Honda CBR250RR: Top 5 facts

Engine:

The Honda CBR250RR is an important motorcycle for the Japanese two-wheeler giant as it gets an all-new twin-cylinder motor. The new powerplant will be its entry-level offering and has been developed keeping in mind the restrictions for A2 licensing in Europe. Honda hasn’t divulged exact specifications yet but we expect the liquid-cooled, 8-valve motor to have a high revving characteristic which is synonymous with Honda bikes with an estimated redline at 14,000rpm. Expected power figures are in the range of 34-37PS while the mill will be mated to a 6-speed transmission. 

Features:

The new Honda CBR250RR features an all-digital instrument console while the biggest talking point is the addition of three ride modes (segment firs) - comfort, sport and sport+. Honda has also added ride-by-wire technology to its new quarter-litre baby which should result in crisper throttle response. ABS will be an optional extra in Asian markets while it will be a standard fitment in European markets where it’s mandatory. The new Honda bike also gets LED headlights and DRL’s which makes it stand apart from its rivals though the next generation KTM 390 Duke will also get the same. Slipper clutch may also be offered as the Kawasaki Ninja 300 and the KTM RC 390 gets equipped with the same.

Cycle Parts:

Honda has been generous on the new CBR250RR as it gets beefy gold finished USD forks at front and 5-step preload adjustable monoshock unit at the back to handle suspension responsibilities. Stopping power is provided by large 310 mm dia single petal disc brake at front and a 240mm dia disc brake at the back. The frame for the motorcycle is also new and is a steel truss frame. The aluminium gull-type swingarm has been designed specifically to accommodate the exhaust without affecting the clearance so that the rider can get better lean angle. 

Price & Rivals: 

The Honda CBR250RR will retail for IDR 70 million which in INR comes to Rs 3.6 lakh. It will compete against the likes of the Kawasaki Ninja 250, Yamaha R25 and the KTM RC 250 in international markets. 

India launch?

Now the big question, whether the new Honda CBR250RR will land on Indian shores? And the answer is mostly negative. It is rumoured that Honda is working on a larger 300cc displacement motorcycle based on the existing 250cc motorcycle similar to the Yamaha R3 that was unveiled after the launch of the Yamaha R25. Given the fact that in the Indian market we have options like the Yamaha R3, Kawasaki Ninja 300 and the KTM RC 390 it is safe to assume that Honda will ride in the larger displacement bike instead of the CBR250RR. If Honda still plans to get the CBR250RR to India, it will be come via the CKD route and will be priced around Rs 3.5 lakh ex-showroom.