The Honda CRF250F is EXTREMELY Underrated.. | First Ride & Review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 ต.ค. 2024
- A tried and true air-cooled Honda trail bike that's street legal with fuel injection? Tell me more.. In today's First Ride & Review video we test out the new CRF250F at the beautiful Wayne National Forest and in true Dual Sport fashion show off the versatility of having a license plate and grab some lunch at the legendary J&B Carry Out which unfortunately is coming to an end..
This entry level, low cost dirt bike is more than enough for most people who are looking to get into trail riding and even for me as an experienced rider I still get a kick out of lugging this thing up hill climbs and the little red tractor name fits perfectly.
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#honda #crf #dirtbike
Stark Varg
You are correct⚡️
@@AdventureDaily I’m from Sweden and guy I know have tested the Varg. You won’t be disappointed over the performance, it’s awesome even with 60 hp. Unfortunately the range isn’t really that they promise but it’s not worse than the Alta Redshift. But it’s only pre production. I promised myself to never again buy an electric motorcycle after owning a KTM freeride with 20 minutes of range so this time I will let someone else be the guinea pig… Best of luck!
I was going to say the same. Should be sweet for sure!
Varg 8s really good only issue is range bits big big issue
I love my 250F. It's a great trail bike. I'm 53, so I'm not really looking to take the bike over any sweet jumps or anything. I just want to do trails and stuff like that. It's perfect for that for me.
Same here, age 49. Great trail bike. I'm a little heavy for it though at 215 lbs.
@@A.KINLAW you should go with a klx 300 or be a man and get the kx450
@@Blocanbentlyyahu My local dealer has the KLX300R in stock and it does seem to have better suspension...tempted to trade. I don't think a 450 is in my budget right now.
@@A.KINLAW better for trails maybe but not better for anything else. A 250F is going to be setup for motocross out of the crate..can't even in your right mind compare the suspension to an enduro/couch of a KLX300R. Find a guy who can respring snd revalve your suspension for what you are trying to do with it. Only cost you probably $400 for front and rear.
@@jpesicka492
I think you have the wrong model mate. Watch this cover and you’ll see the crf250f is certainly NOT set up for motocross. Nope. Simple air cooled trail bike is all. The KLX300R is much heavier, more power, better suspension, liquid cooled, road legal, etc. also, more expensive and not as good as a trail bike.
I went to go buy a 250f this weekend and ended up leaving the dealer on a 2022 KLX 300 R. I felt much better for my height and the power was better. Never thought I’d own a Kawasaki lol
I love my '22 KLX300R great choice!
I did the same exact thing😂😂
Good salesman
I bought a CRF250F cause I couldn’t find a 300R at any dealerships near me. I don’t regret my choice though, I love air cooler simplicity. Just wish it had an extra gear and an inverted fork.
@@iDrive4fun93upgrade the fork lol and an extra gear isn't neccessary for a dirtbike meant for 30kmph average riding imo
I can say I love my 20 250f I can’t compare to other bikes being this is my first bike and the one I learned on but this thing is awesome easy to learn the clutch easy to handle just a fun bike especially given the price… I paid 5k out the door including a helmet and goggles
Great bike. Low maintenance was a huge selling point. Spending more time riding and less time with maintenance is soo nice! Added Baja Design headlight and Acerbis handguards for trail protection along with skid plate. After riding around for a few months added a Yoshimura exhaust and Wow! The suspension is still pretty soft and definitely needs to be upgraded. Overall it’s a solid bike for half the price of KTM, Husqavarna, Gas Gas or Betas.
How would you compare the 300L to the 250F both on road and off?
We have a CRF250F on the farm here. It's a sweet trail bike and you have to keep in mind that is really only good for that, slow paced stuff. But that can be REALLY fun too! You don't always have to be at a race pace in the woods. And honestly, a bike like the 250F can make you a better rider, but you just can't push it super hard or it'll bite back. Would be pretty sweet to see better forks for it, shock could use a bit of help too... But man, pretty hard to beat this machine, super reliable and easy to work on. At the end of the day, a lot of people will like that!
I have a DRZ400 and ride it at a slower pace in the woods and have a blast with it. I"ve done the fast woods riding and now I'm just ready to go out and putt around.
I've been riding my 21' 250F since last year and it's the bike I learned on, it's fantastic for learning on if you're an adult or mid teen.
I have that bike and coming off a yz250f it's a way better trail bike
My racing days and behind me and I just wanted a fun easy bike to ride trails with. It has enough power for the riding I do.
