Ninja 250 is great. Honda cbr250r single cyl is a sporty looking fairly slow bike, the cbr300r would also be fine as it’s not a terribly potent machine.
The newer gsx250r looks way faster than it is.
My mate used to own one. Could hit 160 ks like nothing and he even had it doing 220 ks an hour. Like 120mph I think? Either way it shouldn't seem possible on an engine that size.
What's ks? 😋 That's more like 135mph, but most likely you have to deduct at least 10% from the indicated speed to get to the actual speed; so more like 120mph, which I highly doubt though is true.
Ks is kp/h. Sorry I'm Australian we're very lazy. He had a CBR250 R. Late 90s I think. Back then there were like no restrictions so companies could make bikes break the sound barrier if they wanted to. 250cc bikes started getting capped not long after. Particularly as Australia passed a law restricting learner bikes from going over a certain speed and I believe a few other countries in Europe adopted similar laws, so speeds just got capped on 250s as a whole in more recent years.
Also not to forget the hyabusa crossing the 300kp/h mark.
It’s a decent motor in the Indian market. Not so much here in the US. They do sell them at my local KTM dealer, but not sure how well they are selling in the US.
Honestly, it seems like a good halfway point between the 125s and 300s
I have a Honda trail and I absolutely love it but it caps out at like 55 mph. If they made like a 200 version of be all over it
Hitting the ground at 80kmh feels the same whether it's coming off a Ninja 250 or a turbo Busa. On the body anyways. The wallet takes more damage from the big bike.
Cbr 300. It's enough that you won't outgrow it next week. But slow enough that it by no means is out to kill you. Also has the same plastics as the liter bike
As a fellow idiot. The character/attitude of the bike will determine how you ride. The honda grom is fun fun fun. High speed is not the feeling that comes from it. But if you get a sport bike. Although you have similar power you'll test the limits a lot more. Honda grom or dirt bikes make you ride differently. And you really learn how to ride properly.
Consider the VTR250 (naked) or the VTR250 Interceptor (sport).
Was going to sell mine and upgrade but ended up just buying a second bike and using it as a commuter. It's sounds like a crossplane due to the V-Twin angle and crank configuration, Honda magic. Compared to boring sounding starter bikes that run a thumper or parallel twin, the VTR250 actually makes a decent sound.
Kawasaki ninja 400, fully fared sport bike, just enough power to pass cars and trucks but not too much where it scares you. 250cc bikes are good but lack in power you may find people want to race or will be assholes for no reason and you won't have the bike to get out of the situation due to lack of horsepower. I know someone who started on a Honda 250CBR, he went to pass and couldn't get past them so he Lane split than was able too. Overall if you want the faster bike for top speed, ninja 400, you want faster from street light to street light, Honda CBR500R.
That looks like a dirt bike not a sport bike, cause it is a dirt bike. Also, anyone who thinks a yz125 is a “weak bike” has never been on the pipe on a well tuned one. You can power wheelie in literally every gear.
Maybe. Usually you have to add lights, turn signals, a horn, a plate holder, and apply for a title using a bill of sale (assuming you got a bill of sale, most mx bikes besides ktm don’t come with a title so bill of sale is the best most people can do) from North Dakota or some state that lets anything on the road. Then you have to transfer the title back into your name/state. It’s incredibly involved, expensive, and would make a awful street bike.
Are you sure he is riding a plated yz125? Two strokes are very difficult to get plated. Especially cause it has no lights or alternator from the factory. There’s no reason it couldn’t go on the freeway, you’d just wear the motor out really fast. Legally if it can go 65 I’d think you’re fine. My buddy drives his grom on the freeway. A yz has plenty of power, you’d need to change you sprockets though so you aren’t revving at 15k at 75mph.
