Honda CB 250 F Hornet - ideal for beginners

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Three-piston calipers are installed on the version with ABS, but only the outer pistons “work” from the lever on the steering wheel. The central one is operated by a pedal. In general, the braking system lacks information content, especially on the lever. Traditionally, for roadster and sports cars, the rear brake is ineffective. Three-piston calipers are installed on the version with ABS, but only the outer pistons “work” from the lever on the steering wheel. The central one is operated by a pedal. In general, the braking system lacks information content, especially on the lever. Traditionally, for roadster and sports cars, the rear brake is ineffective.

Video

• A quick look and sound of the Honda Hornet 250 motorcycle
• A short test drive of the Honda Hornet 250 motorcycle

Honda Hornet CB 250 F

is a motorcycle intended for beginners that can pleasantly and carefully introduce a novice biker to the world of two-wheeled vehicles. However, the baby is surprisingly “muscular” and will be able to pleasantly surprise even an experienced motorcyclist. By the way, the Hornet 250 is also somewhat popular among experienced bikers, since it is inexpensive, consumes little gasoline, and has more than enough capabilities for everyday driving around the city. Except that you have to change gears more often than on some Honda CB 400 or Honda CB 750, but can this be considered a disadvantage?

The capabilities of the small-capacity Honda Hornet 250 are truly pleasantly surprising, as is this entire motorcycle as a whole. A classic road builder, slightly modernized in appearance, successfully combines good technical characteristics, simplicity and timeless style. Perhaps, in its class it can even be called one of the best, and this would not be an exaggeration. Moderately compact, lightweight, and powerful (by the standards of the class, of course), the Hornet 250 is a perfectly balanced city bike, which in terms of ease of everyday riding is in no way inferior to everyone’s favorite Honda CB 400.

A full-fledged 4-cylinder liquid-cooled engine is inserted into the steel frame, working with carburetors and a modern 6-speed transmission. The Honda Hornet 250 engine loves high speeds, and for dynamic driving it needs to be “twisted” - this is the price to pay for good parameters taken from a small-capacity engine. The Hornet 250 produces a torque of 24 nM at around 11,000 rpm, and maximum power of 40 forces at around 14,000 rpm. For an inexpensive urban classic with a quarter engine, these are excellent figures.

Despite the rather modest size of the Hornet 250, its ergonomics are excellent. A comfortable and relaxed driving position is guaranteed for a motorcyclist of almost any height, except perhaps very strong ones. The instruments, hidden in chrome “glasses,” are perfectly legible, and all controls are located in the usual places. The dry weight of the Hornet 250 is only about one hundred and fifty kilograms.

The motorcycle's suspension design is classic, with a telescopic fork at the front and one monoshock absorber at the rear. It can confidently be called comfortable, however, if there is a passenger, the motorcycle noticeably “sags”. After all, the Honda Hornet 250 is designed primarily for driving alone, although no one forbids taking a passenger to their destination if necessary, of course. By the way, you will rarely have to refuel along the way - the average consumption of the Hornet 250 is about 4 liters per hundred, and the volume of the gas tank is as much as 16 liters. The brakes deserve attention, and attention in every sense. There is one brake disc on both the front and rear wheels of the Hornet 250, and the motorcycle brakes very effectively. Moreover, you have to be very careful with the front brake - it is so grippy that you can overdo it. But there is no doubt that in an emergency, the Hornet 250's capabilities are enough to stop quickly.

The 250cc Hornet is definitely one of the best in its class. Small, light, great to handle, it accelerates in a way you wouldn't expect from it. True, after 120 km/h the engine runs out of steam, and to maintain dynamics in city driving you have to change gears frequently, but this certainly doesn’t make the Honda Hornet 250 any worse.

Similar models

• Yamaha FZ6-N . The famous “Phaser” from , stylish, tenacious and dynamic.
• Kawasaki ER-6F . In terms of technical characteristics, the bike from the evergreen manufacturer is inferior to the Honda CB600F Hornet, but it is cheaper. Plus, the ER-6F is great for beginners due to its friendly nature.
• Suzuki GSR 600. Competing with the second and third generations of the SB600 Hornet, this motorcycle has earned a good reputation due to its high reliability and interesting design.

Features and Review of Honda Hornet 250

The Hornet 250 motorcycle was created only for the Japanese domestic market and was not exported to other countries. Among the main features of the model, owners and experts noted a steel frame, a standard suspension represented by a telescopic rear fork with a monoshock absorber, a front single-disc brake mechanism, a gear timing drive and a six-speed transmission.

The main competitors of the Japanese motorcycle Honda Hornet 250 are considered to be classmates from the Land of the Rising Sun - Kawasaki Balius 250, Yamaha FZX 250 Zeal and Suzuki GSF 250 Bandit.

