Honda announce 2018 CRF250R

After releasing a short teaser video last week, Honda have announced a new CRF250R for 2018 with a ground-up design that incorporates a new engine, better chassis and electric start as standard.

The star of the show is the new engine, which is brand-new for the 2018 model. The focus of the new motor’s design was to achieve improved acceleration and drive. To achieve this Honda revised the bore and stroke of the 249.4cc single, they also gave it a new crankshaft and improved internals throughout the entire engine.

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This means the bike is more powerful and faster than before, with 9% more power overall. Honda claim the new model is 3% quicker from over the first 10 metres and 3.6% quicker to reach 30 metres – vital for getting the holeshot.

The new CRF250R also gets an electric starter motor as standard – replacing the kickstarter and making it easier to restart the machine after a crash or stall. The starter is powered by a lightweight lithium-ion battery, with the total weight gain to the engine increasing by just 1kg.

The bike also features selectable maps that allow the rider to select the most appropriate riding mode depending on the conditions or terrain with a standard, smooth and aggressive response.

The frame and suspension are shared with the larger CRF450R and the wheelbase is 3mm shorter than the previous CRF250R. The Showa SFF-TAC-Air fork of the previous model has been replaced with a 49mm Showa USD coil-spring fork, again shared with the fork that is featured on the CRF450R.

Honda have also been saving weight wherever possible too. The new frame is 340g lighter than the outgoing model, the clutch features a new basket design that saves 200g and the lithium-ion battery tips the scales at just 650g. The new tank is shared with the CRF450R too, and is constructed from titanium – weighing 513g less than the plastic tank that it replaces. 

We’re still awaiting information on pricing and availability from Honda but contact your nearest dealership for more information on this machine or visit Honda’s website.

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