1975 Yamaha YZ250
The Yamaha 1975 YZ250M revolutionized the world of motocross in it’s time. It was an air-cooled single-cylinder two-stroke bike that had reed-valve induction and a five-speed gearbox. This year Yamaha got things right. Fed through a 34mm Mikuni carburetor, Yamaha created an engine that smoothed out the power through the low end to top end and everything in between.
Yamaha’s first YZ250 had a thin aluminum tank that helped keep the weight down. Holes were drilled in almost every piece on the ’75 YZ250 where it was safe to do so. The holes allowed for weight to be decreased without reducing strength. The side cases are magnesium. Even with all these light-weight producing features, the 1975 weighed approximately 19 pounds more than a 1974 YZ250.
Why 19 pounds heavier you ask? The 1975 Yamaha YZ250 featured de Carbon mono-shock suspension, which was innovative for the time to say the least. It was the first production mx bike to be produced with a rear mono-shock. The rear unit was mounted horizontally under the gas tank and seat, and allowed for 6.5 inches of travel. This feature along with light-weight parts put Yamaha ahead of the rest of the pack of production bikes for 1975.
The front telescopic forks allowed for seven inches of travel. After the YZ250 saw so much success, other manufacturers began following suit, using single rear shock absorbers as well.
1975 Yamaha YZ250 Gallery
Images of 1975 Yamaha YZ250B restored by James Meridieth of Tennessee. The racer in the third photo is also of James.
11 Comments
I would to buy a yz 250. 1975. I had a 125 when I was a kid but always wanted to 250
do you know why the 1976 YZ 175, 250 and 400 are not called X models like the 76 1/2 yz125X? they all had the same forks? and or what does the X stand for?
Hi
I am in South Africa Pretoria. I have got a 1975 yz250 and need a workshop manual. Any one knows where I could get one?
Kobus Nieuwoudt
Hi Kobus! I believe you could get one off of eBay, there are many on there currently.
Sorry to chime in on the 75 site but I have a question. I have a 1976 yz 250 in great shape and has been kept stored in doors its entire life. What is it worth to the vintage world??
Hey Dave! We actually have a page just for that, what’s my bike worth? Depending on the condition, I would think you could see upwards of $2000 or maybe more in great running shape. Hope this helps!
I have a very origional 1975 YZ250 mono shock, currently under restoration- for sale in the comming months/year.
mpatterson17@qub.ac.uk is the email if anyone would like to leave details and I can keep you in the know.
Anyone out there know where I can find a set of good quality fenders for a 1975 YZ250? I would like to have NOS originals or like quality. If anyone has any information on where to find them please let me know. Email me here.
How can i get in touch with John Randolph about the 1975 YZ250!!
Hi Rick, John has informed us that the YZ250 is sold!
How do you determine the value of a1975 YZ 250 B? I want to sell mine but don’t know how much to ask for it.