
Honda Vtr 250 Review
"The smartest used learner buy under three grand, full stop."
Used Buyer Review
The VTR250 is one of those rare bikes that actually does what Honda promised — a genuinely fun, flickable V-twin that doesn't punish beginners while still giving experienced riders something to enjoy on a twisty back road. That 249cc 90-degree V-twin pulls cleanly from low revs and sounds surprisingly characterful for a quarter-litre. It's light, narrow, and the ergonomics sit you in a natural upright position without cramping your knees. Used examples are everywhere, which is both good and bad. Good because prices stay sensible. Bad because half of them have been dropped by learners at least once. Check the bar ends, fairing lowers, and levers carefully — cosmetic damage is almost expected. More critically, inspect the cooling system and look for oil seepage around the cam cover gaskets, which can weep on higher-mileage examples. Carb models need the usual sync and jet inspection if it's been sitting. Honestly though, for the money and the riding experience, it's hard to argue against one. Just buy the cleanest example you can afford.
Pros
Cons
You need regular highway or freeway commuting
Similar Naked Reviews
"The maddest naked bike money can buy, period."
Experienced riders wanting maximum naked bike performance $16,000-$21,000
"The middleweight naked benchmark — buy one before prices climb further."
Experienced riders wanting daily thrills without superbike drama $8,500-$12,500
"The most viscerally exciting naked motorcycle money can sensibly buy used."
Experienced riders craving track-capable naked performance $8,500-$14,000
"The best British naked you can buy used today."
Experienced riders wanting daily-usable serious performance $13,000-$17,500