Man, I really like this new Honda. I’m 44 years old and currently have a 2018 KTM 350 sxf (which is my favorite bike I’ve ever owned) , but this bike seems like it would be just a flat out fun one to own!
I have a 21 KTM 350 Kailub Russell edition and for me the KTM/Husky 350's are my favorite combination of power/weight/handling in a 4-stroke dirt bike. However the '22 CRF250 simple sets a new standard for "fun to ride" and isn't that one of the main reasons we ride dirt bikes?;)
Like any moto/raced focused 250F you will have to cover the clutch at low RPM technical kind of trail riding to keep from stalling. The agility, quick handling, and overall lightweight feel along with smooth linear power makes the '22 CRF250R very fun on the trails. The '22 CRF250RX suspension setting is much better for me overall (slow Vet moto and woods riding) but the R setting can be made to work for fast/heavier riders on the trails though it is a bit firm. Here I am riding my 22 CRF250R (stock) on a woods loop.... th-cam.com/video/JvE5SaoawyQ/w-d-xo.html
@@mxengineer1 I have an opportunity to pick up an r model that has low hours for a heck of a price. 90% of my riding is very similar to the trails you ride in Ohio. Not really worried about covering the clutch but more about the suspension. Not sure if I can clicker my way into a good setting or if it's going to have to be sent off. I'm not looking for a project and an RX would definitely be better for me but there is the price on this one.....
@@Dashriprock4 The R/RX are basically identical engine specs so would be hard to pass up a deal on the R. You can remove fork oil to minimum level (that will plush up the forks and costs nothing). The rear shock works fairly well - just open the clickers (a lot) and that should get you close. The stock seat is thin and firmly padded - I've heard the Seat Concepts seats add some comfort. Enjoy your new R!
Not trying to troll but I’m curious why people would want a 250 4stroke instead of a 125 or 150 2 stroke? If you want a light agile bike why go for all the extra weight of a 4 stroke?
I also have a 2020 Yamaha YZ125X. The usable powerband is so broad on a 250F....say 5500rpm~13,000 rpm. That broad linear power and torque makes a 250F very easy and forgiving to ride. The 2022 CRF250R has close to a 125 2-stroke "Fun to Ride" and agile feel and the engine revs 2-stroke quick but with a much broader power and with EFI no messing with jetting or carbs. Not giving up my 125 smoker but the 22 CRF250R sure is fun to ride.
Coming off a 2017 crf250r. Just rode my brothers 2022 YZ450F and it felt amazing. How would you compare the ergonomics of this bike to all the new bikes?
The YZ250F/450F ergos are easily adapted to if you ride it for a few laps. The YZF uniqueness stands out mostly when ridden back to back. The footpeg to seat distance is tight on the YZ while the seat to handle bar height is tall (gives you that sitting into a pocket feel). The YZF is normal width around the footpegs and straight up from the footpegs but is wider as you move forward (mostly the top of the radiator shrouds). The handlebars come in the forward hole on the top clamp - that is far away and most riders prefer the back hole with the bar clamps rotated forward. If you jumped on a CRF the seat to footpeg distance and seat to handle bar will feel very good while the thinnest of the CRF would stand out with a flat seat feel that lets you get far forward. The main thing is you actually rode a 22 YZ450F and it felt amazing so why really care how the CRF feels? There is not right or wrong with ergos - just what you like and your opinion is the most important! I have a 23 YZ450F on order - very excited to try the new bike!
@@mxengineer1 thank you for the thorough response! I’ve definitely considered both brands for a while now so I think I’ve made my decision. Yamaha it is 💪
Wow so you bought the new 23 450yzf ? I'm looking for a bike (vet rider) and i'm tempted to go all in on a 23 450yzf. But I don't know if I can handle it lol. So maybe a yzf 250 for me..
I have ordered a '23 YZ450F but arrival date to the dealer seems to be delayed (first said October, now November, and I am hearing possibly not till January). I think with the GYTR tuner we should be able to dial the '23 YZ450F back to 300~350F power feel if needed. I had a '22 YZ250F (lots of videos on my channel on that bike). My favorite 250F in terms of power (mini 450 feel) and suspension (KYB).