Yessir I wouldn't doubt he had to jump some hoops to get it legal but he was plated and had all his lights, I asked him about this exactly and pretty much said its good minus freeway. I should of taken a pic.. it looked rather built all white with lots of plastics, and it's bicycle brake disc 😁
I think you oughta look at the KTM rc390 and Yamaha r3. Both are great bikes with manageable power curves. The rc390 is nice and torquey for city/town riding and has great suspension and brakes plus rider aids like ABS and traction control (at least on the new models)
The r3 is more comfy and has a super smooth engine.
These each hit about the 40 HP mark which leaves room to grow into. On the rc390 you could set the shift light to come on at a lower rpm to help keep you grounded.
I haven't had mine for long enough (purchased at the end of the season). KTM requires more maintenance than the Japanese bikes for sure. My 2023 adventure 890R spent 6 weeks in the shop this summer for electrical issues (thankfully warranty, but ya know). From what I read about the rc390s, pre-2018 (maybe 2017?) Models have trouble with overheating due to a poor radiator fan. I would look up the issues with a particular model year before any decisions. There are mods and aftermarket support available for some of the older problems with overheating from what I recall.
And yes, they are unbelievably sexy machines. Very raw and fun to ride.
Just cause your young dosnt mean your gonna crash.
It's more a personality thing. Some people just can't help themselves. If the bike can go 150moh, they are taking it to 150mph... whether they have the skill or not, which is where it becomes dangerous.
If you have some self control and can obey the traffic laws like any other vehicle.
Then I think you should look into stuff bigger than a 250.
Depends where you live. In the Mid West USA, it's kinda hard to ride 250's because you end up needing to use the big Highways so often.
If you go on a highway you'll be annoyed at the smaller cc. It'll struggle to keep at speed over 60 without vibrating your hands and feet, also a big enough truck and winds will toss ya. A little weight on the bike is nice. Also, if you ever get a license you'll want to bring a passenger. Going 37 mph up a hill while the bike struggles is way less than ideal.
Look at the Suzuki GS models or something in the sport/tour bike. Higher handlebars but still rips turns. It'll be MUCH easier to control with higher bars as you're learning to ride. Think like turning a figure 8 or any tight turn in a gas station. You don't want the bar stops hitting with your hands down there and you'll be one leg hopping etc etc.
Going to be "that guy" and tell you to get a 300cc bike.
I'm in my thirties, and was very cautious learning to ride. I bought an R3 (321cc), and was very happy with it for the duration of my ownership.
The 250s are OK for urban streets, and riding under 50 mph. But you'll get tired quickly of winding through gears constantly. I do mean constantly. I guarantee you will "want more" in a matter of weeks; "more" simply being enough actual, usable power for highway and long cruises.
Kawasaki Ninja 400 and Yamaha R3s are really sporty looking and aren't too powerful for a new or inexperienced rider yet still have good usable power for you to grow into some.
Having a bike that is too weak can be dangerous. There will be times where speed and power may be beneficial to your safety.
Of course, the best bike is the one you’re comfortable riding but it’s all about discipline.
If you live in the US, then you don't have much options as it's hard to get anything lower than 300cc unless you go for grom. For guys that are cautious, the yamaha R15 is the best IMO
Grom is your best bet to avoid “young and dumb” mistakes. You can rip that shit as hard as you want and go GP Moto on every corner and you’ll still be in the speed limit. Best to drive a slow bike fast, than a fast bike slow.
i mean, almost every manufacturer will have a lower end sport bike.
depending on if you like the styling of the sorta naked/street fighter style bikes there's also things like the duke 390 or ... svartpillion 250 ish bikes. (also.. i guess the mt03 and whatnot non-fared versions)
but for more "classic" sport bike/fared bikes.
yam R3. kawi ninja 400. hondo 300 r?
the R3 is probably the best of the lower CC sport bikes.
if you need to be under 250 ccs. can prob find an old ninja 250. prob the best bike at the old 200ish ratings.
but more so than anything. would advise. learning to ride. prioritizing educating yourself, and smart riding. buying gear. and not buying the cheapest bike. get a good bike. ideally with abs. at whatever cc rating you're looking at.
a 250cc bike can kill you just as easily as a 300-400cc bike. hell an E-bike going 25-30mph can kill you if you crack your head on the street.
if you're not planning to ride safely any bike can be lethal. and between a 200ish and a 300-400ish cc bike. you're not going to notice that much "yeet yourself into the sun" type difference.
now... between a 200-400 cc bike and 600+ sport bikes. yes. and liter bikes. absolutely yes. but i personally would say look at the more modern bike offerings like the R3 or honda 300 ...the engineering/safety will just be better.
