Which 250 to buy?

[RSrider]

Hey People,

I recently obtained my learners license, and am currently looking for my first bike. I have ridden bikes on private land before (Dad used to race them) but this will be the first bike i have actually owned.

My question is, which 250 should I buy?

The 3 that I really like are the NSR250, ZXR250 and RGV250. Which of these is the best all round bike? Which is the quickest? To me the ZXR is the best looking, but I've been told they lack reliability compared to the RGV and NSR, is this correct?

Any info would be helpful as i'm kinda throwing myself in the deep end here. What is a good price to pay for these bikes? I'm preferably looking at bikes that have done less than 30,000kms and have up to $5500 to spend.

Thanks

[Ragingrob]

Have you test ridden any of them? I'm pretty sure they all have their pros and cons which will cancel each other out kinda thing to make them all even so it's up to personal preference. $5, 500 will get you a pretty decent bike I'd say! Make you should also look at CBR's :bash:

[Pussy]

There are a few late model GSF250s about, might be worth a look at one of those. Gassit Girl bought a brand new variable valve timing one in 2000. Bloody awesome little bike. The VZV model is identifiable by the orange/black colour scheme, clip on bars,red valve cover, and small fly screen. They go VERY well

[imdying]

Buy a new Hyosung GTR250. The RGV and NSR are not learner/non mechanically inclined friendly. They will however rape the GTR250 or the ZXR250 once derestricted (unless you buy one that is already derestricted of course).

Having said that, if I were to do it all again, and I was working full time, I'd buy another RGV250.

[vamr]

I'm preferably looking at bikes that have done less than 30,000kms and have up to $5500 to spend.
Thanks

Pipe dream for bikes of that age. Don't be surprised if the 2xxxx reading spedo starts going out of sink as the Kms pile on.

Subsequently, I'll let my delicious rgv go for 5.5k. It had a rebuilt (top and bottom) 4.7k km ago, still has 32mm carbs but an unrestricted sapc.
I've been thrashing it well and proper, just as you're meant to.

[Elise]

ZZR's are stable and learner friendly. They handle similarly to the larger bikes so you dont have to learn everything again when you get your bigger bike. However, if its fastness your after, then ZZR isnt for you

[RSrider]

Thanks for the quick replies.

I'll be honest. The look of the bike is a big point for me, but in saying that I'm not going to buy a bike that looks good but runs like a sack of crap.

The GSF250 isn't really my kinda bike, the ZZR looks alright, so might look into one of them as well. What are the hyosung's like? I've heard good and bad things about them.

At the moment i'm heading in the NSR250 or RGV250 direction.

[MSTRS]

At the moment i'm heading in the NSR250 or RGV250 direction.

I wouldn't. They are high maintenance, thoroughbred racehorses and often end in tears. Get yourself a 4cyl 4stroke like a ZXR, CBR, Bandit, Hornet, Zeal.
Bear in mind that as a learner you have a heightened chance of dropping your pride and joy, and faired bikes can cost buckets to repair.
Whatever, shop around and get a proper check done on any likely prospects.

[owner]

my 2c. if you have 5500 already. wait it out. why buy a 18 year old 45 hp wanna be race bike that has had the life beat out it. When $8000 would get you a real nice 2000+ bike with plenty power and looks. but hey. to each his own

[RSrider]

$5500 is stretching it. I dont actually have $5500 in my bank account. I have around $3000 in savings. The rest will be a top up on my current loan. Also I don't really want to spend anymore than that on a bike.

How do the ZXR250's compare with the RGV and NSR? I also notice the Hyosung's are quite cheap for the fact that most of them are late model? Is there a reason for this?

[carbacca]

I also notice the Hyosung's are quite cheap for the fact that most of them are late model? Is there a reason for this?

the fact that they still actually make them is probably why. lot of 250's just arent made anymore, like zxr250, nsr250, gsxr250, zzr250 etc. the only brand new 250s you can get (off the top of my head) are the VTR250, CBF250, GT250/R, GN250, GPX250

the hyosung GT250 engine is very newbie friendly, plenty of torque from low down so youre not constantly ringing the crap out of it. i can putt-putt along at 40-50k on 5th gear quite happily and its cheap on gas, massive tank and has heaps of range

but knowing what i know now....i hindsight i wouldve gone for the GT250 naked

[Rosie]

$5500 is stretching it. I dont actually have $5500 in my bank account. I have around $3000 in savings. The rest will be a top up on my current loan. Also I don't really want to spend anymore than that on a bike.