According to Motocross Action Magazine the 2013 CRF250R they tested made 38.4 hp and 20 ft-lbs of torque) while their '22 CRF250R made 41.3hp and 20 ft-lbs of torque. It is possible the 280 big bore kit could make more a little more peak torque than the '22 CRF250R. I doubt the 280 big bore will match the peak hp on the latest CRF250R nor match the broad and usable powerband and free revving feel (very low engine braking) of the '22 CRF250R. Compared to the '13 CRF250R engine the '22 CRF250R engine is completely different in layout (downdraft intake) and architecture (DOHC with finger follower valve activation and bigger bore and shorter stroke). Might be more interesting to out a 280 big bore kit on the '22 CRF250R.
The Good: Great engine with decent low end (not YZ250F level but enough) and strong mid to top power that is quick revving and free feeling with little engine braking, lightweight agile handling with excellent cornering, typical Honda "just feels right" ergonomics. Could be Improved: Forks are firm and damping ramps up too quickly, chassis has a globally firm feel and could use a little more compliance
HEY YOU.. You're pretty fuckin cool, Imma sub to you :) lol. ALSO, as my channel would suggest, I'm on a crf230f and have been for a few years now. I've ridden things from crf150f's to XR400r's and a bunch of other bikes. I got a decent hold on them, but do you think a crf250r would be a good next bike for me?
That really depends on you, your riding skill level, and where you like to ride. A CRF250R is a race bike with a focus on performance and lightweight and will require much more frequent maintenance (engine oil, air cleaner, top ends, etc) than the CRF230F you currently ride. The CRF250R will work in off roading but the stock suspension will be firm since it is set for moto and it may overheat if you don't keep moving. The CRF250R is also a lot of fun and may be a great next bike for you....it's up to you! Ride safe and Ride Red!
I ride this '22 CRF250R back to back with my buddy's '22 YZ250F which has a full FMF 4.1 Ti exhaust and Hard Hitting EFI map and the YZ250F has the edge in low to mid and partial throttle torque feel. But the Honda is not so far off and has decent low to mid power. The CRF power is a little smoother and pulls over a broader range. The updated CRF engine with new air box and draft intake makes competitive 250F power.
@@josephelefante9617 The CRF250R has a map switch on the left side of the handlebar. Press and hold the small EFI map button (above the kill switch button) for more than 1-second and release and it moves to the next map (in sequence). Touch the Map switch button and blue light will flash the number of times related to the current selected map (ex 2 quick blue light flashes means Map 2 is selected). At 2:23 in this video I push the map switch and the blue light flashes (3) times so it is in map 3.
No changes to the '23 CRF250R but the '23 CRF450R got some significant engine/chassis/suspension changes....23 CRF450 50th Anniversary or Works Edition both are tempting;)
Really depends on you! At 5' 2" you will only have 1 foot on the ground and the other on the footpeg. I've seen a rider probably 5' 2" tall riding a KTM 350SXF and he did fine while riding and when stopping kind of jumped off the side of the bike. You could get suspension tuners to lower the suspension and put thinner seat foam on the bike to make it noticeably lower. The '22 CRF250R is a very fun bike to ride so worth some effort to dial it in for your size!
There is no traction control on the 22 CRF250R. Only an option to change maps (Map 1 stock, Map 2 soft, Map 3 aggressive). There is only a blue light for Maps. The yellow light is the EFI engine check light and it comes on momentarily when the engine is first started. If you have a green light that could be launch control...I have never used launch control and would need to confirm in the service manual. If there is a light on all the time it is most likely an engine check light/error code.
Man, I really like this new Honda. I’m 44 years old and currently have a 2018 KTM 350 sxf (which is my favorite bike I’ve ever owned) , but this bike seems like it would be just a flat out fun one to own!
I have a 21 KTM 350 Kailub Russell edition and for me the KTM/Husky 350's are my favorite combination of power/weight/handling in a 4-stroke dirt bike. However the '22 CRF250 simple sets a new standard for "fun to ride" and isn't that one of the main reasons we ride dirt bikes?;)
@@mxengineer1 Excellent point! 👍
Just got ours Saturday what a awesome bike, my kid got to ride the yamaha an Honda back to back he says the Honda in map 3 is way better than yamaha
@@ribbledean4111 Ride Red! Enjoy your new bike!
@@mxengineer1 thanks man, it’s my sons bike an I’m sure he will!
Appreciate this review I think you just helped me make my decision. Honda it is !
Ride Red!
Dude that’s me dream bike
The 22 CRF250R is a great bike...Ride Red!
This is the most I've seen you 'jump' a bike on the track...you must be comfortable on it.
The lightweight and agile feel makes the CRF an easy bike feel comfortable on and feel more confident while riding.
How are these in the woods stock?
