A continent or two removed from the usual superbike competition, very lightweight two-strokes lessen the role of the right wrist in any performance riding. Here’s a Honda MC21 ready for registration and rejuvenation.
1991 Honda NSR250R / MC21 for sale on eBay
The NSR250 went through four developments, with the MC21 being third. All used the 249cc twin, just about square bore and stroke, legislated at 45hp in the home market, but closer to 60 ponies when de-restricted. Though carburetted, the PGM-III underseat ECU controlled reed valves and ignition advance based on throttle and gear selector position. Semi-adjustable forks and Pro-Link monoshock presumed a youthful touch on the seat, but triple disks were ready to haul you down from top speed. Especially in replica livery, the light but full fairing channeled the RS250R racebike.
As presented, this NSR250R shows some 8,233 miles, but begs for more pictures and information. The bodywork may be a replacement, but the red seat console seems to be an MC18 livery. On a 1991 model the assymetrical swingarm would normally be seen, but this one is straight-legged. The SP sticker might be just that, but might be worth pursuing. Looks like a thorough going over will be required before and after bidding. Comments from the eBay auction:
Early 90’s – complete bike – speedo shows 13.3k – imported from England a couple of years ago – went into my collection and been sitting ever since – I never rode it – bike is in good shape for age – but not perfect – no title – comes with import papers and bill of sale – if you know what your looking at – this is a rare bike that is getting harder to find.
Honda was in competition with the RGV250, TZR250, and KR1 for the home and limited export market, and the lead swapped around regularly. Prices on restored or collector models justify interest in a semi-project like this, but it’s a slippery slope. Add the importation/registration question to the list, though the racetrack is really the place for an NSR250R these days. Unlike the road, nobody out there is on the phone.
-donn
To bad it’s not a 1991 or even a 90. Looks like a 1988 to me definitely a mc18. Second year of the nsr250. It’s an R model in oem white n blue overall it looks to be in decent shape.
I really wish Kawasaki would bring its 250 4 into the US.For way too long american riders think you need mega horsepower to ride fast.I guarantee a good rider on a small displacement bike could keep up with a much faster bike on tight twisties.Since I bought my KTM Rc390 I’ve had more enjoyment riding trying to keep up with faster bikes than I ever had with my larger ones.Im off my soapbox now.
Agreed, Tim. As they say, it’s much more fun to flog an underpowered bike at the limit than to troll around on some crazy WSB replica with too much tech.
Why take pictures for an ad with your bike wet? Maybe because the paint has no shine unless it is wet? Maybe…..??
Plenty of corrosion. Looks like the kick crank was underwater. Rusty fasteners. Obvious bodywork fairing damage. Good one to stay away from unless you can view it in person first. Even then proceed with caution. Poorly presented on eBay. Wet and shiny for a reason.
It may have been imported from England, but it’s JDM spec and will be restricted.
2t race labs from Greece can d-restrict the cdi, at least on a mc21. Agreed on small bikes, the US thinks harleys are “badass” need we say more. If I were Kawasaki etc. I wouldn’t even consider sending over a 250cc 4. Americans are too confused to see the appeal. Makes me wish I grew up abroad no doubt
It’s an MC18 as Joe says. I believe it’s the easiest Honda to de restrict to full 60 hp. It’s amazing how many bikes are photographed wet on all the sale sites.
Vincent Ochs, or more simply,”more fun to ride a slow bike fast than as fast bike slow”.
What yall are missing with these 2 stroke bikes, is how light weight they are. 60 hp is not huge but witha bike this light it is AMAZING how these go into corners. You almost need no brakes. I have ridden an mc21 and a 2006 GSXR1000 at the same track back to back. Same lap times, amazing difference in HOW that happens. And in the effort level needed to do it.
Reserve not met at $6,100.
dc