Tachometers were not a part of consumer level bikes, let alone cars, for most of the history of both, so I agree they are not entirely necessary. Both have become 'fashionable' in the last 10-15 years. Being able to judge when to up or downshift based on the feel and sound of the engine is a skill any beginner can and will learn in a weekend. A speedometer is a necessary gauge, because speed, unlike 'rpm' is not regulated by law. Finally, the cbr 250 is a very new model of bike, so to assume that even senior members of this forum are experienced riders is not a fair assumption. But all riders should be able to appreciate spending as little time as necessary staring at dials and gauges, and instead keeping your eyes on all the idiot drivers out there who are 'not' paying attention to us....