Cycle News

Cycle News Issue 50 December 19, 2017

Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles

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3 RD Place The only all-new bike in this year's shootout, Honda's 2018 CRF250R came into the battlefield cloaked in question marks. Its big brother had been heavily updated in 2017, and recently won our 2018 450 motocross shootout, so expectations for the baby Honda built quickly. Would the changes to the CRF be enough to take on the Yamaha and the Austrian duo of Husqvarna/KTM? Honda gave its best effort, taking what it learned in the suc- cess of the current CRF450R and applying it to the lightweight motocrosser. The 250's chassis is virtually identical to that of its big brother—apart from different engine mounts—which is known for its confidence-inspiring handling. Honda also outfitted the CRF250R with the same 49mm Showa A-Kit-style spring fork as the 450 (yes!) and unveiled an all-new Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) engine, which utilizes technologies developed in MotoGP. Throw in an electric starter and an adjustable engine map switch on the handlebar, and the new Honda looks class-leading even on paper. Despite being the heaviest bike in the class, the CRF250R feels nimble and carries its weight well—all 238 pounds. It's lively and tips into the corner like it's on rails, with a "put it where you want it" attitude. Some testers found that its suspension needs only minor adjusting to find the sweet spot, while others complained that HONDA CRF250R VOL. 54 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 19, 2017 P91

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