). Finally, would you consider posting videos of linkage and bearing Maitenance?

[@ridelive6249]

Well. Did you actually try DRZ? This heavy dude is bragging about WR. It suits him better. But we are all different. I sat on both. Currently is rocking DRZ. I love its instant power. If Suzi finally upgrades it to 6 gears and fuel injection it will be an awesome bike thats hard to beat.

[@ChadDoesStuff]

Same. Road my buddy’s DRZ a few times. Considered CRF250L...landed on the WR. After purchasing, and riding just a few times, I feel like I made the right choice.

[@oleksandr_melanych]

Thank you for the fantastic very detailed review! I was thinking about F or R and now definitely have made a choice in favor of R. Exactly the bike, I need and my expectations are 100% inline with your description. Good luck!

[@lancemanion3270]

This was one of the best videos I have seen. Thanks.

[@OgreMoto]

I really appreciate the kind words man. It's comments like this that keep me pumping out content!

[@greym6436]

I'm glad you shared your review & personal experiences with multiple bikes. Thinking of getting one.

[@MrYugi1234]

Wow man. I had a Yamaha TTR125L for trail riding when I was younger and I've wanted a motorcycle now for a while. 100% gonna buy a dual sport and this review has greatly contributed to my decision. Just wish Yamaha made a 300cc. Amazing, detailed review thanks so much for sharing.

[@michaelm.3641]

Same boat! Have a TTR125 and waiting for the day I can upgrade

[@biscuitsalive]

This vid strangely talked me into getting a CRF 250. The Wr250r are just simply rare where I live. So very few on sale. And what there are are overpriced. I was thinking about a DRZ. But the things you pointed out about the gears and the carb on the DRZ has put me off. I know the CRF is a bit underpowered and heavy. And a bit undersprung. But it’s reliable. Available. Parts are available. Not too expensive. Bulletproof. Fuel injected, with 6 gears. Unless anyone has any other suggestions.

[@OgreMoto]

I said in my other video where I reviewed the 250L that I loved it despite its shortcomings. There’s also the klx250s if you want a bit more off-road worthiness too.

[@jeckyll71]

Very well done video and appreciate the thought especially given the bikes you've tried and the fact that you're a larger rider!

[@franz-garsombke]

Thanks so much for this great video! I bought a 2016 WR250R a coue months ago and can't wait to take it out to the trails when the snow is gone!

[@PapaSk8r]

Great review, really covered the bases.

[@kojack635]

I agree. Great video

[@wxm8562]

Great comprehensive review and you pretty much hit the nail on the head with everything. I've had a WRR for 5 years and absolutely love it. It's not the best road bike or the best dirt bike, but it is probably the best true dual sport bike. I have mine setup primarily for dirt but I'm going to mod it to become more of a light adv bike. I have my KTM's for gnarly off road so the WR will become my true 50/50 bike for the BDR and some longer trips like that.

[@danevasko3608]

Really nice review. The comparisons were helpful, like the WR to a 125 2stroke. This is the information I was looking for about this bike.

[@duale_garage8288]

Best “honest” review of the greatest little dual sport. I agree with you 10000%. I LOVE mine!

[@hawkeye284]

Great review, especially shining a light on the WR's road capability, which it doesn't get enough credit for. There is no perfect bike. It's all about making compromises. But I think the designers and engineers put the best combination together, especially maxing out the engine like you pointed out. I've had my WR for 8 years now. First 5 years it was mostly used in dirt. I've since built it into a light adventure bike with panniers. Very versatile bike.

[@OgreMoto]

Couldn't agree more! Thanks for the comment hawkeye!

[@jimv8669]

Nice review. I have a '18 WRR, only mods are new tires, D606 and MT21 and I went to a 50t rear sprocket to virtually eliminate stalling on the trails. I also put a street concepts low seat (I'm 6'0) and some barkbusters. I have never been at a loss for power, even after riding my son's YZ250FX, I am glad to get back on the WRR. Since I have nothing but a CRF150 and YZ to compare it to. I fully agree that this is the best dual sport bike, especially since I have one!