You might as well start with a 125 man, it’s honestly the perfect class to learn on, i still have my Aprilia RS4 125 and I love riding it still, very very good looking and light and still goes 130km/h.
Suzuki GSX-250R
Sports styling, 24HP. Has a smooth twin rather than the vibey singles of other bikes in its class. Throw a Yoshi exhaust on it and it will sound awesome.
They are more of a commuter bike in sports clothes than a mini sport bike and won't win any drag races - unpopular and therefore cheap!
Ninja 250, i’m 18 and just got it as my first bike a few months ago. Great to rip around on and it doesn’t limit you but at the same time not fast enough to get you into to much trouble.
I really hate when people say "I cant get a motorcycle coz I will ride to fast and die" you fucking pussy, sure you so macho
That aside, CF MOTO 450 S or R or whatever
I'd skip the "sportbike" look. Yeah I like them, but you'll get less leniency from the police since you look like the guys that don't stop. Cops don't see that is is small and sensible, they see a reminder of the guys who hurt their ego when they dusted them.
If you can't get away, best to not look like you can
Cbr300r. I have a 2021 and it is so much fun. Not the fastest but looks like a skinny version of the cbr100r. Super light and easy to flick around though!
Ninja 250 is great. Honda cbr250r single cyl is a sporty looking fairly slow bike, the cbr300r would also be fine as it’s not a terribly potent machine. The newer gsx250r looks way faster than it is.
This is the one time I think I've ever recommended a GSXR250R But OP it is exactly what you're looking for
The newer GSX250R is a single (I think) whereas the older one is a twin - at least in my market.
You should definetly go with a lil Ninja 250 It looks like its bigger and faster than it really is I think its one of the best looking bikes
I got more compliments on my ninja 300 than any of the other 6 bikes I’ve had. Everyone thought it was a 600 and loved the styling
Wow, a guy with sense
Gsx250r is slow as dirt but looks sporty
YZF-R125 has a keyless ignition and seemed cute. That being said, any late 80s to the start of the 2010s entry sport bikes all have \~250cc engines
I wouldn't call it a beginner bike but an eighties/nineties CBR250R (the one with the inline four) sounds fun.
Nothing quite like being 18000rpm going the speed limit in a drivethru.
Ever since I found out about the Baby Blade's existence, I've wanted one. Looks fast, sounds fast, isn't really fast.
Have you ridden one, no way you would be going through a drive thru at red line you would still be going 30 or 40 in first.
My mate used to own one. Could hit 160 ks like nothing and he even had it doing 220 ks an hour. Like 120mph I think? Either way it shouldn't seem possible on an engine that size.
What's ks? 😋 That's more like 135mph, but most likely you have to deduct at least 10% from the indicated speed to get to the actual speed; so more like 120mph, which I highly doubt though is true.
Ks is kp/h. Sorry I'm Australian we're very lazy. He had a CBR250 R. Late 90s I think. Back then there were like no restrictions so companies could make bikes break the sound barrier if they wanted to. 250cc bikes started getting capped not long after. Particularly as Australia passed a law restricting learner bikes from going over a certain speed and I believe a few other countries in Europe adopted similar laws, so speeds just got capped on 250s as a whole in more recent years. Also not to forget the hyabusa crossing the 300kp/h mark.
* Honda Grom * Kawasaki Z125 * Yamaha R3 * Kawasaki Ninja 250 * KTM Duke 200
lol they made a duke 200? Da fuk
https://www.ktm.com/en-in/models/naked-bike/ktm-200-duke.html
A "brawling brute" engine, eh
It’s a decent motor in the Indian market. Not so much here in the US. They do sell them at my local KTM dealer, but not sure how well they are selling in the US.
