EX250 vs 250r

J

JP911

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Beginner here. Must start with 250 (insurance reasons)

Ive done some research on both models, which one would you recommend? Is the 250r worth the extra $1000 (Used market)?

I don't see why it would, it is heavier and the power output is more. Only benifit is that you aren't riding around in a ugly bike that looks like it was from the late 80s. Handling? perhaps the ride is better/more forgiving?

Id assume parts are more expensive, so when I do lay the bike the parts will be more as well.

Let me know your thoughts!
 
Correct me if I am wrong but doesn't the zzr250 have an aluminum frame vs the steel one of the 250r? Also I believe the wet weight is lighter on the ZZR250 vs the 250r.

Also $1000 dollars could go a long way, especially since you're a new rider (think gear or insurance). Just my 'two cents' here.

Good luck with your choice.
 
There is the old EX250 which is a 5-speed boxy looking thing.


There is the zzr250 which is the updated version - 6 speed.

Then there is the new gen ninja 250r which is totally redesigned.
 
I've had my 2001 zzr250 for the past 3 months and I absolutely love her...

The major difference is that the 250r has a gas gauge and the zzr 250 doesn't. I assumed it was the end of the world and would be super annoying but honestly, as long as you remember to reset the trip meter every time you fill up it is nothing. I got 360km and still didn't hit reserve last time I had to fill up btw.

In terms of looks, the way I see it is this: when you're riding, you're not looking at your bike and on a 250 no one is going to hear your "loud" pipes anyways.
You shouldn't be so concerned with aesthetics on your first bike, it'll get scratched sooner or later.

Grab something cheap, learn to ride it to its full potential, then save up for something you'll enjoy.

Cheers
 
ZZR250 has aluminum frames so it's lighter and it also has more horsepower than the 250r. Also got dual exhaust if you're into that. I personally like the looks of the zzr250 it's more sportier than the ex250.
 
EX250-H also known as Ninja 250R or ZZR-250 (as it was called from 2003 until its end) generally sells for the same as the EX250-F. Most people don't even know that there was a difference in MSRP. It's much nicer bike, higher quality materials and more tech.

"This motorcycle has parts in common with the -F model, though it shares the same engine, albeit with different casings. It sports a lateral aluminum frame, a different fairing (designed to make it look sportier), larger 17-inch wheels, an adjustable rear shock absorber, adjustable brake and clutch levers, a smaller drive sprocket, computer-controlled timing advance, and a revised electrical system. It also featured a smaller carburetor, & slightly different compression ratio, both of which were designed for quicker revving and slightly higher top end power. However, these upgrades came at a 6kg weight gain."

The above is from Wiki. From what I remember it also has a little storage compartment by the front fairing, for keys or change - very convenient.

2rr12fr.jpg

EX250-F

1zbdyye.jpg

EX250-H

Now, what the OP could be also talking about is the difference between older gen EX250-F or EX250-H and the last gen EX250-J. Aside from looks the EX250-J doesn't have much on EX250-H at all, probably a downgrade when it comes to some things even. Vs. the EX250-F it is definitely a bit better but whether it's worth the difference in money, that's really up to you. All these bikes are great for a beginner (unless you're tall, sitting position is quite low). The engines are quite cold blooded as well. That's the only downside of these bikes.

There was EX250-E sold in Canada in the 80's but I doubt that OP is referring to that one as there are few left out there.

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EX250-E
 
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I have a 93 ex250-f. It is a 6 speed like the h and j versions.

The f was sold in the US until 2007ish so parts are easy to find online. It has a dated look....some like it, others don't.

Someone told me that the f is not as cold blooded as the h. I'm not sure if it is true.

The only we to tell which is better for you is to ride them both. They are different enough that one will better than the other. They are similar enough in performance (it's a 250 after all) so it is like flipping coin.
 
For your first bike, get something that you won't mind dropping.
 
I had an 04 ZZR 250. I loved it. If I find it on kijiji I would buy it back (a black streetfighter with a muzzy exhaust, it sounded bomb!!!) There was just enough power for the street. It was lightweight, compact and it gave me confidence on the road. The frame is bigger than the newer 250r and the rear tire is wider too.

I would definately recommend it for any new riders.
 
There are also the 4 cyclinders zxr250 option. Other brands also makes these high reving 250s back in the early 90s but very rare to find these in Ontario. These things go up to 18,000 rpm!!!
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