[@rafaelortiz4483]

Excellent review. Ironically, I was struggling between the DRZ400S and the yamaha XT225, but I couldn't shake the feeling that there must be something between the 2 in power and load capacity. I think the WR250R is it!

[@OgreMoto]

You wouldn’t be disappointed with either the DRZ or WR Rafael! However I did not like the XT225/250’s one bit.

[@ooatamanov]

For those who are looking for accurate and truthful information about drz400s and wr250r, congratulations, you have found what you were looking for! The author of this video did a phenomenal job of proving the essence and characteristics of these motorcycles as they are! Bravo to the author 👏👏👏

[@hazcat640]

Props for the video title! I get so tired of 'this is the best bike or this is the best setup or this is the best ...' like everyone must agree with it. This is the best you've owned or in your opinion. Fine, I can deal with that.

[@OgreMoto]

Thanks man that’s exactly what I was going for lol. It’s not gonna be the best dual sport for everyone. As a matter of fact, there’s gonna be people that hate it, and tbh, I don’t care cuz it’s perfect for me!

[@leftystrat62]

I've got a 09' that I put 5,500 mi. in 3 weeks mostly off road and it ran flawless. I weigh 180 lbs and carried 100 lbs of gear. Mine was lowered 2 inches (GoRace Suspension) and had a Big Bore Kit when I bought it. I just started running it the other day after sitting for 4 years with the same gas (that did have Staybil in it) and it started right up for me and has been running fine since. It can do all the New England type trails no problem and run the high way o'k, but with all that gear you get moved around by the wind.

[@bradl45]

Did the TAT on a DRZ400, piped FCR carb, no jetting issues 13k feet to 0 ASL(Jetted at 5k). Ohhhh I wished for a 6 speed and more mpg!!!!!!!! wr250r, Yammy hit it out of the park. Upgrade over the DRZ, probably yes for most. Oil change and valve interval, hell YES, love it. CRf450X, I think the new and improved DRZ400, for the tour of Idaho (T1), MOST EXCELLENT bike, for the TAT the WR250R is probably the better bike!!!!!!!! I also like bombing the desert in Utah, so I like a 450/500 in the sand. You have a DRZ400, WR250R, crf450 L, X ktm 500, your already a winner!!!!!!!!!!!!!! when Yammy upgrades the wr250r, they will grab even more market share. My next yamaha will be a 250FX with a plate(will replace a KTM500), has great suspension too!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@diggy-d8w]

Maintenance is a really big deal that most reviews leave out..... I saw one that needed the top-end done every 6k miles which costs $500-$600 a PoP, not including your down time. That's a deal breaker for a non mechanically gifted person. I can do oil -n- lube stuff but forget much more as I don't have the tools either. I saw a man doing some technical trails high up in the mountains w/ sheer drop-offs on one side & this trail was brutal. His bike choice; Yamaha XT225(6-speed), granted he over hauled the bike putting different sprockets but he had less trouble than any of the other riders who rode 250's -n- up. Thanks for the objective review, I'm looking as an older guy(5' 6" / 170) for a small town commuter/easy trail rider. If I can afford it this one looks like it will do me a good job. peace

[@lairddoran5041]

Awesome video - I own one of these and this video is spot on. So fun to whip this thing like a bad mule.

[@crunchy_blowfish1101]

ayyeee bro perfect, I'm 6"7 too, def buying this bike :)

[@fastdude2002]

I own a 2020 DRZ and a 2024 Kawasaki KLX 300. I like them both but if I could only have one I would take the DRZ as it has so much more power and torque. At 220lbs I appreciate the extra power. The DRZ is also faster on the freeway and better suspension. I never have problems with the carb although I live in warm California. The only thing I like better on the KLX300 is it is lighter which is great for off road. Power is the most important thing to me so I usually grab the DRZ keys….i also have a 2023 KTM 390 Adventure but that’s a whole different type of bike.

