Sherco ST 250 [2016-2021] Review: Precision, Agility, and Trials Mastery

Introduction

The Sherco ST 250, produced between 2016 and 2021, stands as a testament to the French-Spanish brand’s obsession with crafting trial motorcycles that blend lightweight agility with unrelenting durability. Designed for riders who demand precision over power and finesse over brute force, this two-stroke machine has carved its niche among enthusiasts of technical off-road riding. Whether you’re navigating rocky inclines, balancing on narrow logs, or hopping over urban obstacles, the ST 250 feels less like a motorcycle and more like an extension of the rider’s instincts. After spending time with this machine, it’s clear why Sherco has become a household name in the trials world—even if the household is a garage filled with mud-splattered gear.

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Design & Build Quality

The Sherco ST 250’s design philosophy screams function-first. From its tubular chromoly frame to the minimalist bodywork, every element serves a purpose. The bike’s compact dimensions—a wheelbase of 1,322 mm (52 inches) and seat height of 685 mm (27 inches)—make it incredibly maneuverable, while the 310 mm (12.2 inches) of ground clearance ensures it glides over obstacles without scraping.

Color schemes evolved slightly over the years, ranging from bold blue/yellow combinations (2016-2017) to sleeker white/blue/green liveries (2020-2021). The anodized Morad rims (blue or black, depending on the trim) add a touch of flair, but this is no show pony. The lack of unnecessary plastics keeps the weight down to a featherlight 68 kg (149.9 lbs) dry, a critical factor in trials where every gram counts.

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Engine & Performance

At the heart of the ST 250 lies a liquid-cooled, two-stroke single-cylinder engine displacing 249.7 cc. The bore and stroke of 72.8 x 60 mm (2.9 x 2.4 inches) strike a balance between low-end torque and rev-friendly responsiveness. Fed by a Keihin PWK 28 carburetor (or a Dell’Orto in earlier models), the engine delivers a crisp throttle response that’s predictable yet lively—a must for controlled climbs and sudden bursts over obstacles.

The hydraulic diaphragm clutch is a standout feature. Its buttery-smooth engagement allows for millimeter-perfect modulation, whether you’re crawling at snail’s pace or executing a full-throttle pivot turn. Paired with a 5-speed gearbox, the ST 250 rewards riders who understand the art of momentum management. There’s no electric start here (except on the 2020 ST-R), but the kickstarter fires up the engine reliably, even after a tumble into a creek.

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Chassis & Suspension

Sherco’s chromoly frame is a masterpiece of rigidity and flex balance. It absorbs impacts without transferring jarring feedback to the rider, yet remains stiff enough for precise input during technical maneuvers. The suspension setup varies slightly across trims: - Front: A 39 mm Tech fork (aluminum or steel) with 165 mm (6.5 inches) of travel.
- Rear: A Reiger or R16V shock with 175 mm (6.9 inches) of travel, adjustable for rebound and preload.

The suspension feels plush over roots and rocks but firms up predictably during hard landings. Riders can fine-tune the setup for their weight and terrain, though the stock configuration works brilliantly for most trial conditions.

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Brakes & Wheels

Formula hydraulic discs (front and rear) provide ample stopping power without the grabby feel that could send a rider over the bars during delicate descents. The 145 mm (5.7-inch) rotors might seem small, but they’re perfectly sized for the bike’s weight and purpose. Michelin trial-specific tires (2.50-21 front, 2.75-18 rear) offer tenacious grip on everything from wet logs to loose gravel.

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Riding Experience

Swinging a leg over the ST 250 feels like strapping on a pair of perfectly broken-in hiking boots—familiar, comfortable, and ready for abuse. The narrow seat (if you can call it a seat) forces you into a standing position, which is where trials riders spend 95% of their time anyway. The handlebars are wide and upright, offering leverage for wrestling the bike through tight turns.

On the move, the ST 250 is telepathic. The engine’s power band is linear, with no sudden hits to catch you off-guard. It’ll chug up a near-vertical slab of rock at 1,500 RPM or loft the front wheel with a flick of the wrist. The real magic, though, is in the bike’s balance. Even at a standstill, it’s easy to hold the ST 250 upright with minimal effort—a trait that inspires confidence during slow-speed sections.

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Competition

The trials segment is fiercely competitive, with the Sherco ST 250 facing off against: 1. Beta Evo 250: Lighter at 66 kg (145.5 lbs) and slightly nimbler, but its cable-operated clutch lacks the refinement of Sherco’s hydraulic system.
2. GasGas TXT 250: Similar weight and power, but GasGas’s earlier models suffered from less durable suspension components.
3. Montesa Cota 4RT 260: A four-stroke alternative with Honda reliability, but heavier (74 kg / 163 lbs) and less “flickable.”

The Sherco’s edge lies in its blend of modern components (hydraulic clutch, adjustable suspension) and traditional two-stroke simplicity. It’s the Goldilocks option—not too raw, not too polished.

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Maintenance

Owning a Sherco ST 250 is relatively straightforward if you’re diligent with upkeep:
- Engine: The 2% oil pre-mix requirement is forgiving, but always use high-quality synthetic oils. Inspect the piston and rings every 50-60 hours of hard riding.
- Carburetor: The Keihin PWK 28 is reliable but sensitive to stale fuel. Clean the jetting monthly if riding infrequently.
- Suspension: Rebuild forks and shock every 100 hours. Upgrade to MOTOPARTS.store’s aftermarket seals for improved longevity.
- Brakes: Formula pads wear quickly in muddy conditions. Keep spares on hand and bleed the system annually.
- Chain: O-ring chains last longer, but a standard chain with MOTOPARTS.store’s heavy-duty lubricant works well for purists.

Pro Tip: The ST 250’s exhaust system (stainless steel header with aluminum muffler) is prone to denting. Consider a MOTOPARTS.store aftermarket guard for rocky terrain.

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Conclusion

The Sherco ST 250 [2016-2021] isn’t just a trials bike—it’s a masterclass in engineering minimalism. It does one thing (technical off-road riding) so well that you’ll forgive its lack of lights, mirrors, or any semblance of practicality. For riders looking to hone their skills or compete in trials events, this Sherco remains a top-tier choice. And when parts eventually wear out (as they will when you’re dropping off boulders), MOTOPARTS.store has everything from clutch kits to suspension upgrades to keep your ST 250 fighting fit for another decade of abuse.

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Specifications sheet

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