2012 Head to head 250cc comparisons
When it comes to 250cc intro motorcycles most people choose either the Honda CBR250R or the Kawasaki Ninja 250R. Of course if sport bikes aren’t your thing there are always different styles available like the Honda Rebel, Yamaha V-Star 250, Suzuki TU250X and others.
UPDATE: Here are a couple new links to some articles on the 2013 Honda CBR250R and 2013 Ninja 250r / 300R
Kawasaki Ninja 250R
The Kawasaki Ninja 250R is always one of the top sellers in the 250cc category. With it’s low seat height, smooth power delivery and nimble handling, the Ninja 250R makes for an excellent first bike. It’s twin Keihin carburetors provide excellent fuel consumption for this parallel twin motor and it’s smooth 6-speed transmission with positive neutral finder offers the right gear for any situation. Featuring a seat height of 30.5 inches and a curb weight of 374 lbs and an overall wheel base of 55.1 inches beginners will have very little difficulty learning to ride on the Ninja.
Honda’s CBR250R brings it’s own unique features to the table. While twin cylinders are commonplace in the 250 class the CBR250R features a fuel injected, DOHC four-valve single cylinder engine and 6 speed stacked shaft transmission. Some models are even available with an ABS braking system. As with all 250cc motorcycles fuel efficiency is at a premium with the CBR250R coming in at impressive 77 MPG. With a curb weight of only 359 lbs and a seat height of 30.5" inches the CBR250R is an extremely capable entry level sport bike.
The other contenders: Honda Rebel, Yamaha V-Star 250 & Suzuki TU250X
As I stated earlier if sport bikes aren’t your style there other options in the 250cc class for you to check out. Besides the CBR250R, Honda makes the CMX250C Rebel which is falls into the cruiser category. With a seat height just under 27” and an overall curb weight of just 331 lbs, the rebel is an excellent choice for smaller riders.
The Yamaha V-Star 250 is an intriguing choice for a beginner motorcycle since it is the only one featuring a V-Twin motor in the 250cc class. It provides plenty of torque for a first time rider while still getting an impressive 78 mpg. It’s comfortable handle bar design and low seat make for an exceptional entry level cruiser.
Finally if you want yet another choice of styles Suzuki offers the TU250X which has a much more standard, upright riding position than either the sport bikes or cruisers. It’s fuel injected single cylinder engine with digital ignition provides increased efficiency and crisp throttle response.
So whatever your style happens to be there are plenty of choices available for your first motorcycle. Of course I always suggest taking a riding course first to learn the basics of motorcycle operation, plus many auto insurance companies give you a discount for taking the class. Protective gear is always recommended, whether you’re a beginning rider or a veteran of the road. Trust me you don’t want to learn the hard way the value of a good armored jacket and a quality helmet.
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