Rider Review: 1994 Yamaha XT225

Submitted by: DenverAir

I purchased a 1994 Yamaha XT225 dual sport a week before i took my MSF class a few weeks ago. I had been researching motorcycles since October. I knew I wanted a bike that would have enough power to take me on highways, but yet not so much to send me flying off. I also did not want to mess with body plastics since I am bound to drop it sometime. And the main reason i went dual sport over say, a ninja 250, was that I am an adventurous type and do I enjoy trail riding and going on dirt roads (I live on one as well). My choices we're narrowed down to a Kawasaki Super Sherpa, Yamaha XT225, and Suzuki DR200. The nice thing about the Yamaha XT225 is that it is unchanged minus decals and seat color since it started coming over here in 1992. I was originally going to buy after my MSF class but due to the rarity of used XT's in the market, I jumped on the first one I saw (which was the first one listed locally since last fall). It was well within my budget and after a quick test ride I made an offer and got it the next day. The first time I was really able to ride it was last Sunday, due to the fact that I needed to get new tires on i and have the front brake flushed. And on top of it all Colorado got the worst blizzard in 50+yrs last tues-thurs. Now about the bike itself. It has a 4 stroke 223cc single cylinder paired with a 6 speed transmission, has a low 31.9 inch seat height (this is low for dual sports). I am 5'9 130lbs with a 32 inch inseam and can flat foot this bike with ease. Starting is very simple, leave the choke on for about a minute then take the choke off, give it a quick rev to make sure its warm, and your set. It also has electric start which is very nice. Neutral is very easy to find on it and has an indicator light next to the speedometer. Acceleration is very decent for a bike this size. I have had no trouble doing quick takeoffs with it. It has very good low speed manners, and handles turns well. And thanks to the 6 speed transmission, highway riding is not a problem. I am able to do 55 in 4th gear, and have not even had to shift to 5th of 6th yet. The power band is very smooth, and have not had any issues with there not being enough. The tires i had put on it are a combo dual sport tires with enough tread for mild trails but enough for street and cornering. I have had no issues with there not being enough tread for cornering yet. Overall I have to say even if your not looking for a dual sport or if you think you need a more powerful bike, be sure to check out the XT225. Its very beginner rider friendly .I have been very pleased with it and plan on holding onto it for a long time.

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