Home / Motorcycles on screen / First Blood
FILM / 1982 / YAMAHA XT250
First Blood.
A Yamaha XT250 from rain-soaked town to forest.
The red-and-white trail motorcycle taken during the escape is a first-generation Yamaha XT250. Its light four-stroke single and long suspension connect the chase from wet streets and railway tracks to mud and forest.
- Motorcycle
- Yamaha XT250
- Generation
- Early 1980s, first generation
- Engine
- 249cc four-stroke single
- 1980 weight
- 114kg
The original XT250 was a 114kg “super trail”
Yamaha's historic collection lists the 1980 XT250 with a 249cc air-cooled four-stroke single and a 114kg weight. Its Monocross rear suspension helped create a broad-purpose trail motorcycle for dirt roads, woods and enduro use.
| Item | 1980 XT250 | What the film makes visible |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 249cc air-cooled four-stroke single | A simple, narrow power unit |
| Weight | 114kg | Quick changes of direction and response over obstacles |
| Chassis | Monocross rear suspension | Long travel and large spoked wheels |
The chase depended on stunt riders
Stunt rider Will Harper recalls handling much of the riding from the moment the character gets on the motorcycle until the route reaches the forest, including the town and road work. Other riders covered parts of the dirt and mud sequence.
The real XT250 is a four-stroke motorcycle, yet the chase uses a noticeably two-stroke-like engine sound. The machine and soundtrack therefore tell slightly different mechanical stories; the available record does not establish why that sound was chosen.
The film's riding should not be imitated on public roads. When considering an old XT250, have the brakes, tires, electrics, frame and road equipment inspected by a specialist.
From the XT250 idea to three bikes listed today
None is presented as a direct successor. They continue three useful directions: a light Yamaha trail bike, a larger Yamaha adventure machine and a current 250cc road-legal trail motorcycle.
Frequently asked questions
What is the red-and-white bike?
An early-1980s Yamaha XT250.
Is it a two-stroke?
No. The XT250 is a 249cc four-stroke single, although the film uses a two-stroke-like dubbed sound.
Who rode the stunts?
Will Harper says he performed much of the town and road riding, with other riders handling parts of the dirt work.
References
- Interview with Will Harper — motorcycle identity, stunt responsibilities and first-hand production memories.
- Yamaha: 1980 XT250 — engine, weight, suspension and original purpose.
- Yamaha: the history of trail bikes — the XT250 in Yamaha's wider trail lineage.
Ride at First Sight is an independent motorcycle guide and is not affiliated with the film or Yamaha.