HONDA NX250 Dominator (1988-1990) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1988, Honda launched the NX250, also known as the Dominator in some countries, a crossover dual-sport motorcycle available in the United States market until 1990. The bike came in a lightweight package well-suited for on-road and off-road riding.

At the time, the newly released motorcycle was powered by the new MD21E 249cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine featuring an electric starter. The power from the engine was transferred to the rear wheel by a six-speed manual transmission and a chain drive.

In addition to the NX250 Dominator, the Japanese maker released the AX-1, a modified NX250 model intended only for the Japanese market. Although intended for the home country, the AX-1 was also offered in Oceania.

The 1988 Honda NX250 Dominator rolled on wire-spoke wheels and had standard features, such as a small front cowl with an integrated headlight, a one-piece dual seat, an under-seat exhaust system, and an engine guard.

For suspension, a 37 mm telescopic fork with 220 mm travel was handling the front end, while the rear end was operated by a Pro-Link shock absorber with 200 mm travel, designed to handle both on-road and off-road ridings.

As for braking performance, the NX250 Dominator was fitted with a hydraulic caliper and a disc on the rear wheel, while the rear wheel was handled by a rod-operating drum unit, offering reliable stopping power.

In the engine department, the 1988 Honda NX250 Dominator was fitted with a 249cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine, developing 26 hp at 8,500 rpm and 23 Nm (17 lb-ft) torque at 7,000 rpm.