The 18YM CRF250R leaves the 17YM CRF250R in its roost. In a wheel-to-wheel test the new CRF250R is 3% faster from 0-10m and 3.6% quicker over 30m. That’s close to half a bike length, and a full bike length respectively.
Its DOHC engine, with over-square bore and stroke, bigger valves and revised inlet/exhaust setup makes 9% more power up top. The extra power is delivered over a 2,000rpm higher range, and also features a 900rpm increase to the ‘redline’ figure. Out of the gate, and lap after lap, the 18YM CRF250R is built to pull out an advantage and cut lap times.
The 18YM CRF250R’s new fully mass-centralised chassis – identical to the current 18YM CRF450R – can put the extra power to effective use, its geometry and lower center of gravity driving the rear tire into the ground harder. The new CRF250R also employs the same Showa 49mm steel-sprung front fork as the CRF450R offering familiar (and extensive) levels of adjustability.
Electric start, separate twin exhaust systems, dual overhead cams, new suspension and additional weight savings will make the CRF250R very competitive.
Compared to the outgoing CRF250R design the chassis’ geometry markedly differs; wheelbase is 3mm shorter at 1486mm and the distance between the swingarm pivot point and rear axle is 15mm shorter at 573mm. Rake is set at 27.5° with trail of 116mm. The C of G is 1.4mm lower.
The rear subframe is now extruded aluminium (rather than forged) and is 20% lighter, aiding mass centralisation. Seat height is 6mm taller at 957mm, with 5mm more ground clearance at 327mm. Wet weight (without fuel) is 103.3kg, with fuel 108.1kg.
Like the CRF450R, the CRF250R’s plastics outline neat aerodynamics and a smooth, organic shape giving the rider ample freedom to move. They also feature scratch-resistant film insert graphics, which deliver sharp visuals and a durable finish.
Like the 2018 CRF450R, the new CRF250R is fitted with an electric starter as standard equipment.
“Our new CRF250R has been redesigned to achieve outstanding hole shot start acceleration AND much greater engine performance over a lap. We have replaced the Unicam power unit with a brand new DOHC engine that revs so much harder, and higher. It’s matched with our CRF450R chassis that improves handling and rear wheel grip. Developed with direct input from HRC to be the complete package, the 18YM CRF250R is a competitive, durable and formidable race machine.” - Mr. Mikio Uchiyama, Large Project Leader (LPL) 18YM CRF250R
Powersports.Honda.com
https://adventuremotorcycle.com/news/2018-honda-crf250r#sigProId431b3bdd38