Honda’s CRF250 is the latest bike to gain capacity as a result of achieving Euro5 emission standards, a move which combined with significant chassis upgrades makes for some pleasing numbers for would-be owners.
Now 286cc thanks to a longer stroke, the single-cylinder engine is producing 10 percent more power (20kW @ 8500rpm) and 18 percent more torque (22.6Nm @ 6750rpm) than the 249cc version. A new steel, semi double-cradle frame and aluminium swingarm account for a four-kilogram improvement over the 250, combining to achieve a 13 percent improvement on its power-to-weight ratio.
Both machines benefit from longer-travel suspension and higher ground clearance, shorter ratios in the first five gears will make the most of the extra torque, while a taller top gear will help with higher-speed transport sections. There’s a slipper clutch to keep it all in check, a new LCD dash, and while the CRF300L’s 7.8-litre fuel tank is narrower than before, the CRF300 Rally’s gains an extra couple of litres in capacity out to 12.8L.
Twelve kilograms heavier, 100mm wider and 215mm taller, other feature separating the Rally from the base model machines is the seat is wider and 10mm lower than the base model, its handlebars are weighted for less vibrations, while the dash, indicators and seat are all rubber mounted.
Both machines are due to land in Aussie dealers in the first half of 2021, when pricing will also be announced.
