Honda NS400R
85/100 Overall
72 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda NS400R vs Suzuki RGV250
Honda NS400R scores 85/100 overall against Suzuki RGV250 on 83/100. On the road: 72–72. As classics: 98–93. Overall result: Honda NS400R.
Suzuki RGV250
83/100 Overall
72 On the road93 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda NS400R | Suzuki RGV250 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 9 | 10 | Suzuki RGV250 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 9 | Suzuki RGV250 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 6 | Honda NS400R |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 4 | Honda NS400R |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 9 | Honda NS400R |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | Honda NS400R |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Honda NS400R if…
you want a compact, beautifully balanced Honda race replica with unusual V3 character and strong 1980s collector appeal.
Choose the Suzuki RGV250 if…
you want razor-sharp handling, vivid two-stroke performance and a highly focused lightweight race-replica experience.
Background
History
Honda NS400R
The Honda NS400R was produced from 1985–1987 and used a 387cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V3. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and styling. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Suzuki RGV250
The Suzuki RGV250 was produced from 1988–1998 and used a 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, handling and braking. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda NS400R
- Its production span in this library runs from 1985 to 1987.
- The recorded engine description is: 387cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V3.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and styling.
Suzuki RGV250
- Its production span in this library runs from 1988 to 1998.
- The recorded engine description is: 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, handling and braking.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda NS400R
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda NS400R. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Suzuki RGV250
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki RGV250. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Honda NS400R
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection system, crank seals, cooling system and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Suzuki RGV250
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection system, crank seals, cooling system and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Honda NS400R
Rivals to the Suzuki RGV250
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. Honda NS400R wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda NS400R takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.