Yamaha WR250R, Kawasaki KLX250S and Honda CRF250L - soft enduro of the 21st century

I want to talk about enduro motorcycles. Not about monsters that can tear off arms, but about modern dual-purpose motorcycles, or as they are also called - soft enduro. About motorcycles for romantics who love travel and adventure, namely the Yamaha WR250R and its brothers Kawasaki KLX250S and Honda CRF250L

• The legacy of the legendary troika
• Technical features of motorcycles Yamaha WR250R, Kawasaki KLX250S and Honda CRF250L Engines
• Pendants
• Frame
• Weight
• Brakes

Appearance

The Honda CRF 250 is brighter than many of its classmates, largely due to the original red color of the frame. This is a rich, bright shade. White and light gray colors are present in small quantities. The appearance is typical for a motocross motorcycle: high saddle, huge ground clearance, straight handlebars.

If you look at the modifications of this bike, they can differ greatly in appearance, from the color to the shape of the wings. However, it is still clear that this is the same model. At least if you watch the driving video. But from the photo it is sometimes difficult to understand that this is the same bike, some of them are so different in appearance.

What are these motorcycles for?

In order not to be disappointed, when purchasing such motorcycles, you should remember their purpose. These are dual-purpose motorcycles, they are also dual sports, they are also soft enduro. If you only plan to ride close to home, through forests, rocks and logs in hard mode, then they are unlikely to suit you. But forays of 100-200 km are their path. These are excellent light touring motorcycles for walking in the mountains and forests. In addition, they are often used for city trips, especially in supermoto configuration. Yamaha calls this package the WR250X, Kawasaki calls it the D-tracker 250, and Honda calls it the CRF250M. In addition to the same wheels front and rear, 17” in diameter, as well as road tires, they have “evil” brakes. By the way, Honda also has a version of the CRF250L Rally, with a windshield and increased to 10 hp. tank.

Comfort

Although some rate comfort as a three on a five-point scale, there is objectively no reason for this. The riding position is no worse than many other bikes in this class. Holding the steering wheel is no less comfortable. Although the start is abrupt, this is the norm. This makes the model more interesting; in experienced hands, such a start becomes a plus.

The motorcycle is easy to maintain because parts are inexpensive and easy to obtain. In addition, tuning lovers will be pleased, because this model provides enormous opportunities for bringing the motorcycle to a certain subjective perfection, which, as we know, is different for everyone.

Is the 2022 Honda CRF250R better than the 2022 CRF250R?

A year ago, Honda reinvented the CRF250R, which was in desperate need of an upgrade. The engine did not pull out at low and medium speeds compared to opponents during 2010 - 17.

It was easy for beginners to handle, but in order for it to correspond to the “Pro” level, a lot of money had to be poured into it. Honda hasn't lived up to expectations since 2010. The CRF250R won the MXA series in 2009 and finished fourth in 2010, losing to the Italians' Husquarna TC250. The strange thing is that Honda stayed afloat for eight long years, despite the fact that it lost in all competitions in the four-stroke quarter class. During this time, Honda's sales fell noticeably, amid the growth of brands such as Yamaha and KTM.

Finally, in 2022, Honda engineers received funding to upgrade the CRF250R. It turned out to be a KTM “killer”, but only on paper; in reality it became even worse. Why? The maximum power of the Honda CRF250R was achieved at maximum engine speed and was close to the power of the KTM and Husqvarna, but in fact the power was 3 hp less. less than competitors. The reason for this phenomenon was the artificial reduction of the maximum engine speed from 14,000, where the maximum power was, to 12,000 rpm.

Does the 2022 engine still have the shortcomings of the 2018 engine?

Honda knew the 2022 CRF250R had problems from the start, but went on sale regardless. All the new owners immediately began to say that it drove like an old CR125 two-stroke, and not like a high-revving four-stroke quarter. Sales were good at first, but then clutch baskets began to fail and almost all 2022 Honda CRF250Rs had to be recalled. A very bad year for Honda.

By 2022, Honda needed an engine with better low end, high thrust, extended through the mid-range, and the ability to use maximum power at high speed. But Japanese engine manufacturers put new engines on the production line every four years, and the last update to this engine was just a year ago. But Honda was able to push through some improvements to the 2022 engines.

