FMF Racing S/S Aluminum Factory 4.1 RCT With Carbon Cap And MegaBomb Header - 2014 Honda CRF250R

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Review by Joey and Rupert Pellett // Photos by Rupert Pellett

Testing FMF's single-sided Aluminum Factory 4.1 RCT w/ Carbon Cap and Megabomb head pipe (say that five times fast) on a pristine 2014 Honda CRF250R is a chore... well, only if you're a twin-pipe lover. If you're not, then its simpler construction and cheaper price is a God-send.

FMFAluminum/Stainless Single-sided System w/ MegaBomb Features:

• Available with Aluminum or Carbon Fiber End Cap.
• Single-sided system includes thinner UFO left side panel.
• Utilizes RTS (Rapid Tuning System).
• Can and mid-pipe can be used with FMF header or stock.
• MSRP $699.99.

First Impressions

When pulling the exhaust and its components from the shipping box, we found it impressive that FMF not only included a spark arrestor for the new exhaust, but they also added in a UFO side plate. This thinner- profiled side plate is for the left side of the bike, which no longer has an exhaust since we opted for a single-can system.

Installation was a breeze. After about 15 minutes, we had the new exhaust on the bike. This full-system included everything we needed for mounting.

Also a worthwhile mention, the carbon cap on the exhaust really sets off the look and makes it appear "factory."

On the Track

Roaring onto our nearby grass track in a horse pasture, we were a little worried about the sound of this new single can. Rest assured, the single-sided FMF doesn’t sound any louder than the stock twin pipe system. The Megabomb header is behind this, as it not only adds power but also helps cut down the DBs. Once we were satisfied that the exhaust was ready for its track debut, we loaded up and headed to Ohio’s Briarcliff MX to give it a real-world shakedown.

At Briarcliff, we were able to hit the rev limiter, throw some scrubs, and give some sick look-backs at all the ‘C’ riders we blew by. Without hesitation, the single-sided system definitely made more power than the Honda's stock system. This increase in power wasn't up top by the rev-limiter, but down in the low-end and mid-range. The new exhaust seemed to let the Honda 250F really climb up the RPM ladder quicker, and pull through the flat spot found towards the end of the mid-range. Also, the added low-end power gave us the ability to roll on the throttle out of turns without as much clutch input.

Long-Term Durability

FMF's single-side system has held up well, with no unusual wear or cracks in the materials. Even better yet, if you were to damage the exhaust, you now only need to replace one can instead of two!

The Last Word

At $699, the FMF S/S Aluminum Factory 4.1 RCT Carbon Cap with MegaBomb header (yes, it's a mouth full!), was an awesome upgrade to our 2014 Honda CRF250R. You will get performance gains, as well as that trick factory look you’ve always wanted. All this while still keeping the decibel levels at around the stock level. Which from Honda, is pretty quiet.

It isn't going to turn your ride into a fire-breathing factory race bike. But it's lighter, well-priced, and won't blow out you eardrums. For this, we give it a four out of five rating.

Vital MX Rating

Check out FMFracing.com to see all the options for your bike.

About the Test Rider

Joey Pellet - is a Software Engineer by day and throws whips for the ladies in his free time. He's been riding since he was four years old and has competed at Loretta’s three times in his illustrious career. Currently, Joey rides his local track at Briarcliff MX in Nashport, OH, and races B classes locally.
Age: 28
Main bikes: ’09 Kawasaki 450F, ’05 Honda CR125
Classes: 25+, 450B, 2-stroke