Forum QNA: 2018 Honda CRF250R

MikeID
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MikeID 10/28/2017 7:35pm
10/28/2017 7:35pm
MikeID wrote:
Hi Michael, I have a 2015. Does the 2018 have a greater distance between the handlebars and footpegs? Is so, do you remember how much? My...
Hi Michael, I have a 2015. Does the 2018 have a greater distance between the handlebars and footpegs? Is so, do you remember how much? My KTM’s footpegs seem to be a few inches further back, which I really like, especially on steeper hills.

Also, it looks like fifth gear seems a bit taller this year. Could you tell if that is true, and if so a swag as to how much faster speedwise?

Thanks for the excellent video and doing this QNA!
ML512 wrote:
I'm not sure of the actual hard numbers but the bike feels more "roomy" than the previous CRF250R. Even though I'm a small rider, I wasn't...
I'm not sure of the actual hard numbers but the bike feels more "roomy" than the previous CRF250R. Even though I'm a small rider, I wasn't a big fan of the cockpit on the previous bike. The new one allows you to be more aggressive with your stance and not sit as upright as the previous bike.

As for MPH, no clue, but I was in fifth on the track a bit today. You scream it and shift a lot.
Thanks for the answers Michael. I’m about 5’9”, but I’ve noticed as well how I like a roomier ergo package as well. It would be great to have more top speed...something like another gear or two for off road. I may be looking at a YZ 250F/X. Sure love how the CRF turns though and the grunt off the bottom.
MikeID
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MikeID 10/28/2017 7:42pm
10/28/2017 7:42pm
Looking forward to watching and reading the shootout. The 450 shootout was awesome and the discussion super entertaining and informative as well.

It will be interesting if there are any outlying opinions in the 250 comparison. Sometimes you find a bike that everyone else raves about, but you just don’t gel with.
usafwx
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usafwx 10/28/2017 7:49pm
10/28/2017 7:49pm
MikeID wrote:
Looking forward to watching and reading the shootout. The 450 shootout was awesome and the discussion super entertaining and informative as well. It will be interesting...
Looking forward to watching and reading the shootout. The 450 shootout was awesome and the discussion super entertaining and informative as well.

It will be interesting if there are any outlying opinions in the 250 comparison. Sometimes you find a bike that everyone else raves about, but you just don’t gel with.
Such a true statement. For me that was the current YZ250F platform and 16 KTM SX I had. I realized I'm definitely a Honda guy.
tempura
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tempura 10/29/2017 12:48am
10/29/2017 12:48am Edited Date/Time 10/29/2017 2:54am
Do you think people that ride and like the traits of the previous model (17), would jump on the new model and like it, or do the differences translate into a totally different feeling bike (generalising)?
you kinda touched on that saying you rode the 17model back to back with the 18 and they were so different.
You mentioned the new model doesn't quite handle the tight stuff as well as its predecessor. In your opinion, what changes have contributed to this?
Does the new model feel as light and nimble as the previous bike on the dirt?
Thanks.

The Shop

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smoothies862 10/29/2017 8:05am
10/29/2017 8:05am
will you buy my bike, so I can buy this Honda?Laughing
JackLHyde
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JackLHyde 10/29/2017 8:47am
10/29/2017 8:47am
JackLHyde wrote:
Hey Michael, first of all thanks for the videos you put out, always very informative. Whilst at the intro, have you had the chance to find...
Hey Michael, first of all thanks for the videos you put out, always very informative.
Whilst at the intro, have you had the chance to find out what the Geico people learned so far?
I like to ride my bikes in third gear most of the time, never really going down to second or even first gear. Currently I have a RMZ250, in tighter corners I have to help it with the clutch a bit. How do you think the Honda will be when ridden that way?
ML512 wrote:
With stock gearing, the '18 CRF250R doesn't like third gear in tight corners, it's very flat at low RPMs and doesn't snap back to life easily...
With stock gearing, the '18 CRF250R doesn't like third gear in tight corners, it's very flat at low RPMs and doesn't snap back to life easily, at least not without some serious clutch usage.