[@JohnnyBoy919]

I have a wr250r and agree with a lot of what you said. The wr was way ahead of its time when it came out in 2008. Fuel injection, aluminum frame, 6 gears and 295 pounds wet. it is still lighter than the klx250 and crf250l and it came out nearly 12 years ago! The only thing I wished the wr had was slightly a bit more power and torque and maybe cut a little weight then it would be the unicorn bike.

[@OgreMoto]

The WR already is a unicorn bike for me. It's got a lot of positives over the CRF300 and KLX300 even now.

[@JohnnyBoy919]

@@OgreMoto I'd have to agree with you for now. I'm still waiting on that unicorn bike that does it all, looks like I will have to hold onto the wr250r. If only the crf450rl had longer service intervals and didn't require more money to make it run right I would have gone for it. The things that i like about the crf300l are the lower seat height and torquey engine. Although the crf300l weighs slightly more than the wr250r, I have read that it carrys its weight well and has a lower center of gravity...time will tell I guess. I can't see why yamaha wouldn't have something to replace the wr250r. They could just do what kawasaki and honda did and bore or stroke out the engine..I believe there is some athena kit or something. Just keep it a single cylinder and light weight please!

[@ericwilliams626]

Balance at low speed for a beginner is key because that's where you will probably spill. I want the DR but the maintenance schedule and 3 plugs is annoying and have you have take off the skid plate to do it. But being top heavy is sort of an intellectual deal killer, but maybe not a real world deal killer. WR is the safest way to go. Nobody seems to regret it.

[@FlameHazeist]

OIl change only requires draining 2 plugs per the owner's manual and most skid plates already provide holes for them...

[@maybeerainmaybeesnow]

I love the WR! I'm about 10 in shorter than you and the bike fits me like a glove. I will always be grateful that Yamaha made the WR.

[@tomford5555]

Great review , very comprehensive and honest.

[@ericcoppola]

Wow.. I was sold on the drz but u have very valid and good points!!! Great review!!!

[@OgreMoto]

Thanks man. Honestly you can’t go wrong with either tbh.

[@larrybellucci4708]

Great job on your review. Have been trying to decide between this one and Honda CRF 250l. Pretty sure I'm going with the Yamaha. Thanks.

[@obrider2963]

Thank you. Very nice, in depth vid from you prospective. I appreciate it 👍

[@whoscook4481]

Excellent review!

[@nicholasridiculous3488]

I agree with everything your saying, except the modding. I did air flap MOD, no toil air filter, fuel programmer, then cut muffler in half and gutted catalytic converter, and Hooooly crap is a different bike. Way more power, and doesn't bog like it did stock. I'll keep this bike over ever bike I have and have rode. It's amazing

[@OgreMoto]

We'll just have to agree to disagree there. I've ridden probably 5-6 different WR250R/X's now, and both being modded/stock. To be completely honest, I didn't feel a difference between any of them, and one had 27k miles.

[@RoyboyBean]

Great honest video, I appreciate it!

[@coltanium13]

Perfect video. I was looking for a good comparison of the wr250r and drz400. Now I'm leaning toward the wr250r. I was worried about the 250 engine, but having a small bike to wind out is always so much fun! Thanks!

[@OgreMoto]

No matter which you decide they’re both amazing machines! If you’re fine with winding a bike out the WR will be the better woods weapon for sure.

[@SimplyRed66]

Great Clip and review👍 I have a WR250R 2016 8k km's from new,never misses a beat👍😎 Bullet proof machine👍💪 ...Love this bike 💘

[@nathangilbert6851]

Just sold my Drz 200 trying find a Early model Wr250 is tough to find, they sell crazy fast in my area thanks for an awesome review man.

[@OgreMoto]

Thank you! And yeah it’s the same around here too. I had to sell mine last fall due to some financial troubles. I’ll be in the market for another eventually.

[@j.me.0311]

6'3" 300lbs and i love my WR250R!

