Positioned in Yamaha's sport motorcycle lineup, the 1988 Yamaha FZR 250 features a 250 cc (15.3 cu in) liquid-cooled in-line four, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 45 HP (32.8 kW) at 14,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 25 Nm (18.4 lb-ft) at 11,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 180 HP per liter and a 3,000 rpm working window between peak torque (11,500 rpm) and peak power (14,500 rpm), the engine character is placing it firmly in high-revving supersport territory where top-end breathing dominates.
On the scales, the FZR 250 measures 141 kg (311 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.32 HP/kg (3.13 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 750 mm (29.5 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,375 mm (54.1 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 12-liter (3.2 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 180 km/h (112 mph).
Specific Output
180 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.32 HP/kg (3.13 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
11,500–14,500 rpm
Standover Height
750 mm (29.5 in)
Engine
Displacement250.0 ccm (15.26 cubic inches)
Engine TypeIn-line four, four-stroke
Engine DetailsIn-line four, four-stroke
Power45.0 HP (32.8 kW)) @ 14500 RPM
Torque25.0 Nm (2.5 kgf-m or 18.4 ft.lbs) @ 11500 RPM
Compression12.0:1
Bore x Stroke48.0 x 34.5 mm (1.9 x 1.4 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemCarburettor. MIKUNI BDS26
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
CoolingLiquid
Max RPM17000
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchWet plate
Performance
Top Speed180.0 km/h (111.8 mph)
Exhaust4 in to 1 with EXUP valve
Chassis
Frame TypeSteel
Rake25.5°
Trail88 mm (3.5 inches)
Wheelbase1375 mm (54.1 inches)
Ground Clearance135 mm (5.3 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre100/80-17 52H
Rear Tyre120/80-17 61H
Front BrakesSingle disc. 4-piston calipers
Front Brake Ø320 mm (12.6 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. 2-piston calipers
Rear Brake Ø210 mm (8.3 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight141.0 kg (310.9 pounds)
Power/Weight0.3191 HP/kg
Seat Height750 mm (29.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height1120 mm (44.1 inches)
Overall Length2010 mm (79.1 inches)
Overall Width680 mm (26.8 inches)
Fuel Capacity12.00 litres (3.17 US gallons)
Reserve Fuel2.00 litres (0.53 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Notes
Only released in Japan but used bikes were exported to many countries as ´grey import´
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.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
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.