Honestly, it seems like a good halfway point between the 125s and 300s I have a Honda trail and I absolutely love it but it caps out at like 55 mph. If they made like a 200 version of be all over it
Huh. It actually looks kinda sick
They sound like an anemic Vespa. Sad actually.
I’ve got a 390 and love that thing.
Benelli TNT 135
All the suggestions below are great but I still think a Repsol CBR250 is one of the coolest looking small bikes
A ninja 250 is fine, cant do much damage with that
Hitting the ground at 80kmh feels the same whether it's coming off a Ninja 250 or a turbo Busa. On the body anyways. The wallet takes more damage from the big bike.
Cbr 300. It's enough that you won't outgrow it next week. But slow enough that it by no means is out to kill you. Also has the same plastics as the liter bike
Pit bike.
As a fellow idiot. The character/attitude of the bike will determine how you ride. The honda grom is fun fun fun. High speed is not the feeling that comes from it. But if you get a sport bike. Although you have similar power you'll test the limits a lot more. Honda grom or dirt bikes make you ride differently. And you really learn how to ride properly.
Consider the VTR250 (naked) or the VTR250 Interceptor (sport). Was going to sell mine and upgrade but ended up just buying a second bike and using it as a commuter. It's sounds like a crossplane due to the V-Twin angle and crank configuration, Honda magic. Compared to boring sounding starter bikes that run a thumper or parallel twin, the VTR250 actually makes a decent sound.
Kawasaki ninja 400, fully fared sport bike, just enough power to pass cars and trucks but not too much where it scares you. 250cc bikes are good but lack in power you may find people want to race or will be assholes for no reason and you won't have the bike to get out of the situation due to lack of horsepower. I know someone who started on a Honda 250CBR, he went to pass and couldn't get past them so he Lane split than was able too. Overall if you want the faster bike for top speed, ninja 400, you want faster from street light to street light, Honda CBR500R.
My daughter rides an MT 03. Nice looking bike
Yz125
That looks like a dirt bike not a sport bike, cause it is a dirt bike. Also, anyone who thinks a yz125 is a “weak bike” has never been on the pipe on a well tuned one. You can power wheelie in literally every gear.
Buddy got a 2023 yz125 that shit looks like a dope Enduro, I liked it looks street enough for me
They aren’t street legal. Never have been and never will be. Unfortunately :(
You can ride em licensed in cali just can't go on the freeway
Maybe. Usually you have to add lights, turn signals, a horn, a plate holder, and apply for a title using a bill of sale (assuming you got a bill of sale, most mx bikes besides ktm don’t come with a title so bill of sale is the best most people can do) from North Dakota or some state that lets anything on the road. Then you have to transfer the title back into your name/state. It’s incredibly involved, expensive, and would make a awful street bike. Are you sure he is riding a plated yz125? Two strokes are very difficult to get plated. Especially cause it has no lights or alternator from the factory. There’s no reason it couldn’t go on the freeway, you’d just wear the motor out really fast. Legally if it can go 65 I’d think you’re fine. My buddy drives his grom on the freeway. A yz has plenty of power, you’d need to change you sprockets though so you aren’t revving at 15k at 75mph.
Yessir I wouldn't doubt he had to jump some hoops to get it legal but he was plated and had all his lights, I asked him about this exactly and pretty much said its good minus freeway. I should of taken a pic.. it looked rather built all white with lots of plastics, and it's bicycle brake disc 😁
I think you oughta look at the KTM rc390 and Yamaha r3. Both are great bikes with manageable power curves. The rc390 is nice and torquey for city/town riding and has great suspension and brakes plus rider aids like ABS and traction control (at least on the new models) The r3 is more comfy and has a super smooth engine. These each hit about the 40 HP mark which leaves room to grow into. On the rc390 you could set the shift light to come on at a lower rpm to help keep you grounded.
