How Fast Is a Honda CBR 250? Top Speed Explained by Model and Conditions
The top speed of a “CBR 250” depends on which model you mean: the single‑cylinder CBR250R typically tops out around 140–150 km/h (87–93 mph) in real GPS terms, the modern twin‑cylinder CBR250RR reaches about 168–175 km/h (104–109 mph) by GPS with higher indicated speeds, and the 1990s four‑cylinder CBR250RR (MC22) was electronically limited to 180 km/h (112 mph). These figures vary with rider, road, and weather conditions.
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The bikes behind the “CBR 250” name
Honda has used the CBR 250 label on several distinct motorcycles over the years, and their performance differs meaningfully. Understanding which version you’re asking about is essential to quoting an accurate top speed.
The list below breaks down the main CBR 250 variants and the real-world top speeds you can expect, based on GPS-verified tests and widely reported road-test data.
- CBR250R (2011–2013, single-cylinder, ~26 hp): Typically 140–150 km/h (87–93 mph) GPS; many owners see ~150–155 km/h (93–96 mph) on the speedometer due to over-read.
- CBR250RR (2017–present, parallel twin, up to ~42 PS in latest trims): Commonly 168–175 km/h (104–109 mph) GPS in stock form; indicated speeds often in the 180–190 km/h (112–118 mph) range.
- CBR250RR MC22 (late 1980s–1990s, inline‑four, ~45 PS JDM): Electronically limited to 180 km/h (112 mph) in Japan-era spec; derestricted examples can edge a bit higher depending on gearing and condition.
While all carry the CBR 250 badge, engine configuration, power output, aerodynamics, and era-specific regulations lead to notably different top-speed ceilings.
What affects top speed on a CBR 250
Even with the same bike and spec sheet, real-world top speed is sensitive to environment, setup, and rider inputs. That’s why published numbers often appear as ranges rather than single figures.
Below are the primary variables that influence how fast a CBR 250 will go on a given day.
- Rider size and tuck: A compact, sustained tuck can add several km/h; a larger frontal area slows the bike.
- Altitude and air density: Higher elevation and hot air reduce engine output and aerodynamic efficiency.
- Wind and gradient: Headwinds and slight inclines can trim 5–10 km/h; tailwinds do the opposite.
- Tire type and pressure: Incorrect pressures or high-drag tires sap top-end speed.
- Fuel and maintenance: Clean air filter, fresh plugs, proper chain tension, and quality fuel matter near redline.
- Gearing and limiter behavior: Sprocket changes and ECU limits influence whether the bike can reach peak power in top gear.
- Speedometer error: Many motorcycle speedos read 5–10% optimistic at high speed; GPS is more reliable on a steady run.
Accounting for these factors explains why two riders on identical bikes can report noticeably different top speeds.
How top speed is measured—and why numbers differ
Magazine tests, owner reports, and manufacturer claims don’t always align because methods vary. Speedometer readings are convenient but often optimistic; GPS runs on flat roads in calm conditions tend to be the most comparable across sources. Controlled track testing, especially on banked ovals, can also yield slightly higher numbers than typical public-road scenarios.
Real-world snapshots by model
CBR250R (single): Road tests and GPS-verified owner runs commonly land near 145 km/h (90 mph), with best-case figures just over 150 km/h (93 mph) indicated. This matches the bike’s modest power and upright ergonomics.
CBR250RR (2017–present twin): Southeast Asian and Japanese market tests frequently show 170–175 km/h (106–109 mph) GPS for recent 40–42 PS trims, with speedometers displaying 180–190 km/h under favorable conditions.
CBR250RR MC22 (inline‑four): The period-correct JDM speed limiter caps it at 180 km/h (112 mph). Enthusiast reports of derestricted examples vary with state of tune but typically remain just above the limiter threshold in real terms.
Bottom line
If you’re asking about the common, affordable single-cylinder CBR250R, expect about 140–150 km/h (87–93 mph) in true top speed. If it’s the modern twin-cylinder CBR250RR, plan on roughly 168–175 km/h (104–109 mph) by GPS, with higher numbers on the dash. And if it’s the classic inline‑four MC22, 180 km/h (112 mph) was the factory-limited ceiling.
Summary
“CBR 250” covers multiple Hondas with different performance envelopes. Typical real-world top speeds are about 145 km/h (90 mph) for the CBR250R single, 168–175 km/h (104–109 mph) for the current CBR250RR twin, and 180 km/h (112 mph) for the limiter-bound MC22 inline‑four—subject to rider, conditions, and measurement method.
How fast does a CBR 250 go?
CBR250R
| Production | 2011–2013 2011–2021 (Japan / Malaysia) |
|---|---|
| Bore / stroke | 76.0 mm × 55.0 mm (2.99 in × 2.17 in) |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 |
| Top speed | 87 mph (140 km/h) 91.2 mph (146.8 km/h) |
| Power | 23.7 hp (17.7 kW) @ 9,900 rpm (rear wheel) 21.9 hp (16.3 kW) @ 8,500 rpm 26.7 hp (19.9 kW) @ 8,500 rpm |
Is the CBR250R a superbike?
The Honda CBR250R is Honda’s 250cc single-cylinder sportbike that competes with the other fully faired machines in a similar price bracket.
Is a Honda CBR250 a good starter 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.
What is the top speed of the CBR250R without the limiter?
The 250R top speed on a flat road, with no headwind, and fully tucked (and with no tailwind), is 93mph. The CBR250R has less top end speed, has slower acceleration, and less horsepower than the CBR300R. The 300R maxes out at 97mph.
