Honda NSR250R MC18
83/100 Overall
73 On the road93 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda NSR250R MC18 vs Yamaha RD500LC
Honda NSR250R MC18 scores 83/100 overall against Yamaha RD500LC on 84/100. On the road: 73–68. As classics: 93–100. Overall result: Yamaha RD500LC.
Yamaha RD500LC
84/100 Overall
68 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda NSR250R | Yamaha RD500LC | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 10 | 8 | 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 | 6 | Honda NSR250R |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 4 | 5 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha RD500LC |
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 RD500LC if…
you want genuine Grand Prix-inspired engineering, explosive two-stroke performance and one of Yamaha's most memorable road-going race replicas.
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 RD500LC
The Yamaha RD500LC was produced from 1984–1986 and used a 499cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V4. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and historic importance. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
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 RD500LC
- Its production span in this library runs from 1984 to 1986.
- The recorded engine description is: 499cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V4.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and historic importance.
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 RD500LC
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD500LC. 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 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 RD500LC
- 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 NSR250R
Rivals to the Yamaha RD500LC
Final result
The verdict
Honda NSR250R MC18 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha RD500LC wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RD500LC takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.