First Look: 2005 Honda CR250R & CR125R

2005 is turning into the year of the two-stroke comeback. Honda's release of their 2005 CRs confirms that all the major manufacturers have spend significant R&D time on their two-strokes, and none of them plan to slow down any time soon. The 2005 CR250R and CR125R both feature big changes to nearly everything including motor, suspension, and graphics.

2005 Honda CR250R

The '05 CR250R's major refinements were made to its power house, with the focus on increasing the low- to mid-range power. The completely new engine includes a new cylinder design, a new cylinder head combustion chamber shape and a new crankshaft design. Other changes include a new swingarm, new front axle placement, thicker radiator core, and new graphics.

2005 Honda CR125R

In '04, we thought the CR125R might have seen its last major revision, but the 2005 has arrived with an all new engine and new front suspension. The redesigned cylinder and cylinder head create more power and the new six-petal reed valve and crankshaft design improve drivability. Like the CR250, it has a thicker radiator core, new front axle placement, and new graphics. The CR125 received big improvements to its suspension as well. Both CRs feature a stronger, lighter dual-axis swingarm, but the CR125 is also sporting new Kayaba inverted 46mm forks with a twin-chamber design for more consistent performance.

For more on the new 2005 Honda CR motocrossers, look for the full story in an upcoming issue of Dirt Rider Magazine.

Click to visit the First Look at Honda's 2005 Off-Road CRFs including the brand new CRF450X model.