| 2009 Honda CRF250R |
| MSRP: | $6549 |
Claimed Weight
(tank full):
| 227 lb |
| Actual Weight (no gas): | 214 lb |
| Actual Weight (tank full): | 227 lb |
| Seat Height: | 37.0” |
| Seat-To-Footpeg Distance: | 20.5” |
| Footpeg Height: | 16.5” |
| Fuel Capacity: | 1.9 gal. |
| SETTINGS | STK | DR |
| Main: | 185 | Stk |
| Pilot: | 42 | Stk |
| Needle: | NNSU | Stk |
| Clip Position: | 3rd
| Stk |
| Fuel Screw: | 2.25 | Stk |
| SUSPENSION | STK | Int./Pro | Beg./Nov. |
| Fork: |
| Compression: | 7 | 4-5 | Stk |
| Rebound: | 9 | 8 | Stk |
| Shock: |
| Low-Speed Compression: | 14 | 8-10 | Stk |
| Rebound: | 8 | 10 | Stk |
| High-Speed Compression: | 2.125 | Stk | Stk |
| Sag (mm): | 100-102 | 100 | 100 |
| Modifications We’d Like To Try: Flywheel weight, modified ignition boxes and exhaust systems to broaden power delivery further into the high-rpm range.. |
Opinions
Pete Peterson
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 160 lb
Vet Novice
The CRF is one of those bikes on which it's hard to pinpoint strengths because it just does everything well. The power is not snappy or thrilling, it is just there. The bike felt like it had a strong engine with tall gearing. It was predictable, smooth and got really good drive coming out of the corners, even when the rpm was low and your ears might tell you the little bike would not pull. The chassis was predictable. I found myself standing around some sweepers for the first time because I built such confidence in the bike in just a short time. Whether it was the ergos, the suspension or the chassis, this bike felt easier than most 250Fs to manipulate when standing. It's light and nimble and never had any feel that it wanted to stand up or go straight-maybe partially because you don't have to scream the engine to go anywhere. Honda did a really good job of putting together components that work right together. The only mod I'd recommend is a red rear fender.
Tyler Ruiz
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 180 lb
Intermediate
Right out of the crate, the Honda CRF250R engine resembles a good race motor: very responsive, good bottom-end torque, great midrange and a decent pull into the top-end. Past CRFs preferred to run in the midrange, but this bike seemed to hold on for those last few rpm before requiring another gear. The engine can still lose rpm quickly (on either end of the range) if not in the right gear.
The suspension was extremely smooth and plush, and it made the bike very fun to ride. Despite my anticipation of a hard hit on my first big flatlander, I was relieved when I landed with ease; there was no harsh impact or face hitting the bar pad. Toward the end of the day when the track began to get a little rough and choppy I was wishing for a stiffer shock spring.
For good handling, I only had to set the sag and turn in the compression two clicks at both ends. From carving up berms to straight-line traction the bike is a good performer.
I like the all-red seat because it looks more factory, and the grips are a big plus for me. I was happy to see grips that offer both durability and comfort.