[@erminigil69]

There you go... I want one now... dammit

[@tommywallbanger]

Good video my man. I'm looking into dual sports and am giving this bike a thought. I will be doing most of my riding on dirt trails. I have a pickup truck and won't be doing much on road if any road riding. I will drive it to where I'm going and unload it to save the knobbies and reduce the amount of gas consumption. I appreciate your feedback and point of view.

[@gregorbabic7664]

I would also vouch for the off-road ability of this bike. My KTM 200 seized on the first ride of this year (I bought it used and started dirtbiking 4 years ago). Thankfully I had the WR which I bought in the winter and after getting used to the weight of it, even with stock tires, I am having lots of fun riding tight single track to the point that soon when I have the KTM back together, I will see if it is that much more fun in a back to back ride and then I may in fact sell the KTM. Got to love the maintenance of the WR and how you can just beat on it and it keeps asking for more.

[@BikerDarren24]

Yamaha need to make a new WR450R or WR450F Rally type bike, kind of like a mini Tenere 700 and bring it to UK/Europe as we have all been crying for a bike like that for years now since they done away with the WR250R in UK/Europe years ago It has now just been clarified Yamaha has seized production of the WR250R worldwide as of end of 2020, hopefully the bikes I mentioned at the start will be coming soon in 2021 or beyond as Yamaha need to get a decent dual sport/enduro bike in the making to compete with Honda etc that are gradually releasing those types of bikes finally albeit choked up with euro5 conformities but still cool they are doing them. For me though a WR450R or WR450 Rally preferably would be just the ticket. 35bhp+ minimum, 10l+ fuel tank and under 150kg wet weight would be THE bike of bikes.

[@OgreMoto]

Although I do agree that they need to replace it, I disagree that it needs to be a mini tenere. Although more choices are always better. It totally sucks that they’re discontinuing the WR250R though. Personally, I want a something like the CRF450L but lower maintenance. I feel like I’m the minority on this though.

[@drawfark]

Thank You. I really believe that this is a very useful video for me.

[@kurthedgecock6313]

Great job! This was a very thorough review. I have watched many reviews on this bike. Your review is the best one. This bike does not sound good for a beginner. I am very disappointed that yamaha discontinued this model. I have owned a drz 400s and I have a dr 650 now. This bike sounds like a great bike for me in the future.

[@OgreMoto]

I’m pretty disappointed too! Hoping for a WR300R!

[@Sarj_ent]

@@OgreMoto I am really hoping now that the CR300L and KLX300F are coming yamaha will strike back. That is probably why they discontinued the wr250 this year...at least I hope so. That would indeed be the perfect dual sport for me. *Current DR 650 owner and I ride mainly dirt. She's a heavy ole bird*

[@OgreMoto]

@@Sarj_ent I’m actually on a DR650 myself now lol but yes I totally agree with you! A WR300R would be awesome!

[@Sarj_ent]

@@OgreMoto Since you are such a tall guy, do you feel cramped standing up on the DR? I've installed a cr high bend bar and the lowered JNS foot peg mounts and I still can't seem to get a good purchase on the bike standing. (6' 3")

[@OgreMoto]

@@Sarj_ent yes I do feel slightly cramped, especially compared to the WR. I have tusk ATV high bars, lowered footpegs like you. But I find the position I’m in is the correct attack position I need for off-road riding. Next to a WR the DR is significantly smaller though lol which is goofy cuz it’s a 650

[@cyjanek7818]

I am finishing my motorcycle license and i am seriously considering this bike, drz400 and some other motorcycles like cbr600 - very wide variety but I think I am closer to supermoto style than cbr600 highway speeding (or at least I think it makes more sense for beginner, I only rode scooter before) - your video is very useful. I have similiar height so it is on another level for me but I think things you mentioned in video are great for everyone.

[@OgreMoto]

Get a DRZ400SM. That bike is a hoot in sumo trim!!! You should check out my DRZ review!