I crashed my mountain bike hard at age 54….. took about 6 months for most of the pain to go away. Broke 3 ribs and definitely did damage to my shoulder too…. But it’s all good now. At 61 years young I am maybe a little gun shy for jumps, etc but still do a lot of technical stuff around the Sedona area… and I have 2 dirt bikes that I try to ride weekly !! My latest is my Beta 300 X Trainer !! Do love Honda’s too !! Still have an XR400R.
Keep up the great stuff !!!
Bob from Cornville Arizona
I’m 60 and crashed my Grom broken ribs - shoulder surgery and a little head surgery- my dumb ass did not hav my helmet on- 4 month later still hav pain - I’m still riding but much more carefully
Hang on to that XR400, they are better than most bikes available today. Lots of power and still lighter than many 250’s today. Wish I had one dual sported instead of my XL600r, which is a great bike too just not great suspension.
I'd really like your opinion on the XT250 I bought a fuel injected 2016 model 10,000 on the odometer $4000 Australian.
My only choice, as I'm tippy toes both sides.
Dean Australia 🇦🇺
My last dirt bike was a xr250, 25 years ago. About to get a new bike. Looking at 250 enduro 4 stroke, ktm/Husky. Realise it will be a bit too much bike for me at the beginning, but hope to grow into it. But I know through 50 years of life experience, this bike would suit me so much more, need to leave my ego out of the decision. The other problem, Aussie dealers don't have any stock at the moment.
I had a 230F and my buddies always said it was a girl's bike. Despite the fact that after a few performance mods I was smoking their 80's 125's at the time. I think my biggest complaint about the 230 was the front forks. They were terrible and got me into a lot of trouble. I bought stiffer springs for them and that helped a little. But I ended up selling it and I bought a 450x. I still think the 250F would be a great bike if they could improve the suspension from the factory. I don't think I would be disappointed with the 250F's power, I never was with the 230F. The only reason I bought the X was for better suspension.
Adventure Daily thanks for the great review I am going back and forth on picking up a 230 vs 250 for an extra bike for others to borrow. I used to own a 230 it was great, super reliable, fun to ride no one could seriously hurt themselves on it power wise. Just wondering what the main difference in power between the 230 and 250 is? and what you would recommend having as an extra bike for more unexperienced riders?
When you look at the trail/enduro offerings from the Japanese manufacturers, compared to the European offerings, they're pretty weak. It seems like, if you're not an MXer, they don't really give a sh*t about trying to compete in that area.
Agreed! It’s a damn shame.
@@AdventureDaily you have the crf450x which is amazing
I've got buddies with the CRF250F as buddy bikes and I've ridden them several times. I've also ridden a buddy's KLX230R. The KLX230R and CRF250F fill the same niche, but I think I like the Honda a little better. The engine is smoother and the bike feels smaller, making it easier to ride. Not that the KLX230R is all that hard. My regular ride is a CRF250RX. It's more capable in just about every way. But the dimensions and power delivery of the CRF250F make it very maneuverable and it's got that usable power that's there but won't get you in any trouble. I have an XT250 as my buddy bike but may get either a CRF250F or KLX230R to replace it as the buddy bike as they are both more capable off road than the XT.
The 250 is nice, but lets get real.....You'll have it sold within 60 days 😁😃
Yeah.. what happened to all those other bikes he had? I haven't seen his videos in a while.
I've settled for my KLX 300 but like you since we can't have a unicorn motorcycle I'd like to have something like a two-stroke in the garage. I live in central California Sacramento area there's some nice trails up in the foothills but it's at least 20 miles to get to them and that's what made me a dual sport fan. Thanks for the great videos.
It seems like the CRF250F is the modern FI version of the olde XR250 as sold in Aus. Problem is now no longer available as no ABS and unless ABS then no road rego in Aus.
Bloody nanny state BS and all the makers (Honda, Kwaka, Suzy and Yam, and the Euro triple) all reducing models for sale in Aus.
Love my CRF250F. Rode race bikes through my 20s but now Im a little slower paced. Had my forks done with Bruce Triplett magic and what a difference. Love that tractor feel, hills watch out! Good vid!
Did you get the Hagon with Bruce's forks? That Hagon is THE ticket!
I would get one, I really would. I prefer the color red 9 times out of 10. But I don't want the Showa suspension, I love the way my KYB feels on my CR125...going to go with a 23 YZ250F, even considered a PC Kawi but it's just not the bike for me, much as I wanted it to be.