Like any moto/raced focused 250F you will have to cover the clutch at low RPM technical kind of trail riding to keep from stalling. The agility, quick handling, and overall lightweight feel along with smooth linear power makes the '22 CRF250R very fun on the trails. The '22 CRF250RX suspension setting is much better for me overall (slow Vet moto and woods riding) but the R setting can be made to work for fast/heavier riders on the trails though it is a bit firm. Here I am riding my 22 CRF250R (stock) on a woods loop.... th-cam.com/video/JvE5SaoawyQ/w-d-xo.html
@@mxengineer1 I have an opportunity to pick up an r model that has low hours for a heck of a price. 90% of my riding is very similar to the trails you ride in Ohio. Not really worried about covering the clutch but more about the suspension. Not sure if I can clicker my way into a good setting or if it's going to have to be sent off. I'm not looking for a project and an RX would definitely be better for me but there is the price on this one.....
@@Dashriprock4 The R/RX are basically identical engine specs so would be hard to pass up a deal on the R. You can remove fork oil to minimum level (that will plush up the forks and costs nothing). The rear shock works fairly well - just open the clickers (a lot) and that should get you close. The stock seat is thin and firmly padded - I've heard the Seat Concepts seats add some comfort. Enjoy your new R!
@@mxengineer1 Thanks a bunch! Really enjoy your channel and your impressions of all these bikes
@@Dashriprock4 Thanks! Glad you enjoy the channel!
I went have a 400 4 stroke and 300 2 stroke and the 2 stroke feels like a mountain bike in comparison, with enough power for literally anything
I have a 2021 KTM 300XCW Erzberg and I ride woods and moto with it.
Not trying to troll but I’m curious why people would want a 250 4stroke instead of a 125 or 150 2 stroke? If you want a light agile bike why go for all the extra weight of a 4 stroke?
I also have a 2020 Yamaha YZ125X. The usable powerband is so broad on a 250F....say 5500rpm~13,000 rpm. That broad linear power and torque makes a 250F very easy and forgiving to ride. The 2022 CRF250R has close to a 125 2-stroke "Fun to Ride" and agile feel and the engine revs 2-stroke quick but with a much broader power and with EFI no messing with jetting or carbs. Not giving up my 125 smoker but the 22 CRF250R sure is fun to ride.
@@mxengineer1 thanks for the info!
i really want one of these
Fun bike! Hope you get one!
Coming off a 2017 crf250r. Just rode my brothers 2022 YZ450F and it felt amazing. How would you compare the ergonomics of this bike to all the new bikes?
The YZ250F/450F ergos are easily adapted to if you ride it for a few laps. The YZF uniqueness stands out mostly when ridden back to back. The footpeg to seat distance is tight on the YZ while the seat to handle bar height is tall (gives you that sitting into a pocket feel). The YZF is normal width around the footpegs and straight up from the footpegs but is wider as you move forward (mostly the top of the radiator shrouds). The handlebars come in the forward hole on the top clamp - that is far away and most riders prefer the back hole with the bar clamps rotated forward. If you jumped on a CRF the seat to footpeg distance and seat to handle bar will feel very good while the thinnest of the CRF would stand out with a flat seat feel that lets you get far forward. The main thing is you actually rode a 22 YZ450F and it felt amazing so why really care how the CRF feels? There is not right or wrong with ergos - just what you like and your opinion is the most important! I have a 23 YZ450F on order - very excited to try the new bike!
@@mxengineer1 thank you for the thorough response! I’ve definitely considered both brands for a while now so I think I’ve made my decision. Yamaha it is 💪
Wow so you bought the new 23 450yzf ? I'm looking for a bike (vet rider) and i'm tempted to go all in on a 23 450yzf. But I don't know if I can handle it lol. So maybe a yzf 250 for me..
I have ordered a '23 YZ450F but arrival date to the dealer seems to be delayed (first said October, now November, and I am hearing possibly not till January). I think with the GYTR tuner we should be able to dial the '23 YZ450F back to 300~350F power feel if needed. I had a '22 YZ250F (lots of videos on my channel on that bike). My favorite 250F in terms of power (mini 450 feel) and suspension (KYB).
@@mxengineer1 In france they said not before december.
What do you guys think is faster. A 2013 crf250r with a 280 big bore kit or a stock 2022 crf250r?
