Riding prepped tracks with limited dust most days, 4-5hr oil changes have worked well for me. Oil filter gets changed every other oil change, so 8-10hrs. Owners/Service Manual can state longer, but I wouldn't suggest pushing it. 2-3hrs is common for extreme conditions and harder duress racing situations.

Over 110hrs on her now, just a clutch refresh with a Hinson kit around 80hr mark (fibers/steels) and that's it. No valve adjustments needed, top end, etc. I don't rev a bike as much as many, that helps longevity. As does smooth/clean shifting and proper clutch use. Modern 450's are marvels - Take care of them with clean air, fresh oil, and they go quite a ways. Twin Air filters with Maxima FFT, Maxima 'Premium' 10w40 petroleum-based engine oil, and oil filters every other oil change have done me well. The PC linkage changes the rising rate, requires a slightly stiffer shock spring, and provides a more compliant back end when valved/set-up accordingly. Every bike can benefit from aftermarket assistance, knowing which avenue to pursue can be the challenge. Cheers

Oh yeah, out of all the current 450's, one can ride the KX450 hardest with the least negative consequence. Cheers

Thank You, felt good to be back behind a gate

Haha good catch, but this one was all on me. First moto back, just worried about breathing and riding smooth/smart. Completely forgot to clean it off until just after the race!

@@CasMoto That's ok. I don't clean mine while in a moto at all. Every time i've tried to i either almost went down or just lost loads of time. Lol I have a hard time pulling tear offs also. shhhh our secret though. ;p

I keep my bikes fairly stock (no internal changes, porting, special fuel, etc.), so a 110/90-19 turns better and keeps it snappier than a comparable 120/90 ( I do not enjoy the turning character of 120/80's). Bridgestone 110 tires are quite large, almost 115's, and I have been using them with very good results of late. Suspension-wise, both AHM and STR do good work, and I'll even use Graeme Brough from time to time as he's excellent as well. Good questions!

​@@CasMoto Here in Mexico you can only get Dunlop MX 34 or MX53 rear tires and also Bridgestone X40. I am going to try the X40. I didn't know it was such a good tire since it has little publicity here in Mexico. I appreciate your help.

@@MOTOSYMOTOCICLTETAS Not sure if it's an international offer, but Bridgestone currently has a deal stateside for $50 gift card credit with purchase of a pair of tires. This makes the pricing extremely competitive, and I'm really impressed with both the X40 rear and X31 front/rear in true SoCal intermediate (everything) terrain...Lots of oldschool riders still swear by the M59 (soft/int.) front tire too. Take care and enjoy whichever fresh sneakers you go with!

Good question: Short answer is Yes, going to the longer chain loads the front more and the bike will feel 'different'. I go from 2mm fork height to flush when moving the rear axle back with a 116L chain on 24/25 KX450's. In addition to adding a touch of shock HS and/or preload (as you rightly did, seeing that we increased leverage on the shock with the longer wheelbase), stiffening the forks is usually a good play as well, as-is testing varying fork heights. I'd start with +1 on fork compression, then possibly add another click if this direction felt good/eliminated some of that chatter/vagueness. Why? Long answer time. We can only (relatively easily/cheaply) move one pivot on a bike: The rear axle in this case. The front axle and swingarm pivot are situated in fixed locations, so clocking the rear axle back not only lengthens the wheelbase (stability), but also moves the engine's center of gravity forward (in relation to where we started, axle-positioning-wise). This means more weight is theoretically on the front end, even though we are also longer from front axle to back axle measurements. In my experience, going longer on chain length not only adds stability but also increases front wheel 'bite'. The chassis is longer, but the front wheel is also more precise. As you're encountering, fine suspension tuning is typically required. Great question and please keep me updated as you dial in your ride! Cheers

@@CasMoto Great insights CasMoto. I'll have to try moving down my forks. I wouldn't have gone in this direction, but since you've tested this, I'm sure it's a good idea. Maybe it will help with the newfound chatter I'm getting in the forks coming into braking chop as a result of the longer wheelbase. Thanks again. P.S: The 25 ECU can be swapped to the 24 to provide more tuning options. You need to swap ECU's to get it on the 24. It's not available in the app itself. Straight from Kawasaki.

Elsinore prep can be hit or miss, but most of their track layouts flow pretty well! Any practice is good practice

New 25' CRF250R is very similar to previous generation YZ250F, for engine feel. Crisp EFI mapping and proper gear spacing make it an easy 250F to hop on and go fast. Ergos are much better than those YZ250F's and the build quality is high. Added bonus, no need to worry about frequent timing chain updates

New layouts can be hit or miss, unfortunately they missed the mark this particular weekend!