What changes have the 2022 Honda crf250r engines received?

Honda engineers spent the allocated budget on the following improvements:

• Cam profile. The engine has camshafts with new cam shapes developed by the HRC 250 Grand Prix racing team, which now close 2 degrees earlier.
• Collectors. The geometry of the intake and exhaust manifolds has been changed for better cylinder filling.
• Exhaust pipe. The right exhaust pipe is 50 mm shorter than the left one.
• Oil nozzle. The nozzle nozzle received five holes instead of four. This allowed for better piston cooling and reduced detonation.
• Generator. The generator has become lighter and friction losses have decreased.
• Clutch. Installed a new clutch basket and release spring.
• Throttle valve. A smaller 44mm Keihin throttle body was installed instead of the previous 46mm.

Honda crf250r 2019

What about everything else?

Despite the fact that most of the budget for the new Honda CRF250R went to the engine, there was also enough money to upgrade the suspension and chassis. Here is the list of updates:

• Launch control. Like the 2022 CRF450R, the CRF250R also gets three-mode Launch control.
• Fork protection. New guards better protect the fork legs.
• Steering wheel. Instead of a Renthal 7/8 steering wheel, a Renthal Fatbars 1.1/8 steering wheel is installed.
• Brakes. The front brake caliper has been enlarged and has a 30 mm piston. It works in tandem with a 260mm disc.
• Traverses. The upper crossbar now has new rudder mounts. They allow you to move the handlebars by 26 mm, including 10 mm back.
• Engine protection. The skid plate now allows more air to flow through, improving engine cooling.
• Wheels. DID Dirt Star wheels are black instead of chrome.
• Footrests. The footpegs are 20% lighter and have a new shape that allows them to be cleared of dirt faster.

Dimensions and weight

In terms of dimensions, this, of course, is far from the lightest sports equipment. Even without fuel, the car weighs a lot. At the same time, the volume of the tank is insignificant. And taking into account fuel consumption, you will have to completely discard the idea of ​​​​using this bike as a universal one for all occasions. Although some manage, and are happy with it.

Dimensions:

• tank – 6.3 l;
• ground clearance - 327 mm;
• curb weight – 108 kg;
• height – 1260 mm;
• width – 827 mm;
• length – 2174 mm;
• seat height – 951 mm.

It would be a mistake to believe that a person of slight build can handle this machine. And it’s not just about weight, but also about technical characteristics. To cope with the power of this machine, strong arms and muscles are required in general, otherwise you may encounter dislocations and other injuries.

To summarize, which soft enduros are better, modern or from the 90s?

Answering the main question, can modern dual-purpose motorcycles fully replace the good old motorcycles of the legendary trinity? The answer is undoubtedly yes! In terms of reliability and comfort, despite unfounded rumors, they are not inferior to them. And in terms of technical characteristics, they are significantly superior. But what about the injector, many will say? The carburetor is more reliable! Well, I don’t know, problems with the injector are no more common than with the carburetor. A stone ax is also more reliable than a chainsaw. But something tells me that if you need to cut down a tree, many people will choose a chainsaw. It's the same story here. Everything has its time. So you can safely go on a trip on these motorcycles, even around the world. Just don’t forget to take a couple of cans with you))

Specifications

Good brakes and suspension make the bike safer compared to many older models. However, given the impressive acceleration to 100, experience is required for riding without unpleasant incidents. This car is definitely not suitable for beginners, if only because of its cubic capacity. Even if the maximum speed here is not particularly high.

The sounds produced by this model are typical of a motocross motorcycle. However, due to the powerful motor, they are more intense, which is only welcomed by most connoisseurs of the class. The inverted fork at the front is fully adjustable, and its travel is enough to overcome not only small bumps, but also successfully climb steep hills.

Model history

2012 - start of production and sales of Honda CRF250L in the Asian market. Model: Honda CRF250L (Asia).

2013 - appearance of motard modification Honda CRF250M. Both models are officially available in Europe and North America. Model: Honda CRF250L; Honda CRF250M (all markets). Factory designation: CRF250LD; CRF250ME.

2014 - no significant changes. Model: Honda CRF250L; Honda CRF250M (all markets). Factory designation: CRF250LE; CRF250ME.

