The GF250 is equipped with a 250 cm³ 4-stroke liquid-cooled 4-cylinder DOHC engine with a superb balance between high power and torque. The weight of components throughout the frame and each body part was reduced to realize a dry weight of only 139 kg. A cyclone type 4-into-1 exhaust was adopted that delivers a spirited exhaust note with a wide power band from the low to the high-rpm ranges. The chassis features various new mechanisms, such as the Excellent Full-Floater Suspension at the rear, the first adoption of floating front disc brakes on a model produced in Japan, and Positive Damping Forks (PDF). The GF250 was developed to appeal to a wide range of users, from inexperienced to veteran riders, as well as both men and women.

The Bandit 250 was developed at the same time as its sister model, the Bandit 400. Similarly, this model was designed under the key concept of “attractiveness” to express a playful spirit enhanced through voluminousness and and curvaceousness. The beauty of the model is highlighted especially through elements such as the fuel tank, fairings, and exhaust pipe. It also adopts a wide range of highly refined components, including the handlebars, headlight, footpegs, instrument panel, and mirrors. Parts such as the muffler and exhaust pipe are made of stainless steel. The 4-stroke liquid-cooled 4-cylinder DOHC 4-valve engine is tuned for optimum performance in the low- and mid-rpm ranges and uses a slingshot carburetor in the intake system to deliver sharp acceleration. The Bandit 250 also features a new link-type suspension and wide tires to realize excellent road following performance.

Designed with an even more stylish silhouette than the previous generation, the Bandit 250 and Bandit 250V include features such as radial tires and an aluminum swingarm for further weight reduction and enhanced sporty performance. Maneuverability was improved by optimizing the seat height, turning angle of the handlebars, and riding position. The 250 cm³ 4-stroke liquid-cooled 4-cylinder DOHC engine in the Bandit 250V is equipped with the variable valve control (VC) system previously only adopted on the 400 cm³ model, the world’s first application of a VC system on a 250 cm³ bike. This system helps to realize an optimized balance between rideability in the low- to mid-rpm range and power at high revs.