Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/1487488
VOLUME 59 ISSUE 49 DECEMBER 6, 2022 P69 2023 HONDA CRF250R ($8199) Wet weight: 232 lbs. (claimed) After a ground-up redesign in 2022, Honda's CRF250R sees no updates besides graphics for the 2023 model year. In last year's test, the newly changed CRF landed on the podium in third place. A rider-friendly cockpit, Showa suspension, Pirelli Scorpion tires, a cable-operated clutch, and a three-mode map switch highlight the Honda's spec sheet. Sure it's still lighter, smoother, and all around better than the previous generation, but without any changes for this year, we're still determining if it will bump up in our overall rankings. Jett Lawrence raced this bike to an outdoor championship, and Honda's hoping to do the same thing here. 2023 KTM 250 SX-F ($9999) Dry weight: 222 lbs. (claimed) The KTM 250 SX-F is the only other all-new bike in the class. A new frame, engine, swingarm, bodywork and electronic suite are on the short list of updates to the Orange Brigade's flagship 250 motocrosser. These improvements were all aimed at centralizing mass while also improving power and rider comfort. In doing so, the KTM has packed four extra pounds of claimed weight and lost its definite spot as the lightest bike in the class. Selectable mapping, traction control, Brembo brakes, and even a quick shifter are all race-ready features that look to put KTM at the top of the class. GASGAS MC250F ($9199) Dry weight: 218 lbs. (claimed) The GasGas MC250F is the third and final bike in the Austrian lineup. The second red machine is positioned as the more affordable and "more fun" brand compared to the KTM or the Husqvarna. To save on overall price, the MC250F comes equipped with cast triple clamps and non-branded aluminum handlebars and does not have the option to change engine maps. The biggest difference is that the GasGas also rides on the previous KTM/Husqvarna chassis and engine. The other two Austrian bikes have left the MC250F behind as they enter a new generation. While the others pursue a new setting, the lighter and more simplistic approach from GasGas could be enough to shake up the order. THE CLASS OF 2023 This doesn't mean the long-in-the- tooth RM-Z is a bad bike, it's just not as competitive out of the crate as it once was compared to its ever-evolving class rivals. The RM-Z still has a great platform and is the least expensive at $7899. In reality, the RM-Z is just a suspension re-valve and a full exhaust system away from being in the show. Stock for stock, it is being left further behind with each model year. But if you're looking for an ideal platform from which to build your race weapon— and you don't need the button—you can still consider yellow. You can always improve power. You can always re-valve suspension. And there is that razor-sharp handling and bulletproof reliability the RM-Z250 platform is known for. The Suzuki might not be for everyone, but it still has a niche, especially for those not big into racing but still like to hit the track.