During the entire period of mass production of the model, from 1996 to 2007, the motorcycle was not subject to changes in the technical component. The main adjustments affected only the design of the bike and body colors.

Bike features

Here are the main features of the model:

• good dynamic characteristics;
• this bike is designed for one person rather than two;
• 25 Nm and 40 hp. at maximum.

The motorcycle is well suited for the city. The Honda CB 250 F Hornet can also please experienced motorcyclists, because this model is maneuverable and powerful beyond its size. Perhaps this is one of the best motorcycles among the urban classics, which, moreover, can be bought for little money.

When 300 “cubes” is better than a liter. Honda CB300R Neo Sports Caffe test

I'm testing last year's new product - the Honda CB300R Neo Sports Caffe. This is the youngest and most affordable of the three models of the Neo Sports Caffe family. Outwardly they are very similar: it seems that many parts are interchangeable.

In the design of motorcycles, there is an automotive tendency towards uniformity of appearance across the entire line of models.

The assembly and appearance of the Honda CB300R are of Japanese quality, although the motorcycle is produced in Thailand. I've been to those parts and I can say that such a 300 cc Honda in Southeast Asia is considered luxury with excess power. For us, an engine with a volume of 286 cubic meters, producing 31 horsepower, is for “first-season drivers” at best.

I was pleased with the gearbox, namely the precision with which Honda engineers selected the gear ratios. The engine and gearbox work for performance and, when accelerating, allow the motorcycle to accelerate as efficiently as possible. Cooperation with suspension manufacturer Showa can also be called successful. The motorcycle performs well in urban conditions, vigorously diving between the rows. On a country road, the suspensions are not annoying with their rigidity and eat up most of the bumps, which has a beneficial effect on the health and mood of the rider.

I would like to write about the brakes very simply - they exist, and they have ABS. They can’t do anything supernatural, and it’s not required of them. Let it be this: the braking force is enough to stop predictably.

If I said that the Honda CB300R is a pleasure to ride, you might think I was lying, and you wouldn't be far from the truth. In defense of this little beast, I will note that it is very convenient in the city. It is the smallest in its class, which means you can get through cracks that competitors can’t even think of.

On a long trip I liked the work of the suspension, everything was clear and moderately rigid. If you don’t rev the engine too loud, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the fuel consumption – at a speed of about 100 km/h the motorcycle consumes some drops.

If we compare the CB300R with its competitors, the Honda looks nicer and more modern than the rest. But it is inferior to all classmates in dynamics. But, most likely, the CB300R motor has a longer service life. And again, “but” - Honda is much more expensive than its classmates. If you want to stand out, feel free to buy a CB300R - and all owners of classmate motorcycles will look at you with envy, knowing that your motorcycle is the most expensive.

• Honda CB300R
• Test Drive

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Dimensions and weight

The length of the CB 250 F is 2045 mm, while its height is 1055 mm and its width is 740 mm. The wheelbase here is 1415 mm, and the seat height is 760 mm. The weight of the motorcycle without fuel is 149 kg, and with it – 166 kg. The fuel tank volume is as much as 16 liters, which is a lot with an average gasoline consumption per 100 km of approximately 4 liters.

Chassis and brakes

The frame of this bike is made of steel. It has a stylish, modern look, but at the same time there is nothing unique about it. The wheels of this machine are alloy, like most road bikes, and the elegant steering wheel has classic dimensions.

The rear suspension is a pendulum version with a shock absorber, the travel of which is 128 mm. The front suspension with 125 mm of travel is represented by a 36 mm telescopic fork. The rear brake is a 220 mm disc along with a single-piston caliper. A 296 mm disc along with a four-piston caliper brakes at the front.

Characteristics

New for 2008

– New black color

Motor/Drive Chain

The two-cylinder, 234cc SOHC engine is smooth, easy to control and produces decent power. Large cylinder fins for efficient engine cooling. Screw-type valve adjusters simplify operation. A single CV carburetor (26mm) offers high throttle response throughout the rev range. The CD ignition requires minimal maintenance. Low maintenance automatic cam chain tensioner. Beautiful and quiet chrome exhaust system. A simple, easily adjustable cable-operated clutch and an easy-to-shift five-speed gearbox. Durable drive chain.

