The Honda CBR250R Sports ABS and 2017 CRF250 Rally use similar-capacity single-cylinder engines for very different purposes. The Indian-market CBR250R is a fully faired road bike with 17-inch wheels and an upright sports-touring posture. The CRF250 Rally is an international dual-sport model with long suspension travel, spoked wheels and bodywork inspired by rally competition.
Both are manageable quarter-liter Hondas, but one prefers a paved corner and the other views the end of the pavement as useful new information.
CBR250R and CRF250 Rally Specifications
| Specification | CBR250R Sports ABS | 2017 CRF250 Rally |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 249.6 cc liquid-cooled DOHC single | 250 cc liquid-cooled DOHC single |
| Claimed power | 26.5 PS at 8,500 rpm | 24.4 bhp at 8,500 rpm |
| Claimed torque | 22.9 Nm at 7,000 rpm | 22.6 Nm at 6,750 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Fuel capacity | 13 liters | 10.1 liters |
| Seat height | 784 mm | 895 mm |
| Kerb weight | 167 kg in later ABS specification | 157 kg |
| Wheels | 17-inch cast wheels | 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheels |
Road Sport or Dual Sport?
The CBR250R is the stronger road machine. Its fairing, lower seat and wider rear tire suit commuting and highway use, while the ABS version adds two-channel anti-lock braking to front and rear discs. The single-cylinder engine is less frantic than a small multi-cylinder sportbike and delivers useful midrange performance.
The CRF250 Rally is slower on pavement but far more capable when surfaces deteriorate. It provides 270 mm of ground clearance, long-travel suspension and narrow off-road-size wheels. Its windscreen and enlarged tank improve distance comfort over the standard CRF250L, although the tall seat can be a deciding factor for shorter riders.
Choose the CBR250R for daily road use, lower seat height and stronger paved-road performance. Choose the CRF250 Rally for mixed surfaces, rough roads and lighter trail riding. Used examples should be checked for service history, crash damage and poorly installed accessories; both models attract owners with ambitious plans and varying relationships with electrical connectors.
