New CRF250L & RALLY Test Ride Review: The Real Off-road Performance Where You Can Fly the Moment You Get On!

210115_sagawa_01.jpg Parts & Gear Reviews

Photo: Masahiko Watanabe/Honda Motorcycle Japan

I participated in the media test ride of Honda's new CRF250L and CRF250 RALLY, which were fully redesigned and launched at the end of last year, and I'd like to report on it right away.

Improved off-road performance while maintaining easy handling

210115_sagawa_02_CRF250L-680x453.jpg

▲CRF250L

First, let's take a look at the new CRF250 series. The main points of the new CRF250 series are its improved power output characteristics and weight reduction in order to enhance off-road performance while maintaining the on-road ease of use for which it has always been known.

The engine is basically the same as the liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 249cc single-cylinder engine of the previous model, but the intake and exhaust systems have been tuned to enhance the low to mid-range rpm range, which is often used in urban and off-road riding. Clutch operation load has also been reduced by approximately 20 percent, and a new assisted slipper clutch ensures stability when downshifting. The low-ratio 1st to 5th gears and high-ratio 6th gear provide ease of use in city driving, strong acceleration in off-road driving, and comfortable high-speed cruising.

To improve off-road performance, a newly designed frame with optimized rigidity balance and reduced weight was introduced. The engine is mounted 20 mm higher than before, and the crankcase shape has been revised to achieve a minimum ground clearance 30 mm higher than the previous model. Front and rear ABS are standard equipment (rear-wheel ABS can be canceled) to support off-road driving.

STD for city riding and 'S' for dirt riding

The CRF250L features full LED lighting, an aggressive design similar to that of the CRF450R production motocrosser, and weighs 4kg less than the previous model.
The new model is available in two versions: the STD version of the CRF250L (245 mm minimum ground clearance, 830 mm seat height), which offers easy handling and good footing for everyday use, and the "S" version (285 mm minimum ground clearance, 880 mm seat height), which features an increased front and rear suspension stroke length for even better off-road performance. The "S" version (minimum ground clearance 285 mm, seat height 880 mm) is available.

210115_sagawa_03_CRF250L_S-680x453.jpg

▲CRF250L S

210115_sagawa_04_CRF250L_S-680x453.jpg

▲CRF250L S

On the other hand, the CRF250 RALLY is equipped with a large windscreen and cowl that inherits the design concept of the Dakar Rally entry CRF450 RALLY, and a frame-mounted asymmetrical twin-eye LED headlight.

210115_sagawa_12_CRF250rally_S-680x453.jpg

A new large 12-liter fuel tank, handlebar weights, and additional rubber on the step have been added for even more comfortable touring performance.

Also available here are the STD version of the CRF250 RALLY (minimum ground clearance 220mm, seat height 830mm) and the "S" version with an extended front and rear suspension stroke (minimum ground clearance 275mm, seat height 885mm).

Evolution from off-road style to real off-roader

I started my test ride with the CRF250L. The CRF250L is the "S" model, which has a longer front and rear suspension stroke for off-road use. The bodyline has been shaped to give it a longer leg, and a smaller faced appearance. The design is closer to that of a motocrosser, and the motorcycle looks like it's ready to go.

The front and rear suspension strokes feel smooth, and the slim bodywork means that the 880mm seat height, 5mm higher than the previous model, doesn't feel too high. The grip position has also been moved slightly forward, making it easier to control the handlebars. It's the kind of riding position that makes you want to try standing up right away.

Easy power to handle and slide freely

When I turned on the engine, the exhaust sound was soothing, and when I connected the clutch, which could be easily operated with just my index finger, the motorcycle started to ride smoothly with its tenacious torque from very low speed. With the throttle open, the response is soft and linear with just the right amount of pause. It's the kind of power that's perfect for off-roading. This makes it easy to open the throttle in off-road corners, and also makes it easy to use techniques such as power sliding to gradually change direction.

The frame's rigidity also emphasizes lateral flex, which gives the motorcycle a soft ride. The new slipper clutch also allows the rider to downshift without having to worry about hopping when entering a corner. The lighter body also makes it easier to control the motorcycle's attitude, which is a good thing.

Longer leg, higher posture, slim, and flies fluently in three ways

With longer legs, higher ground clearance, and lighter weight, the answer is clear as day: this is a machine that can fly. With its torquey power characteristics, it accelerates with a short stride and soars through the air.

It also landed softly with cat feet. The front and rear ABS are designed for off-road use, and we tried braking as hard as we could on a slippery surface, but the motorcycle was stable and decelerated well.

Compared to competition machines such as motocrossers, the engine is more gentle and the suspension is much softer, making it easier to handle on the track, even at the beginner to intermediate level, and I think it's perfect for forest road touring.

210115_sagawa_09_CRF250L_S-680x453.jpg

CRF250 RALLY for touring enthusiasts

The CRF250 RALLY has a large screen and cowl, a large capacity tank, and a wide seat, making it much more comfortable and convenient for high-speed cruising, but it weighs 12kg more, so its performance is a downside compared to the CRF250L. The motorcycle feels particularly front-heavy, and while it's stable, it's not the kind of motorcycle you want to ride around on.

210115_sagawa_10_CRF250rally-680x453.jpg

▲CRF250 RALLY

210115_sagawa_11_CRF250rally-680x453.jpg

▲CRF250 RALLY

There are four types of models available for both sides, so you can choose the one you like best according to your purpose and preference. In general, it is a well-built new model, and I was impressed that I could drive it comfortably both on and off the road.

210115_sagawa_13_MW_L1387-680x453.jpg

 

See HONDA Moto Index Page
See Accessories for HONDA CRF250L
See Accessories for HONDA CRF250 RALLY

タイトルとURLをコピーしました