Honda Hornet 250cc Review

Today, we are going to delve into the intriguing world of Honda's motorcycles, more specifically the Honda CB250F, or as it's widely known, the Honda Hornet 250. This bike proudly showcases its worth in the 250cc segment and stands amongst Honda's finest creations.

With respect to performance, the Hornet 250 holds the third position in Honda's range, only being outperformed by the stellar Honda Jade 250 (40bhp) and the formidable Honda CBR 250RR Fireblade (45bhp), also popular as CBR Gullarm.

On analyzing the comfort factor during extensive journeys, the Honda Hornet 250 interestingly takes the lead. This allure of superior comfort, based on reviews and customer feedback, stems from its exceptional build and innovative design, providing unparalleled comfort to both the rider and the passenger. Hence, making it a top choice for long distance travels.

Prior to delving into a comprehensive analysis of the Honda CB250F, it essential to acquaint oneself with specific production insights, particularly the production years and the respective chassis numbers. The Honda CB250F was produced from 1996 to 2006, and the significant differences in the features across these production years often prompts some sellers to alter the chassis number and demand an inflated price.

Production Year Chassis Number1996Chassis number for 1996 1997Chassis number for 1997

For instance, [provide a concrete example of a difference between production years here]. Thus, it's highly recommended to familiarize yourself with the product code and the variations in features between different production years. It's equally crucial to authenticate both the chassis and engine numbers before purchasing, as a way of ensuring the accuracy of the information and fair pricing. This context-specific knowledge and cautious approach will lead to a more informed purchasing decision when looking to acquire a Honda CB250F.

• 1996  –  CB250FT – MC31 100/105, Engine number – MC14E-150
• 1997  –  CB250FV – MC31 110, Engine number – MC14E-155
• 1998  –  CB250FX – MC31 115, Engine number – MC14E-160
• 1999  –  CB250FY – BA MC31 120, Engine number – MC14E-170
• 2000 – CB250F1 – BA MC31 125, Engine number – MC14E-175
• 2003 – CB250F3 – BA MC31 130, Engine number – MC14E-180
• 2005 – CB250F6 – BA MC31 140, Engine number – MC14E-190
• 2006 – CB250F7 – BA MC31 150, Engine number – MC14E-200

now we only discussed the differences between the chassis numbers and the production years. From now onwards let’s continue with the review.

Engine and Gearbox

The engine of the Honda Hornet has quite a few similarities with the Honda Jade 250's engine, but with added improvements. This high-performance engine is a 249cc, four-cylinder type. Despite the similarities, the honda Hornet's engine exhibits specific enhancements which enhance its performance. These modifications, while benefiting performance, may have an impact on factors such as fuel efficiency. Any specifics about these potential trade-offs, however, are unknown.

In analysing the history of this engine's production, it’s important to note why Honda has discontinued the manufacture of parts for it. This detail is enormously pertinent to the reader, as it lends depth to the review and imbues a little historical context.

When speaking of power, the engine's output is impressive, peaking at 40bhp at maximum RPMs. While its top speed is officially stated as 180kmph (111mph), in reality, it can actually attain speeds of up to 190kmph (118mph), given the right conditions. The reasoning around this disparity in listed and actual speeds is yet to be clarified.

A consequence of owning this engine is its high maintenance cost. With lack of production from Honda, parts are, understandably, quite expensive to acquire. This cost factor might have a resultant effect on the resale value. Moreover, it might not be the best financial decision for riders not keen on conducting DIY maintenance.

To summarise, the engine of the Honda Hornet borrows its design heavily from the Honda Jade 250. Despite the similarities, it's managed to incorporate improvements affecting its performance, at the cost of high maintenance. Its top speed, while officially stated as 180kmph, can go up to 190kmph in optimum conditions.

If you're contemplating on acquiring a Honda Hornet 250, a model that was in production between 1996 and 2006, employing a professional for an inspection prior to purchase is highly recommended. Owing to historical cases of changes to the engine and chassis numbers, unverified bikes may result in a financial setback. If you're presently an owner of a Hornet 250, prioritise regular maintenance and servicing, especially for the 249cc DOHC four-stroke engine. In order to keep your machine in optimum condition, punctuality in servicing is key. Do bear in mind, the engine utilises a liquid cooling system in parallel with the system used in the Jade 250, hence the need for meticulous attention towards preserving this system."

