Honda NSR250R MC18
83/100 Overall
73 On the road93 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda NSR250R MC18 vs Yamaha RD250LC
Honda NSR250R MC18 scores 83/100 overall against Yamaha RD250LC on 84/100. On the road: 73–73. As classics: 93–95. 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 | Honda NSR250R | Yamaha RD250LC | 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. | 10 | 9 | Honda NSR250R |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 9 | 7 | Honda NSR250R |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 7 | Yamaha RD250LC |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 4 | 6 | Yamaha RD250LC |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha RD250LC |
Choose the Honda NSR250R if…
you want precise Honda chassis engineering, urgent two-stroke performance and a sought-after late-1980s race replica.
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
Honda NSR250R
The Honda NSR250R MC18 was produced from 1988–1989 and used a 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke 90-degree V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for collector appeal, handling and braking. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
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?
Honda NSR250R
- Its production span in this library runs from 1988 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke 90-degree V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are collector appeal, handling and braking.
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
Honda NSR250R
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda NSR250R MC18. 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.
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
Honda NSR250R
- 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.
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 Honda NSR250R
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.