The performance trail machine first came to market in 2019 and received a number of updates for the 2022 model year, along with its close sibling the CRF250R. Those revisions included a change to a single exhaust pipe, revised engine for better midrange performance, and an updated O-ring chain among other changes.
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We put the platform through its paces earlier this year and found that updates created a noticeable improvement in punch in the low-end and midrange. Handling is a breeze in all sorts of different riding conditions, leading our testers to note that the platform is “capable basically everywhere.” This is great for a broad variety of riders, ranging from those with competition in mind to the occasional off-road weekend warrior.
Some additional perks of the machine include standard HRC Launch Control, selectable engine maps, and a stiffer-than-expected suspension setup which proved more than capable of keeping our tester comfortable through all sorts of variable terrain.
All told, the current CRF250RX is a strong contender for riders who want a single, do-it-all, non-street-legal dirt bike. And with a few aftermarket upgrades, the RX is easily capable of holding its weight in off-road competition, as evinced by its use in various series like the GNCC, US Sprint Enduro, WORCS, and NGPC.
