Yamaha YZF-R25: What are its alternatives?

KUALA LUMPUR: Since its launch, the Yamaha YZF-R25 has been climbing the popularity charts in Malaysia and was recently introduced in two new colours- blue and black for its 2018 edition. It is a perfect combination of sporty looks and power packed performance. Its 249cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine features fuel injection and is capable of churning 35.5 hp of power and 22.6 Nm of peak torque. It looks sporty and aggressive right from its dual predator headlight until its edgy sport LED tail light. Riding a YZF-R25 is a great experience, thanks to its lightweight diamond frame, telescopic front, monoshock rear suspension setup, wide alloy wheels wrapped in tubeless tyres, and an anti-slip seat.

With a price tag of RM20,630 and Yamaha’s trusted long lasting engine, the YZF-R25 surely is a great buy. But what if someone wants to look around for something other than a Yamaha? Here’s a list of bikes from the 250cc sports bike category which can be an alternative to the Yamaha YZF-R25.

1. KTM RC 250

KTM recently introduced the 2017 RC 250 in Malaysia and its latest offering proudly flaunts the company's ‘Ready To Race’ DNA. The sports bike features a twin LED headlight, massive fuel-tank, full-fairing, sleek & edgy tail, integrated pillion seat, and the trademark orange paint on its frame and wheels.

It draws power from a 248.8cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine which churns out a max power of 31.3 hp and a peak torque of 24 Nm, mated to a 6-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch. Suspension setup comprises of a WP 43 mm upside down front forks and WP monoshock at the rear. It comes fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels shod with wider tyres, 110 mm at the front and 150 mm at the rear for better on-road grip. Braking is handled by 300 mm front disc and 230 mm rear disc and ABS is offered as standard which is missing in the YZF-R25. Built on a lightweight trellis frame, the RC250 provides a smooth and enjoyable riding experience. It retails at RM22,790 (excluding road tax and insurance).

2. Kawasaki Ninja 250 FI

This entry-level high capacity bike from Kawasaki has made its mark in the country since its introduction. The Ninja 250 features a split multi-reflector headlight, full fairing, a slim tail section and integrated grab handles which are largely inspired by its elder siblings, the Ninja ZX-10R and the Ninja ZX-6R.

Powering the bike is a 249cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, eight-valve, parallel-twin engine that pumps out 32hp of max power and 21 Nm of peak torque and features digital fuel injection. It’s a frugal option in this category with a claimed fuel efficiency of 45kmpl (better than the YZF R-25) and comes with an economic ride indicator. Built on a diamond-style frame, the YZF R-25 has a kerb weight of 172 kg but still offers a nimble handling. Suspension duties rest with 37 mm front forks and monoshock at the rear, while braking is handled by 290 mm petal disc up front and 220 mm petal disc at the rear. It is available at RM 20,757 (excluding road tax and insurance).

3. Honda CBR 250R

Another stylish participant in this category is the Honda CBR 250R. It flaunts a dual supersport headlight, smart full fairings, a sleek tail end and a digital instrument console with an analog tachometer.

Power is drawn from a 249.6cc, liquid-cooled, 4-Stroke, DOHC, single-cylinder engine that generates maximum power of 27 hp and peak torque of 23.3 Nm. The engine also features Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM - Fi) for an improved performance. Claimed mileage stands at 29 kmpl and the bike can clock a top speed of 135 kmph. Suspension setup comprises of conventional telescopic front forks and Pro-link at the rear. A comfortable seat is placed on a diamond frame so that the rider's posture is maintained while riding. Honda has priced the CBR 250R at RM, 21,940 (excluding road tax and insurance).