Honda’s 250cc class dual-sport motorcycle gets a number of important upgrades for the 2017 model year. This is a machine that’s more than ready to take on exciting off-road challenges without giving up street-riding accommodations. The compact and sophisticated liquid-cooled DOHC 249cc single-cylinder four-stroke powerplant produces smooth and consistent torque at low rpm to aid off-road work, yet the short-stroke engine also spins up excellent high-rpm performance for the street. All through the rev range, the CRF250L pumps out a well-balanced and very capable level of power, and changes for 2017 improve throttle response and increase power in the lower and midranges. Its off-road-oriented chassis, which includes a long-travel 43mm inverted fork and single-shock Pro-Link® rear suspension, makes it equally at home on city streets or country trails. And with styling cues carried over from Honda’s incredible 2017 CRF450R motocross bike, the CRF250L offers the full package, whether the day calls for low-cost transportation, a weekday commute or genuine dual-sport adventure.
FEATURE | DETAIL | BENEFIT | |
ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN | |||
38m throttle body | Up 2mm from 2016 | Improved response, better power in low and midranges | |
Revised airbox | |||
Reshaped air boot | 100mm longer connecting tube | Improved throttle response | |
New muffler design | Two-chamber structure with more compact size | Improved pulse feeling and lighter weight | |
Larger-diameter exhaust head pipe | Pipe structure up 10mm to 38mm | Improved peak horsepower | |
New ECU | Improved emissions control | ||
Roller rocker arm design | Extremely compact | Allows use of smaller cylinder head | |
Counterbalancer shaft | Gear-driven | Reduces vibrations for rider comfort | |
Aluminum crankcase | Light weight | ||
Heavy-duty chain | O-ring design | Durable, low-maintenance | |
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION | |||
Updated meter | Tachometer added | More data for rider | |
Updated taillight | LED bulbs | Durability, clearer light quality | |
Updated license-plate holder | Improved appearance | ||
Wave-design front brake rotor | 256mm diameter | Strong, consistent stopping power | |
Available ABS | New for 2017 | Controlled stopping performance | |
Aluminum rims | 21 inch front; 18 inch rear | Reduced unsprung mass | |
Updated graphics | MX style | Improved appearance |