Chassis/Suspension

– Steel frame – light and durable. The 31mm front forks offer a compliant, controlled ride. The dual rear shocks feature five-position preload adjustment to suit different loads and conditions. Powerful drum front and rear brakes. Lightweight spoked wheels with chrome rims. High-quality tires have excellent grip and a long service life.

additional characteristics

-The relaxed standard riding position and ergonomically designed saddle provide a high level of riding comfort for both rider and passenger. Large fuel tank capacity (4.3 gallons), renowned miles per gallon (mpg) and excellent mileage between fill-ups. Round halogen headlight. Low seat height, only 29.3 inches. Easy-to-read instrumentation on the instrument panel includes a convenient tripmeter. Convenient steering column lock for added security. Double mirrors. Low maintenance battery. Transferable, one-year, unlimited miles warranty; extended coverage under the Honda Protection Plan.

The purchase of a new, previously unregistered Honda USA-certified motorcycle by a single buyer in the United States provides the owner with a one-year complimentary membership in the Honda Club of America (HRCA).

Available accessories

-Tourist accessories: tank panel. Chrome accessories: back. Accessories: Motorcycle cover.

Ergonomics and ride quality

The compact dimensions of the Hornet 250 do not in any way affect its ergonomics: a convenient and comfortable fit is provided even for tall motorcyclists. The motorcycle’s instruments are highly informative and hidden in chrome “glasses”; the main controls are located at hand. The curb weight stated in the technical specifications of the Honda Hornert 250 is 150 kilograms.

The suspension design is classic, represented by a rear monoshock absorber and a front telescopic fork. When there is a passenger, the motorcycle sags noticeably, but this does not affect the suspension parameters - it perfectly conceals road unevenness. The Hornet 250 is not designed to carry a passenger, but this does not prevent it from carrying a second person over considerable distances.

The 16-liter fuel tank provides good autonomy for the motorcycle and allows you to cover long distances without refueling. The braking system is made up of disc mechanisms and is highly effective, but the front disc is too grippy, so you need to control it when stopping. The braking system allows you to quickly stop the motorcycle even at high speed.

Review of the Honda Hornet 250 (CB 250 F) motorcycle

I really liked the motik. The service is not expensive, but in the first place there is a lot of incomprehensibility due to the lack of information on it (the same air filter is installed from the older Hornet (600ki), but there is no such thing in the explanations for the 250k).

The engine is a chainsaw buzzer))) but it seems like the Japanese cult (deformed from Siberia) drive of the camshafts by gears (no need to play tricks with tensioners and dampers) and in general such a cheerful jerk.)) You can even say that it “feels”.

The ride is as simple as a samurai’s sword. There’s not even a progression, which doesn’t stop you from having fun on the track (provided that the carcass weighs less than 90 kg. Otherwise, it’s no longer possible to shift with the power of thought, and there aren’t enough brakes).

Long-distance travel is for masochists (my personal record of self-torture Moscow-Samara in one day). Still, this is a naked bike with a complete lack of any wind protection and with a non-touring seating position.

A very interesting urban matsacycle. A good alternative to the “old liter” for small ponto cutters with no experience. It will forgive more mistakes and give you experience.

So, a small motorcycle! First of all, what is striking is the non-childish size of the tires (the same as, for example, on the 900 Fireblade), namely: 120 in front and 180 in the rear. More than enough for a revving 40-horsepower skate with a volume of 4x62 cc. When viewed from above, we see a kind of thin, elegant motorcycle. The engine is quite compact, and no wonder - after all, the cylinder diameter is only 48.5 mm. The dashboard is traditional, reminiscent of a roadster panel.

Motor. Choke on the steering wheel. Starting a cold or hot engine with a little gas assistance is no problem. Sufficient torque for a decent start at moderate speeds. You don’t even notice the 8000/min mark, because there is no vibration. It does not exist even when the engine is fully cranked. No mechanical noise. Smooth traction throughout the entire operating range. The high-pitched sound is like the voice of an opera diva hitting the highest note - just super. Checking the oil level using a dipstick.

Clutch and gearbox. Light and soft clutch, cable drive. Six-speed gearbox. Switching is easy and precise.

Chassis. Good, stable roll with a maximum speed of 201 km/h. The steering is easy and tends to the outside when cornering. In case of poor coverage, there are clear and predictable reactions to turning the steering wheel. The brakes are good. The pendants also meet the requirements.

Comfort. Good communication between motorcycle and driver. Even people taller than 180 do not feel uncomfortable. The controls do not require adjustment, everything is at hand. The energy intensity of the suspension is high. Ideally suited for a driver weighing 90 kg. The passenger seat is a bit high, but provides an acceptable level of comfort.

Brakes. Front and rear disc. Excellent deceleration. Up front are 4-piston. The manual control is quickly repositioned. They grip and dose well, even on damp surfaces.

Consumption. Despite the high level of revolutions, it produces 6 liters per 100. Possible maximum range is 250 km.

Equipment. Expensive, but excellent road holding motorcycle tires.