Remember that if you don't already have all your protective gear, you'll need to budget for that as well.

[imdying]

Subsequently, I'll let my delicious rgv go for 5.5k. It had a rebuilt (top and bottom) 4.7k km ago, still has 32mm carbs but an unrestricted sapc.Buy this. It's exactly what you want... musings on the rgv250.co.uk site indicate that the 32mm carbs aren't really that much of a restriction, certainly the unrestricted SAPC is definitely a good thing.

How do the ZXR250's compare with the RGV and NSR? They don't. The RGV will eat them alive.

They drink petrol and 2 stroke oil though, so long as you don't neglect it, it'll give you bugger all trouble, and they're dead easy to work on anyway.

[owner]

2002 fxr150??, boots gloves helmet

[MSTRS]

How do the ZXR250's compare with the RGV and NSR?

Who cares? Mostly, as others have said, they have already had a hard life. Granted 2 strokes are easier to work on yourself, but they can get very expensive to rebuild and will need that treatment way more often than a 4 stroke (multi or otherwise).
Anyway, faster is subjective....the skill of the rider is much more important. Even with greater acceleration, A to B in a straight line, the rider must still know what to do to get the best out of their steed. Leave the dragging between lights to the dickhead boi-racers. Us bikers are above that sort of nonsense.

[Dave-]

dont learn on the fastest.

[gijoe1313]

If you want something reliable and gets you around with a little style, comfort and credible performance, you can't go past a nice little ol'hornet! Naked bike so no worries about fairings. very considerate and handles well!

But I'm biased! :innocent: Have a sit on all the bikes you are considering and it will help narrow down the options!

[FruitLooPs]

dont learn on the fastest.

not bad advice that, you don't want a slug but having the fastest might tempt one to try make up for skill with throttle application. Go slow to go fast, technique + corners = fun on a cheap bike.

RG150's fit that, but i would say that. Even then I know when I first started riding I was tempted to get out of my comfort zone and skill chasing after more experienced friends and had a few close calls - personally a 250 2-stroke would've probably ended with me in a ditch. The difference between 150cc and 250cc 2-stroke is pretty immense too. An FXR150 or GN250 runs out of grunt too quick, and loses its shine IMO - but something a bit quicker but not quite 45-60hp like a zxr or 2-stroke 250 is what you want for a first bike I reckon.

Treat a 2-stroke with caution, especially the powerband in corners.

ZXR's, well the A model at least are reallly heavy bikes for 250's. Go pretty well though, friend loves his one.

[ital916]

If you want a two stroke go the RG150 way. It'll keep yah smiling and has power to boot for a learner bike. The 250cc two strokes are not the best me thinks but again each to his own. If you do get a 250cc two stroke take it easy mate. Oh and fairings are arse expensive to fix! ZZR's i hear are fantastic learning machines as are gpx's.

[ital916]

Listen to fruitloops! lol I am a noob rider, i encountered the powerband on a corner with a shit tyre! I was on the ground before i knew it!

[fireliv]

Hey welcome to the site!

I always wanted a faired bike, but Phoenix got me to get a naked bike to start out with. It was a fantastic choice!!! I have a bandit, and love it. Has enough look to not look small, and has enough power that I dont look like I''m going to be left behind. But thats me

You need to think what you wanna use it for. Like mentioned, dont forget gear!

[Bonez]

Try not to dismiss the GPX, GSX, Hyos, Hornets or GSF250s.

[Pussy]

Try not to dismiss the GPX, GSX, Hyos, Hornets or GSF250s.

Yep, the GSX Katana 250 is a great bike, too

[pritch]

It probably hasn't occurred to you, but most learners drop their bike.
Less plastic means less damage and less expense.

Forget about all the racer look-likes and go for sensible. A new Yamaha Scorpio would leave you money for gear and probably some left over to start saving for a bigger bike when you get your full licence.

Then again bikes are more about emotion than common sense so you'll probably do something silly and come to regret it. Just like most of the rest of us did at least once... :whistle:

[daytona 2]

I f you are first time on road, go for a cruiser style bike, you will be less inclined to kill yourself. They give you a more laid back riding style, have a low centre of gravity, and the riding position is good for visibilty.
The best of these is the honda magna vtc250, a jap import, these jap only models are beautifully made, you can pick up a good one for your $5500. These bikes have tones of torque, and will overtake from 100k's no problem.
Just make sure you have new tyres(run them in for 80k's), even if it means you have to spend a bit more money they will save your life in the wet.

