Choosing the best 250cc motocross motorcycle. 2022 Models

Choosing the best 250cc motocross motorcycle 2020

Comparative test of motocross motorcycles of the 2022 model year of the 250 cc class. see Honda CRF250R, Husqvarna FC 250, Kawasaki KX 250, KTM 250 SX-F, Suzuki RM-Z250 and Yamaha YZ250F

The first of the 2022 model year motorcycles is the 250cc class. cm was introduced in June, and soon all the others, with the exception of the Suzuki RM-Z250. With the Suzuki just becoming available last week (though it hasn't received any changes for the 2020 model year), it's time to round up all the new bikes for a final comparison test.

The riders we recruited for testing ranged in age, weight and racing ability. To ensure the same conditions for the bikes, we changed all the bikes to Dunlop MX53 tires, which are well suited for our track.

Sixth place: Suzuki RM-Z250 2022 motocross motorcycle

Suzuki RM-Z250 2020

Place, according to the riders: 6-6-6-6-6-6

Last year, Suzuki's RM-Z250 motocross bike received the most updates in years, and the 2019 RM-Z250 was much better than previous yellow 250s. The engine had decent power in the mid to top end of the rev range and the bike was, as always, excellent in corners. Unfortunately, fans of the Suzuki brand had to spend a lot of time finding suitable springs for the suspension and replacing them.

Perhaps in an attempt to avoid a problem that plagues the larger RM-Z450 - where the shock is significantly stiffer than the front forks - Suzuki engineers installed very stiff front fork springs on the RM-Z250 motocross. The result was a fork that was too stiff for all but the fastest or heaviest riders.

For 2022, the Suzuki RM-Z250 does not receive any changes except for a minor graphics change. This is strange - all the specialized media criticized the suspension settings of the Suzuki RM-Z250.

Apart from the unrealistic suspension settings, the Suzuki RM-Z250 is a decent motocross bike with a good engine and excellent handling characteristics. The character of the engine is not the most convenient - the Suzuki's power is concentrated in the middle and upper rev range. The RM-Z250's powerplant can deliver strong results, as evidenced by some riders' strong starts in competition last summer.

Advantages of Suzuki RM-Z250 2020

• Good mid-range power
• Good clutch and transmission performance
• Great looks
• Renthal Fatbars
• Very good in corners if the suspension is set up correctly

Disadvantages of Suzuki RM-Z250 2020

• Kickstarter
• Replacing ECU cards takes time
• Lack of low-end torque
• Unrealistically stiff suspension
• Very rigid chassis

Strengths of the Suzuki RM-Z250, according to riders

The Suzuki RM-Z250 corners exceptionally well, despite being hampered by an overly stiff fork. The Suzuki engine has decent power throughout the entire rev range.

The engine of the motorcycle has good power in the lower and mid range, but is weak in the upper range. The bike's strengths are cornering and fast straights, but that's about it.

Suzuki has always cornered well, and the 2022 RM-Z250 motocross is no exception, turning corners very easily.

I love the look of the Suzuki RM-Z250.

If you're in the right gear, the Suzuki RM-Z250 handles corners very well.

It's a fun bike and handles well. I could put it in the corner the way I wanted. I like the character of the engine, but I would like more horsepower.

Weaknesses of the Suzuki RM-Z250, according to riders

It creates a feeling of uncertainty on a fast straight and when entering corners. The chassis of the Suzuki RM-Z250 is rigid and uncomfortable.

The motorcycle is unpredictable and finicky. The fork is very stiff on landing and when braking.

The suspension is too stiff for my weight, especially the fork. And I don't like Kickstarter.

The Suzuki RM-Z250 fork appears to be tuned for a 100kg rider. Adjustments don't help much, this bike needs serious work on the suspension.

I am tall and felt uncomfortable on the Suzuki. When I needed power, it simply wasn't there.

If there were no other bikes in the test, I would say that the Suzuki RM-Z250 motocross bike is quite fast, but it is not. Compared to other motorcycles, it lacks power.

KTM 200 SX 2004

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Fifth place: Husqvarna FC 250 2022 dirt bike

Husqvarna FC 250 2020 motocross motorcycle

Place, according to the riders: 5-5-5-5-5-2

For 2022, the Husqvarna FC 250 receives several changes - softer suspension settings and an additional air filter housing cover with larger openings. The extra cover allows the engine to breathe easier and get a sharper response, with the Husqvarna motor loving the mid to high rev range.

