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Yamaha XS250
72/100 Overall
70 On the road73 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha XS250 vs Honda CB250RS
Yamaha XS250 scores 72/100 overall against Honda CB250RS on 79/100. On the road: 70–77. As classics: 73–80. Overall result: Honda CB250RS.
Honda CB250RS
79/100 Overall
77 On the road80 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha XS250 | Honda CB250RS | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 9 | Honda CB250RS |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 9 | Honda CB250RS |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 9 | Honda CB250RS |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 6 | Yamaha XS250 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 7 | 8 | Honda CB250RS |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 7 | 8 | Honda CB250RS |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 7 | 8 | Honda CB250RS |
Choose the Yamaha XS250 if…
you want a conventional 1970s Yamaha twin with manageable road performance, familiar styling and straightforward mechanical character.
Choose the Honda CB250RS if…
you want a light, economical and surprisingly entertaining Honda single with nimble handling and uncomplicated ownership.
Background
History
Yamaha XS250
The Yamaha XS250 was produced from 1977–1982 and used a 248cc air-cooled four-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, ownership appeal, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Honda CB250RS
The Honda CB250RS was produced from 1980–1984 and used a 248cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, ownership appeal, handling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Yamaha XS250
- Its production span in this library runs from 1977 to 1982.
- The recorded engine description is: 248cc air-cooled four-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, ownership appeal, reliability.
Honda CB250RS
- Its production span in this library runs from 1980 to 1984.
- The recorded engine description is: 248cc air-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, ownership appeal, handling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Yamaha XS250
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha XS250. Its library score for styling is 8/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Honda CB250RS
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB250RS. Its library score for reliability is 9/10. 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
Yamaha XS250
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- 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.
Honda CB250RS
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- 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 Yamaha XS250
Rivals to the Honda CB250RS
Final result
The verdict
Honda CB250RS wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CB250RS wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda CB250RS takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.