Maybe we can add these to the list as well?
Yamaha WR250X
Not really your average 250. Most 250s in North America are kind of put together to be cheap, get good gas mileage, and a few look cool. The WR250X is pushing the envelope of a "performance 250" so to speak. This bike's motor has more in common with a 250 motocross bike than a Ninja 250. It's still not going to win many drag races, but it will take most, if not all, other 250s and with a good rider can certainly handle with the big boys. Speaking of handling, that would seem to be the strongest suit of this bike, the handling is very much supermoto in nature (and so is the weight, coming in at 299lbs wet). Packed full of technology such as fuel injection, it is a 250 that does not feel put together from the leftover parts bin and can be loads of fun! The high eat position, claimed 71mpg highway, light weight, and high maneuverability should put this bike near the top of the list for city commuters and those not looking to do too much highway (the 6-speed transmission has the capability, but the seat is not designed for touring). Many regard it as the most fun commuter bike on the market. It is also available in a more dirt-oriented R model for those looking to some dual-sporting.
Pros:
Not another bargain bin 250
10,000RPM redline, and the motor loves to be revved
Putting the fun back into the commute
Wringing the throttle through the corners, blaring the RPMs, having the biggest grin on your face, and then realizing your only do 5 over the limit
Packed full of technology (6-speed, fuel injection, adjustable suspension)
Carves corners like no other 250
The look of "dirtbike, WTF?" from cagers
Waving to SS riders as you pass them on the outside of a tight corner
Very good gas mileage
LOW insurance rates
Being unable to stop smiling on it
26K mile valve checks
Cons:
High seat of 35.2" (although I am 5'5" and I am capable of riding it just fine, also the suspension can drop it a bit as well as some cheap or free modifications)
Not for long highway rides (seat not great, small tank)
High price for a 250 (strong light metals and brand new high-performance motors aren't cheap)
Stock mirrors and rear fender a little goofy looking
Can take from upstanding MSF graduate to hooligan with a suspended license in a month flat
Suzuki DRZ400SM
Ol' reliable. Cheap used, cheapish new, cheap maintenance, reliable as dirt, overall a great bike. Lacks in some of the areas of the WR250X (suspension and transmission) but has an extra 150ccs for a bit more torque (only a couple more overall hp, but lower redline) and a slightly larger front brake. Another great city commuter, it weighs only 321lbs wet and also has excellent handling in the twisties and smooth maneuverability for city riding. The aftermarket is huge and guys have claimed 60hp motors with great reliability. One of the most popular supermoto bikes. The seat puts you up high and the bike instills confidence in the rider.
Pros:
Great handling
Can be had used for excellent prices
Great gas mileage (stock bikes report somewhere in the 55-60mpg range, which still makes fun of Prius owners)
Low insurance rates
Smiles galore!
Feels very light compared to sport bikes (even the 250s and 500s)
A true corner carver, a good rider can embarrass sportbikes
Excellent commuter ride, puts the fun back into going to work
Gain 3hp and it feels like a different bike
MASSIVE aftermarket, the sky (and your pocket) is the limit with this thing
Cons:
A bit expensive for a beginner bike brand new
High seat of 35"
Lacking the technology of many newer bikes
The 5-speed can be lacking on the highway
Very choked up from the factory, but uncorking it will change the feel entirely
Linear Mode