This year Husqvarna made a conscious decision to distance itself from KTM with its own suspension tuning. The KTM is aimed at the professional rider who wants aggressive suspension settings, while the Husqvarna is aimed at the average rider and is more comfortable. This does not mean that the motorcycle is weak; the motocross Husqvarna FC 250 has very good handling. The WP air fork isn't as good as competitors' mechanical spring forks, but it offers a wider range of adjustment.

The Brembo hydraulic clutch on the Husqvarna works great and is rated better by many riders than the Magura on the KTM. Husqvarna comes with an excellent ProTaper handlebar, which dampens vibrations well and isolates the rider's hands from excessive feedback. In addition, the design of the Husqvarna FC 250 motocross is more pleasant than the KTM design - the white motorcycle looks great. If the frame had been white too, this would have been the best-looking bike on test.

Advantages of Husqvarna FC 250 2020

• High quality components
• Excellent suspension balance with wide tuning options
• Light bike feel on the track and on the scales
• Amazing cornering ability
• Powerful brakes with good feel

Disadvantages of Husqvarna FC 250 2020

• The engine lacks power in the lower rev range
• Suspension too soft for fast or heavy riders
• The new air filter housing cover helps the engine breathe easier, but it still feels "choked"
• The plastic frame protection in the foot area wears out quickly
• ProTaper handlebars must have a ProTaper pad

Strengths of the 2022 Husqvarna FC 250, according to riders

The Husqvarna FC 250 has no suspension problems. The mid to upper rev range is good and the power is linear.

The Husqvarna FC 250's strengths are its light weight and maneuverability, as well as good mid- and top-end power.

Turning is very easy on the Husqvarna. The bike feels light. I didn't have to force him to do what I wanted.

The cross-country FC 250 is comfortable. The motorcycle is very good from an ergonomic point of view - thin, yet easy to control with your knees and boots.

Weaknesses of the 2022 Husqvarna FC 250, according to riders

The Husqvarna FC 250 suspension is too soft. I spent a lot of time adjusting the compression and rebound, but could not get the bike to suit me.

I made the fork stiffer and slower, but I was still not happy with its performance.

The bike is too soft for me, although I only weigh 72 kilograms. I had to readjust the fork and shock, but they ended up being stiff. This pendant takes time.

The Husqvarna FC 250 engine seemed boring to me. I couldn't feel the amazing power the other guys were talking about, I just felt the vibration.

I'm not a fan of air forks, they don't inspire confidence in corners.

Summary

In general, the Suzuki RM-Z250 2022 is a high-quality and quite powerful motorcycle, well equipped and with good potential. It may not win comparisons or dyno races, but that doesn't make it bad. The yellow cross-country checker handles perfectly, behaves wonderfully on the track, and treats its owner’s wallet with touching care - this is the cheapest model in its category. This motorcycle is best suited for those who have recently grown out of the two-stroke 125 and are looking for something not too expensive, or for those who have retired from serious sports and are looking for a motorcycle not for competition, but in order to stay in shape longer and don't give up motocross.

Fourth place: KTM 250 SX-F 2022 dirt bike

KTM 250 SX-F 2020 dirt bike

Place, according to the riders: 4-4-4-4-3-1

The KTM 250 SX-F motocross bike is the bigger, more aggressive brother of the Husqvarna FC 250. Like the Husqvarna, the KTM 250 SX-F comes for the new model year with an additional air cleaner housing cover with larger openings and revised suspension.

Although KTM and Husqvarna are built on the same base, they are different motorcycles on the track. They're equally good at cornering, feel lightweight and have great balance, but the KTM is more responsive and powerful than the Husqvarna. While it too lacks low-end torque, the KTM actually picks up strongly in the mid-range and continues to pull strongly until redline.

The suspension on the KTM 250 SX-F works well. We noticed that the fork felt softer early in its travel than last year. But compared to motorcycles that have mechanical spring forks, we would like better front wheel control. KTM often does things differently from its competitors.