[McJim]

Based on what you've said you're looking for the fastest bike for $5,500. But if your REAL budget (comfortable) is only $3,000 might I suggest a Honda VT250 Spada?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-130211663.htm

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-131011478.htm

They're not too shabby in the speed stakes and as people have alluded to in previous posts - as a learner you are more likely to slide your bike along the road in the first year of ownership which can cost $1,000s to repair properly if your bike is fully faired.

[STUPY]

:msn-wink:Hi how's it going???
i've just recently purchased a Bike of trade me after alot of sitting on and going round all the bike shops. i can simpithis with your thought pattern.
i found the biggest problem for my self was that most of the 250's out there look like tonka toys when i'm sitting on them, the frames just seem to be to small.
i have picked up a hyosung gt250r, awesome looking bike and large frame, picked it up for $5300 with disk lock. so diffinately look at one of these

[slopster]

As far as far as learner bikes go I think the bandit is ideal. Good quick inline 4 motor with plenty of top end, comfortable and less plastic to dammage if you drop it. If you want something faster zxr and cbr are better bets. 2 stroke 250's are not learner bikes. I just happen to have a mint zxr on trademe at the moment check it out...
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=131107673

[SHELRACING]

After an accident (I had a CBR600) I have had to go a long way back down in size to a 250cc. I dont have enough strength in my legs to hold up a big bike.

I knew I didnt want a non-faired bike as the 250cc are scary to ride when there is a little bit of wind and or rain. The 2strokes are very fast indeed, they need to be kept in the power bands and thrashed frequently to keep them happy. I'm not the sort who likes doing wheelies every time you open the throttle. We have a 125cc 2stroke race bike and that thing is scary when it hits the power band. Despite what 2 stroke fans say, they are higher maintenance than a 4stroke.

I settled for an imported low km 1987 Yamaha FZR 250cc, which when ridden correctly certainly is quick. It has a top speed of 170kmph, which is plenty quick enough for a blat on a track like Taupo.

The stronger I get the more impressed I am with the ability and handling of the bike, especially after coming from a 600, with incredible handling.

[Cache Wraith]

It's not everyone's cup of tea, but the Hyosung GT250 is one of the best learner friendly 250's available. It's very easy to ride, and can be forgiving for a newbie. It's a sensible starter bike and you don't have to spend big dollars to get a late model one. Will leave you some change for the most important part of the experience, your riding gear. On the plus side as well it doesn't look like a 250 (to non bikers) having a decent size frame. Frankly unless your shorter/smaller in stature, I think some of the other 250's look like toys when bigger riders get on them. I also suggest running with a naked bike as a starter as well. The upright seating position in my opinion is more learner friendly as well. Thats my 2 cents worth. Good luck on the hunt.

[skidMark]

Buy a new Hyosung GTR250. The RGV and NSR are not learner/non mechanically inclined friendly. They will however rape the GTR250 or the ZXR250 once derestricted (unless you buy one that is already derestricted of course).

Having said that, if I were to do it all again, and I was working full time, I'd buy another RGV250.


are you nuts??

he want something fast, hyosung gt250r are a fucking slug.

go the zxr mate, first bike on a learners a 2 stroke is too much balls.

zxr is very reliable, 2 strokes are the ones thatll go bang on ya...blow up and nsr theres 2k down the drain.. just for a top end rebuild (which needs doing every 10,000-15,000k's anyways 2 strokes are a big amount of money to lay down in the first place.

and the money you will spend maintaning it is ridiculous...go the zxr..will be enough grunt for ya.

blow up a zxr and ur looking at $600 for another motor max.

