three's aggressive option was our
crew's go-to for its powerful blend
of enhanced low-end pull and
crucial mid- to top-end perfor-
mance. It seems the CRF now has
what it takes to compete with the
best of them. Overall, the engine
felt throatier and simply stronger
than before without sacrificing the
top-end overrev that has become
synonymous with the latest gen-
eration of 250 four-strokes.
The 49mm Showa fork has been
reworked to match the new frame.
The fork now operates smoothly
and easily absorbs repetitive small
bumps while also handling big
hits with ease. It's nowhere near
as stiff as it was just a year ago,
and vibrations from the wheel and
fork no longer hinder the rider's
experience. The shock also feels
planted under power and is much
less pitchy than before. It feels
more predictable and doesn't kick
around like a wild animal. The
overall feel of the fork and shock
is much plusher and not nearly as
notchy as before.
At 232 pounds, it is now the
second lightest bike in the group,
missing out to the Triumph by two
pounds. The lightweight nature is
something you can feel as the bike
moves around on the track and in
the air with ease.
Despite all of its strong points,
the Honda wasn't our first draft
pick. The engine just isn't as strong
as the KTM or the Yamaha, and the
suspension is still a few clicks off
from the KYBs on the Triumph or
Yamaha. Still, big ups are deserved
at the Honda camp for their work,
and you won't be disappointed if
you choose the red route.
VOLUME ISSUE DECEMBER , P135