Fuel consumption and fuel efficiency

 Hornet 250’s fuel supply is done with 4 Keihin Carburetors and its fuel consumptions is around 20-25kmpl (45-50mpg). This fuel consumption is achieved by tuning the carbs by the right amount. This bike is equipped with a 16-litre (4.2 gallons) fuel tank

Suspension, breaks and tyers

Expertly crafted for superior comfort and ride quality, the Honda CB250F utilises an adjustable telescopic fork suspension at the front and a monoshock suspension at the rear. The versatility of these suspension systems significantly contributes to the overall comfort provided by the Hornet, catering well to its riding requirements and enhancing rider experience.

Moving on to its braking system, the Honda CB250F is equipped with Nissin 296mm four piston callipers at the front, and a 220mm single piston calliper at the back — a robust system that ensures optimal stopping power. In a high-performance machine like the Honda CB250F, having a high-quality braking system is paramount, for it drastically enhances rider safety

The adjustable telescopic forks and monoshock not only aid in providing a smoother ride, but they also play a pivotal role in absorbing shocks and maintaining balance, which is particularly beneficial for high-speed rides. Furthermore, the Nissin callipers' capabilities extend well beyond the demands of a bike with this engine capacity, providing a safety cushion that seasoned riders will appreciate.

Hornet 250 comes out of the factory with 130/70ZR16 front tyers and 180/55ZR17 back tyers. But if you want you can change the back tyre as big as 200. If you are buying a Hornet keep in mind that these tyre sizes are usually used in superbikes so you can imagine the prices are also in the same range.

Chassis, overall appearance and handling

The cassis of this bike is made with steel diamond structure with a hard frame, because of this structure at RPM redline you won’t feel any vibrations at all and you will have so much control over the bike. When you try to achieve the top speed of this bike, which is around 180kmph (111mph) you will feel a vibration in the frame but that’s usual in any street bike.

As we talked before this bike is equipped with an analogue meter and it has all the information such as RPM, speed, odo, oil, trip, and fuel gauge. But until CH115 this meter only had a Temperature Gauge(heat) after CH115 it’s replaced with a fuel gauge.

Weighing in at approximately 151KGs, this motorbike might initially feel a bit heavy and challenging to manage. However, once you've become accustomed to this, the bike's comfort and ease of handling often make it feel as if you're not even riding at all! The seat has been designed at a height of 760mm, equivalent to 29.9 inches. This detail ensures that the bike can accommodate riders of various heights comfortably. One main point to keep in mind is the bike's ground clearance, which stands at a modest 170mm or 6.7 inches.

Why does this matter, you might wonder? This simply means, when you're navigating over bumps, keep a watchful eye on the bike's bend set. Now, let's talk about what powers this bike - a 249cc DOHC four-stroke engine! Teamed with the 6-speed gearbox, you get a biking experience that is smooth yet thrilling. Bear in mind, while focusing on the engine and power, never overlook what keeps you in control - the braking system. Fuel consumption could be a deciding factor for many and this bike offers appreciable mileage. Furthermore, the quality of the tyres also deserves mention as they provide good traction and determine the stability of your ride. To wrap it up, while this motorbike has impressive features, bear in mind the weight and ground clearance factor.

Get used to the handling, and you're in for a ride that combines comfort with adventure. So, whether you're new to the biking scene or an established rider, give this bike a try. You are bound to appreciate what it brings to the table.

At last, if we talk a bit about this bike, Honda is not making 250 version of the Hornet right now. Most of the Hornet 250 that are in the market right now don’t have the original paint. So before buying a Hornet 250 make sure you check the paint also. Also, keep an eye on the engine number and the chassis number, some tend to change these numbers to sell for a higher price.

Also refer Honda CBR 250 MC22

Honda made two more Hornet versions which are Hornet 600 and Hornet 900.

Until the next post, be safe and keep riding. ✌