[imdying]

he want something fast, hyosung gt250r are a fucking slug.Well a zxr250 isn't exactly much of a step up, worse when you consider how old and farked they are.

first bike on a learners a 2 stroke is too much balls.Only if you're a soft cock... I mean really, they're not so torquey that they're always trying to throw you off... you'd have to be pretty cack handed and totally asking for it to actually run into trouble.

zxr is very reliable, 2 strokes are the ones thatll go bang on ya...blow up and nsr theres 2k down the drain.. just for a top end rebuild (which needs doing every 10,000-15,000k's anyways 2 strokes are a big amount of money to lay down in the first place.Well what do you expect? It's like comparing a Celica to a Ferrari... one just looks fast :rolleyes: RGVs seem to be about $6k in the shops at the moment... didn't RB have a ZXR for $8k recently?? Which one is big money to lay down in the first place? Hell, there's your first rebuild :lol:

[skidMark]

Well a zxr250 isn't exactly much of a step up, worse when you consider how old and farked they are.
Only if you're a soft cock... I mean really, they're not so torquey that they're always trying to throw you off... you'd have to be pretty cack handed and totally asking for it to actually run into trouble.
Well what do you expect? It's like comparing a Celica to a Ferrari... one just looks fast :rolleyes: RGVs seem to be about $6k in the shops at the moment... didn't RB have a ZXR for $8k recently?? Which one is big money to lay down in the first place? Hell, there's your first rebuild :lol:


zxr is a heck of alot gruntier than a hyosung, and hyosungs are shit build quality ever seen the frame welds?

and yes the 2 strokes are too much grunt for a new rider, i would like to see a new rider keep one in the powerband.

if you hit powerband on an rgvout of a corner...mid corner on exit....your gunna have an adventure, it's alot easier to crash a 2 stroke 250 as a new rider

red baron infact had it for $8,495, but they were shafting people through the ass.

you can get an absolutely spotless zxr250c with about 20,000 k's 95 for about 5k.

one of the mechanics at mt edens has one for sale, from memory 92 c model, with 20,000k's on the clock, not a mark on her, listed at 5.5k but i know for a fact if you offer him 5k shes yours, and it is mintttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt

i would buy it myself if i had the money.

go talk to the boys at mt eden motorcycles.

[avgas]

They are all POS first bikes (and i love them all).
Get something you can slide down the road, ring the shit out of, drop off the stand and still ride home.
While all the NSR's, ZXR, ABC's.... are all fantastic bikes. They cost more to fix than posh and becks marriage. And WHEN you break something, i dont want to be there to hand you a tissue.
How about the following EL250, SL230, XT225, TS185, TS200, FXR150, GB250, Volty.....
Save yourself a few $$$ both in bike, and repairs. Then when you get your restricted (6 months wait) then look at RGV250 or something (even a 400 something:shifty:).
Hard facts are, L plates on sportbikes is like Diamond shoes on a gay guy. L plate means 70k - while most cops wont enforce this......some cops HATE 250 sport bikes and will rape you.
Most of all use the use the Prostitutes motto:
"Cheap slow thrills, are better than expensive quick ones"

[Mike748]

If you've got your learners go through the T&E etc, and get an old (repeat old) 250, If you are not that confident at DIY make sure it is running and not pumping smoke. You should be able to get something for $1500 or less, spend another $500 on some reasonable tyres, brake pads, new fluids/filters all round including fork oil, some carb cleaner n new plugs. Google for tech info and go for it. You'll learn heaps, have a bike you will know well and you won't/shouldn't loose when you trade up. Then you can spend more on your gear.

[jade]

I would not reccomend getting a 2 stroke for a first bike
I did and went up the road 5-6 times including the only highside ive had, at 5kph

[bikerboy011]

check out the cbr250rr....

[points]

Yeah m8, i recommend honda cbr250r or the rr. gsx250r.

You can buy one cheapish thats already been dropped,because you're likely to drop ya bike so why buy brand new cowling?
These bikes redline high,the cbr around 18000rpm,so they sound mint they're pretty reliable,lots of parts,they're fast enough to get ya to 200km/h and riding these bikes gives you a good platform and feel to how sportsbikes handle(limited handle bar movement) so that you don't get as big a shock when you step up to a 600 and 1000cc bike. You can throw these 250's round like a ragdoll.

Flag the 2 stroke, and flag trying to get the fastest 250,because really it doesn't even matter how fast ya 250 is, rider ability is the most important thing.Get something to take you to your full licence in one piece.

[imdying]

zxr is a heck of alot gruntier than a hyosung, and hyosungs are shit build quality ever seen the frame welds?I never seen one break a frame so it's a moot point.

if you hit powerband on an rgvout of a corner...mid corner on exit....your gunna have an adventureWhat a crock of shit... have you ever even ridden one?

I would not reccomend getting a 2 stroke for a first bike. I did and went up the road 5-6 times including the only highside ive had, at 5kphWell I think that says more about you than the bike...