According to Motocross Action Magazine the 2013 CRF250R they tested made 38.4 hp and 20 ft-lbs of torque) while their '22 CRF250R made 41.3hp and 20 ft-lbs of torque. It is possible the 280 big bore kit could make more a little more peak torque than the '22 CRF250R. I doubt the 280 big bore will match the peak hp on the latest CRF250R nor match the broad and usable powerband and free revving feel (very low engine braking) of the '22 CRF250R. Compared to the '13 CRF250R engine the '22 CRF250R engine is completely different in layout (downdraft intake) and architecture (DOHC with finger follower valve activation and bigger bore and shorter stroke). Might be more interesting to out a 280 big bore kit on the '22 CRF250R.
What fuel is recommended for a stock bike, never had a four stroke just two stroke an we run straight vp110
I run premium pump gas in all my bikes and it runs fine
I’m thinking about getting a 22 250r what do you like and dislike about the bike.
The Good: Great engine with decent low end (not YZ250F level but enough) and strong mid to top power that is quick revving and free feeling with little engine braking, lightweight agile handling with excellent cornering, typical Honda "just feels right" ergonomics.
Could be Improved: Forks are firm and damping ramps up too quickly, chassis has a globally firm feel and could use a little more compliance
@@mxengineer1 thanks and is reliable or do a lot of parts break
@@ethancook9167 It's a Honda...high quality...all good!
this one or Ktm husky 350?
My 21 KTM 350XCF Kailub Russell is still my gold standard for 4-strokes off road bikes. 350's are my favorite combination of power/weight/handling
HEY YOU.. You're pretty fuckin cool, Imma sub to you :) lol. ALSO, as my channel would suggest, I'm on a crf230f and have been for a few years now. I've ridden things from crf150f's to XR400r's and a bunch of other bikes. I got a decent hold on them, but do you think a crf250r would be a good next bike for me?
That really depends on you, your riding skill level, and where you like to ride. A CRF250R is a race bike with a focus on performance and lightweight and will require much more frequent maintenance (engine oil, air cleaner, top ends, etc) than the CRF230F you currently ride. The CRF250R will work in off roading but the stock suspension will be firm since it is set for moto and it may overheat if you don't keep moving. The CRF250R is also a lot of fun and may be a great next bike for you....it's up to you! Ride safe and Ride Red!
what’s your response to the people saying “the power just isn’t there”
It’s bull shit 😂 i’m switching over to this bike off of a yz20 2 stroke and i can say it has the power! especially if you ride tight tracks
@@josephelefante9617 lol, i would definitely purchase one of these if i had 7k more than i currently have😂
I ride this '22 CRF250R back to back with my buddy's '22 YZ250F which has a full FMF 4.1 Ti exhaust and Hard Hitting EFI map and the YZ250F has the edge in low to mid and partial throttle torque feel. But the Honda is not so far off and has decent low to mid power. The CRF power is a little smoother and pulls over a broader range. The updated CRF engine with new air box and draft intake makes competitive 250F power.
@@mxengineer1 So how do i switch maps on the bike?
@@josephelefante9617 The CRF250R has a map switch on the left side of the handlebar. Press and hold the small EFI map button (above the kill switch button) for more than 1-second and release and it moves to the next map (in sequence). Touch the Map switch button and blue light will flash the number of times related to the current selected map (ex 2 quick blue light flashes means Map 2 is selected). At 2:23 in this video I push the map switch and the blue light flashes (3) times so it is in map 3.
have a 23 yet?
No changes to the '23 CRF250R but the '23 CRF450R got some significant engine/chassis/suspension changes....23 CRF450 50th Anniversary or Works Edition both are tempting;)
That's my dream bike but I can't afford ,,
I’m 5.2 can I ride a 250r
Really depends on you! At 5' 2" you will only have 1 foot on the ground and the other on the footpeg. I've seen a rider probably 5' 2" tall riding a KTM 350SXF and he did fine while riding and when stopping kind of jumped off the side of the bike. You could get suspension tuners to lower the suspension and put thinner seat foam on the bike to make it noticeably lower. The '22 CRF250R is a very fun bike to ride so worth some effort to dial it in for your size!
@@mxengineer1 thanks
when torque control is on, does the green light suppose to stay on? I turned mine on yesterday and the light wouldn't cut off
There is no traction control on the 22 CRF250R. Only an option to change maps (Map 1 stock, Map 2 soft, Map 3 aggressive). There is only a blue light for Maps. The yellow light is the EFI engine check light and it comes on momentarily when the engine is first started. If you have a green light that could be launch control...I have never used launch control and would need to confirm in the service manual. If there is a light on all the time it is most likely an engine check light/error code.