Honda CRF250R

On paper, it's the little brother to Honda's CR450, but don't be misled into thinking that there's anything second-best about the CRF250R. It is, in a word, complete. While traditional competition motocrossers have used two-stroke engine technology, Honda (and much of the industry) has shifted to cleaner four-stroke engines. And in the CRF's case, the liquid-cooled four-stroke is as lightweight and powerful as a two-stroke of just a few years ago. The bike looks good, too and it even comes with gear like Renthal bars and a gripper seat cover - stuff that would have been extra-cost options not long ago.

Standard Specifications

Make: Honda
Model: CRF250R
Years: 2004-current
Engine size: 250cc
Fuel system: carburettor
Drive: chain
Standard transmission: 5-speed

On The Road

Dirt bike ergonomics are always a matter of personal taste but the initial impression for most newcomers to the CRF is that the bars seem mounted a long way forward. The tank can feel a bit wide where it joins the seat, too, but most people adjust to it. An aftermarket triple clamp can locate the bars exactly where you want them, and some bikes have already been modified in this way. The motor starts easily first kick (or should) and the suspension is fully adjustable to suit riders of different weights. The only odd note is what seems like a pretty big gap between second and third gears. Predictability is the key to the Honda's appeal, making it a hard-core crosser that's also a pretty good step up for a progressing racer.

What to look for when buying a used Honda CRF250R

The CRF250R had a clever mechanism that allowed the clutch to be adjusted on the fly. That's because dipping the clutch is a great way to get the engine back on the boil in the heat of competition but it can get the clutch hot and bothered and prone to slipping. Which is where the adjuster comes into its own. The thing to watch, however, is that the adjuster isn't already maxed out, meaning that the clutch is all but used up and could be ready for replacement soon. Still, clutches on a motocrosser are like tyres and brake pads - consumable items. Beyond that, you're dealing with a Honda which, as anybody who knows their stuff will tell you, is often half the battle won.