WR250R to WR250X Conversion Guide

Converting between the WR250R and the WR250X is a fairly straightforward process. Other than the wheels and tires, the differences between the bikes (read more) are minimal. If you are looking to install aftermarket supermoto wheels such as the set from Warp 9, you might be able to skip some of the notes below.

One of the primary differences to note other than the wheel size is the front brake assembly. The front caliper and rotor are bigger on the X model (R rotor is 250mm, X rotor is 298mm), along with the hub size (X hub inside diameter of 132mm, R hub inside diameter of 118mm). The X model also has an extra caliper bracket which bolts to the fork. You can see the differences between the two brake assemblys in these diagrams.

WR250R Assembly

WR250X Assembly

Overall, you have a few options to handle the rotor size difference when using OEM WR250X wheels

1. Buy the WR250X caliper assembly, and swap it with the current assembly when you change wheels. This will require you to bleed the front brakes every time you swap.
2. Same as above, except get a second front brake lever and brake line, so you can swap the entire thing out when you change wheels.
3. Buy an EBC 250mm rotor so you can continue to use the existing caliper assembly with the X wheels. (If someone could confirm this works without a new bracket, that would be great)

Once you’ve sorted out your new wheels and brake rotor sizing, you’ll notice that the R model kickstand is a bit too long and the bike doesn’t lean over quite as much as it used to. This isn’t a required change, but I was more comfortable one the bike was leaning over further and had less of a chance of getting knocked the other way. The WR250R kickstand is 13.5” long (part # 3D7-27311-01-00), and the WR250X kickstand is 12” long (part # 3D7-27311-11-00). I ordered a new kickstand and was ready to go, but have heard stories of other people cutting and extending / shortening their kickstands.

Now get out and enjoy your new supermoto!