2021 Honda CRF250RX. (Honda/)

Ups

• Smooth, rideable power from its 249cc four-stroke engine
• Lightweight feel contributes to nimble handling
• Suspension is well balanced for jumps or rocky terrain
• Low upkeep and maintenance needed
• Strong Nissin brakes
• Sidestand is a nice touch, even for the motocross track

Downs

• Low-end power and overall torque could be better
• Some vibration is felt at the handlebar, but it isn’t excessive
• Fuel tank is a bit obtrusive and makes the radiator shroud area a bit wide between the rider’s knees
• Gearing is tall for slow-speed maneuvers

Verdict

The CRF250RX is a user-friendly dirt bike. For those looking for something that can be used at the track or on single-track trails, this Honda will do the trick.

2021 Honda CRF250RX. (Adam Waheed/)

Overview

The CRF250RX is a fairly young off-road model from Honda since it was first introduced in 2019. It shares a space with Big Red’s CRF250R motocrosser, but is more geared for woods riding, desert riding, and GNCC competition environments. It is characterized by a 249cc liquid-cooled engine, larger fuel tank, convenient sidestand, and 18-inch rear wheel for additional tire sidewall flex and less chance of pinch flats.

Updates for 2021

The CRF250RX remains unchanged for the 2021 model year.

Pricing and Variants

Pricing for the CRF250RX is $8,399, which is $100 more than the preceding model.

Competition

Across the line of 250 four-stroke off-road competition bikes, the CRF250RX can call these its main rivals: Yamaha YZ250X, Husqvarna FX 350, KTM 250 XC-F, GasGas EX 250F, and Kawasaki KX250X.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Fuel injection of the 249cc liquid-cooled four-stroke makes sure the motorcycle always runs cleanly. We found it has smooth, broad power that makes it friendly on track or trail. A five-speed gearbox and chain make up the RX’s transmission and final drive. The latter is O-ring-sealed to limit chain maintenance intervals and boost durability.

On our in-house dyno, the 2020 model produced 38.2 hp at 11,900 rpm and 17.9 pound-feet of torque at 9,300 rpm. Its 38 hp is impressive for a 250 four-stroke off-road bike that weighs claimed 244 pounds.

A criticism we had during our testing was that gearing was a tad tall for slow-speed maneuvering over large obstacles.

Handling

Suspension includes an inverted 49mm Showa coil-spring fork which differentiates it from the air fork KTM, Husqvarna, and GasGas use. A Showa shock supports the back with 12.4 inches of travel. While some dirt bikes offer firmer suspension, the RX provides a more supple feeling. “Yet the suspenders offer enough damping support to withstand impacts from jumps and other obstacles encountered at speed even with a heavy 191-pound rider,” wrote our test rider. “We also value its above-average stability especially over rough terrain in top gear and its nimbleness in low gear in the woods.”

Brakes

Braking is handled by a pair of Nissin hydraulic disc brakes. We reported that both ends are strong and fade-free. With a dirt bike you tend to use the rear brake quite a bit and the RX’s rear brake works really well.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Fuel economy is not currently available.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

Its claimed 37.8-inch seat height is a tad tall, which is common on dirt bikes when compared to streetbikes. The position-adjustable Renthal Fatbar handlebar is not too far forward nor is it too far back. Sturdy footpegs provide good grip.

2021 Honda CRF250RX. (Adam Waheed/)

Electronics

The CRF250RX is equipped with a three-position-adjustable electronic launch control system and three selectable engine maps: Smooth, Standard, and Aggressive.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

A six-month warranty is a nice security threshold in case anything goes wrong on this machine.

Quality

Honda’s known for its durability and this CRF250RX is very well put together. Plus, you don’t need to be a professional racer to get the most out of it.

2021 Honda CRF250RX Claimed Specifications

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com