What is the difference between a Ninja 250R and 500R?

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Magnum · #1 Unread post by **Magnum** » Sun May 15, 2005 3:31 pm

Are they both street legal?

Since this is my first bike, money is important, I don't want to blow alot of cash.

The 500R is $5000, the 250R is $3,000. Is it worth the extra $2000, or is the 250R a good bike?

Many thanks.

Gilfy650a · #2 Unread post by **Gilfy650a** » Sun May 15, 2005 8:46 pm

Go for the 250 definatly. They are both street legal, but the 250 is a lighter, more forgiving bike. plus you'll save some major cash, also have you ever thought of a used ninja 250? IMO the older models look cooler anyway. plus they are cheaper.

good luck!

nyrblue35 · Mon May 16, 2005 12:24 am

easy answer. the difference between the 250 and the 500 is 250.

ok, you set me up, i had to say it. but if my 1st bike was a sportbike i would go with the 250 as well. plenty of power for a beginner i would imagine.

Magnum · #4 Unread post by **Magnum** » Mon May 16, 2005 10:51 am

Is the Ninja 250 a sports bike or a touring bike? I did some searching on the web, and found people who have taken 1000+ mile trips on it.

#5 Unread post by **Sev** » Mon May 16, 2005 12:04 pm

It's definately a sportsbike. A touring bike is a goldwing or electraglide. 1/2 a ton on 2 wheels, with all the modern comforts. Heated grips, preload adjustment, etc etc etc.

You can take long trips on any bike, but a touring style is usually the most comfortable.

BuzZz told me he's buying one soon.

BuzZz · #6 Unread post by **BuzZz** » Mon May 16, 2005 12:22 pm

Sevulturus wrote:
BuzZz told me he's buying one soon.

And I'll still kick your azz in the twisties with it.....

That new 599 show up yet? Must be getting pretty exited for it to make an appearance, huh?

Magnum · #7 Unread post by **Magnum** » Mon May 16, 2005 8:52 pm

Can a Ninja 250 make it cross country?

TechTMW · #8 Unread post by **TechTMW** » Mon May 16, 2005 9:54 pm

Yes. I know people who have taken cross country trips on 50cc scooters.

It's best to stay off the highways though. Some people would feel more secure on a 500. Both the 500 and 250 have relatively upright riding positions, but may be tiring on long hauls. If I may make a suggestion?

People have gone round the world on BMW f650gs motorcycles. They have Upright seating position, ability to carry mucho luggage and can tackle most any kind of terrain. They also have a plethora of aftermarket for touring - from fitted luggage to more comfortable seats, and can be fitted w/ extra large fuel tanks for the long haul. BMW is also well known for their excellent customer service and support around the globe.

Problem is, they may be out of your price range w/ an MSRP of $8,890 for the base model.

This brings me to a secondary option - The Kawasaki KLR650. Same type of bike, same size engine, same amount of aftermarket support and same long distance capabilities. I would dare say more people have taken these around the globe than the BMW - It's been around longer and it's cheaper. With an MSRP of $5100 it's in the range of the ex500, but it's got better long distance capabilities (Both in passenger comfort and on/off road capabilities.)

Something to consider anyway