Gas Gas EC 250 F 4T [2010 – 2013]: A Forgotten Enduro Gem Worth Rediscovering

Introduction

The Gas Gas EC 250 F 4T is one of those motorcycles that never quite got the global recognition it deserved. Built during a transitional era for enduro bikes—when fuel injection was creeping into the market—this Spanish warrior stuck to its roots with a carbureted Yamaha heart and a chassis that prioritized agility over gimmicks. Designed for riders who valued mechanical simplicity and raw off-road capability, the EC 250 F 4T remains a compelling option for enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering as much as riding. Let’s dive into what makes this bike special—and why it still deserves a spot in your garage.

---

Engine Performance: Yamaha’s Hidden Masterpiece

At the core of the EC 250 F 4T lies a Yamaha-derived, liquid-cooled, 249cc single-cylinder engine—a powerplant that’s both familiar and full of surprises. With a 77mm bore and 53.6mm stroke (3.0 x 2.1 inches), this DOHC 5-valve configuration is a rarity. Most four-strokes settle for 4 valves, but the extra valve here improves airflow, giving the bike a broad powerband that’s as comfortable chugging through rocky trails as it is screaming up fire roads.

Carburetion vs. Modern Expectations
The Keihin FCR-MX37 carburetor is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it demands patience—cold starts require a careful choke routine, and altitude changes mean jetting adjustments. On the other, it rewards riders with a visceral connection missing from fuel-injected rivals. Twist the throttle, and the engine responds with a linear surge rather than a digital snap. The 6-speed gearbox (updated from earlier 5-speed models) is butter-smooth, letting you exploit every drop of the 35–40 Nm torque range.

Power Delivery
Low-end grunt is where this bike shines. The 12.5:1 compression ratio and Yamaha’s 5-valve design create a tractor-like pull from idle, making it nearly impossible to stall—a lifesaver in technical terrain. Midrange power is equally satisfying, though the engine feels breathless compared to modern 250cc rivals at higher RPMs. Top speed? Around 120 km/h (75 mph), but this isn’t a bike meant for straights.

---

Chassis and Handling: Precision Over Plushness

Frame and Weight Distribution
The chromoly frame with its distinctive “B-profil” tubing is a work of art. Gas Gas prioritized stiffness here, and it shows: the bike feels like an extension of your body when carving through singletrack. At 110 kg (242 lbs) dry, it’s shockingly light—modern 250cc four-strokes often weigh 10–15 kg more. That lightness translates to effortless flickability, whether you’re dodging trees or pivoting on a tight switchback.

Suspension Setup
Earlier models (2010–2011) featured Marzocchi 45mm USD forks and a Sachs rear shock, while 2012–2013 bikes upgraded to Öhlins suspension. Both setups prioritize progression over plushness. The 295mm (11.6 inches) of front travel and 298–310mm (11.7–12.2 inches) at the rear handle big hits competently, but the damping feels firm out of the box. Racers will appreciate the precision, while weekend warriors might crave more compliance.

Braking and Wheels
The Nissin brakes (2-piston front, 1-piston rear) bite harder than you’d expect for an off-roader. Galfer wave discs—260mm front/220mm rear (8.7 inches)—resist mud buildup and provide consistent feel. The 21-inch front/18-inch rear spoked wheels wrapped in knobby tires (90/90-21 and 140/80-18) are classic enduro fare, offering a perfect balance of stability and agility.

---

Off-Road Manners: Where the EC 250 F 4T Earns Its Keep

Ergonomics
At 940mm (37 inches), the seat height is intimidating for shorter riders, but the narrow chassis lets you dab a foot confidently. Standing up feels natural thanks to a neutral bar-to-peg relationship, and the 6.3L (1.66-gallon) tank keeps the center of gravity low—though range anxiety is real on long rides.

Terrain Performance
- Technical Trails: The engine’s lugging ability and light weight make it a trials bike in disguise.
- High-Speed Sections: Stability suffers compared to longer-wheelbase rivals, but the tradeoff is razor-sharp cornering.
- Mud/Sand: The carburetor’s crisp response helps power through muck, though the stock tires lack bite in deep silt.

---

Competition: How It Stacks Up Against the Big Names

The EC 250 F 4T’s contemporaries included the KTM 250 EXC-F, Husqvarna TE 250, and Yamaha WR250F. Here’s how it holds up:

| Aspect | Gas Gas EC 250 F 4T | KTM 250 EXC-F | Yamaha WR250F |
|----------------------|---------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------|----------------------------------|
| Engine | Carbureted, 5-valve Yamaha | Fuel-injected, 4-valve | Fuel-injected, 5-valve |
| Weight | 110 kg (242 lbs) | 114 kg (251 lbs) | 118 kg (260 lbs) |
| Suspension | Marzocchi/Öhlins (firm, precise) | WP (plush, adjustable) | KYB (balanced) |
| Character | Raw, mechanical, agile | Polished, high-revving | Reliable, trail-friendly |

Why Choose the Gas Gas?
- Unmatched Agility: Lighter and nimbler than its peers.
- Tinkerer’s Delight: Carburetor and Yamaha internals simplify tuning.
- Exclusivity: You won’t see another at the trailhead.

---

Maintenance: Keeping the Spanish Stallion Alive

Key Considerations
1. Carburetor Care: Clean the Keihin FCR every 30–40 hours. Jet changes are cheap and transformative.
2. Oil Changes: Use a high-quality 10W-40 semi-synthetic oil every 15 hours. The 2% oil-in-fuel mixture for lubrication is critical—don’t skip it.
3. Valve Checks: Yamaha’s 5-valve design is robust, but check clearance every 50 hours.
4. Suspension Linkage: Grease the bearings annually—mud and grit love to invade.
5. Hydraulic Clutch: Bleed the system yearly; sticky clutches are often due to air bubbles.

MOTOPARTS.store Recommendations
- Upgrade to a Twin Air air filter for better dust resistance.
- Swap the chain for a DID ERT2 for longevity.
- Consider a FMF Q4 silencer if you crave more torque (and a throatier exhaust note).

---

Conclusion: A Cult Classic Worth Preserving

The Gas Gas EC 250 F 4T isn’t perfect—it’s carbureted, parts can be niche, and the seat height won’t suit everyone. But for riders who value mechanical purity and a direct connection to the trail, it’s a masterpiece. This bike rewards skill and patience, offering a riding experience that modern, sanitized enduros can’t match. Whether you’re restoring one or modding it for weekend races, the EC 250 F 4T is a reminder that sometimes, the best bikes are the ones everyone forgot about.

---

Specifications sheet

---