4th Place: 2010 Yamaha YZ250F

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It was nine years ago that the YZ250F burst onto the scene as the first four-stroke to compete against 125cc two-strokes in what was to become the Lites class. Although that 2001 YZ250F deserves kudos for its groundbreaking achievement, the 2010 model falls a bit short of contending for a win here.

The 250's all-new bilateral-beam frame (like used on the2010 YZ450) and heavily updated engine impressed us during our first ride; after all, those are big improvements overlast year's model, as is the styling. So, it was no surprise that our testers felt the YZ-F raised their confidence levels. The chassis and motor work nicely together and result in a very predictable ride. Picking lines and staying in selected ruts comes almost like second nature.

But the YZ doesn't quite cut it in the power department, needing more oomph everywhere. The motor is smooth, responsive and revs a lot but doesn't have the power of the other bikes here; turning the twistgrip farther changes the exhaust sound more than it increases the power. Though the jetting was spot-on, the carburetor caused the engine further problems, allowing the YZ to bog on hard jump landings. This was a problem on the KTM, as well, but the injected bikes had no such issues.

No complaints with the chassis other than being rated as "average" by several testers. At 217 pounds, the Yamaha ties with Honda's lightest bike, but it doesn't feel nearly as light. The YZ takes more effort to get turned but does offer a good combination between turn-in and stability.

Really, though, there is nothing that makes the YZ stand out in any area. It's a bike that does everything well but nothing great. It offers a few niceties like a Pro-Taper handlebar, adjustable triple-clamps and wide footpegs that contribute to the YZ having the most comfortable cockpit. Plus, it and the KTM are the only bikes with warranties, even if they are only for 30 days.