Flag the 2 stroke, and flag trying to get the fastest 250,because really it doesn't even matter how fast ya 250 is, rider ability is the most important thing.Although having another 20bhp on other 250s doesn't hurt your chances :first:

[Matasorapit]

Thanks guys, this thread has been great info.
Is a 250 still gonna be comfortable for long rides like Auckland to Hamilton or Tauranga or Wellington?

[imdying]

If you're looking to do some distance, you could get something like a VT250 spada or a late VTR250... but it all depends on how tall you are. Go ride a few, you'll soon get a feel for what's comfy and what's not.

[slimyxylofone]

Depends on what stage of riding you are at. I wouldn't recommend the three bikes you have decided to chose from to completely new riders--I think they are all too fast. Since you have already ridden bikes though you might be able to get away with it. For me personally, I learned on a GN250 for 6 months and then bought my current '89 ZXR250. It has been an excellent decision and the ZXR couldn't have been better. I have ridden between Auckland and Dunedin three times on the ZXR and once on the GN250 (now this was uncomfortable!). No problems passing anyone at licence-losing speeds.

The ZXR isn't actually too bad for long trips (1300km in three days). It's not luxury, but certainly do-able! Out of the three bikes you listed as preference I'd go with the four stroke ZXR. They may be old but many have had quiet lives and are still very reliable.

I cannot really comment on the reliability of the ZXR compared to the RGV and NSR, except that everything I have read indicates that the four-strokes are more reliable. This would imply that the ZXR would be better. Of course it really depends on the service history of the individual bikes and if the previous owners have thrashed it.

I have my full licence booked for January 4 '08 and will actually be looking to sell my ZXR then. It currently has 27,000km on the clock (have had since 16,000km). I have owned it for around a year and a half and have had very few problems with it. Did have to change the air filter, brake pads and a seal on the rear brake calliper two services ago, but otherwise services every 5000 km and no worries. Some cosmetic damage (scratching) to right fairing from slow speed drop (this was my doing, unfortunately). I tend to think the Auckland 250 market is highly over-priced (who wants to pay $6500 for a 250?). I will be looking for about 4200 for mine. You could probably get me to 4000 no worries, but not too much lower. shoot me PM if interested.

[avgas]

Bro you should get a CBR250, put some NOS stickers on it with NEONS. Yeh superquick and they have like 100hp so should waste your mates Civic.
Dont forget to get some fat tyres so you go faster bro. Even cut some bigger air rams :laugh: cos we all know those air rams feed directly into the carbs

[nudedaytona]

Well a zxr250 isn't exactly much of a step up, worse when you consider how old and farked they are.
Only if you're a soft cock... I mean really, they're not so torquey that they're always trying to throw you off... you'd have to be pretty cack handed and totally asking for it to actually run into trouble.
Well what do you expect? It's like comparing a Celica to a Ferrari... one just looks fast :rolleyes: RGVs seem to be about $6k in the shops at the moment... didn't RB have a ZXR for $8k recently?? Which one is big money to lay down in the first place? Hell, there's your first rebuild :lol:

+1. Get a 2-stroke, like RGV250, NSR250 or TZR250. Late model VJ23 RGV250s look mint, especially ones with all the fast luck strike stickers on. MC28 NSR250s have fancy keycard ignitions to show off (all good until you lose the keycard). I'm learning on my RS250 nice to know there's a bit of power there if I need it.

V-twin 4-strokes like the hyobag are for pussys and we all know what happens to pussys, they get f*cked. :2guns:

[imdying]

V-twin 4-strokes like the hyobag are for pussys and we all know what happens to pussys, they get f*cked. :2guns:Hahahha, no, I'm not advocating that they're for everyone... but what they're certainly not is some sort of evil unmanageable killing machine just waiting to biff you off at the first mistake. Sure it's kinda neat that people thing 2 strokes are that nasty, but it simply isn't the case. In fact, they're big pussy cats... sure they go fast when you wind them on, but just the mid range torque is a lot more fun to ride around on than 250 IL4s too. IMHO. YMMV. IANAL. :scooter:

[Mikkel]

ZXR's, well the A model at least are reallly heavy bikes for 250's. Go pretty well though, friend loves his one.

I don't find it heavy. I reckon it's about the same weight as all the other 4 stroke japanese 250 sports bikes. And yeah I'm loving mine as well!


and the money you will spend maintaning it is ridiculous...go the zxr..will be enough grunt for ya.