[@cyjanek7818]

@@OgreMoto oh okay, I know drz400 has more power but I think fuel injection is important to me, i see too many people with carbs that are never set up correctly or "just needs a cleaning". Will check out other video

[@Alex-vg3wz]

Thnanks for points about gear ratio vs drz and highway performance, very important for me

[@jamesd3874]

6 foot 4 here. Getting back into riding after nearly 9 years. Used to have a klx 250, without test driving the wr250r I knew I wanted it because it was the closest thing both in spirit and in price/ performance to a klx but with a little more power. Now to search your video playlist for what handlebars, and handguards you have.

[@pkskyter]

Really good review. I own a WR250R since new and it is a pretty good bike all around as you said. Coming from a Honda650r and a hundred other dirt bikes in my youth, including a bit of enduro racing, I only went down to 250 + electric start due to illness some 10 years ago. Well, I still got the WR250R :-) I regularly take on dedicated dirt bikes like KTM 450 and Husabergs and Betas and the WR can hold its own (although only just :-))

[@OgreMoto]

Hell yah man! That’s the thing about the WR, it can do all the dirtbike stuff, but with a fraction of the maintenance!

[@willyd4850]

Such a great review, thank you!

[@TwoWheelerSparky]

Good review. I used to own a DRZ and now have a KTM 200 exc. I find myself missing the option to cruise on the road, but didn't want the heavy feeling of the DRZ. Time for a WR test ride.

[@Lafirin]

Hey man, love your videos. I was torn between XR, DR, KLR and then this one. You've totally convinced me and changed my mind. One question I had for you was, based on your research, how long do the WR250R engines last? I read one person saying up to 10,000 miles, yet that's seems high.

[@OgreMoto]

My one buddy has 21k on his. Very good compression yet. RideADV Australia runs a fleet of them and routinely get 40k+ miles out of their’s. They’re extremely reliable.

[@Lafirin]

I meant 100,000 miles* 40+ Miles? Thanks so much!

[@OgreMoto]

100k is a stretch for any thumper lol.

Amazing thorough review. Thank you so much! Subscribed.

@SySTeM4T1c and I bought one today - partly because of YOUR review.

[@Tom-gt8yv]

I just got this bike today and its super comfortable for me as my second bike, first being a yzfr125 sport bike, its funny because im 5'6

[@moflyboyblanquito541]

Yeah I really like mine a lot too. Funking mini Sherman tank. It works every where for me. Except distance. I haven’t upgraded seat it’s all stock basically. never had problem with it except fork seals and exhaust and coolant all of which are my fault. Yup I agree it’s a do everything bike.

[@bedmac2]

I like the way you analyze dual sport choices, so I have a real world tough one for you! I'm 65, 5'10", 217 lbs, very experienced on-road rider with some experience offroad on a DRZ400 I owned - 1500 miles. (I never fell in love with the DRZ; I was often riding up in the mountains and it never ran that well at altitude - jetting - and riding home on the freeway was a drag ...1-N-2-3-4-5-5 indeed. I traded it in when I got my Ducati Multistrada 1200 which I actually take on fire roads from time to time.) I ride alone most of the time, so light-weight is a big factor but I am not aggressive offroad. Seat height doesn't scare me and I DO like good technology. Money isn't that big of a factor for me and I like buying new. Cutting to the chase, I feel like I have a dilemma. You sold me on the WR...but just after that Yamaha announced this past week they are discontinuing it! No 2021 WR and few are in the showrooms now. Still, I'm certain I can pick up a new 2020 WR but at pretty much full boat. At the same time, Honda announced a CRF300L and 300 Rally in Thailand that MAY (likely?) also come to the US. Hard to know what the 300 will have over the 250, but a HP bump for sure. Word is the new 300 dropped some weight, to 304 pounds. Suspension? Who knows. So my question: snap up a WR I can find at a premium? Or wait for the possibility of a CRF300L at an unknown, but certainly less than the WR, price? Or just say to heck with it and get a (heavy as my DRZ) CRF250L? I should add: the bike will likely be trailered to CLOSE to the dirt. I have other bikes for the road; think road use for trail to trail on this one so dual sport not dirt bike. And even if money isn't the main issue for me, a KTM 690 Enduro R or EXC 500 F are currently off my list because I could never justify the price given my capability, frequency of expected use, or the need for frequent maintenance in say the EXC-F. HELP! (And thanks in advance for whatever you might suggest.)

