Top 6 250cc Motorcycles in Malaysia — From Daily Rides to Track Thrills

Discover the 6 best 250cc motorcycles in Malaysia for 2025. Find the right 250cc bike that fits your riding style and needs.

Subscribe to our Instagram Channel for instant news & updates!

When it comes to motorcycles that perfectly blend performance and everyday usability, few categories offer as much excitement as the 250cc class. In Malaysia, 250cc bikes hit the sweet spot, they’re powerful enough for highway rides yet light and nimble for city commuting. They also deliver impressive fuel economy and manageable maintenance costs, making them an ideal choice for both new and experienced riders.

In 2025, brands like Yamaha, Kawasaki, Honda, and Suzuki continue to offer some of the best 250cc motorcycles in Malaysia. Each model has its own character, from sporty performance to long-distance comfort. Here are six of the best 250cc bikes you can get today.

1. Yamaha YZF-R25

The Yamaha YZF-R25 continues to be one of Malaysia’s favorite sportbikes in the 250cc category. This motorcycle is powered by a 249cc parallel-twin engine that produces 35.4 horsepower and 22.6 Nm of torque. The R25’s smooth and responsive engine delivers consistent performance, whether you’re cruising through traffic or revving it out on open roads.

Its aerodynamic design is inspired by Yamaha’s larger R-series superbikes, giving it an aggressive and race-ready appearance. The lightweight chassis and refined suspension setup ensure excellent handling and stability, making it enjoyable to lean into corners. While its sporty riding posture may feel aggressive during long commutes, it’s perfectly suited for riders who enjoy a more engaging and dynamic ride. For those seeking a 250cc bike that looks fast, feels fast, and sounds incredible without being intimidating, the Yamaha YZF-R25 is easily one of the best in Malaysia.

2. Kawasaki Ninja 250

The Kawasaki Ninja 250 remains a true icon in the quarter-liter sportbike segment. Known for its sharp styling and reliable twin-cylinder engine, the Ninja 250 produces around 39 horsepower and 23.5 Nm of torque, giving it excellent acceleration and highway performance. Its smooth power delivery makes it easy to control, even for newer riders who are upgrading from smaller displacement bikes.

Kawasaki’s design language shines through with its twin-LED headlights and sleek fairing that enhances aerodynamics. The slightly raised handlebars and improved seat design also offer better comfort compared to older versions, making the Ninja 250 more versatile for everyday riding. With Kawasaki’s strong service network across Malaysia, spare parts and maintenance are easily accessible. If you want a reliable, stylish, and proven 250cc motorcycle with genuine performance, the Ninja 250 remains one of the top choices for Malaysian riders.

3. Honda CBR250RR

The Honda CBR250RR sits at the top of the performance ladder in this class. With its 249cc parallel-twin engine producing roughly 41 horsepower and 25 Nm of torque, it’s one of the most powerful 250cc motorcycles available in Malaysia. Its advanced ride-by-wire throttle and selectable riding modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ allow the rider to tailor the bike’s behavior to suit different riding conditions.

The CBR250RR features premium equipment such as upside-down front forks, LED lighting, and a full digital LCD instrument panel. Its aggressive design is not just for show, every angle and surface is engineered for aerodynamic efficiency and stability at high speeds. Despite being a high-performance machine, it remains remarkably easy to handle thanks to its balanced weight distribution and predictable power delivery. While it does come at a higher price point, the CBR250RR’s blend of technology, style, and Honda reliability makes it a favorite among enthusiasts who want a 250cc motorcycle that feels truly premium.

4. Yamaha MT-25

For those who prefer upright ergonomics and urban practicality, the Yamaha MT-25 offers a refreshing alternative to fully faired sportbikes. Sharing its 249cc twin-cylinder engine with the R25, the MT-25 delivers around 35.5 horsepower and 22.6 Nm of torque, ensuring lively performance with a smooth and linear throttle response. The MT-25’s “naked” design emphasizes aggression and minimalism, with a compact body and bold LED headlight that gives it a distinctive streetfighter look. Its wide handlebars and upright seating position provide excellent comfort, especially for daily commutes in Malaysian traffic.

Handling is one of the MT-25’s strongest points. The lightweight chassis and sharp steering make it easy to maneuver through city streets while remaining stable on highways. The combination of sporty performance, practical ergonomics, and striking design makes the Yamaha MT-25 one of the best 250cc motorcycles for urban riders who want both function and flair.

5. Suzuki Gixxer 250SF

The Suzuki Gixxer 250SF stands out as one of the most practical and stylish 250cc motorcycles in Malaysia. It’s powered by a 249cc single-cylinder SOHC engine that produces 26.5 horsepower and 22.2 Nm of torque, offering a smooth and responsive ride in both city and highway conditions. Suzuki’s oil-cooled engine design helps maintaining consistent performance even during long rides under Malaysia’s tropical heat, ensuring reliability and comfort throughout your journey.

On the design side, the Gixxer 250SF blends sporty character with everyday usability. Its aerodynamic full fairing gives it a premium appearance, while the slightly upright riding position provides comfort for daily commuting. With excellent fuel efficiency, light handling, and proven Suzuki durability, the Gixxer 250SF is a 250cc motorcycle that perfectly balances performance, comfort, and value for Malaysian riders.

6. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R

The Kawasaki ZX-25R is easily one of the most exciting 250cc motorcycles in Malaysia, redefining what a quarter-litre sportbike can do. Equipped with a 249cc inline-four engine, a rare configuration in this class, it delivers an incredible 51 horsepower at high revs, setting a new benchmark for performance. The engine’s smooth power delivery, combined with its exhilarating sound at 17,000 rpm, gives riders a genuine superbike sensation in a compact and manageable package.

Beyond performance, the ZX-25R comes with premium features such as a quickshifter, traction control, assist and slipper clutch, and fully adjustable suspension. Its aggressive design mirrors Kawasaki’s larger Ninja models, ensuring that it turns heads wherever it goes. For Malaysian riders looking for a 250cc motorcycle that blends advanced technology, race-inspired handling, and unmatched excitement, the ZX-25R stands as the ultimate choice in its category.

Final Thoughts

The 250cc motorcycle segment in Malaysia continues to deliver some of the best value and variety for riders of all skill levels. Whether you prefer the aggressive performance of the Honda CBR250RR, the classic sportbike feel of the Yamaha YZF-R25, or the balanced practicality of the Suzuki Gixxer 250SF, there’s something for everyone.

The Yamaha MT-25 caters to those who want a comfortable daily ride with a punchy engine, while the Kawasaki Versys-X 250 stands out as the go-to choice for long-distance touring. Together, these motorcycles prove that you don’t need massive power to enjoy thrilling rides, a well-balanced 250cc bike can deliver excitement, efficiency, and everyday usability in equal measure.