Honda CRF250R

For starters, the Honda CRF250R is literally a lighter CRF450R (and with lesser displacement). The former weighs 6 kg lighter than the latter. But, design-wise, the two are nearly identical. This lightweight machine also gets a new aluminum design frame. Upfront, the CRF250R also sports a trapezoidal cowl and a sharp beak, which gives it an aggressive look.

Furthermore, it flaunts a multi-toned side profile, which is enhanced by its vibrant body paint, monotone parts, and golden-coloured Showa Upside Down Forks. This off-road motorcycle runs on spoked wheels (front: 21-inch, rear: 19-inch) with Pirelli MX32 tires. Meanwhile, its sharp, rugged personality carries over to its rear. Its aluminum muffler adds a sporty touch to its overall appearance on the road.

Similar to its flagship sibling, the CRF250R also comes with a single-type seat, which delivers good support while you are competing, along with designated buttons or controls for its HRC Launch Control, Honda Selectable Torque Control, and three engine modes.

In terms of dimensions, the Honda CRF250R measures 2,179 mm in length, 827 mm in width, 1,262 mm in height, and 955 mm in seat height. This off-road motorcycle has a wheelbase of 1,483 mm and an impressive ground clearance of 330 mm, which makes it a great contender on the dirt track.  

The Honda CRF250R utilizes a suspension combination of 49-mm Showa Upside Down Forks at the front, while a Showa Pro-Link at the rear. Its Showa suspension setup is credited for this bike’s exceptional handling on sharp twists or corners at high speeds. It is durable to withstand harsh trail conditions, yet remains light and very agile to maneuver. Additionally, its setup also has a bit of softness to it. That said, it might not offer the plushiest experience out there, but it can still deliver a forgiving and pliant ride on the dirt track. 

The Honda CRF250R is powered by a 249-cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder, DOHC engine that delivers a maximum power output of 37.1 hp and a maximum torque of 24.4 Nm. It comes mated to a 5-speed manual transmission system. 

This off-road motorcycle might not be the torquiest in its class, but the CRF250R can still deliver a satisfying punch on the track. It has a revvy personality and, at the same time, offers exceptional responsiveness. Additionally, because of its lighter frame, the average Filipino rider will definitely feel its enthusiasm and capability to take on steep inclines and moderate hill climbs. 

Like its flagship sibling, the CRF250R also comes with three modes for its power delivery. All in all, this lightweight off-road motorcycle delivers enough power to put a smile on a seasoned off-roader’s face and can also appeal to many novice riders out there.

In terms of safety, the Honda CRF250R is equipped with an engine guard, HRC Launch Control, as well as the new Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). This off-road motorcycle utilizes a 260-mm hydraulic wave disc for front braking, while the 240-mm version for the rear. This brake setup delivers great stopping power, giving the rider more confidence to hit turns or corners. 

In my opinion, the Honda CRF250R is a very well-rounded off-road motorcycle in the lightweight category. Like its flagship sibling, it is confidence-inspiring to ride and a truly capable off-roader. But, the CRF250R is also more non-intimidating and balanced towards novice riders than its higher-displacement counterpart.