[@OgreMoto]

If you already have a DRZ I wouldn’t bother moving to a WR. They’re pretty similar in their capabilities. And yes that Honda 300L looks extremely tempting, but at this point we have no clue if we’re getting it or not. The WR is a great bike as basically a dirtbike with low maintenance, but it’s range of abilities are pretty similar to the DRZ, with the WR being just marginally better at road and dirt. The DRZ definitely has more punch down low though, especially after the 3x3 mod and jetting. If you’re experiencing issues with it running well at altitude, have you considered a Lectron carb for it? It’s basically mechanical fuel injection. If you’re dead set on the WR though, it’s definitely a better bike for the really technical stuff, but absolutely do not pay a premium on it. Maybe look to the used market instead. Surprisingly though, even with being really cramped on it, I loved my buddy’s CRF250L even though it lacked the grunt. It’s a very easy bike to take anywhere because of its lower seat height, and it’s balanced much better than the DRZ with much softer suspension. Maybe at your age it would be a great choice, but at your weight, it would need to be resprung at the very least.

[@OgreMoto]

I actually have a video that goes in depth on the 250L vs DRZ vs 250R if you wanna check that out!

[@bedmac2]

@@OgreMoto Yes, thanks. I've seen that video...all good! WRT the DRZ, buried in my long comment I mention I traded it in when I bought my Multistrada (4 years ago). So I'm starting with a blank sheet. Mucking things up a bit may be whatever news comes out of Kawasaki tomorrow...

[@OgreMoto]

@@bedmac2 Yes I am very excited for that announcement! Hopefully we get a KLX300 or something similar! That would solve a lot of people's issues!

[@bedmac2]

@@OgreMoto Really appreciate the thoughts...thanks!

[@friedaspyder8485]

Thanks for the great video. I agree re: the turn signal button. I wondered if it maybe it is firmer when the signal is on, and mushy when the signal is off. I traded in a KTM 390 Adv for my WR250R. I had a dangerous cutout issue with the 390, that was not getting fixed. And I wanted something a bit better off road. The 390 was a fantastic street/gravel road bike. Decent off road, but poor clearance and a bit iffy with the tires and very poor ergonomics with the tilted foot pegs. The extra features; ABS, TC, slipper clutch, big tank, more power, etc make it very appealing. And they are missed. Very different bikes though, but worth considering the 390 if you do more street than trail.

[@bedmac2]

Both the 390ADV and WR250R on my list for my next bike. A few weeks later now, what say you about the WR?

[@chuka10]

you helped me to choose between those 2 bikes. ty man

[@OgreMoto]

You're welcome, glad I could help!

[@srwardo93]

Very well explained video about how is like to own a Wr250r when you are 6ft and over..... thanks

[@davea7250]

Thankyou good review cheers from AUS..

[@Adrian-yn4qg]

Allot of people say the DRZ feels top heavy, but I think it's more to do with the crappy front forks on the E and S models. If you get a chance to ride an SM with dirt wheels do so, the difference is night and day. The best I can describe it is, in sand for example the SM felt balance and easy to steer with the rear tire. Where as the S model on the same track felt like the front of the bike always wanted to fall over itself. Granted the SM is my bike and is setup for me, but when I road that S model is was horrified at how bad it was. The guy was the S model rode my bike as well and wanted to know what the hell was wrong with his when he got off. Even with the stock suspension my bike never felt like that. I think the inverted forks on the SM make a really big difference.