As for Geico, their staff wasn't at the intro.

Thanks for replying.
Here's hoping this rough outlook from Dirt Bike Mag isn't as bad in reality.
[Img=https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-h…]
kiwifan
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kiwifan 10/29/2017 1:49pm
10/29/2017 1:49pm
JackLHyde wrote:
Thanks for replying. Here's hoping this rough outlook from Dirt Bike Mag isn't as bad in reality. [Img=https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-honda.jpg]https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-honda.jpg[/img]
Thanks for replying.
Here's hoping this rough outlook from Dirt Bike Mag isn't as bad in reality.
[Img=https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-h…]
yeah seems like a exaggeration, the new Honda is weaker off the bottom not the midrange ...still most racers use all the top end on a 250 anyway
grunkster
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grunkster 10/29/2017 2:08pm
10/29/2017 2:08pm
Think J-mart will be unstoppable on it?
MotoMaverick989 10/29/2017 4:39pm
10/29/2017 4:39pm
What skill level and weight do you think the suspension is sprung for?

And what gearing do you recommend for obtaining more bottom for tight tracks and fatter riders?

Thank you!
kiwifan
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kiwifan 10/29/2017 5:59pm
10/29/2017 5:59pm Edited Date/Time 10/29/2017 6:04pm
JackLHyde wrote:
Thanks for replying. Here's hoping this rough outlook from Dirt Bike Mag isn't as bad in reality. [Img=https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-honda.jpg]https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-honda.jpg[/img]
Thanks for replying.
Here's hoping this rough outlook from Dirt Bike Mag isn't as bad in reality.
[Img=https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-h…]
kiwifan wrote:
yeah seems like a exaggeration, the new Honda is weaker off the bottom not the midrange ...still most racers use all the top end on a...
yeah seems like a exaggeration, the new Honda is weaker off the bottom not the midrange ...still most racers use all the top end on a 250 anyway
Dirt Rider says good midrange power ...https://www.dirtrider.com/2018-honda-crf250r-first-impression#page-7
colintrax
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colintrax 10/29/2017 6:53pm
10/29/2017 6:53pm
JackLHyde wrote:
Thanks for replying. Here's hoping this rough outlook from Dirt Bike Mag isn't as bad in reality. [Img=https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-honda.jpg]https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-honda.jpg[/img]
Thanks for replying.
Here's hoping this rough outlook from Dirt Bike Mag isn't as bad in reality.
[Img=https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-h…]
Ouch, looks like the ktm125 compared to the other 250fs. Michael did say it kinda feels like a 125, may not be a hit with slower riders or woods riders. Should help the gecio team get more holeshots though, finally has competitive power.
kiwifan
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kiwifan 10/29/2017 7:12pm
10/29/2017 7:12pm
colintrax wrote:
Ouch, looks like the ktm125 compared to the other 250fs. Michael did say it kinda feels like a 125, may not be a hit with slower...
Ouch, looks like the ktm125 compared to the other 250fs. Michael did say it kinda feels like a 125, may not be a hit with slower riders or woods riders. Should help the gecio team get more holeshots though, finally has competitive power.
Yes, if this graph was true (its only a feeling, they haven't had it on the dyno yet) then it would be like a 125. most reviews have said loss of low end but storming midrange and top end...so I doubt the graph above is what it will be.

