Honda CBR250r Versus Kawasaki Ninja 250r: Which is the Best 250cc Sport Bike?

Motorcycles, particularly 250cc motorcycles, are making a comeback in the U.S. as gas prices increase and people become more concerned about the environment. A 250cc motorcycle is the smallest engine that can handle highway driving, reaching speeds of approximately 90MPH. The 250cc motorcycle market in the U.S. has been dominated by the Rebel 250 and Ninja 250r for many years, of which only the Ninja 250 is a sports bike.

In 2011, this has changed. Honda has reintroduced its CBR250r sports bike, a $4000 250cc motorcycle that implements many new features and modern technology, making it a serious contend against Kawasaki's Ninja.

Price

Both the Kawasaki Ninja and the Honda CBR250r have a starting price of $3,999.

Comparison

The Kawasaki Ninja 250r has a traditional (old technology) carburetor, while the CBR250r is fuel injected, a rare modern feature in motorcycles. Due to fuel injection technology, the Honda CBR250r will run more efficiently than carbureted motorcycles, such as the Ninja 250r. In addition, the CBR250r has a single cylinder, versus the Ninja's twin-cylinder, which gives the Honda more torque.

The Ninja weighs 374lbs, while the 359lbs. The ideal weigh depends on your needs - the Honda will be slightly easier for small individuals to handle, while the heavier weight of the Ninja will allow it to handle a bit better on the freeway.

Both the Ninja and CBR250r are liquid cooled. Both the Ninja and the CBR250r have a seat height of 30.5-inches. Though these two bikes have very similar specs, the CBR250r comes with an ABS option, which is ideal for anyone, but especially for new riders, who are more prone to locking the brakes up. ABS increases the cost of the bike slightly, but greatly increases safety.

The Ninja is available in blue, green, and black, while the CBR250r is available in black and Honda's red/black/white custom pattern.

Which is Better?

While the best 250cc sports bike is subjective, the Honda CBR250r wins from a purely analytical standpoint. The fuel-injection technology is by far the best feature on the bike, bringing new technology to an old idea, and increasing fuel efficiency all around. In addition, the CBR250r offers ABS and a lightweight body. Considering that all of the Ninja's features can be found on the Honda, and the price point is the same, it makes little sense to purchase a lesser bike for the same cost.