I have neither ridden nor owned a 2 stroke 250 - so I have a hard time evaluating the pros and cons of such bikes. No doubt - the unrestricted 2 stroke have more power than the 4 strokes - but it's delivered in much narrower powerband. The ZXR has a nice and linear power delivery which makes it nice and easy to learn on. Keep it below 8-10k RPMs and it's nice and docile. Keep it above 12k RPM and it is pretty fast - even when carrying a heavy fella like me (~95 kg) along.


Thanks guys, this thread has been great info.
Is a 250 still gonna be comfortable for long rides like Auckland to Hamilton or Tauranga or Wellington?

A 250 sports bike is not *comfortable* on long rides. They're small, high reving and your riding position doesn't leave a lot of room.
Further, 2 strokes apparently doesn't like working at the same revs for long at a time - so I reckon for those kind of trips you'd be better off on a 4 stroke.


Hahahha, no, I'm not advocating that they're for everyone... but what they're certainly not is some sort of evil unmanageable killing machine just waiting to biff you off at the first mistake. Sure it's kinda neat that people thing 2 strokes are that nasty, but it simply isn't the case. In fact, they're big pussy cats... sure they go fast when you wind them on, but just the mid range torque is a lot more fun to ride around on than 250 IL4s too. IMHO. YMMV. IANAL. :scooter:

Hmmm mate, your RGV is still restricted to 45 hps right?
It's a valid point though - I mean no bike is more dangerous than how much you decide to twist the throttle!

I'd say - for the track an unrestricted 250 2 stroke is probably going to be as much fun as you can get (sportsbike<motard, perhaps but I wouldn't know). If you're riding on the road and/or using your bike as a commuter I'd say there's a strong case for going for the 4 stroke. I can mention I can get around 22 km/l on my ZXR250 if I'm riding it sensibly (and around 10 km/l on the track) - try ask the people who ride high-strung 250 2 strokes what they get and how much 2 strok oil they eat on the side.

If you like the look of the ZXR and can find a nice and tidy example - just go for it. It'll keep its value unless you drop it and I think you'll find it to be fast enough for now...

[STUPY]

V-twin 4-strokes like the hyobag are for pussys and we all know what happens to pussys, they get f*cked. :2guns:[/QUOTE]

:bash:it's amazing your mentality concidering all riders are not equal & nor are bikes! i have a hyosung gt250r 2006 and it's a damn good bike, frame size is great engine does as it's told and it keeps up with the pack in group rides. it has a top speed of around 170km (proof on youtube) & the bang for bucks is fair. as far as a learners bike something that is forgiving is great, saves the owner more $ from dropping it all the time, feeling like a fool and giving up on riding totally. thinging of other bikers before your self would proberbly keep you out of trouble
:angry2:

[EnzoYug]

Hey People,
My question is, which 250 should I buy?
Thanks

The only way to really answer that question is by riding for a few years on various 250's and then thinking about what you loved most, was best suited for you etc....

Since that's only available in dream land I give the following recommendation:

1. Dont buy a rocket. Your first bike will dropped, it will be crashed and most likely you will get hurt. The difference between an NSR and a GN can also be the difference between 15 weeks in traction and 15 minutes on the side of the road catching your breath.

2. Know your limits. Don't spend more than you can, chances are if it's your first bike you'll be spending MUCH more than you need to anyway. Start small and move upwards. (remember 250's re-sell VERY well so don't worry about losing money yet)

3. Ride, ride and test ride some more. If they won't let you ride then don't fucking buy it. Plain and simple. Test ride more than once if possible.

4. Check it out. Get a friend to help take a look ( someone who know's something about bikes) or read one of the many 'buying a second hand bike' threads on here.

5. If you buy new then WORK THE WARRANTEY. Lot's of people put up with problems / broken bits, especially on cheaper bikes because they simply think that it's meant to make 'that noise' or that 'neutral is always hard to find' - if you ever feel suspect, call the shop, and don't take no for a first answer.

6. Google, TradeMe and your fellow KiwiBikers are your friends. If you want to know if a bike is worth $10k with all the "sick modz yo" - then see what other people are paying / prepared to pay.

and lastely...

7. Save lots for gear. You MUST have at least $500 bucks set aside for commuting, or $800-1200 if you plan to hit the motorway / highway. The gear is worth it. You might not crash in anything, but a cage might crash into you - and the sad truth is that there is nothing you can do about it, except wear the best gear you can.

