Built around Yamaha's enduro - offroad motorcycle platform, the 1972 Yamaha DT 250 utilizes a 246 cc (15 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, two-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 23 HP (16.8 kW) at 7,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 17.5 Nm (12.9 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 93.5 HP per liter and a 500 rpm working window between peak torque (6,500 rpm) and peak power (7,000 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the DT 250 measures 111.1 kg (245 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.21 HP/kg (4.83 kg per horsepower). The 9.46-liter (2.5 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 2.5 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 378 km (235 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 113 km/h (70 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Yamaha archive, this model family spans 6 indexed model years from 1972 to 1977, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
93.5 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.21 HP/kg (4.83 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
6,500–7,000 rpm
Theoretical Range
~378 km (235 mi)
Engine
Displacement246.0 ccm (15.01 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Power23.0 HP (16.8 kW)) @ 7000 RPM
Torque17.5 Nm (1.8 kgf-m or 12.9 ft.lbs) @ 6500 RPM
Compression6.4:1
Bore x Stroke70.0 x 64.0 mm (2.8 x 2.5 inches)
Fuel SystemCarburettor. VM26SH Mikuni
Fuel ControlPort control
Ignitioncontact breaker point
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Clutchwet plate
Performance
Top Speed112.7 km/h (70.0 mph)
Fuel Consumption2.50 litres/100 km (40.0 km/l or 94.09 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases58.0 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