We hope the manufacturer doesn't hold on to the air fork design for too long. While the air fork is easy to adjust on the trail, it can't compete with mechanical forks and that prevented KTM from finishing higher.

Advantages of the KTM 250 SX-F 2020

• The feeling of a lightweight motocross bike on the track
• High quality components: Brembo brakes, ODI grips, etc.
• Excellent power in the mid to high rpm range
• Dual ECU maps and traction control allow you to quickly set up your bike
• Amazing cornering performance

Disadvantages of the 2020 KTM 250 SX-F

• The engine lacks power in the lower range
• Air fork lacks responsiveness and stability
• The Neken handlebar has a strange bend and is not as comfortable as the ProTaper handlebar on the Husqvarna
• Rear brake pedal is too close to engine housing
• The motorcycle is wider in the radiator area than the Husqvarna

Strengths of the 2022 KTM 250 SX-F, according to riders

The KTM 250 SX-F corners well and is stable on the straights.

The motorcycle is light, nimble and responsive. The KTM delivers smooth, controlled power and never stops pulling.

I like how KTM has changed the suspension settings. Initially the bike felt a little soft, but small changes in the settings solved the problem.

The KTM 250 SX-F is a comfortable, well-balanced motocross bike.

Lots of power, especially at the top. The bike rips, it suits my riding style. I like the aggressive appearance and style of the motorcycle.

The bike is good in corners. The clutch, brakes, ergonomics of the bike are the best of all.

Weaknesses of the 2022 KTM 250 SX-F, according to riders

The KTM 250 SX-F air fork is unstable. When pressing the rear brake it is easy to miss the pedal.

Personally, I prefer spring forks - the air fork has strange reactions and is not stable.

Coming out of tight corners on the 250 SX-F XC you have to use the clutch.

Lacks power at low revs, but the bike is quicker than the Husqvarna.

I don't like the suspension on the KTM 250 SX-F. The rear shock is fine, but the fork is not stable, especially in corners. It feels like the front wheel is pushing you away.

The suspension is ok, but I prefer a traditional spring fork, I don't like the feel in the corners.

Suzuki Djebel 200 – enduro for travel

Nowadays motor vehicles of different directions are produced.

For active recreation and riding on roads of varying quality, companies offer Enduro class motorcycles.

Moreover, to overcome off-road conditions and travel in different road conditions, it is not necessary that the motorcycle have a powerful power unit.

A good representative of the Enduro class is a motorcycle from the Japanese company Suzuki named Djebel 200.

The main thing for Enduro is a simple and reliable design.

The Suzuki Jebel 200 first appeared in 1993.

It replaced the SX 200 R model, its factory designation was SH 42 A. Initially, it was sold only on the domestic market .

Later, this bike began to be offered in European countries, where it was designated DR 200 SE.

This motorcycle was so reliable and had a simple design that this ensured its popularity, so it was produced without any special changes in the design until 2005.

Motorcycle design

Lightweight, small in overall dimensions, all knocked down and tucked in, the Djebel 200 had excellent maneuverability .

The motorcycle's high off-road performance was ensured by tires with studded tread.

A telescopic fork was installed at the front .

The first motorcycles had a medium-sized headlight, protected on the sides by a metal frame. Later this frame was abandoned, and the headlight became larger in size.

On some motorcycles, protective bars were installed on the handlebars . There is also a Djebel 200 with a small fairing.

The motorcycle was equipped with a triangular fuel tank of small capacity .

But since the power plant was small in size, the tank volume was sufficient.

The seat was a flat two-seater, its front part had an overhang on the tank. The rear wing had a good projection back. The frame on this enduro was tubular.

The power plant is compact, single-cylinder, but 4-stroke , with overhead valves. Cooling is air.

In order not to reduce the ground clearance, and also to protect the exhaust pipe from the possibility of being punctured, it was laid on the right side of the cylinder, its end point passing under the seat.

The rear suspension was presented in the form of a monoshock absorber. The drive to the rear wheel was carried out by a chain.

The front wheel brake system was disc, while the rear was equipped with a drum brake.

A very interesting and unusual motorcycle is the Yamaha Tricker XG 250, which is capable of not only traveling around the city, but will also give you the opportunity to perform stunts.

The range of English motorcycles includes a fairly large number of modifications with engines ranging from 600 to 2300 cc.

