Suzuki DR 250 S vs Honda XL 250 R (1988)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Suzuki DR 250 Sstacks up against the Honda XL 250 R. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecSuzuki DR 250 SHonda XL 250 R
Model year19881987
Price
Engine249 cc249 cc
Horsepower17 hp24 hp
Fuel capacity2.5 L2.4 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed6-speed
Front brakesSingle discExpanding brake
Rear brakesExpanding brakeExpanding brake
Tires3.00-21 / 4.00-18 3.00-21 / 4.60-17

Suzuki DR 250 S vs Honda XL 250 R — which should you buy?

Picking between the Suzuki DR 250 S and the Honda XL 250 R usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Suzuki DR 250 S brings 17 hp, while the Honda XL 250 R counters with 24 hp.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: