Honda CBR250RR Fireblade

The Honda CBR250RR Fireblade is a sports motorcycle for the learner and commuter motorcycle rider. Apart from the race ready 2-strokes the 4 cylinder 4 stroke CRB250RR was the most desirable model of any 250cc of it’s day (1986-2001). The reasons for its reputation and street cred was that it was only available new in Japan and for a few years Australia and that it was made of materials and technology belonging to THE sports bike of the 90’s the CBR900RR Fireblade.

The CBR250RR Fireblade is a mini-sportsbike much like the Suzuki GSXR250 and Kawasaki ZX-2R the latter two being Japan only models but now available as grey or unofficial imports. They technology they had was state of the art at the having 4 tiny cylinders, CDI carburetters, alloy frames and fairings that matched their larger sports motorcycle models. I’m a bit sad to see them pass into history, especially in favor of 250cc twin and single cylinder motorcycles of 2012 and onwards – truth be told the majority of ‘new’ 250cc are old school, even the ‘new ‘Ninja 250R feels dull and flat in comparison. Back in the 90’s the Kawasaki GPX250 and its twin the ZZR250 where not only heavier but noticeably less powerful – really cement the Honda CBR250RR as the top performer in the 250cc class. If the CBR250RR were still made today throw in EFI and you’ll have what could only be described as the motorcycle equivalent of a ‘hot hatch’.

I rode the CBR250RR many years ago before I finally choosing the Suzuki Across as my first official motorcycle. From memory it was a zippy motorcycle with a top end that was genuinely sporty and that sounded great, good handling though having relatively soft suspension and it was plain cool knowing that it was just a smaller version of the larger CBR900RR sports motorcycles. The only thing you have to remember about it is that the engine needs plenty of revs! Checkout that red line of 18,000RPM! Back in the day the CBR250RR sold new for around $10,000 which naturally limited sales but not appeal. You see, for $2000 more you could get a real 600cc sports bikes and a host of other models to choose from. 

Unfortunately even the newest – used CBR250RR are over 10 years old now so if you can still find one that’s in reasonable condition and with the right colour scheme combination it should prove a memorable way of learning to ride a motorcycle and enjoying it to.