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Sport · 1989

NSR 250 R

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MotoLibrary Score
52 /100 Balanced
Power/Weight
0.34 hp/kg
Top Speed
209 km/h
Engine
249 ccm

1989 Honda NSR 250 R Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Positioned in Honda's sport motorcycle lineup, the 1989 Honda NSR 250 R pairs a 249 cc (15.2 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, two-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 45 HP (32.8 kW) at 9,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 180.7 HP per liter, the engine character is placing it firmly in high-revving supersport territory where top-end breathing dominates.

On the scales, the NSR 250 R measures 131 kg (289 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.34 HP/kg (2.91 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 780 mm (30.7 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,345 mm (53 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 16-liter (4.2 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 209 km/h (130 mph).

Specific Output
180.7 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.34 HP/kg (2.91 kg/HP)
Standover Height
780 mm (30.7 in)
Engine
Displacement 249.0 ccm (15.19 cubic inches)
Engine Type V2, two-stroke
Engine Details V2, two-stroke
Power 45.0 HP (32.8 kW)) @ 9500 RPM
Compression 7.3:1
Fuel System Carburettor. Twin Keihin Flat slides
Ignition CDI PGM II
Lubrication Injected 2-stroke oil
Cooling Liquid
Max RPM 13000
Transmission
Gearbox 6-speed
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Clutch Wet plate
Performance
Top Speed 209.2 km/h (130.0 mph)
Exhaust Expansion chamber, RC power valves
Chassis
Frame Type Twin spar aluminum
Rake 23.0°
Trail 87 mm (3.4 inches)
Wheelbase 1345 mm (53.0 inches)
Ground Clearance 135 mm (5.3 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 110/70-17
Rear Tyre 150/60-18
Front Brakes Double disc. 4 piston calipers
Front Brake Ø 276 mm (10.9 inches)
Rear Brakes Single disc. single piston caliper
Rear Brake Ø 220 mm (8.7 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 131.0 kg (288.8 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.3435 HP/kg
Seat Height 780 mm (30.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height 1060 mm (41.7 inches)
Overall Length 1980 mm (78.0 inches)
Overall Width 650 mm (25.6 inches)
Fuel Capacity 16.00 litres (4.23 US gallons)
Reserve Fuel 1.20 litres (0.32 US gallons)
Other
Starter Kick
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Power
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Weight
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Fuel Capacity
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Brakes
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Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟢
Beginner
A2 license compatible, manageable power.
🏁
Best For
Sport & Track
📏
Seat Height
78 cm / 30.7 in
⚖️
Handling
Manageable weight for most riders
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