gitchy said:
“Something to remember when you are looking for Ninja 250s, in 2008 they updated the model to a more “sporty” ride, with a little more “umpf” in the middle of the RPM range. Pre-2008 models are more forgiving, have a more neutral riding and are likely to be cheaper.”
First, this is not strictly true. While they did try to boost the midrange of the 250R over the previous generation, the net change was dramatically less overall power. Yes, the power comes sooner, but it dies much faster on the newer version. Second, with respect to riding position, the latest model Ninja 250R is still a standard, and that includes riding position and steering geometry. Having ridden both models, I don’t really see a good argument for saying one is any “more forgiving” than the other.
The bottom line is, the most important concern I think you raise is cost. The new model and old model 250s are both fantastic beginner bikes on which you can’t really go wrong (unless you wanted a cruiser, in which case…). The new model looks better and, in my opinion, handles better. The rear suspension, especially, is substantially improved if you happen to weigh more than 100 lbs. The old bike is cheaper and more powerful at the redline, but decidedly out-dated in the style department. They’re 250s…I mean you really can’t go wrong.