Honda Announces a Model Change for the XR250 Off-Road Sport Bike

February 27, 2003, Japan

News Release

February 27, 2003-Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has announced a model change for its XR250 off-road sport bike, which combines an easy-to-manage air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder 250cc engine with outstanding comfort and driving performance, both on and off the road. The bike, which is also available with new XR BAJA coloring, will go on sale Friday, February 28th

The XR250 / XR BAJA off-road sports bike is the product of technology cultivated in some of the world's most demanding rallies and races. In recent years, the XR250 has earned a loyal following among off-road riders and on-road riders (who ride the bike mainly in urban settings) alike. 

The new XR250 features an all-new dynamic design based on a Motocross image, with a new tank and tank shroud. Improvements to driving performance include a new, inverted front fork for enhanced handling stability. The front and rear fenders and seat have also been re-formed, creating an aggressive design from front to rear. 

The XR BAJA inherits the same basic performance and accessories as the previous model, but with an all-new color scheme, for a visual appeal that will set it apart on the touring scene and on the city streets.

XR250

XR250

Annual domestic sales target:   2,500 units
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price  (consumption tax not included): XR250 ¥509,000
XR BAJA ¥519,000

(Example of regionally adjusted manufacturer's suggested retail price: Okinawa +8,000 yen. The manufacturer's suggested retail price is for reference only. Similar adjustments may be made in other regions.)

Main Features of the XR250

All-new dynamic exterior design

  • The new XR250 features an all-new look, with newly designed tank and tank shroud. The tank shroud also helps to improve engine cooling. The front fender design is based on that of the Motocross CRF450R, with the rear edge chopped off short. The scooped-up rear fender points skyward, adding to the bike's dynamic feel. The color scheme, with bright red fenders and shroud patterned after the CRF450R, gives the XR250 an intrepid air.

Inverted front forks newly employed for added handling stability

  • The front suspension employs a new 43mm-diameter inverted-cartridge-type fork tube. Suspension stroke has also been increased by 5mm over the previous model, with improved shock absorption and rigidity for outstanding handling stability.

Digital CDI unit ensures optimum ignition timing

  • A digital CDI unit is employed to optimize engine ignition timing in accordance with throttle opening. Response is further enhanced in the 10 to 20% throttle opening range, resulting in superb control in the low-to-medium speed ranges.

Analog speedometer

  • The analog speedometer is easy to read even when driving on rough terrain.

Effective anti-theft protection

  • Anti-theft protection includes a sturdy "combi lock" ignition key cylinder and pre-wiring for an alarm kit*1, sold separately

Body colors
XR250: Fighting Red
XR BAJA: Black

  • *1The alarm kit consists of an anti-theft system that sounds an alarm if the bike is rocked or moved.

Specifications

Model Name
XR250
XR BAJA
Model Type
Honda BA-MD30
L x W x H (m)
2.175 x 0.805 x 1.190
2.140 x 0.820 x 1.220
Wheelbase (m)
1.425
1.420
Ground Clearance (m)
0.285
0.260
Seat Height (m)
0.875
0.860
Vehicle Weight (kg)
133
137
Dry Weight (kg)
119
119
Number of Riders
2
Min. Turning Radius (m)
2.2
2.1
Engine Type
MD17E (air-cooled 4-stroke OHC single-cylinder)
Displacement (cm3)
249
Bore x Stroke (mm)
73.0 x 59.5
Compression Ratio
9.3:1
Max· Power (kW[PS]/rpm)
21[28]/8,000
Max· Torque (N·m[kg·m]/rpm)
25[2.6]/7,000
Fuel Consumption (km/L)
40.0
(60km/h low-altitude driving)
Carburetor Type
VE88
Starter Type
Self-starting
Ignition
CDI battery ignition
Lubrication System
Pressure feed (dry sump)
Fuel Tank Capacity (L)
9.7
14
Clutch
Wet-type, multi-plate coil spring
Gearbox
Constant-mesh, 6-speed return
Gear Ratio 1st Gear
2.769
2nd Gear
1.882
3rd Gear
1.380
4th Gear
1.083
5th Gear
0.923
6th Gear
0.814
Differential (primary/secondary)
3.100/3.076
Caster Angle (degrees) /
Trail (mm)
26°30'/E105
26°25'/E99
Tire Size Front
3.00-21 51P
Rear
4.60-18 63P
Braking System Front
Hydraulic disc
Rear
Hydraulic disc
Suspension Front
Telescopic
Rear
Swing arm (Pro-Link)
Frame
Semi double cradle