[@marcelogarcia5094]

Excellent review

[@strollbaby]

On the fence for DRZ400E and WR250R - ah well, looks like I'm jumping back to the WR side, lol. Main concern was power for highway but also weight for trails. Yeah, DRZ does have the low end but sucks it's still produced as carbed - flooding it, after drop, sounds awful - mostly want to ride in the middle of nowhere, where very few people would be. Definitely prefer a wide gearbox. They both have similar range, not much weight difference and ground-clearance difference. Nice to watch a review about first hand experience with the bikes.

[@OgreMoto]

The weight difference isn't much but if you ride the two back to back the WR feels 50+lbs lighter. Its center of gravity must be much lower than the DRZ.

[@heyqt7485]

I moved to a new city and as there aren't any big asphalt-tracks nearby I was thinking about changing the CBR600r to this and start motorcrossing.

[@OgreMoto]

I would not buy this for MX riding. Now a supermoto in the city would be fun, but this works good as a trail bike, not an MX bike.

[@heyqt7485]

@@OgreMoto I just want a bike that can sort of do it all and I have no experience with dirt biking/motorcrossing at all. What would you recommend instead? I have sent an email to a motorcycle union and hopefully there are some smaller and more technical tracks nearby they use for training and although they can't be used for proper races races they can still be fun. The Arctic Circle Raceway is also only around 7 hours away and that track is insane! Idk.. if there are smaller and more technical tracks in the city and I can manage to get to ACR during summer i might just keep my beloved CBR. BTW: once I rode my CBR through a smll past through the forest so I definitely love the idea soft riding om the dirt. The CBR did not feel comfortable there though. I was honestly a bit scared hahah

[@OgreMoto]

@@heyqt7485 honestly it’ll do MX, especially if you have suspension work done, but it’s gonna be slow and heavy for it. If you want one bike to do everything it doesn’t get much better than this. But if you plan on doing a lot of MX you need to look at the more expensive European options.

[@mimi1girl2dempsey3]

I wanted a Wr but I got a KLX instead. Used WRs are going for about $7000 so bought a KLX for $2500. Big bore kit is only about $1000 to bring it up to par in power.

[@OgreMoto]

Hell yah man, buddy had a KLX for a long time and he got it for $1700. They’re not bad at all! Any bike that gets you out riding trails is fine by me! No clue why WR’s are so ridiculously expensive right now, but I sold my beat to shit 2008 for $3900 recently, which is $700 more than what I paid 4 years ago.

[@slakk5093]

Interesting what your saying about the drz400 having trouble starting in the cold. I was starting mine through winter and at 44 degrees Fahrenheit I only need the choke for maybe 5-8 seconds. No problem starting. I used to have a wr250x and I would agree it's the superior bike. Ive turned my drz400e in to a Supermoto and will be buying a wr250r soon for my dual sport/adv bike. They make a really great mini Adv bike. I think the drz makes a better sumo with the extra power, the wrr makes a better dualsport

[@OgreMoto]

Bokeh In my DRZ400 review I have on my channel, I actually say that if I were to buy a sumo, it’d be a DRZ. I agree with your sentiments on the WR though.

[@papatorr3669]

Great video, authoritative given your vast experience with other models, well done. At only 5'3 I wonder whether there are 2 in lowering kits. I'll enjoy my tw200 for now. Very helpful comparisons to other models.

[@OgreMoto]

There’s lowering links for the rear, you can slide the fork tubes up in the triple tree, and with how the forks are designed you can lower them internally too.

[@papatorr3669]

@@OgreMoto Thanks, I did the unthinkable and picked up a KLR 650 the other day because of the condition of the bike and the really low price. Then I happened upon your video where you explain that a dr650 would be a better fit for me. Now what am I going to do?

[@brappineau4161]

Super insightful 👌🏻

[@jonathanfont853]

Thanks for the review. I enjoyed. I'm the owner of a 2013 660z Ténéré.(Im from Barcelona, Spain) Thinking to get a lighter more enduro bike. Thanks again.

[@therealtashiro]

Great Video! Thanks for sharing! Too bad Yamaha stopped making this model! Hopefully they bring out a WR300R to compete with the KLX300 and the CRF300L/R.