I predict a midrange similar to the other bikes (esp. blue/green).
tempura
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tempura 10/29/2017 7:22pm
10/29/2017 7:22pm
Yeah, that graph has me a bit concerned if true, I don't think this motor would suit me, might as well buy a 125 and not have to deal with four stroke maintenance.
I may have to keep my current CRF.
kiwifan
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kiwifan 10/29/2017 8:51pm
10/29/2017 8:51pm
tempura wrote:
Yeah, that graph has me a bit concerned if true, I don't think this motor would suit me, might as well buy a 125 and not...
Yeah, that graph has me a bit concerned if true, I don't think this motor would suit me, might as well buy a 125 and not have to deal with four stroke maintenance.
I may have to keep my current CRF.
I suspect when the real graphs come out you wont have much to worry about and may well want to upgrade
mreber17
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mreber17 10/30/2017 7:56am
10/30/2017 7:56am Edited Date/Time 10/30/2017 10:00am
mreber17 wrote:
Considering Honda did not release an RX in the 250 platform, how do you think this bike would work if used for east coast hare scrambles...
Considering Honda did not release an RX in the 250 platform, how do you think this bike would work if used for east coast hare scrambles and enduros?
ML512 wrote:
I think chassis and suspension wise, yes. Engine wise, would take some re-gearing and some effort from the rider.
ML,
Do you have any suggestions on a good gearing setup? Is this as simple as adding a tooth to the rear? Or are we talking about drastic changes?
zlowery
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zlowery 10/30/2017 10:01am
10/30/2017 10:01am
ML,

Is there any indication that the 250 engine is a preview of the 2021 crf450? Dual cam, dual exhaust head, real electric start integration...
SPYGUY
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SPYGUY 10/30/2017 12:08pm
10/30/2017 12:08pm
Screengrab from MXA's video of the model intro:



Derek Harris 10/30/2017 4:15pm
10/30/2017 4:15pm
If Honda chart is accurate they have big homework still.

The ktm and husky pull all the way to the limiter, with a torque curve far better than what Honda has shown.

One thing people don't understand as test riders is FEEL and reality can be far apart. Some people say a bike doesn't rev far/high if it pulls all the way to the limiter (because it hits the limiter fast)
In contrast.../a bike that keeps on revving in one gear and never hits the limiter (but isn't truly pulling hard) usually signs of hard up top but many riders will say "revs forever"

Honda historically must agree with this concept is on the older 250 you could map the ecu and improve the over rev tremendously... it was on purpose on their end to round over and maybe they have done the same on the 18.

I suspect in mod form the GEICO bike will push 17k rpm if the cases will take it, and with the new finger followers and drastically improved port/intake they will pick up 3-4 hp. However I also bet their sx motor package is currently getting massive work right now to make the guys happy. It's been my experience that the larger bore/shorter stroke engines can make good dyno numbers down low, but not feel snappy on the track....part throttle performance is worse. the Honda is sure going to sound wicked in pro form!

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tempura
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tempura 10/30/2017 4:57pm
10/30/2017 4:57pm
SPYGUY wrote:
Screengrab from MXA's video of the model intro: [img]https://p.vitalmx.com/photos/forums/2017/10/30/222535/s1200_Screenshot_2017_10_30_Motocross_Action_Home_1.jpg[/img]
Screengrab from MXA's video of the model intro:



Looking at that, I'm not convinced this motor will work better for the majority of people.
tomtruxell
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tomtruxell 10/30/2017 5:00pm
10/30/2017 5:00pm
I wouldn't worry about it, alot of the test riders in the videos basically said it was all around pretty good in the aggressive mode, I think they said more bottom end in aggressive mode so it's not that bad.
ML512
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ML512 10/30/2017 7:13pm
10/30/2017 7:13pm
zlowery wrote:
ML,

