Tokyo, March 4, 1998 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has announced the launch of the new Honda XR250 and XR Baja sports bikes in different colors. They will go on sale on March 6. Fitted with air-cooled 4-cycle single-cylinder engines, they are easy to handle, have great grip, and are suitable for off-road as well as on-road use.
Honda's XR series of sports bikes have been designed to be fun to ride no matter what your level of competence. Even after long hours of riding they still provide a comfortable and stress-free ride. They have appeared in many off-road rallies and enduro races around the world thanks to their excellent performance and maneuverability. Great all-round sports bikes, they are equally at home on the road.

Their air-cooled 4-stroke single-cylinder OHC engine features the critically acclaimed RFVC (Radial Four-Valve Combustion chamber) together with a single-shaft balancer designed to reduce vibrations. While delivering the high torque needed at lower revs to negotiate uneven ground, they also generate plenty of power at higher revs for a smooth ride.

The frames are designed to be as compact as the engine will permit. The main frames consist of square cross-section steel tubing in a semi-double cradle configuration that helps to maximize balance and durability without incurring extra weight - a critical combination for off-road use. Suspension settings are also specially tuned for off-road applications.

With a 240 mm disc rotor in front and a 220 mm rotor in the rear, plus lightweight, highly durable caliper bodies and sintered pads, the all-round hydraulic brakes help to give the rider a feeling of assured control. As well as a speedometer, these bikes incorporate a clock and stopwatch with full split timing and distance capabilities, allowing you to record cumulative distances, times and average speeds for individual touring stages.

The headlight on the XR250 is a small rectangular halogen lamp (55W/60W) with a glass lens. The lamp casing can partition the light beam, and visors are also included in a lightweight, easy-maintenance package. The seat is close in height to the rear fender, and has a slim, high-density urethane plastic cushion that supports the rider's weight well for off-road use.

In terms of body color options, the XR250 is available in either White or Silver Metallic. The XR Baja is available in either Blue Metallic or Silver Metallic.

3,500 units