Yamaha updated the YZ 250. These updates gave the YZ considerable performance enhancements.

Power: The '88 YZ engine power was, in typical Yamaha fashion, very strong in the low-end range. The power advanced smoothly into a powerful mid-range! The bike could wind out into the upper RPM's with some power to spare.

Suspension: Yamaha gave up on the "Variable Damper" forks and installed cartridge forks that performed much better. The rear suspension received design changes that gave that improved its performance greatly. The YZ suspension could be adjusted to suit most riders and terrain competently.

Handling: The '88 YZ 250 handled better than the '87 model. The improved suspension action assisted the bikes handling considerably. Its turning abilities were, again, very remarkable. The YZ retained its marvelous high speed stability too!

Reliability: The '88 YZ was a reliable bike that held together well.

Odds & Ends: Yamaha tried improving the shifting, and the effort was met with marginal success. Do not expect "buttery smooth" shifting. The '88 YZ's make good trail/play machines and were immensely popular dirt bikes in their day!

Other notable design updates:
Engine was totally redesigned