When Yamaha Motor Australia supplied us with the 2026 Yamaha WR250F for our latest Bike Inspection series, the goal was simple: spend real time riding the bike and find out what works, what doesn’t, and what changes can make a genuine difference.
After months of riding, racing, and testing the WR250F in a variety of conditions, we found the bike already delivers an impressive package straight out of the crate.
But there is always that one question riders ask…
Can you get more power?
After lining up against bigger capacity bikes at Amcross events, including 450cc four-strokes and even a Stark Varg, we decided to look for some extra performance from the WR250F.
The good news?
It didn’t require spending thousands of dollars.
In the latest Always Moto WR250F Bike Inspection video, David Hogan looks at two simple upgrades that helped improve the bike’s response and overall performance.
The first change was swapping the standard WR250F muffler for a genuine Yamaha YZ muffler.
While the Akrapovič system available through Shop Yamaha was tempting, the YZ muffler offered a much more affordable solution while still providing a noticeable improvement. With a larger internal diameter, the YZ muffler allowed the engine to breathe better and delivered a stronger-feeling motor across the rev range.
The second change was fitting a Slater Skins airbox cover supplied by JNR Motorsports.
The replacement cover allows increased airflow into the airbox without requiring any permanent modifications. Combined with the YZ muffler and the correct Yamaha Power Tuner mapping, the WR250F gained sharper throttle response and a more energetic feel.
These upgrades are a great example of the approach Always Moto has taken with this WR250F build.
Rather than simply throwing expensive aftermarket parts at the bike, the focus has been finding practical changes that deliver noticeable improvements while keeping value in mind.
Watch the full video below as David Hogan explains the WR250F power upgrades, installation process, and the difference they made on the track.
For more information on the Yamaha WR250F range, visit your local Yamaha dealer or head to Yamaha Motor Australia.