How would you compare it to the 300L?
The motorcycle is not unappreciated.
Everyone who has ridden it appreciates it. for what it is.
Those who don't appreciate it are those who buy motorcycles based on
The specs and are convinced that the bigger the numbers, the more fun they have,and it will increase accordingly.
These are children who have not yet ridden and matured enough to understand what really gives you pleasure.
It will come to them...
I agree, I think there's different bikes for all different types of riders but you're capable of having fun on any bike, it's just a mindset. Thanks for watching!
These are 10k here in NZ. If they were 7k, it might be worth picking one up as a lazy trail bike when you don’t want to use your enduro bike. I’m failing to see who would spend this much.
Hahah they royally messed up on this bike. Besides the reliability part. Bikes an absolutely pig way to heavy for trails
During that 10:16 quick riding section are you bottoming out at all? How's it holding up when riding in that style?
These and the wr250's look like a lot of fun. I want to do some more road riding with my first bike, looking at a new KLX300 since I need a 6th gear for hwy and better suspension than the Hondas.
My guess is that you ordered a Beta 500rrs
Thanks for posting this! Cool video. I always had an interest in bikes and began riding at 24 with a CRF230F. Bulletproof! I find this bike to be pretty much the same.
I now ride a BMW S1000R even on track a few times…but still feel these bikes are more than capable. They are all you need to have fun and are extremely reliable.
Also, super cool you are in Ohio! We have plenty of riders here, not enough content! How did you put plates on a CRF250…?
Honestly those seem like nice trails! Up here in northern MI it’s pretty much all sand and like you said atv’s and side by sides tear up the trails. Sadly I’m considering selling my dirt bike to get a nice quad or side by side. Awesome video bro!
SxS doing same in WV.. and most people don’t care if they are on private property or not.. People complained about ATVs tearing up the forest.. you get 150 sxs on a poker run it’s gonna year the crap out of the roads.. I have sxs, went on a run that had over 150 other sxs we where 100 back in pack.. was unbelievable the damage that was created by early riders.. we no longer participate in these.. since WV made them street legal there is nothing that can be done to stop them from running the back roads and destroying them..
Outgrew it in less then 2 months. I think a good starter bike for someone who trail rides it’s the 250rx the 250f is a pig super heavy, and as he said you feel every thing. Not a great bike for someone who wants to learn. If you learn on a r or rx you’ll be able to maneuver and learn the technique of the bike. The 250f you’ll be fighting it every time though the trails. Good for someone who doesn’t want to half to maintain a bike. Bulletproof engine but it does weigh more then my 450r
Btw it’s not a trail bike look at the weight Honda made a big mistake labelling this bike as a trail bike. Way too heavy. Not enough juice you’ll get stuck everywhere. However like I said it’s bulletproof that’s all I got to say good abit the bike. Get a 250rx or r you’ll be way more satisfied.
More than enough power for a trail ride, and just enough suspension for casual riding... but still underwhelming if you are looking to occasionally fly off the seat 😂 good way to describe it.
Thanks for the trip through Wayne. I’ve not made it too far in there yet. Popped a tube first time then crashed on the second time out. Foot is almost healed and I’m ready to go back.
What brand headlight is that? Im ordering a brand new 2024 crf250f and I want that headlight setup
For those unsure of the size, I’m 5’7 and have no experience but this bike feels great under me. I would say I’m towards the smaller end for this bike and I wouldn’t get a bigger bike. I’ve sat on the 125fb’s and those also felt great but It felt like I wouldve outgrown it. Also, the race bikes feel too big but I think that’s just because I have no experience.
Thanks for sharing this Dylan, it's definitely a great versatile bike for most - if not all - size and skill riders. Glad that you enjoy it!
Same… 5’6” little chunk boy 200 feels great. Need to get out there tho.
This bike looks way better for trail riding than the crf250l,I like my 250L but its heavy and don't care for how hard it engine brakes when you let off the throttle,had xr200's and 250's as a kid and loved them until I discovered 2 strokes as a teen in the 90's but I'm 43 years old now and back on 4 stroke Hondas and got my 11 year old son on a crf70 soon to be stepping up to a 1990 xr200r when I finish restoring it,always loved Hondas for the reliability
I like the headlight where did you get it from? I know how to ride a manual but I own a semi for fun but wanna put a headlight on my bike only problem is its a kickstart my semi auto lol
So are you referencing a possible CRF450L Rally, that has been teased so long?
