Is the Honda CBR250R a good bike in 2025?

Yes—on today’s used market, the Honda CBR250R remains a good motorcycle for beginners and budget-minded commuters thanks to its reliability, approachable performance, and low running costs; however, it’s dated and slower than modern 300–400 cc rivals, and availability varies by region since it’s no longer sold new.

Contents

What the CBR250R is
Strengths and weaknesses
How it compares to rivals
Ownership costs and reliability
Who should buy it
What to check on a used CBR250R
Pricing and availability in 2025
Verdict
Summary

What the CBR250R is

Launched globally in 2011, the CBR250R is a lightweight, fuel-injected, single-cylinder sport bike designed more for daily riding than track domination. It was sold in North America through 2013 and continued in some Asian markets—with minor updates—before being phased out widely by 2020 in favor of the CBR300R and stricter emissions standards. In 2025 it’s a used-only proposition, appreciated for its Honda-solid build and friendly manners.

Key specs at a glance

The following headline figures help place the CBR250R within the entry-level sport segment and clarify what owners can expect in everyday use.

Engine: 249.4 cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve single; fuel-injected

Output: about 26 hp at 8,500 rpm; roughly 23 Nm of torque at ~7,000 rpm

Transmission: 6-speed

Curb weight: approximately 357 lb (162 kg) with ABS; slightly less without

Seat height: about 30.5 in (780 mm)

Brakes: 296 mm front disc, 220 mm rear; optional combined ABS (C-ABS) in some markets

Fuel economy: typically 60–75 mpg US (26–32 km/l), rider- and route-dependent

Top speed: around 85–90 mph (137–145 km/h) indicated

Fuel tank: roughly 3.4 gal (13 liters)

Taken together, these specs describe a tractable, efficient small-displacement machine that prioritizes ease of use and low cost of ownership over headline performance.

Strengths and weaknesses

What it does well

The CBR250R earned a following for a handful of practical strengths that matter in daily riding and first-bike scenarios.

Reliability: Proven Honda engineering with simple, understressed single-cylinder durability.

Approachability: Predictable power delivery, light clutch, friendly ergonomics, and a manageable seat height.

Economy: Excellent fuel efficiency and modest insurance and maintenance costs.

Comfort: More neutral, commuter-friendly posture than many “full-on” sport rivals.

ABS availability: Optional combined ABS on many units enhances safety for newer riders.

Parts and community: Good parts availability and a large owner community, especially in markets that sold big volumes.

For urban riders and learners, these advantages translate into confidence, low running costs, and predictable handling—key ingredients for building skills.

Where it falls short

Age and displacement limit the CBR250R in ways that potential buyers should weigh against its strengths.

Performance ceiling: Noticeably slower than current 300–400 cc class leaders; highway overtakes require planning.

Outdated hardware: Softer suspension and older componentry compared with newer rivals.

Used-only reality: Condition varies widely; some markets have sparse supply, and plastics for older models can be pricier.

Resale vs. newer options: Bikes like the Yamaha R3 or Kawasaki Ninja 400 hold appeal for only slightly more money in some regions.

If you need brisk highway pace, track-ready components, or the latest tech, you’ll likely outgrow the CBR250R faster than you would a modern 300–400 cc bike.

How it compares to rivals

Against today’s small-sport segment, the CBR250R occupies the “safe, sensible, and affordable” end of the spectrum rather than the cutting edge.

Honda CBR300R: The direct successor with ~286 cc and a bit more punch; similar ergonomics and manners.

Yamaha YZF-R3: Significantly stronger performance and chassis poise; generally costs more used.

Kawasaki Ninja 300/400: The 300 outpaces the 250R; the 400 is class-leading for power and refinement.

KTM RC 390: Much quicker and sharper but firmer, more focused, and often costlier to run.

Suzuki GSX250R: Comparable power but heavier and more comfort-biased; also on the slower side.

If your priorities are reliability and low costs, the CBR250R competes well; if outright performance matters, newer 300–400 cc models are superior.

Ownership costs and reliability

The bike’s core appeal is how little it asks of owners. Routine care is simple, and intervals are generous by small-bike standards. Always consult a service manual for your market-year specifics.

Valve clearance inspection: typically every 16,000 miles (24,000 km).

Oil and filter: commonly 4,000–8,000 miles (6,400–12,800 km), adjusted for riding style.

Chain/sprockets: lifespan varies; regular cleaning and lubrication extend life significantly.

Tires: plan for replacements roughly every 6,000–10,000 miles depending on brand and usage.

Fuel use: many owners report 60–75 mpg US, making it one of the most economical small sports.

Recalls: verify VIN with a Honda dealer for any outstanding campaigns tied to your model year and region.

With preventative maintenance and sensible riding, CBR250Rs routinely exceed high mileages without drama, which is why they remain sought after by commuters and new riders.

Who should buy it

The CBR250R best suits first-time riders, returning riders who want a refresher, and daily commuters who value reliability, economy, and a friendly riding position. It’s also a practical stepping stone to more powerful machines, and a fun—if modest—tool for skills-based track days.

What to check on a used CBR250R

Because every CBR250R is now used, condition matters more than model year. A methodical inspection can save you money and headaches.

Service records: Look for regular oil changes and timely valve inspections.

Crash clues: Fairing gaps, bar-end and footpeg scuffs, bent levers, or mismatched paint.

Chain and sprockets: Check for tight spots, rust, hooked teeth.

Suspension and bearings: Bounce test for fork/shock health; check steering head play.

Brakes: Rotor wear, pad life, firm lever; confirm ABS operation if equipped.

Electrical: Battery health, charging voltage, clean connectors; test all lights including brake and indicators.

Tires: Age (DOT date), tread, and even wear; budget for replacements if old or squared off.

VIN/recalls: Cross-check VIN, titles, and any open recalls with a Honda dealer.

Prioritize bikes with documented maintenance and minimal crash evidence; a well-kept example is usually a smarter buy than a cheaper unit needing immediate parts and labor.

Pricing and availability in 2025

Prices vary with mileage, ABS, condition, and local supply. As a broad guide, clean-title, stock examples in the United States typically list around $1,800–$3,200, with exceptionally low-mile or ABS-equipped bikes at the upper end. In India, late-production examples often trade roughly in the ₹70,000–₹1,30,000 band depending on year, updates, and state. Always compare against the price of a CBR300R or used R3/Ninja 400 in your area—you might find a modest step up in budget delivers a large performance gain.

Verdict

The Honda CBR250R is still a good bike—especially for learners and thrifty commuters—thanks to bulletproof reliability, low costs, and easy manners. If you want modern speed or stronger highway performance, consider a CBR300R, R3, or Ninja 400. But as a dependable, inexpensive gateway into motorcycling, a well-kept CBR250R remains hard to fault.

Summary

Good: reliable, efficient, friendly, affordable. Not so good: dated, slower than newer 300–400 cc rivals, and used-only. If your priorities are dependability and low running costs, the CBR250R is an excellent choice; if you need more performance, step up a class.

Is the CBR250R a good beginner bike?

As for the bike itself, it’s a fantastic beginner bike, you’ll love it. Easy handling, cheap insurance. Better mpg and low end than the Ninja, though it might get a little buzzy at the top end because of that single cylinder.