F
HONDA LAUNCHES CRF250F
or some time Honda’s CRF230F has been the
go-to bike for older riders looking to enter
the dirt scene, the little moto that could
has some new competition for the best adult
learner title, and it comes in the form of the new
CRF250F.
On the face of it, the new 250F is a sharp edged
redesign of the old 230, but dig a little deeper
and the differences become more apparent.
Increased displacement, more power and better
stability all enhance the confidence-inspiring
nature of the new CRF250F while also bringing in
performance gains that would also make this an
appealing option for advanced riders.
Powering the CRF250F is an all-new 250cc four-
valve engine with Keihin electronic fuel injection
for increased power over the CRF230F. More
torque and a linear power delivery mean new
riders can learn at lower, less intimidating rpm,
and more advanced riders can use the extra
torque in technical sections.
The mass-centralisation philosophy of the CRF
Performance Line is carried over to this trail
model, with the muffler positioned closer to
the centre of mass. The result is said to be a
lighter feel, with confidence-inspiring handling,
especially on corner entrances. There’s Pro-Link
suspension at the rear and a Showa 41mm fork
at the front.
Braking is handled with new petal-style rotors
for improved modulation, heat transfer and mud
clearing, and the styling is CRF MX-inspired.
Hot or cold, stored in the garage or stopped on
the bad line up a hill, the CRF250F has EFI and
an electric starter. There’s a six-litre fuel tank,
and the integrated fuel pump includes a low-fuel
sensor with an indicator on the bars.
All added up, the new CRF250F has a lot of
appeal going for it, but will the extra capacity
make it an instant hit over its much loved 230F
stablemate? We’ll have to wait a little for the
answer on that one.
KIWI RIDER 21