Honda introduced a radical new 450R last year, and for 2010 it looks as though they've applied that innovation to their 250F. We don't have a bike in our hands yet, but we're finally allowed to pass the basic new model information on to you.
We've been living very happily with FI on a few 450 models, but have yet to ride a production FI 250 motocrosser. The move to electronics taking over the fuel management promise crisp 'jetting' at any altitude as well as improved throttle response and fuel economy everywhere. Too extreme to worry about fuel economy on your race bike? That can translate into weight savings if you can start a moto with less fuel in the tank.
The new bike's more compact engine claims to be more powerful, the frame is all new, as is the airbox - designed for greater capacity and to improve ease of air filter maintenance, and the suspension has been designed specifically for this model. The twin-pipes that have been a signature of the Honda 250F since 2006 are gone, replaced by a single muffler exhaust system designed to further centralize mass. This exhaust does not mirror the 450R's 'wrap around the front' routing.
Again, these are all claims pulled from information provided by Honda. We will have our test bike soon and give you Dirt Rider test information as soon as possible. The 2010 New Bike Derby is off to an exciting start. Check out the info provided to us from Honda below. We're passing on everything that we are allowed to know at this point -
2010 Honda CRF250R
This from Honda:
Torrance, CA: American Honda Motor Company's Powersports Division announced today its summer release of 2010 motorcycle, ATV and MUV products. This announcement follows the earlier release of Honda's 2010 Fury, and the SH150i and Elite scooters.
"Today we're releasing 2010 Honda off-road motorcycles, ATVs, Big Red Side-by-Side, and the legendary Gold Wing," said Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino. "Leading the list of big changes is the all-new CRF250R featuring a whole new engine with fuel injection and an all-new twin-spar aluminum frame. These new 2010 models together with the 2009 and 2010 models already released represents our complete line of Off-Road motorcycles, ATV, Scooters and Side-by-Side vehicles. Later this year, we will be announcing additional street models. We're excited about the extensive and varied line of products we continue to offer our customers for work and pleasure."
More detailed information and images of Honda's model line can be found on www.powersports.honda.com or see your local Honda powersports dealer.
Honda Off-Road: Play or competition, Honda's line has it all from CRF50F to CRF450R
CRF250R
Topping the list of exciting news is the 2010 CRF250R motocrosser. Boasting an all-new, more powerful, more compact engine with electronic fuel injection and an all-new twin-spar aluminum frame with the Honda Progressive Steering Damper (HPSD), the 2010 CRF250R continues Honda's long-standing position of class dominance. This latest CRF250R sets a higher benchmark for impressive power and class-leading handling all rolled into one competition-ready package. Available in Red. In dealerships September 2009. MSRP: $7,199.00
CRF450R
The perennial darling of the enthusiast press and racers alike, the CRF450R returns in 2010 to take its rightful place at the head of the class. With class-leading power and handling, the CRF450R features the perfect blend of power, suspension and handling for a genuine revolution in the premier motocross class. Available in Red. In dealerships TBD. MSRP: $TBD
American Honda will also be offering a lineup of Honda Genuine Accessories developed by HRC for the CRF250R and CRF450R. The HRC-branded line will include both functional and cosmetic accessories. More information will be available later this summer.
Continue to page 2 for CRF250R bike specs...