[@OgreMoto]

I really hope so too man! That’d be awesome!

[@carlredmond3642]

Great info...thanks for sharing !!

[@WRjockey]

Can't thank you enough for this video!! Long story short - I just paid for a new 2020 WR250R, and YOUR VIDEO was one of the main reasons why!! YES!!! Details: I wanted a dual sport bike, initially looked ONLY at bikes 300cc or above. (so, totally ignored the WR) Then I discovered how hard it is to find one of the new CRF300s or the KLX300 anywhere. As rare as hen's teeth! So then I was looking over dual sport vids here, and came across YOUR video of the WR! Your experience with other dual sports made the review especially relevant for me. Also of note was your height and weight. (especially weight - as I am a big guy. Notice I didn't say "tall" guy. hahaha) After watching your vid and others, I was convinced that the WR was the bike for me. It will be nice and nimble, and has power on par with the new 300s, not to mention probably better suspension. (the WR has 46mm forks I believe as opposed to 43mm on the new 300s, and the Honda's suspension is not adjustable) To make matters better, a dealer not too far from me had one WR in stock!! I just put the deposit down yesterday, and did the paperwork on it today. It will be delivered to me in the next week or so. I saw her there today though and got to swing a leg over. Great bike! Beautiful too. Can't wait to ride it!!! Thank you again for your awesome video!!

[@MySatora]

Great review. Thanks.

[@michaelnutzel2226]

Nice Video, I really like the Bike but I guess i'll stay with my DR350. I think I can do almost anything on that old thing too :D

[@OgreMoto]

Hell yeah man. My buddy has one and they’re sweet machines for sure!

[@SkyGuy505]

Great video!!

[@mikealba1814]

Great video! I agree with all your points. However I’ve found that some power Mods are worth doing to this bike . An exhaust really wakes it up and takes quite a few lbs of a heavy bike. I like q4 as it’s still respectfully quiet but I hear ya !

[@OgreMoto]

Thanks man I appreciate the kind words! I've ridden like 5 different WR's now, some modded, most stock. I didn't notice a difference at all. Although all I can relay is what I experienced.

[@mikealba1814]

...also I didn’t hear what gearing your running.? (13/47) .

[@michaelmorley331]

Thanks for size...makes info relevant 6'9 280.👍🏻

[@guymhahn]

great vid. i love my wr250r but i totally agree that the turn signal switch sucks!

[@oscarbear7498]

Good review 👍

[@chrisrakow48]

Great videos and reviews. I've been debating which bike to get between a wr250, wr450, klx300 or drz400. I'm 6'4" and 230lbs so it's awesome to get an even bigger guys perspective on these bikes. Thank you

[@curtisbrown5254]

What did you end up going with?

[@chrisrakow48]

@@curtisbrown5254 Went a different direction and got a 23' KLR 650.

[@curtisbrown5254]

@@chrisrakow48 Nice! I'm 6'4" and about 230lbs. I have a Tenere 700 but am looking for something smaller for singletrack riding. The WR250R seems like a good choice. I've also been looking at the WRF450F but it's maintenance interval isn't as awesome as the 250. Also, the DRZ is tempting too.

[@fotog04]

6'-7" ??!! OMG! I've owned the WR250R and loved it so much and wish that I hadn't sold it. The performance and engine on this bike is amazing and highly valued. My inseam wasn't the best match for this bike (31") but adequate. I wouldn't do highway rides since it's just a little too light for my liking although you might be comfortable and more daring, but that's just me. Sitting on the seat for over an hour is tough on my rear but you can make adjustments accordingly. Yamaha is awesome. Next bike is the T700!!

[@OgreMoto]

That T7 looks amazing Shawn! I’m considering one myself!

[@fotog04]

@@OgreMoto I can tiptoe the ground but you will be quite comfortable! Such a cool bike though.

[@MrFunJimmy]

Great review. I’m putting cash down tomorrow. Thanks