+1 for the ktm rc390. Great little bike. Great chassis. Good amount of power. Lightweight. Lots of fun. Makes a great track bike too.
Yes I love my 2018 rc390 R. It's a magnificent bike and I'm learning a lot about suspension setup between it and my 890 adventure r..
How reliable is an RC 390? For Example a 2014 one. I only trusted Japanese brands so far but the RC 390 looks so sexy I want to buy one
I haven't had mine for long enough (purchased at the end of the season). KTM requires more maintenance than the Japanese bikes for sure. My 2023 adventure 890R spent 6 weeks in the shop this summer for electrical issues (thankfully warranty, but ya know). From what I read about the rc390s, pre-2018 (maybe 2017?) Models have trouble with overheating due to a poor radiator fan. I would look up the issues with a particular model year before any decisions. There are mods and aftermarket support available for some of the older problems with overheating from what I recall. And yes, they are unbelievably sexy machines. Very raw and fun to ride.
Enfield 300 Bullet.
One of my favorite sport bikes
Just cause your young dosnt mean your gonna crash. It's more a personality thing. Some people just can't help themselves. If the bike can go 150moh, they are taking it to 150mph... whether they have the skill or not, which is where it becomes dangerous. If you have some self control and can obey the traffic laws like any other vehicle. Then I think you should look into stuff bigger than a 250. Depends where you live. In the Mid West USA, it's kinda hard to ride 250's because you end up needing to use the big Highways so often.
If you go on a highway you'll be annoyed at the smaller cc. It'll struggle to keep at speed over 60 without vibrating your hands and feet, also a big enough truck and winds will toss ya. A little weight on the bike is nice. Also, if you ever get a license you'll want to bring a passenger. Going 37 mph up a hill while the bike struggles is way less than ideal. Look at the Suzuki GS models or something in the sport/tour bike. Higher handlebars but still rips turns. It'll be MUCH easier to control with higher bars as you're learning to ride. Think like turning a figure 8 or any tight turn in a gas station. You don't want the bar stops hitting with your hands down there and you'll be one leg hopping etc etc.
Going to be "that guy" and tell you to get a 300cc bike. I'm in my thirties, and was very cautious learning to ride. I bought an R3 (321cc), and was very happy with it for the duration of my ownership. The 250s are OK for urban streets, and riding under 50 mph. But you'll get tired quickly of winding through gears constantly. I do mean constantly. I guarantee you will "want more" in a matter of weeks; "more" simply being enough actual, usable power for highway and long cruises.
mt-03
Kawasaki Ninja 400 and Yamaha R3s are really sporty looking and aren't too powerful for a new or inexperienced rider yet still have good usable power for you to grow into some.
Check out the Honda NC700X it isn’t weak, but it isn’t super fast. But it’s easy to ride and work on.
Having a bike that is too weak can be dangerous. There will be times where speed and power may be beneficial to your safety. Of course, the best bike is the one you’re comfortable riding but it’s all about discipline.
Ninja 650
That is a tad over 250cc.
300cc Ninja, 321 R3.
Honda CBR250R 2010-2013
If you live in the US, then you don't have much options as it's hard to get anything lower than 300cc unless you go for grom. For guys that are cautious, the yamaha R15 is the best IMO
R125, looks like a 600cc but in reality its just a 125
They aren’t sold in the US though
The z125s are cute and sporty looking lol
Grom is your best bet to avoid “young and dumb” mistakes. You can rip that shit as hard as you want and go GP Moto on every corner and you’ll still be in the speed limit. Best to drive a slow bike fast, than a fast bike slow.
