The  new CRF250L has been launched by Honda, featuring a brand new frame. This has been evolved to house the engine which is derived from the CBR250R.

     A wheelbase of 1,445mm is matched to a 27.6°’ rake with 113mm trail, combining stability and agility. Wet weight of the bike is 144kg (317 lbs).

     A 43mm Showa inverted fork is equipped, front wheel travel is 250mm. Pro-Link rear suspension Showa provides a 240mm axle stroke. The swingarm is made of aluminium.
     The front brake uses a single 256mm disc gripped by a two-piston caliper, the rear a 220mm disc and single-piston caliper. Lightweight aluminium rims further reduce unsprung mass.
     The fuel tank holds 7.7 litres. Seat height is 875mm. A compact, lockable toolbox is sited at the base of the rear fender.

    The engine is derived from the CBR250R. However it is detuned, providing less power (22.8 bhp/8,500min-1 ) and torque, (2.43 Kgm/7,000min-1 ) compared to (26 bhp / 8500 rpm and 2,42 Kgm/7000min-1) the equivalent figures for the CBR250R.
     However it’s the claimed fuel consumption (3.12 l / 100 Km) (90.54 mpg) which has been improved, compared with that of the CBR, (3.7 l/ 100 Km) (76 mpg).

     Comments: Compared with the Kawasaki KLX250 the technical specifications of the Honda CRF250L are really close.
     Guards are situated above the rider’s footpegs to protect the frame from boot scuffs . The 21 inch front wheel and 18 inch rear increase stability on rough terrain and make the fitment of more off-road specific tyres possible. Hence, a real dual purpose bike is there for the future buyers.

     2/29/2011      Honda today confirms that the CRF250L, revealed for the first time at the Tokyo Motor Show in November 2011, will go on sale in Europe in summer 2012.

     The CRF250L is a true 'dual purpose motorcycle’ offering both ease of use in everyday life and the fun of off-road riding. As such, it continues a long tradition of Honda machines, dating back to the XL250S of the late 1970s, and the entire XL range that followed.

     The machine features a liquid-cooled DOHC single cylinder 249cc engine in a twin-tube oval pipe steel frame, inverted front forks, ProLink rear suspension and aluminium swing arm. It will also offer outstanding value for money, with low overall running costs a priority. More information including full technical specifications will be announced in April.

     Comments: Fortunately, Honda introduces normal motorcycles along with the scooters or scooter-cycles!

     After the Kawasaki ninja 250 which was followed by Honda CBR250R, it’s the KLX 250 turn to get challenged by the CRF250L. Hopefully riders will be benefited by this competition, getting the option to chose between better and maybe more powerful bikes.

     Due to the economic crisis threatening once more Europe, the CRF250L becomes an interesting proposal for various needs. It is reminded that these bike categories became extinct due to the invasion of the scooters within the last 20 years.