2014 HONDA CRF250M

Press release date: Friday, April 12^th, 2013

New model: Based on the populardual-purpose CRF250L, with revised suspension, uprated front brake and 17-inch wheels with wider road tyres, the new CRF250M offers accessible Supermoto performance, design and attitude.

Contents:

1. Introduction

2. Model overview

3. Key features

4. Technical specifications

1. Introduction

A Supermoto (or Motard) starts out as an off-road bike but combines the best qualities of both dirt and street motorcycles; the slim build, manoeuvrability, supple long-travel suspension and durability of the off-roader with the braking, tyre grip, cornering ability and nimble steering delivered by a road bike. The resulting machine creates the perfect tool for both effortless city navigation and apex carving thrills on a tight, twisty road.

The Honda CRF250L, launched in 2012, reintroduced the true multi-role, dual-purpose motorcycle: a bike equally capable in the rough as on the street. For 2014, joining the CRF250L – based on its platform and building on its success – is the new CRF250M, an affordable Supermoto built with both fun and practicality in mind.

2. Model Overview

Designed to stand out from the urban crowd, the CRF250M combines tough performance credentials with a bold style and is aimed to appeal to the young rider looking for something different. Its high build quality, low running costs and sheer all-round usefulness also make it an attractive proposition not just to new riders, but to those with more experience in search of an entertaining diversion.

Based on the CRF250L, the CRF250M sits 20mm lower thanks to revised front and rear suspension with heavier weight springs; and with 17inch wheels fitted with wider road tyres, plus a more powerful front brake, the CRF250M is ready to tear up the tarmac. Its free revving single-cylinder engine provides crisp, instant response thanks to revised gearing, whilst also offering both impressive fuel economyand punchy power and torque delivery.

3. Key Features

3.1 Engine

The CRF250M’s liquid-cooled DOHC engine produces smooth and consistent torque at low rpm while its short stroke (76.0mm bore x 55.0mm stroke) ensures excellent performance at higher rpm. The result is a well-balanced and usable delivery throughout the entire rev-range. Maximum power output is 17.0kW @ 8,500rpm with torque of 22.0Nm @ 7,000rpm.

A compact, low friction roller/rocker arm and cylinder head plus PGM-FI injection system with 36mm throttle bore (fed by a 5.7 litre airbox) ensure combustion efficiency. Compression ratio is 10.7:1 and the engine delivers 34.0km/L (WMTC), giving close to 250km range from its 7.7 litre fuel tank. The six-speed gearbox drives a 39T rear sprocket; taller gearing than the CRF250L allows for the change in wheel diameter and produces more relaxed cruising at higher speeds.

An offset cylinder reduces internal frictional losses as does the piston, with its special surface material and molybdenum coating. The crank journal uses a half-split, press-fit metal bearing while the crank bearing employs a cast-iron bush. This reduces weight and makes for a smoother engine performance, strengthening the rigidity of the case housing and minimizing the internal diameter change due to thermal expansion. A primary balance shaft reduces vibration.

Comfortably dealing with Euro III emissions regulations, an O₂ Lambda sensor works in conjunction with a secondary air injection system; the catalyzer is sited inside the exhaust muffler.

3.2 Chassis

The frame’s steel twin oval-section main spars and semi-double cradle plus the subframe, tapered aluminium swing arm, top and bottom bridge and Pro-Link rear suspension linkages wear stealthy black paint. The 1,446mm wheelbase is matched to 25°45’ rake and 71mm trail; seat height is 855mm and the CRF250M has a kerb weight of 145kg.

Complementing the blacked-out frame and detailing, the 43mm Showa inverted fork wears a black Alumite surface finish. Heavier weight springs are used for more effective on-road performance; the single tube (with 40mm diameter cylinder) Showa rear shock also employs a heavier spring.

A large, 296mm floating front disc and twin-piston caliper (mounted to the fork via a new bracket) provide superb stopping power and control, as does the rear 220mm disc and single-piston caliper. The spoked front wheel (17 x 2.75) wears a 110/70-17 tyre, the rear (17 x 3.50) a 130/70-17 tyre. The plastic fork protectors remain in place, with re-sited brake line fixing points; the side stand is also shorter in length, in response to the bike’s lower overall stance.

Derived from the competition CRF-R range, the CRF250M’s sinuous lines are enhanced by brand new graphics. Two paint options are available: black (with gold wheels), and red and black.

Thanks to its off-road DNA, it’s a narrow machine, with plenty of room to move forward or back on the seat. The upright riding position also ensures great all-round visibility while the combination of sharp steering geometry and leverage provided by the handlebars guarantee traffic-busting ease.

The digital instrument cluster contains a fuel meter, with built-in clock and twin trip functions. The CRF-inspired headlight visor protects the instruments and houses an H4 60W/55 bulb.

4. Technical Specifications 

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

* Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.