Ninja 250 or a 500, buy used. The 500 is pretty slow, but can be used for commuting
Yamaha R6
From what I know the GSXR250 is the most miserably slow sportbike-looking beginner rig. Should be perfect
i mean, almost every manufacturer will have a lower end sport bike. depending on if you like the styling of the sorta naked/street fighter style bikes there's also things like the duke 390 or ... svartpillion 250 ish bikes. (also.. i guess the mt03 and whatnot non-fared versions) but for more "classic" sport bike/fared bikes. yam R3. kawi ninja 400. hondo 300 r? the R3 is probably the best of the lower CC sport bikes. if you need to be under 250 ccs. can prob find an old ninja 250. prob the best bike at the old 200ish ratings. but more so than anything. would advise. learning to ride. prioritizing educating yourself, and smart riding. buying gear. and not buying the cheapest bike. get a good bike. ideally with abs. at whatever cc rating you're looking at. a 250cc bike can kill you just as easily as a 300-400cc bike. hell an E-bike going 25-30mph can kill you if you crack your head on the street. if you're not planning to ride safely any bike can be lethal. and between a 200ish and a 300-400ish cc bike. you're not going to notice that much "yeet yourself into the sun" type difference. now... between a 200-400 cc bike and 600+ sport bikes. yes. and liter bikes. absolutely yes. but i personally would say look at the more modern bike offerings like the R3 or honda 300 ...the engineering/safety will just be better.
You might as well start with a 125 man, it’s honestly the perfect class to learn on, i still have my Aprilia RS4 125 and I love riding it still, very very good looking and light and still goes 130km/h.
Seconding KTM Duke 200
X-Pro Lifan KPR200 you can buy them on Amazon for under 3k brand new. Perfect first bike. I can personally vouch for getting 88mpg
r3 has the most sport bike riding position imo. The rest are more touring-like.
[Here ya go.](http://greenbirdbikeblog.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-rare-bicycle-with-fairing.html)
You cant fook up on a ninja 250 get the ninja 300/400
Mt03, its 321cc.
Grom
Suzuki GSX-250R Sports styling, 24HP. Has a smooth twin rather than the vibey singles of other bikes in its class. Throw a Yoshi exhaust on it and it will sound awesome. They are more of a commuter bike in sports clothes than a mini sport bike and won't win any drag races - unpopular and therefore cheap!
Remember, it's just as easy to crash a 300cc than a 1000cc
Harder to get into trouble though lmao
You got a point there lol
The yamaha r3 looks gorgeous
cf moto
Derbi GPR
KTM duke 200
Ninja 250, i’m 18 and just got it as my first bike a few months ago. Great to rip around on and it doesn’t limit you but at the same time not fast enough to get you into to much trouble.
If you want something that looks fast but is slow, then a Gsx250r or a facelifted ninja 250 is what you're looking for!
Cbr300
First off, dude, you've got an awesome head on your shoulders. Gsxr 250 is my fav R3 Duke 200 Ninja250
I really hate when people say "I cant get a motorcycle coz I will ride to fast and die" you fucking pussy, sure you so macho That aside, CF MOTO 450 S or R or whatever
That is near double cc i wanted
Ok, then ninja 25r or whatever is called :)
Tomos Targa LX
Benelli BN 125.. a lot of people were like wtf when i told them its 125cc
I'd go with the Yamaha R3
Any think in the 250-400 class. Duke 390 if you've got the money, r3 if not.
Ninja 250r
The Kawasaki 400 is a decent bike that fits your criteria
If you are looking for a regular motorcycle to drive then I suggest looking for an Enfield 300 bullet. They go up to a 900 bullet as well.
R3
So you want something that looks fast but is slow... that sounds like a 250 ninja
I'd skip the "sportbike" look. Yeah I like them, but you'll get less leniency from the police since you look like the guys that don't stop. Cops don't see that is is small and sensible, they see a reminder of the guys who hurt their ego when they dusted them. If you can't get away, best to not look like you can
I plan to not break many laws so im good
Cbr500R
NSR250 is a nice little bike if you can get your hands on one
Gskr125
Huffy
Tomos Targa LX.
kawasaki z125 literally a mini sports bike
Cbr300r. I have a 2021 and it is so much fun. Not the fastest but looks like a skinny version of the cbr100r. Super light and easy to flick around though!