2021 Honda CRF250RX

The CRF250RX is a user-friendly dirt bike. For those looking for something that can be used at the track or on single-track trails, this Honda will do the trick.

The CRF250RX is a fairly young off-road model from Honda since it was first introduced in 2019. It shares a space with Big Red’s CRF250R motocrosser, but is more geared for woods riding, desert riding, and GNCC competition environments. It is characterized by a 249cc liquid-cooled engine, larger fuel tank, convenient sidestand, and 18-inch rear wheel for additional tire sidewall flex and less chance of pinch flats.

The CRF250RX remains unchanged for the 2021 model year.

Pricing for the CRF250RX is $8,399, which is $100 more than the preceding model.

Across the line of 250 four-stroke off-road competition bikes, the CRF250RX can call these its main rivals: Yamaha YZ250X, Husqvarna FX 350, KTM 250 XC-F, GasGas EX 250F, and Kawasaki KX250X.

Fuel injection of the 249cc liquid-cooled four-stroke makes sure the motorcycle always runs cleanly. We found it has smooth, broad power that makes it friendly on track or trail. A five-speed gearbox and chain make up the RX’s transmission and final drive. The latter is O-ring-sealed to limit chain maintenance intervals and boost durability.

On our in-house dyno, the 2020 model produced 38.2 hp at 11,900 rpm and 17.9 pound-feet of torque at 9,300 rpm. Its 38 hp is impressive for a 250 four-stroke off-road bike that weighs claimed 244 pounds.

A criticism we had during our testing was that gearing was a tad tall for slow-speed maneuvering over large obstacles.

Suspension includes an inverted 49mm Showa coil-spring fork which differentiates it from the air fork KTM, Husqvarna, and GasGas use. A Showa shock supports the back with 12.4 inches of travel. While some dirt bikes offer firmer suspension, the RX provides a more supple feeling. “Yet the suspenders offer enough damping support to withstand impacts from jumps and other obstacles encountered at speed even with a heavy 191-pound rider,” wrote our test rider. “We also value its above-average stability especially over rough terrain in top gear and its nimbleness in low gear in the woods.”

Braking is handled by a pair of Nissin hydraulic disc brakes. We reported that both ends are strong and fade-free. With a dirt bike you tend to use the rear brake quite a bit and the RX’s rear brake works really well.

Fuel economy is not currently available.

Its claimed 37.8-inch seat height is a tad tall, which is common on dirt bikes when compared to streetbikes. The position-adjustable Renthal Fatbar handlebar is not too far forward nor is it too far back. Sturdy footpegs provide good grip.

The CRF250RX is equipped with a three-position-adjustable electronic launch control system and three selectable engine maps: Smooth, Standard, and Aggressive.

A six-month warranty is a nice security threshold in case anything goes wrong on this machine.

Honda’s known for its durability and this CRF250RX is very well put together. Plus, you don’t need to be a professional racer to get the most out of it.