Specifications

Detailed characteristics of this motorcycle are in the table:

Characteristics and performance of the Suzuki Djebel 200 model

Estimated cost

In addition to its simple and reliable design, the Suzuki Djebel 200 has another advantage - low price , which ensures its popularity even now.

You won’t see new motorcycles anymore, but the aftermarket for the Djebel 200 is extensive .

The price depends on the year of production, condition of the motorcycle and mileage.

The price range for Djebel 200 varies from 80 to 250 thousand rubles.

And here is another small-capacity motorcycle, the Suzuki Bandit 250, the technical characteristics and review of which are in our article.

Photo gallery

Our selection presents a small-capacity motorcycle belonging to the enduro class. Its appearance is simple and compact, but as we have already found out, the Djebel 200 is a very reliable and popular motorcycle. Without a doubt, you can go on a trip with it.

Third place: Kawasaki KX 250 2022 dirt bike

Kawasaki KX 250 2020 motocross motorcycle

Place, according to the riders: 2-3-3-3-4-4

Externally, the Kawasaki KX 250 motocross remains almost unchanged, but this motorcycle received big changes for the 2022 model year. A new cylinder head, valve train, larger diameter piston, shorter connecting rod and larger throttle body are the main changes. Kawasaki claims it is the most powerful 250cc four-stroke engine yet. cm they've ever released. Just as important, the excellent Kayaba fork replaces the disappointing Showa SFF fork, making the Kawasaki KX 250's suspension one of the best in its class.

The Kawasaki KX 250's high-revving engine produces plenty of power in the mid-to-high rpm range, but doesn't falter at low revs, especially when equipped with a white map ECU.

The Kawasaki KX 250 motorcycle is perfectly balanced, stable at speed and good in turns. The new KYB fork can be classified as a rigid fork, but, unlike the Suzuki fork, the stiffness is within reason. The KYB shock absorbs impacts with poise and grace. The KX 250 loves to corner and feels light on the trail.

He would also like an electric starter...

Advantages of Kawasaki KX 250 2020

• Great power in the mid to high rpm range
• Good ergonomics
• Excellent suspension characteristics
• The Kawasaki KX 250 motorcycle is stable at speed, yet fast in corners
• Good appearance

Disadvantages of Kawasaki KX 250 2020

• Kickstarter
• Clutch overheats when actively used
• Changing ECU maps takes time
• Stock grips are hard
• Would like more torque at low revs

Strengths of the 2022 Kawasaki KX 250, according to riders

The Kawasaki KX 250 cross-country bike loves an aggressive riding style. Kawasaki's return to a conventional spring fork is the right decision.

The suspension is good and the fork is great. The engine pulls very well at medium and high speeds.

The new Kayaba spring fork instills confidence and trust and I felt very comfortable on the bike.

I'm very glad that Kawasaki has finally parted ways with the Showa fork. The new KYB suspension is comfortable and balanced. Good engine.

The Kawasaki KX 250 motocross is much better than I expected. The ergonomics are good, and the steering wheel is the most comfortable.

The Kayaba fork is a huge improvement over last year's Showa SFF. The engine becomes much more aggressive when using a white ECU map.

Weaknesses of the 2022 Kawasaki KX 250, according to riders

You have to use the clutch after tight turns because there is not enough traction at the bottom.

I don't like kickstarter. In addition, the Kawasaki KX 250 is not the lightest dirt bike.

There is not enough power at low revs, I used the clutch a lot.

Gear shifting is not always clear.

Second place: Honda CRF250R 2022 dirt bike

Honda CRF250R 2020 dirt bike

Place, according to the riders: 3-2-2-1-2-5

Like the Kawasaki, the Honda CRF250R motocross bike boasts big changes for the new model year. New camshaft, new ECU maps, higher second gear transmission, completely new exhaust system - changes were supposed to increase power in the lower engine speed range. The chassis has also been revised, with the battery positioned 28mm lower to lower the center of gravity. The Showa suspension also received new settings.

The powerband of the Honda CRF250R motocross has really gotten wider, and it's probably the flattest distribution of power across the revs with good power in the low, mid and high revs. But this is not the most powerful motocross bike in the class. The ECU map switch on the handlebar allows you to select three different maps, but for all but the slipperiest trails we used map #3.