Is there any indication that the 250 engine is a preview of the 2021 crf450? Dual cam, dual exhaust head, real electric start integration...
Unlikely for cam layout...the Unicam layout works fine in a 450 application (look at the KTM/Husky for instance)
ML512
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ML512 10/30/2017 7:14pm
10/30/2017 7:14pm
mreber17 wrote:
ML, Do you have any suggestions on a good gearing setup? Is this as simple as adding a tooth to the rear? Or are we talking...
ML,
Do you have any suggestions on a good gearing setup? Is this as simple as adding a tooth to the rear? Or are we talking about drastic changes?
One to two teeth would help, but if you're looking for YZ style torque for the woods, it will need work...
JackLHyde
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JackLHyde 10/31/2017 12:04am
10/31/2017 12:04am
tomtruxell wrote:
I wouldn't worry about it, alot of the test riders in the videos basically said it was all around pretty good in the aggressive mode, I...
I wouldn't worry about it, alot of the test riders in the videos basically said it was all around pretty good in the aggressive mode, I think they said more bottom end in aggressive mode so it's not that bad.
That's what I'm hoping for aswell. Ryan Hughes made some different remarks to the others. Ping also stated it's better off bottom in the aggressive mode. There's a difference between a weak low end compared to the mid and top, or compared to the other bikes, if you get what I'm saying.
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seth505 10/31/2017 7:24am
10/31/2017 7:24am
kiwifan wrote:
yeah seems like a exaggeration, the new Honda is weaker off the bottom not the midrange ...still most racers use all the top end on a...
yeah seems like a exaggeration, the new Honda is weaker off the bottom not the midrange ...still most racers use all the top end on a 250 anyway
I think a lot of riders (not pro level) would be surprised. They think they are reving to the moon but they are more in the midrange.
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swtwtwtw 11/1/2017 3:57am
11/1/2017 3:57am
kiwifan wrote:
yeah seems like a exaggeration, the new Honda is weaker off the bottom not the midrange ...still most racers use all the top end on a...
yeah seems like a exaggeration, the new Honda is weaker off the bottom not the midrange ...still most racers use all the top end on a 250 anyway
seth505 wrote:
I think a lot of riders (not pro level) would be surprised. They think they are reving to the moon but they are more in the...
I think a lot of riders (not pro level) would be surprised. They think they are reving to the moon but they are more in the midrange.
Yup, that is me?. I am not always hitting the afterburner of hp on my FC250.
huck
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huck 11/1/2017 1:59pm
11/1/2017 1:59pm
Would gel or mousse be better for a person with long hair, while riding this bike?
ML512
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ML512 11/1/2017 10:06pm
11/1/2017 10:06pm
tomtruxell wrote:
I wouldn't worry about it, alot of the test riders in the videos basically said it was all around pretty good in the aggressive mode, I...
I wouldn't worry about it, alot of the test riders in the videos basically said it was all around pretty good in the aggressive mode, I think they said more bottom end in aggressive mode so it's not that bad.
My opinion is it doesn't really have anymore power down-low in the aggressive mode, it just revs quicker and gets into the mid range faster in that map than the standard one.
SPYGUY
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SPYGUY 11/3/2017 11:38am
11/3/2017 11:38am
For those of you that have ridden with a Rekluse Torq drive clutch, do you think it would provide a noticeable low end boost on a bike, such as this new Honda, that is lacking bottom end?
tek14
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tek14 11/3/2017 11:44am
11/3/2017 11:44am
JackLHyde wrote:
Thanks for replying. Here's hoping this rough outlook from Dirt Bike Mag isn't as bad in reality. [Img=https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-honda.jpg]https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-honda.jpg[/img]
Thanks for replying.
Here's hoping this rough outlook from Dirt Bike Mag isn't as bad in reality.
[Img=https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-h…]
Massive difference to other bikes low and mid range. Most of guys that buy bikes will feel its weak as they don't really rev it like pro´s. They have a lot work to improve motor for next year and cut some weight from bike.

ML, how does rear shock feel together with short swingarm? Could longer chain and moving back rear axle help?
ML512
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ML512 11/3/2017 11:52am
11/3/2017 11:52am
JackLHyde wrote:
Thanks for replying. Here's hoping this rough outlook from Dirt Bike Mag isn't as bad in reality. [Img=https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-honda.jpg]https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-honda.jpg[/img]
Thanks for replying.
Here's hoping this rough outlook from Dirt Bike Mag isn't as bad in reality.
[Img=https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/250-dynow-new-h…]
tek14 wrote:
Massive difference to other bikes low and mid range. Most of guys that buy bikes will feel its weak as they don't really rev it like...
Massive difference to other bikes low and mid range. Most of guys that buy bikes will feel its weak as they don't really rev it like pro´s. They have a lot work to improve motor for next year and cut some weight from bike.

ML, how does rear shock feel together with short swingarm? Could longer chain and moving back rear axle help?
Rear shock and swingarm setup are the same numbers from the 450, it works great. I have no complains in rear feel or tractability.

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