Today, I was able, for the first time, to actually ride the new CBR250. My dealer knows I am holding out for an ABS equipped but allowed me to ride a non abs model. I will have to say, following my ride I was most seriously considering simply forgetting about abs and moving on this bike. So here it is: The bike, frankly, looks absolutely great, in some ways it is a work of art as well as engineering functionality. Fit and finish and materials are just excellent. The riding position is reasonably comfortable for my 6'1'' frame..the clocks are beautiful with your speed showing up in large easy to read digits requiring only a quick glance and the tack is easy to follow and large enough also. The CBR is amazingly maneuverable, light and confidence inspiring, it snicks through the gears with consummate ease..and brakes with ease and linearity with little front end dive. The suspension is firm but compliant and conveys what you want to feel but remains firmly planted. It comes off as well sorted despite its adjustment limitations. Engine mapping via the fuel injection is very linear..very smooth, not abrupt or jerky. Acceleration meets expectation. It is not quick but you won't be embarrassed or feel unsafe. Engine vibration is minimal..very acceptable levels and, in fact, it sings happily with wonderful moto machinery sounds in the mid to upper ranges. I think this is what I liked the best. It is clear that it will have to live at 5-9,000 rpms to keep things moving but it is happy to do so.
So what was I not so thrilled with? Well, for me, it seemed first gear is a little too low...and maybe second gear also. I think they designed it this way so riders who are learning clutch and throttle for the first time have an easier go at it...I would just tweek these two gears a little bit if I could. And the jet stream hits me a little low in the chest but this could be a good thing at speed and on a warmer day....Sixth gear is not for acceleration..one finds that out quickly..and I didn't want to wind out 4th and 5th enough on the dealers bike to find out what sixth will "hold" comfortably. I think anything uphill will surely require a quick downshift. Passing on a two lane at highway speeds will require your consideration and focus.
Bottom line: amazing fun machine that does everything pretty well. Yes, I did smile in my helmet. I want my ABS equipped CBR250RAB....in black please.
So what was I not so thrilled with? Well, for me, it seemed first gear is a little too low...and maybe second gear also. I think they designed it this way so riders who are learning clutch and throttle for the first time have an easier go at it...I would just tweek these two gears a little bit if I could. And the jet stream hits me a little low in the chest but this could be a good thing at speed and on a warmer day....Sixth gear is not for acceleration..one finds that out quickly..and I didn't want to wind out 4th and 5th enough on the dealers bike to find out what sixth will "hold" comfortably. I think anything uphill will surely require a quick downshift. Passing on a two lane at highway speeds will require your consideration and focus.
Bottom line: amazing fun machine that does everything pretty well. Yes, I did smile in my helmet. I want my ABS equipped CBR250RAB....in black please.
