Hi
there`s still a few around new at parralell importers for around
4300 pounds.
If you can`t get a new one buy the best low mileage one you can
afford and make sure it has a service history - they need new piston
rings at 5000 miles and pistons at 10000 so bear that in mind with
any potential purchase as this work is expensive.

Ask the owner what oil they`ve used (should be putoline or an
expensive fully synthetic) as cheap oil means they can seize.
use the best oil you can find, stick to the same brand, use the
highest octane fuel you can find and be gentle on it until its warmed
up (60 degrees) and it`ll be much more reliable.

They are great bikes - i have 2 even though i have a 01 gsxr750 too,
a 97 and a 01. The 97 is the earlier shape, is prettier and steers
faster the later one is more stable has better midrange and more
gadgets.
Both are great fun and will teach you how to ride a bike properly -
but be warned any other bike will feel like a bus afterwards!!

good luck
paul



--- In apriliars250club@..., "jonnyblingbling"
<jonnyblingbling@y...> wrote:
> Im planning on buying an rs 250 when i pass my test in a couple of
> weeks, so could somebody please tell me why the bikes were
> discontinued, and what year did it happen? Any advice at all on
> buying one be very welcom.
> Cheers.