Love my 230. Would like the fuel injection though.
Modern XR 250, nothing wrong with that . Put an IRC ve 33s gekkota on the rear and thank me later. Your choice on the front, though I like a starcross5 intermediate .
Hardly an XR250R. The XR had fully adjustable, long travel suspension which was excellent in every way, and a very snappy, powerful engine with both low end torque and a very strong mid-range. The CRF has none of that, but it is a decent trail bike. The only bad thing about the XR was it's extremely tall stature. Actually if you're not familiar with them, the GPX 250FSE is much more like a modern XR250R, but really they are modeled after the European bikes.
Is the frame on the 2021 CFR250F strong enough to handle a 270 pound rider? Manual says max rider load is 220 pounds but assuming that is just rating for performance only. Can you please clarify? Beginner rider on light to moderate trails and track (small jumps). Thanks
Yeah I'd say go for it! Suspension will need done look up Bruce Triplett he will get you set up👍🏻
Do you ever have any trouble with skibidi sigmas in Ohio?
Best bike for the woods...ie; no radiator to poke holes in and end up with a pusher
Honda 250 F is a real reliable bike we've owned one for three years and have no problems with it The fuel injection on it works great
Beta offers suspension packages, so I am going with that as the deposit bike you mentioned.
Have a klx 230 and it’s as good as I need it to be as a trail bike
Beta with custom suspension! Looking forward new videos, hope it lives up
Where is this? I want to move there and buy this bike :)
love my 250f. does anyone know of a way to put better front suspension on even aftermarket? i cant find anything
Thanks for posting, new to dirtbikes, looking for that 1 bike to rule them all for bored dad in AZ. This might be it! ...and that sub looks bomb.
I just bought a ‘23 Kawi KLX 300R. Love this bike! My son just bought one and so did my bro in law.
Gained a sub, Very cool video!
The klx300R is a fantastic bike.
Can you send me info on Wayne trail system I would like to plan a trip with my try them out. I’m from Michigan and would to try something different but need easy trails for atv’s
I’m guessing you want a break from the sand? Lol
Where I ride (Prudenville) it’s not to sandy, I don’t mind just looking for change of scenery
Bruce's Suspension can get that 250F where you want it. I used his dampers, new springs and the Hagon Rear Shock. Made a world of difference. Was a great first bike for Central Texas trails. Cut my teeth on that machine before moving up to KTM 300XC.
Bruce made my 230 feel like an Xr. Highly recommend
does honda still make this bike?
Yes
@adventure a
Daily where did you buy your bars
I would rather have a cheap KDX or Yamaha DT125R, 4 strokes are crap
Yea bikes that are reliable and basically require no mx other than oil changes just suck. Insert sarcasm.
I think he's talking abt KTM or Kawasaki
Just wondering when you hurt your ribs were you wearing a roost guard/chest protector? Thanks for making these videos! I know you're out of purpose built dual sports but I've got a WR250R and I can't wait to get into some turkey runs and enduro events this year. Big inspiration
Damn, how are you able to ride in the main road? In Massachusetts you’re be crucified
It’s street legal!!
@@AdventureDaily even with out registering it? So you’re able to go from trail to road no problem?
Why does it have the inferior frame?
Im guessing the "noise" you are mentioning at 5;50 is skid plate vibration. It appears you have the same or similar skid as mine. I may remove it and add a buffer between plate and frame as the engine does vibrate a lot causing my odd noise in the skid to frame connection.
AW man! I just got done talking to my Local Beta and Sherco dealer about my new bike in March. I am getting the Beta with custom suspension for my weight and riding style. That said, I am guessing you are getting a Beta of some sort.
Modern XR 250....bout time Honda...thanks for listening
Where are these trails? I'm also in ohio
Wisconsin is the worst for dirtbike access! I'm 150lb and don't mind the suspension on my crf250f, not something I'd take to a track often though, great value bike for the money
The kind of riding you did in your recent “Stock KTM tires” video is where I ride my 250F. It does fine.
Really if you are a beginner and want to ride more off road than on , just buy a ktm 350 exc used if money is a problem.
What are side x sides doing in Wayne. Isn’t there a 50” width restriction?
Haven’t ridden there in 20 years but I did pick up a wr250r recently, might have to revisit it.
Did you say your doing Arizona videos this winter 👀💚 if you come back up near Maine mass or New Hampshire let me know brother would be dope to meet you!