Total: version 250 for daily trips. Stylish, nimble, fast.

The mot is good, playful, it seemed to me not enough after 2 months. but there is one minus that covers everything: spare parts... not much. good if made to order. and you won’t find anything at all. if you still find something on the engine. But if you put it on its side, I can’t imagine where you’ll look for all these spare parts. I'll say this. I couldn’t find an air filter for it anywhere, neither in Europe nor in America. So I sold it with the old air vent. the output is of course 400k is common. I’m now on Siber 600 and I’ll say this, there are spare parts for sports in every stall. I had a Hornet 600, which seemed to be a popular moto, but I still had problems with the instrumentation and other things when I used it. You need to have spare parts, otherwise it falls, and the bike sits for 3-4 months while you look for spare parts.

Chinese analogue of the Honda CBR 250. What's the catch?

A ride on the legendary Honda CBR is the dream of a true connoisseur of sports bikes. To take possession of such a handsome man seems nothing less than happiness. But the prices for the original are prohibitive, and thanks to customs taxes they become very difficult to afford. But you want to buy not only a motorcycle, but also men’s accessories to look worthy of a company of bikers. Therefore, Chinese analogues suddenly begin to seem attractive. You can really save a lot of money with them, but you expect some kind of catch from such an acquisition.

you may not notice or consider it completely natural if you have nothing to compare with. Therefore, in order to feel what’s wrong with the Chinese version, you first need to drive at least a couple of thousand kilometers behind the wheel of the original. Using the example of the Honda CBR 250 and its copy, first of all, I would like to draw attention to the quality of the plastic. Yes, in both cases it is red, sparkling, very impressive, it attracts girls - visually it seems that there are no downsides here. But at the first slightest fall, it becomes clear that the Chinese casing instantly scratches, bends, a little more impact force - and now there is a network of cracks. If you wear men's jewelry made of steel, especially with spikes, you risk scratching the plastic even with a sharp, careless movement. Yes, now it’s not a long time to order a replacement and quickly fix a visual defect, but these are all additional costs.

Another weak point is the suspension. If in the original Honda CBR 250 you feel a smoother movement, then in the Chinese the rear wheel bounces and wobbles a lot. The weakness of the suspension is felt more strongly on rough roads with many potholes, of which we have plenty. And this places additional stress on the motorcycle disc wheels. If you hit a bump, the disc may already crack. This often happens with the rear wheel; it bounces more than the front wheel due to the same Chinese suspension. Now, if, of course, you drive more quietly and carefully... But why then a sports motorcycle? You can take a chopper, look into a men's jewelry store, and turn into a brutal biker.

Paradoxically, with a less durable, correspondingly thinner and lighter body plastic, the Honda analogue is heavier than the original. Although the dimensions of the motorcycle cannot be called large, your hands quickly get tired of the steering wheel. But its design itself is quite convenient. The seat is comfortable, but not made of leather, but of a substitute. It can quickly crack in direct sunlight, but with proper care it will look great for many years. Remember that a motorcycle alone is not enough to create a tough guy image; you should also invest in stylish men's accessories. Girls have a good eye for such things, so you need to keep an eye on the appearance of your motorcycle and your own.

After all the breakdowns and repairs, the Chinese equivalent of Honda no longer seems like an economical option. It is of little use for our roads. The most important advantage is appearance, but even that can let you down if you don’t take care of it. So cash in on the original to experience the true power and meaning of a sports bike.

Engine

A combination of simple and elegant design, signature Honda styling, a small engine and excellent performance, the Honda Hornet 250 is rightfully considered the ideal model of a classic SUV. The motorcycle is considered one of the best in its class, and deservedly so, as it is perfectly balanced, lightweight, compact and powerful. In terms of its characteristics and convenience, it is in no way inferior to the Honda CB400, everyone’s favorite.

The four-cylinder engine is built into a steel frame and is equipped with a liquid cooling system, a modern six-speed transmission and carburetor feed. The price for the good parameters of a small-capacity engine is the need to rev it up: peak torque is achieved at 11 thousand revolutions, maximum power of 40 horsepower is at 14 thousand revolutions. Considering that the Honda Hornet 250 is a classic city bike, these figures are quite good.

Summary

Hornet 250, equipped with a 250 cc engine, has rightfully earned the title of one of the best motorcycles in its class thanks to its excellent acceleration dynamics, chic handling, compactness and convenience. The only thing that causes criticism is the difficulty in finding spare parts for the motorcycle, a decrease in traction after breaking the speed barrier of 120 km/h and the need to regularly change gears to maintain dynamics in urban operation, which, however, does not spoil the brainchild of the Japanese company.