Most riders really liked the ergonomics of the Honda CRF250R, the motorcycle is compact. The balance of the chassis and suspension is very good and the bike feels intuitive. Honda reacts instantly to the rider's movements. The shock and fork work great. In general, the only thing that keeps it in second place is not the most powerful engine. The engine's character is smooth and comfortable, but the extra power will make it the perfect motorcycle.

Advantages of the 2020 Honda CRF250R

• Good power distribution throughout the entire rev range
• Excellent handling
• Comfortable ergonomics
• Successful gear ratios

Disadvantages of the 2020 Honda CRF250R

• The electric starter doesn't work unless you depress the clutch.
• Stock grips are hard
• Honda CRF250R engine is not the most powerful
• Heavy on the scales
• Tendency to skid the rear wheel

Strengths of the 2022 Honda CRF250R, according to riders

The strengths of the Honda CRF250R are maneuverability and ease of control. The suspension is soft, smooth and predictable.

The cross-country CRF250R behaves very predictably in corners. Good engine power in the mid to high range.

The suspension is perfectly balanced and I immediately felt comfortable. The gear ratios are chosen well.

The Honda CRF250R has good power throughout the rev range and excellent handling.

The bike has better power distribution across the revs and is a lot of fun to ride. I like the way the Honda handles in corners and in the air.

The new engine is truly an improvement over last year and has a comfortable powerband. I liked the third, most aggressive ECU map.

Weaknesses of the 2022 Honda CRF250R, according to riders

With less low-end power than the Yamaha, the CRF requires heavy use of the clutch and gear changes.

The weak point of the Honda CRF250R is the lack of power at low revs.

On high-speed sections of the highway, I encountered some kind of shock from the fork when braking.

The Renthal Fatbar transmits too much vibration to the hands.

I like the wide and comfortable powerband of the Honda CRF250R, but it's not the most powerful dirt bike in the class. I would like more power at low revs.

The Honda has a tendency to tail out when exiting corners.

First place: Yamaha YZ250F 2022 motocross motorcycle

Yamaha YZ250F 2020 dirt bike

Place, according to the riders: 1-1-1-2-1-3

Last year, the 2022 Yamaha YZ250F won the motocross bike of the year title with relative ease. Completely redesigned for 2022, the Yamaha YZ250F beats everyone out with its powerful engine, class-leading suspension and very good handling characteristics. For 2022, Yamaha's changes are limited to new graphics. Oddly enough, this was enough for victory.

Engine power in the 250 cm3 class. is one of the most important indicators, and although the Yamaha YZ250F engine is not the most powerful on the dyno, it is the best on the track. With the most bottom-end torque of any test bike, the Yamaha YZ250F will always be a couple of lengths ahead of the other bikes. It's great that the Yamaha's powerband is easily tuned and adjusted using the Power Tuner app.

Yamaha Kayaba suspension has long been the best in class, and while Kawasaki and Honda have made great strides in this regard, the Yamaha YZ250F continues to dominate. Yamaha is the most stable motocross bike at any speed. Cornering is no longer the Yamaha's Achilles heel and the bike changes direction easily and predictably.

The first choice of four out of six test riders, the 2022 Yamaha YZ250F is our 250cc motocross bike of the year. cm.

Advantages of Yamaha YZ250F 2020

• Excellent power at low revs
• Convenient smartphone app Yamaha Power Tuner
• Best in class suspension
• Excellent stability at high speed and good maneuverability in corners

Disadvantages of the 2020 Yamaha YZ250F

• Excessively soft seat filling
• The small air filter needs to be cleaned after every workout.
• Stock grips are hard

Strengths of the 2022 Yamaha YZ250F, according to riders

The Yamaha YZ250F motocross inspires confidence thanks to its good chassis balance and suspension characteristics.

The best 250F engine to date. The bike is predictable and handles very well. Amazing pendant.

The most powerful motocross bike ever. The suspension is perfectly balanced.

The Power Tuner app allows the rider to tune the bike the way they want. Very comfortably.

I didn't have to get used to the Yamaha very much during the test, the bike is well balanced and inspires confidence.

The Power Tuner app is great and gives you the ability to change engine characteristics on a track-by-track basis. Every manufacturer should make such an application.