Beta's can be customized from the factory. Perhaps you have ordered an RR-S?
I crashed my MTB a week ago and cracked or bruised my ribs. Stupid painful.
It’s one of the most annoying injuries I’ve ever had, takes forever to heal and just cripples your upper body movement.
@@AdventureDaily my body just freaks out if I try to sneeze.
Try to not laugh also.
@@robertfranklin4730 lol
I drive by your area every day going to Columbus in a 7up semi and i keep telling my wife i want to get a dual sport or something and it never happens. Clock is ticking im 50. Had a motorcycle endorsement all my life and never really got to use it Lol. Love the videos 👍
I looked at a new CRF250RX but around here they are jacked up from the mfr’s list of 8700 to just over 11k !!!
May have to travel to Colorado or somewhere else to get the regular prices !!
What oil are you planning on using in it? Anything recommendable better than oem?
Only the best: www.amsoil.com/p/10w-40-synthetic-dirt-bike-oil-db40/?code=DB40QT-EA
@@AdventureDaily cool thanks 👍
To be honest. This motorcycle is pretty awesome. I enjoy riding mine.
I didn't think the CRF250F was street legal in Ohio.
I live in ohio also and have a crf250f. I had mod it, but bbr springs work great.
Dude I bruised my ribs as well absolutely cased a hill climb in a quarry some of the worst pain I felt
How does it compare to the the 300L?
Shorter, but with the same soft suspension. I looked into the CRF250F last year, but the 300L was just so much better, street legal, taller, just nicer.
Tanner, how would you compare the 250f. to the 230L?
I have a 2018 CRF250L, what Amzoil do u recommend?
im super bummed about J&B carryout closing...its one of our favorites to hit while down. sad day.
My favorite part is the "homey bike". That's exactly what I'm in the market for right now. Also, I'm sorry to hear about your food spot. I'm not a fan of this corporate takeover goin on. Safe travels and lookin forward to the next one.
Hey tanner ✌✌
The 450 x flames out like the 450 l only way i would get one is if i was desert racing or just wanted a wheelie bike you made the right decision
What trail system was this? Last time I went out to Wayne the Dorr Runn trails were pretty gnarly from the SXSs rolling through all summer.
Looking at a 2022 250rx this week had a brand new 2022 250f out grew it in 3 months
I have one of these ordered and have been waiting since July. It’s actually getting crazy.
What model year is the bike you are reviewing? We bought a lightly used CRF230F and really enjoyed it. Well, until we bought a CRF250X. Crazy more power. But then we bought a KTM 150SX, even crazier more power. Then my son's split a KTM 450, even crazier. Bit for me, at 60, I like the reliability and the tractability of the 230F. I just want a bit more power, which is why I'm considering the 250F. We ride at Famous Reading in the Pottsville, PA area. What else should I consider?
2021! I highly suggest the 250F but if you want more performance check out the Beta Xtrainer.
Cool video man! I soon hope to be the owner of one of these baby
underrated because it's undersprung and underpowered.
How is the size compared to the 250l?
Did your bike come with lights or you had to add I
Might get one
Maybe next a KLX300?? Or even the klx300R?
I wouldn't mind having one of these, I had planned to buy one and put a street legal kit on it but I just got a real good deal on a Drz400 lol
How do you like the 250f compared to the klx300?
You are slowly going back to a 300l!?! Lol
Can you put fuel exhaust on it and it function properly
tm
Im 6'1 210lbs...I felt like a Circus Bear on this thing and the suspension was almost bottomed with me just sitting on it. But, a lot of shorter riders who in turn weigh a lot less dont have many options and I think this is golden for that
This is the comment I was looking for.. those are my exact same numbers hahah 6’1 210lbs 😂 thanks for the reference 💪🏼
What’s a better option you would suggest I’m in the same boat bit heavier
@@ElGancho08 If u are just looking for a trail bike the KLX300R is physically bigger bike with more power, would be better for bigger guys.
I’m 6 foot and 250 pounds. Put BBR springs on mine and I can trail ride mine no problem!! Great slow speed trail bike.
I agree with the comments above to an extent, but the crf250f is perfectly fine for someone in the 200-230lb range. Remember this is a trail bike. This is not a race bike. Sure, jumping to a klx300 is better suited power wise and suspension wise, BUT it is not air cooled. The point of these air cooled trail bikes is dependability, reliability, ease of use and maintenance. Of course a larger and liquid cooled engine will be stronger. But why are you even comparing the two? Apples to oranges