2015 - no significant changes. Model: Honda CRF250L; Honda CRF250M (all markets). Factory designation: CRF250LF; CRF250MF.

2016 - no significant changes. Model: Honda CRF250L (all markets). Factory designation: CRF250LG.

2017 - the Honda CRF250M model leaves the European and American markets, a new modification appears - the Honda CRF250L Rally. The engine undergoes minor changes, increasing power slightly. The appearance of versions with ABS. Model: Honda CRF250L (ABS); Honda CRF250L Rally (ABS) (all markets). Factory designation: CRF250LH + CRF250LAH (ABS); CRF250RLH + CRF250RLAH (ABS).

2018 - no significant changes. Model: Honda CRF250L (ABS); Honda CRF250L Rally (ABS) (all markets). Factory designation: CRF250LJ + CRF250LAJ (ABS); CRF250RLJ + CRF250RLAJ (ABS).

2019 - no significant changes. Model: Honda CRF250L (ABS); Honda CRF250L Rally (ABS) (all markets). Factory designation: CRF250LK + CRF250LAK (ABS); CRF250RLK + CRF250RLAK (ABS).

2020 is the last year of production for foreign markets. Model: Honda CRF250L (ABS); Honda CRF250L Rally (ABS) (all markets). Factory designation: CRF250LL + CRF250LAL (ABS); CRF250RLL + CRF250RLAL (ABS).

2021 - the model is restyled, receiving the base from the new CRF300L. Starting this year, the model is available only for the Asian market. Model: Honda CRF250L (ABS); Honda CRF250L Rally (ABS) (Asia).

What do the owners say?

Judging by the reviews of long-time users, the machine is durable and unpretentious. They also note that, if necessary, such a copy is easy to sell. Handling is praised, although the bike is not considered the best in the class in this regard. However, there are some problems that are often highlighted in this or that review - for example, a rather narrow seat.

Some complain about valve problems, although most take a more moderate position. They admit that after 100 engine hours (approximately) they need to be changed, but they do not notice any other problems.

IMPORTANT! Like many other modern bikes of this class, the model is unlikely to please with its resource. Many are satisfied that this figure is not as high as it could be. The main thing here is to understand that such a machine will require funds for maintenance and care, and if saving is an absolute priority, then it is better not to mess with cars and motorcycles at all and limit yourself to mountain biking.

According to the description of those who have previously driven a sportbike or road motorcycles, the first impressions are very strange. It is advised to pay special attention to the acceleration and behavior of the vehicle off-road, because it is in these parameters that the greatest difference is felt, at least at first. Well, of course, the landing is unusual.

The CRF 250 is a good bike for rough terrain. Suitable for competition (at least if it's not some kind of sophisticated modification). It’s not worth taking as a universal bike for any occasion, unless, of course, you have an endless love for a specific model and class.

The legacy of the legendary troika

We all know the legendary trio, Yamaha TTR250, Suzuki Djebel and Honda XR250. They can also be joined by Kawasaki KLX and perhaps some others. These dual-purpose motorcycles from the 90s found fame primarily due to their reliability and versatility. With proper care, they break no more often than a grandmother's sideboard and can easily be inherited by your great-grandchildren. The devils knew how to do it. These motorcycles are capable of quite difficult off-road conditions, and they also manage to go on intergalactic trips of several thousand kilometers. Fortunately, a luxurious, by the standards of light enduro, sofa and a bottomless tank of 16 liters allow this to be done.

Nowadays they don’t make motorcycles like this anymore...Or do they still do them? Say hello to the Yamaha WR250R (not to be confused with the WR250F), Kawasaki KLX250S and Honda CRF250L (not to be confused with the CRF250R or X). Yes, yes, the motorcycles from the legendary trio now have great-nephews. This is the modern embodiment of the versatile dual-purpose motorcycle. I personally drove the first two, but Honda, I assure you, is very close.

Let's look at them in more detail. The manufacturing recipe is the same as before. Reliable design, simple but comfortable suspension, fairly comfortable seats, durable and, due to modernity, liquid-cooled injection engines. And the tank has a capacity of just over 7 liters... What? Are you seriously? 7 liters for touring motorcycles? This is some kind of nonsense. Oh yeah, no nonsense, marketing. If you want long-distance driving, fork out for larger tanks.