Kawasaki KR-1
82/100 Overall
73 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki KR-1 vs Yamaha RD250LC
Kawasaki KR-1 scores 82/100 overall against Yamaha RD250LC on 84/100. On the road: 73–73. As classics: 90–95. Overall result: Yamaha RD250LC.
Photo: www.mgaylard.co.uk and thanks for looking · CC BY 2.0
Yamaha RD250LC
84/100 Overall
73 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Kawasaki KR-1 | Yamaha RD250LC | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 8 | Kawasaki KR-1 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 10 | 9 | Kawasaki KR-1 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 9 | 7 | Kawasaki KR-1 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 7 | Yamaha RD250LC |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 5 | 7 | Yamaha RD250LC |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 6 | Yamaha RD250LC |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha RD250LC |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha RD250LC |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Kawasaki KR-1 if…
you want a rare, very fast lightweight two-stroke with sharp handling and unmistakable late-1980s attitude.
Choose the Yamaha RD250LC if…
you want the learner-legal member of Yamaha's legendary LC family, with sharp handling and a thrilling two-stroke powerband.
Background
History
Kawasaki KR-1
The Kawasaki KR-1 was produced from 1988–1989 and used a 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for handling, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Yamaha RD250LC
The Yamaha RD250LC was produced from 1980–1983 and used a 247cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for collector appeal, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Kawasaki KR-1
- Its production span in this library runs from 1988 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are handling, character, styling.
Yamaha RD250LC
- Its production span in this library runs from 1980 to 1983.
- The recorded engine description is: 247cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are collector appeal, character, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Kawasaki KR-1
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KR-1. Its library score for handling 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.
Yamaha RD250LC
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD250LC. Its library score for collector appeal 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
Kawasaki KR-1
- 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 or premix arrangement, crank seals 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.
Yamaha RD250LC
- 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 or premix arrangement, crank seals 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 Kawasaki KR-1
Rivals to the Yamaha RD250LC
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. Yamaha RD250LC wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RD250LC takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.