Asia-Only Honda VTR250 Gets Half-Faired Variant for 2013

Honda‘s CBR250R has done fairly well for itself since its introduction in 2011, helping to revitalize the entry-level segment of the market in the U.S. What some people may not realize is Honda has been producing a 250cc-class called the VTR250. Available in its current form since 1997, the Honda VTR250 is a naked standard with a Ducati Monster-esque trellis frame offered in the Asia-Pacific region.

Whereas the CBR250R introduced a brand new 249cc single-cylinder engine, the Honda VTR250 is powered by a 249cc 90-degree V-Twin engine. Claiming 29.5 hp at 10,500 rpm and 16.2 ft-lb. at 8500 rpm, the VTR promises more power and torque than the CBR250R which claims 21.9 hp at 8500 and 14.7 ft-lb. at 6750 rpm.

For 2013, Honda is introducing a partially-faired variant called  the VTR-F. Instead of the VTR’s conventional circular headlight, the VTR-F uses a Y-shaped multi-reflector headlight reminiscent of the CBR250R. The VTR-F also gets a new instrument cluster with an analog tachometer and amber-backlit LCD screen while the VTR uses dual analog dials with smaller inset LCD screens.

The VTR and VTR-F are otherwise similar, equipped with five-speed transmissions, dual-piston disc brakes, 140/70-17 rear and 110/70-17 front wheels and a 30-inch seat height. Both versions use 41mm telescopic forks offering 130mm of travel and a rear monoshock offering 120mm of travel with new settings revised for 2013.

Honda claims a curb weight of 355 pounds for the VTR and 362 pounds for the VTR-F. The 2013 Honda VTR will be produced in Magna Red, Graphite Black and Pearl White for 567,000 Japanese yen (US$6080) while the VTR-F will be available in Pearl and Sunbeam White and Pearl Cosmic Black with red frames for 588,000 yen (US$6305).

[Source: Honda]

By Dennis Chung