The 2008 Yamaha Sport ATV Line-up has been released and the big news for Yamaha is a new 2008 Raptor 250. Yamaha left a big hole in their lne-up when they dropped the popular 2 stroke Yamaha Blaster. They needed to fill that spot with a new 4 stroke and they have done just that with a new Raptor 250.

Features:

• Lightest production sport ATV ever—for amazingly nimble handling and a great power-to-weight ratio.
• Aggressive Raptor style and stance for maximum performance and excellent, all-day sport-riding ergonomics.
• Class-exclusive five-speed manual transmission has a gear for almost any terrain.
• Torquey, durable air-cooled engine puts out plenty of power and starts with the push of a button.
• Low-profile 19-inch rear tires for outstanding traction and handling.
• Longest suspension travel and lowest seat in its class for true sport handling.

Engine:

• Light and powerful 249cc air-cooled SOHC four-stroke single produces a broad, deep powerband.
• Five-speed gearbox with manual clutch provides the flexibility to tackle pretty much any track or trail.
• 29mm Mikuni carburetor provides light throttle pull and excellent throttle response across the entire rpm range.
• Electric starting is standard equipment and works in any gear.
• DC-CDI ignition system delivers consistent spark at all rpm levels—for quick throttle response and a smooth, broad powerband.
• Ceramic composite cylinder liner for greatly reduced wear and excellent heat dissipation.
• Oil cooler keeps engine temps down and lubrication up in hot conditions.
• New-design airbox features no-tools air filter access.
• New-design three-chamber muffler is light, quiet and boosts low and midrange performance.

Chassis/Suspension:

• Light, strong, short-wheelbase chassis creates a quick, super-responsive high-performance package.
• Low, 28.7-inch seat height enhances rider comfort and allows optimal rider movement.
• Independent double-wishbone front suspension with five-way preload-adjustable shocks gives 7.5 inches of wheel travel.
• Lightweight aluminum wheels reduce unsprung weight for excellent suspension performance, acceleration, deceleration and handling.
• Triple hydraulic disc brakes deliver excellent stopping power even in wet conditions.
• Extra-wide, YFZ450-style footpegs provide excellent grip and rider comfort.
• Easy-to-use, flip-type handlebar-mounted parking brake can be set with one hand.
• Rigid and light swingarm rear end is controlled by a shock with adjustable preload and 7.9 inches of wheel travel, for consistent wheel control and rider comfort.
• New-design Dunlop tires deliver outstanding traction for razor-sharp handling in a variety of terrain.
• Easy-adjust eccentric chain adjustment feature means hassle-free chain maintenance.
• Flat, composite skid plates provide maximum underbelly protection.
• Rugged steel grab bars front and rear help fend off debris and damage.

Additional Features:

• Dual 30-watt multi-reflector Krypton headlights straight off the potent YFZ450 add the perfect menacing appearance. Taillight has an incorporated brake light for added convenience.
• Waterproof electrical connectors for outstanding durability and reliability.
• Easy-access grease fittings on all chassis lubrication points simplify maintenance and help extend the life of the Raptor 250.
• New-design bodywork comes off without the need to disassemble electrical parts, airbox or wiring harness—for easy maintenance.
• 2.4-gallon fuel tank means less filling up and longer, more enjoyable rides.