Ps. Dont forget insurance. 3rd party at least! Otherwise you'll be down 10 grand when you hit a Merc!

[qldzxr250a]

lol had to throw my 2c in cause this is funny as hell.....

my first bike was a zxr.

would have loved and RGV or NSR and still would (wouldnt trade the GIX but....)

its all up to u.

U and only U are in control of the bike.

if ur handy with a spanner/ have a good interest in learning to spanner maybe the 2smoke is 4 u. if not go a 4.

ultimatly it doesnt matter what ur riding if u cant control it it'll bite ya.

for the record i never dropped my 1st bike. i just rode it off a 15m cliff......:Offtopic:

so 2 or 4 the choice is urs. go ride em believe me the bike that is ment 4 u will pick u soon enough, the homicidial grin will show u the way. :first:

remember rubber side down.

[Insanity_rules]

I'm in the ex owners of RG250's support group. Fecken fast little bike, but will break your heart in the reliability stakes. Have you looked at an Aprilia RS250? you'd probably get one for what you want to spend if you look hard enough. Little bit more modern and they go like a raped ape.

[jcupit69]

Hyosugs are horrible!!! i mean horrible!! top out at 140km and handle horibly, they want to fall over cus theres no power to really pull you out of a corner.

had a zxr (sum ass in a 4x4 wrote it off last month!!) and there really reliable and dnt require much wrk, not bad on gas and good to ride, would recomend a steering damper though. lots of pwer up top for when you get more experience, but enough down low to keep you happy.

Just got an rs 250 aprilia and its amazing to ride, riden most 250s and its by far the best (98+ though), however the rs, rgv and nsrs arent realy for a first time rider as they require alot more skill than the 4strokes. There also thirsty on gas and very expensive oil, and lots of servicing and attention.

I would recomend the zxr very highly as a learners and a good all rounder. make sure you get the c model (1992+) as they have a better riding position and better engine. watch out for weeping fork seals though!!

If you ride a zxr and a hyosung you will see how bad the hyosungs are...i mean terrible!!!! stay away from buying new, there a waste of money and have much worse performance than early 250's (change in emisions laws)

As others have said though ride, ride and test ride some more, zxr's and cbr's are very similar, but have subtle differences. try a 2stroke, but they have very little down low and a nutter powerband. Rs aprilias are the newest 250s but are expensive, but are a work of art!!

Also get a good jacket and helmet and you want boots and gloves aswell at least. Im sure most riders who've had a crash will testify good gear will save your life!!!

You need insurance, everyone crashes or gets hit and it makes it so much easier (and over value your bike abit when u get it insured as u cn then go n get a better bike next time).

Bottom line is find the bike that suits you and you skill and experience and get safe on it (helmet, insurance etc etc). We can all recomend (i say zxr 250), but you gotta go test ride and see what you like.

[Indiana_Jones]

buy one that you can afford and won't die on you

forget about high top end speeds etc, you're just gonna be riding it on the road, no?

-Indy

[geno]

I would recomend something cheap and nasty for your first bike, after a few months and a crash or two get something better.

nsr's can be high maintance ( about to spend 4k on mine ) but are absolutly awsome bikes, fully worth every cent. Keep in mind 2 stroke costs $25+ per litre, unless you hate your bike.

[Rev DJ]

Well, I must defend the Hyo's - having bought one new recently :2thumbsup

I was looking for a communting bike - something that would easily fit with the Wellington traffic yet just as easily eat up the open road on the occasional trip out of town. The Hyo does both nicely.

Give it a test ride... and a thumbs up to the team at Motorad in Welly - great service. Cheers DJ

[Rev DJ]

Hehe - Communting is a version of commuting ??? go figure!!! DJ

[Insanity_rules]

Hehe - Communting is a version of commuting ??? go figure!!! DJ

It's the Upper Hutt version (Or West Auckland if you're up that way), Its commuting in Black Jeans LOL.....
(FYI I live in Upper Hutt, before all you fellow Upper Hutt KBers red rep me and pan me into the ground)

[Wildbeanie]

Hi all,

I'm a newbie myself looking for a first bike & have just seen this week a brand new CBF250 for $4995 in Motamart in Lower Hutt. Not sure if these are a good option but would appreciate any comments others out there might have.

Cheers

[CaMo]

Well my first road bike as such is a RGV250. Mint bike, heaps of power and good handling. If you have ridden dirt bikes alot before such as me you shouldn't have any problem riding it.

