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Yamaha RD250LC
84/100 Overall
73 On the road95 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha RD250LC vs MZ TS250/1
Yamaha RD250LC scores 84/100 overall against MZ TS250/1 on 74/100. On the road: 73–70. As classics: 95–78. Overall result: Yamaha RD250LC.
Photo: dvanzuijlekom · CC BY-SA 2.0
MZ TS250/1
74/100 Overall
70 On the road78 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha RD250LC | MZ TS250 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 4 | Yamaha RD250LC |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 9 | 7 | Yamaha RD250LC |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 6 | Yamaha RD250LC |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 8 | MZ TS250 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 9 | MZ TS250 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 8 | MZ TS250 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 7 | Yamaha RD250LC |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 8 | Yamaha RD250LC |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 7 | Yamaha RD250LC |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 9 | Yamaha RD250LC |
Choose the Yamaha RD250LC if…
you want the learner-legal member of Yamaha's legendary LC family, with sharp handling and a thrilling two-stroke powerband.
Choose the MZ TS250 if…
you want rugged East German simplicity, excellent everyday practicality and a distinctive cult following.
Background
History
Yamaha RD250LC
The Yamaha RD250LC was produced from 1980–1983 and used a 247cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for collector appeal, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
MZ TS250
The MZ TS250/1 was produced from 1976–1981 and used a 243cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for ownership appeal, character, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Yamaha RD250LC
- Its production span in this library runs from 1980 to 1983.
- The recorded engine description is: 247cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are collector appeal, character, styling.
MZ TS250
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1981.
- The recorded engine description is: 243cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are ownership appeal, character, reliability.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Yamaha RD250LC
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD250LC. Its library score for collector appeal is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
MZ TS250
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the MZ TS250/1. Its library score for ownership appeal is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Yamaha RD250LC
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
MZ TS250
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Yamaha RD250LC
Rivals to the MZ TS250
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha RD250LC wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha RD250LC wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RD250LC takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.