2008 Honda CRF250R vs 2011 Kawasaki KX250F

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2008 Honda CRF250R 2008 Honda CRF250R

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
227.0 pounds
2011 Kawasaki KX250F 2011 Kawasaki KX250F

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
232.7 pounds
Full Specifications
General
ColoursRed, Black (2008 Special Color, Limited Availability)Lime Green
Warranty-12 Months
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (mm)361 mm330 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)14.2 inches13.0 inches
Seat Height965 mm / 38.0 in.945 mm / 37.2 in.
Wheelbase1,478 mm / 58.2 in.1,476 mm / 58.1 in.
Height-1,270 mm / 50.0 in.
Length-2,169 mm / 85.4 in.
Width-820 mm / 32.3 in.
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight103 kg / 227.0 lbs-
Fuel Capacity7.19 litres / 1.90 gallons7.19 litres / 1.90 gallons
Wet Weight-105.6 kg / 232.7 lbs
Engine
Displacement (ci)15.19 cubic inches15.19 cubic inches
Engine TypeSingle cylinderSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Displacement (cc)249.00 cc249.00 cc
Bore x Stroke (mm)78.0 x 52.2 mm77.0 x 53.6 mm
Bore x Stroke (in,)3.1 x 2.1 inches3.0 x 2.1 inches
Stroke4-
Fuel Control-DOHC
Fuel SystemCarburettor. 40mm Keihin flat-slideCarburettor. 43mm Keihin throttle body
Compression Ratio12.9:113.5:1
IgnitionCDDigital DC-CDI
Starter-Electric
Valve System-4
Drivetrain
Final DriveChainChain
Gearbox5-speed5-speed
Chassis
Frame Type-Aluminum perimeter
Suspension - Front47.0mm inverted Showa cartridge fork with 16-position rebound and 16-position compression damping adjustability47mm inverted Showa SFF telescopic fork with spring preload adjustability and 22 position compression and 20 position rebound damping adjustability/ 12.4 in.
Suspension - RearPro-Link Showa single-shock with spring preload, 13-position [low-speed] and 3.5-turn [high-speed] compression damping and 17-position rebound damping adjustabilityUni-Trak linkage system and Showa shock with 19 position low-speed and stepless high-speed compression damping, 22 position rebound damping and fully adjustable spring preload / 12.2 in.
Rake27.9°28.2°
Trail125 mm / 4.9 in.119 mm / 4.7 in.
Wheel Travel - Front315 mm / 12.4 in.-
Wheel Travel - Rear315 mm / 12.4 in.-
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)-9.4 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)-9.8 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)-250 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)-240 mm
Brakes - FrontSingle discSingle disc
Brakes - RearSingle discSingle disc
Tyres - Front80/0-2118/7-8
Tyres - Rear100/90-19100/90-19

Verdict

Too close to call

The 2008 Honda CRF250R and the 2011 Kawasaki KX250F are evenly matched across the key measurable criteria. Your decision comes down to personal preference, riding style, and which brand's dealer network best suits your location.

Key Differences

2008 Honda CRF250R - Advantages

  • More ground clearance: 361 mm vs 330 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.

2011 Kawasaki KX250F - Advantages

  • Lower seat height: 945 mm vs 965 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.

2008 Honda CRF250R vs 2011 Kawasaki KX250F - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 2008 Honda CRF250R and 2011 Kawasaki KX250F?
The 2008 Honda CRF250R uses Single cylinder, while the 2011 Kawasaki KX250F is powered by Single cylinder, four-stroke.
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2008 Honda CRF250R or the 2011 Kawasaki KX250F?
The 2011 Kawasaki KX250F has the lower seat at 945 mm, making it more accessible. The 2008 Honda CRF250R sits higher at 965 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2008 Honda CRF250R or the 2011 Kawasaki KX250F?
Both are strong choices. The 2008 Honda CRF250R has the edge in greater ground clearance, while the 2011 Kawasaki KX250F stands out for lower seat height. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.