If anyone is after one I may be interested to sell.

BRAND new clutch
modified power valves
Boyseen reeds
de-restricted SAPC
de-restricted mufflers

$4500 ono :)

[RSrider]

Well this is the bike I ended up buying. 1993 ZXR250C. Travelled 14,000kms and I picked it up for $3700. I thought that was a damn good price??

[Crowdog]

damn good price and a damn good bike

[imdying]

If it's goes as good as it looks, a pretty good price! :yes:

[Rev DJ]

Looks like a fine bike - did you get it thro a dealer? DJ

[Dave-]

hell that's a fine example.

nice bike, almost exactly what I was looking for a while ago.

[RSrider]

I purchased it off trademe on Friday. It was advertised at $3500. I rang the seller up and seeing as I was in Wellington and the bike was in Auckland I asked if they could take the bike to get an inspection at my cost.

They said fine, but they had 5 people looking at it that day and wanted to see what they said first. I told him I was dead keen on the bike and asked what price they wanted for a instant sale, they replied $3700. So I had my cousin who lives in Auckland to go around and check it out, he said it was mint and ran really well, so by 5pm the bike was on a transporter and on its way down here.

Absolutely stoked with it.

[Slicksta]

Hi all,

I'm a newbie myself looking for a first bike & have just seen this week a brand new CBF250 for $4995 in Motamart in Lower Hutt. Not sure if these are a good option but would appreciate any comments others out there might have.

Cheers

I like mine its a good bike to learn on easy to ride. i took it over to raglan from Hamilton yesterday handled it very well! Looks the part to i think. I can ask carver to write a review on it if you like...

[NOMIS]

[QUOTE=RSrider;1328710]Thanks for the quick replies.

I'll be honest. The look of the bike is a big point for me, but in saying that I'm not going to buy a bike that looks good but runs like a sack of crap.

The GSF250 isn't really my kinda bike, the ZZR looks alright, so might look into one of them as well. What are the hyosung's like? I've heard good and bad things about them.

Why does no one ever look at the hornet, NSR will be quick but unreliable for a learner who wont be able to controll wanting to pull that throttle, yet me and a friend of mine rev the nut off our hornets and never miss a beat. his dont 66000km siting mostly above 10000rpm and still flys like nothings touched it. have a pic in my profile if you want to see minus thoes gay mirrors and that gay front fairing its a sexy lil bike.

[gijoe1313]

[QUOTE=RSrider;1328710]Thanks for the quick replies.

I'll be honest. The look of the bike is a big point for me, but in saying that I'm not going to buy a bike that looks good but runs like a sack of crap.

The GSF250 isn't really my kinda bike, the ZZR looks alright, so might look into one of them as well. What are the hyosung's like? I've heard good and bad things about them.

Why does no one ever look at the hornet, NSR will be quick but unreliable for a learner who wont be able to controll wanting to pull that throttle, yet me and a friend of mine rev the nut off our hornets and never miss a beat. his dont 66000km siting mostly above 10000rpm and still flys like nothings touched it. have a pic in my profile if you want to see minus thoes gay mirrors and that gay front fairing its a sexy lil bike.

Yup yup yup, my little ol'hornet has done 88000km at 10000rpm and still keeps on pootling like the day I got it! :yes:

Go the little ol'hornets!

[Monty69]

Hey People,

I recently obtained my learners license, and am currently looking for my first bike. I have ridden bikes on private land before (Dad used to race them) but this will be the first bike i have actually owned.

My question is, which 250 should I buy?

The 3 that I really like are the NSR250, ZXR250 and RGV250. Which of these is the best all round bike? Which is the quickest? To me the ZXR is the best looking, but I've been told they lack reliability compared to the RGV and NSR, is this correct?

Any info would be helpful as i'm kinda throwing myself in the deep end here. What is a good price to pay for these bikes? I'm preferably looking at bikes that have done less than 30,000kms and have up to $5500 to spend.

Thanks
I highly reccomend a CBR. Ive owned 2 CBRs, a RGV, a NSR, a HORNET(cb250) and my mate has a ZXR which i would reccomend also. The CBR is fast enough, and they are super reliable. I got my first CBR to 80,000kms before i sold it without any major work. A four stroke 4cyl at 18000rpm sounds f**king sweet too. The 2strokes r faster but cost far more in running/maintainence. No good if you're going to commute on it and/or are on a budget. CBR or ZXR should be