Honda CRF250 Rally

09 Jan Honda CRF250 Rally

What is it about the CRF250 Rally that makes it such a special and unique adventure bike? Everything! It handles well on the gravel as well as the tar. It’s lightweight with exciting colors, a look and feel similar to the Honda Dakar contender. Let’s look at why Honda considers this one of the best 250cc motorcycles on the market today.

Honda says “The RALLY racer replica segment is an exciting one for us, with the global, human appeal of everything that Team HRC is fighting to achieve in the Dakar RALLY. We really wanted to build on the capabilities of the CRF250L and open up new opportunities for riders young and old. So, with the CRF250 RALLY we set out to make a motorcycle that looks like HRC’s CRF450 RALLY factory machine. Its fun to ride both on and off-road for weekend adventures, comfortable to tour with and useful and practical for daily life. It brings the spirit of RALLY-raid racing to every ride.”

The Honda CRF250 Rally is based on the updated 2017 CRF250L and CRD450. With a wide range of changes made, it’s a truly a unique 250cc for adventure seekers. Styling is inspired by the Team HRC CRF450 RALLY race machine. The asymmetric headlights and turn signals are LED. The rally-type screen, fairing and radiator shrouds provide excellent wind protection. The side panels, seat and tank allows the rider move his/her body position freely when approaching more technical terrain. Unfortunately, the seat height is 895mm and 20mm taller than the CRF250L. However, when sitting on the motorcycle, the suspension allows for most riders to reach the ground comfortably. Maneuvering the Honda CRF205 Rally through sandy roads, hill climbs and other technical gravel terrain, is effortless with the spring rate and damping improved to suit the CRF250 RALLY’s adventurous long-distance ambition.

A 17mm front wheel spindle (2mm larger in diameter) also improves handling. A wheelbase of 1,455mm is matched to a 28.1° rake with 114mm trail and ground clearance of 270mm (15mm more than the CRF250L). The CRF250 Rally wet weight is 157kg with the frame constructed from steel. A large fuel tank allows for an extensive range, and the new digital dash includes a fuel gauge and tachometer. A Longer travel suspension and high ground clearance enhance its long-distance off-road ability.

The engine boasts solid bottom-end torque with sufficient top-end power. This is all thanks to the updates from the original Honda CRF250L, revised PGM-FI and throttle body, a new air box and a lightweight exhaust. Is it sufficient power for you? This will depend on your personal traveling needs as well as you’re riding experience. Some riders will prefer waiting for the 450cc that is in the future prospects. However, the 250cc is one hundred percent one of the best motorcycles to commute with daily, take on an adventure and learn at the same time without the risk of a too heavy or tall motorcycle falling over.

• 2017 CRF250 RALLY Colors: Red / White / Black
• 2017 CRF250 RALLY Price: R85 000 (price may vary)

FUEL SYSTEM

ENGINE

SUSPENSION

WHEELS

BRAKES

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

DRIVETRAIN

FRAME

CHASSIS

INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS

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