P72
2020 250cc FOUR-STROKE MOTOCROSS SHOOTOUT
SHOOTOUT
THE CONTENDERS
HUSQVARNA FC 250
After a substantial number of updates
in 2019, Husqvarna calls 2020 a
"refinement year" for the FC 250. Like
its orange cousin, the Husky receives
suspension valving updates in the WP
Xact air fork and WP Xact shock, but in
an effort to differentiate the Austrian
machines, the Husqvarna's valving
leans to the softer side while the KTM
trends more aggressive. The Husky also
receives the option of a vented airbox
cover, meaning you no longer have
to take a Makita to the plastics to get
more air flowing to the engine.
KAWASAKI KX250
Team Green came out swinging in 2020
with a high-revving makeover for the
KX250. A bigger bore and shorter stroke
along with a new finger-follower valve
train aimed at putting more power on the
top end. All-over changes to the intake,
throttle body and exhaust system further
tune the power. Chassis-wise, the KX250
ditched the Showa SFF fork and went back
to the traditional KYB 48mm coil-spring
fork along with a new KYB shock and
updated linkage. A revised frame, new
bodywork and beefier brakes complete
changes to the latest KX250.
HONDA CRF250R
Not a lot went untouched on the Honda
CRF250R for the 2020 model year. An
all-new frame and swingarm headline
the chassis changes while new intake
and exhaust valves, a new intake cam
and new head pipes (yes, plural—there
are two) fine tune the power output.
Honda also pointed out stronger clutch
springs, a new brake pad material and a
lower-mounted battery box for improved
CG. After finishing fourth in last year's
shootout, Big Red is eager to regain
some ground in the 250 division; will
these changes get it there?
