Serious chassis
The suspension plays a key role, obviously. The 37-mm fork up front and Pro-Link single shock in the back do a good job of masking road imperfections. The non-adjustable fork feels a bit too soft, however, inducing some excessive nosedive under hard braking. On the plus side, it offers excellent feedback to the rider and great precision when tackling 'S' turns.

Proper tire dimensions (110/70-17 front, 140/70-17 rear) combined with Honda's famous C-ABS technology make it easy for anyone – no need to be MotoGP rider Dani Pedrosa – to safely brake at the very last second before entering a corner. Just apply full pressure using either control and the CBR250R will stop in a hurry with no fuss. That's unheard of for a lightweight sports bike.

Comfortable, competent and, most importantly, convenient both on the road and the track, the 2011 Honda CBR250R is just as entertaining as a real thoroughbred without the kind of exuberant and intimidating power that defines 600-cc and 1,000-cc brutes. (Photo: Kevin Wing)

Here, the mechanical C-ABS (not the same advanced setup as the larger CBR RR models) links the front and rear callipers with the two brake controls – hand lever and foot pedal – as well as the ABS to bring safety and stability to first-time riders, not to mention fearless enthusiasts who sometimes push their luck a bit too far. Overall, I found the brakes quite powerful and durable yet easy to modulate at all times.

Bottom line
Comfortable, competent and, most importantly, convenient both on the road and the track, the 2011 Honda CBR250R is just as entertaining as a real thoroughbred without the kind of exuberant and intimidating power that defines 600-cc and 1,000-cc brutes. It marks a new chapter in the sports bike era at Honda Canada, one that successfully started in 2006 with the CBR125R and continues strong five years later with the lovely new CBR250R.

Plus
Serious chassis
Modern, effective powerplant
Fun, rider-friendly dynamics
C-ABS

Less
Uninspiring sound effects
Soft, non-adjustable fork