Just after Noon (they close at 2P and "lock the gates" at 2.30P "SHARP"). After a 9.30/10AM watering it was so busy with a flurry of riders, but still DUSTY, that I had to wait it out for clear vision (and lungs)... Was an interesting day, especially on the prep side. Advertise a new layout, get a bunch of riders that haven't been to Lake Elsinore in a while, then drop the ball on prep and remind everyone that Elsinore can be a literal pit.

We helped the gentleman back to his truck: No worries! That was actually a colleague sitting right up top and with him when I made it back

I LOVE me some 2019 - 2023 Kawi's! Haha the new Honda is good, great even, but still different than that generation Kawasaki. The 25' CRF feels a little more compact, nimble, and turns much easier than those KX450's. The frame has more consistent bump absorption compared to previous CRF's, but still feels like a Honda in overall dimensions if that makes sense. The Kawi had a longer, more stable, feeling that just fits for those of us 6' and taller. The CRF seat and shorter shift lever are noticeable, but not deal breakers; just different. Stock Showa suspension on both, with each being a touch soft in the front (stock for stock). Where the 2019-2023 Kawi rear end feels low and more dead, the CRF is lively and feels taller more often. Good question!

I like it! I like it alot... Still out on the stock MX33 tires, but the most important parts of a 450 (chassis, suspension) are much improved. Always liked the Honda engine, from basically 2017 onwards, and even that is refined and smoother for 2025. Most improved award easily goes to Honda on both the 250 and 450 this year!

Good to hear from you again! Yes, there is quite a big difference between 22' and 23' options. Engine AND chassis-wise. I still prefer the free-revving nature and lightness of the 2016-2022's, but the 23'+ would be easier to ride for those who don't like to rev as much. If you need more bottom for those tighter tracks, the new bikes are likely easier to ride. Personally, I can ride the 'old' bikes better and for longer motos, but they are both solid platforms - Just uniquely different. You are right about the newer bikes taking a little more fine-tuning (and money) to dial in. If you found happiness on your FC450, it would probably be easier to find similar comfort on the 22'...

@@CasMoto Thanks for your reply, I really appreciate your help. I took some time off motorcycles due to some knee and shoulder issues. I'm healing now, but it's been many months since I rode a bike. I'm over 18 and I'm not getting any younger, I'm already 48. Thinking about that now I just think about riding longer and having more fun. Maybe I can ride 3 to 5 times a month. The 2019 Husqvarna FC450 is lightly used, has smooth power with the Vortex ECU and suspensions that work very well. But when I get on that 450 I wear out in 2 or 3 laps and that's not as fun, nor does it help me regain my confidence. I need longer workouts, no matter how slow I ride for a while. Today I'm not thinking about competing to win races. I just want to regain my confidence and enjoy myself more with friends on the motorcycle track. And if I can go to another World Vet in Glen Helen, that will be great, regardless of the results. I just want to meet new people and enjoy the time. Best regards, and I hope to stop by and say hello to you at some MX event in California soon.

dirtrider.com

Haha you sure?! Hit Elsinore this weekend, but no GH...

Full test coming soon, but SUPER impressed with this 250F! Not just for a first-year, new brand endeavor; Compared to every long-standing bike in this highly-competitive class...

Height and current weight? The Husky is a good option for shorter (5'6") riders, but the air forks often hold me back from referring more riders that direction...

@@CasMoto I’m 6’3 and about 70kg. I’ve ridden the husqvarna tc250 2024 and that felt quite comfortable

@@DizzleMX32 FC250 should feel extremely similar, ergos wise, just less powerful than the TC250. PS: Your weight is perfect for any 250F. See how that KX250 rides and you'll know right away if any 250 four stroke is in your cards. Even at 84 kg I quite enjoy them!

@@CasMoto thank you for the help 🙏

Both pretty gnarly, but for varying reasons! Haha

Personally, I'm a Honda guy. Both 25' CRF platforms really have me impressed. Easier to ride and slightly slower than an Austrian 450, but no air forks to tinker with, better OE parts pricing and availability, as well as RWE packages to consider as well. Good question

@@CasMoto do you think WE will be faster and less smoother engine

@@Graz23 Probably just as smooth, but I very much like Yoshimura exhausts and am sure it will help overall output...Can't wait to ride one!

Early to tell 100%, but I'm really digging these new 25' CRF's: Easily the best bike they've had in years. Will keep you updated as we prepare for ShootOut season and put more time on it!

Was a full-floater on this particular practice day! Haven't hit a jump right out of a turn, third-gear hard for quite some time. Intimidating, but FUN

Decision, decisions...While I have not yet ridden a 2025 KX250, I'm sure it will be leaps and bounds easier to ride than your 5-speed 2001 CR125! 25' Honda CRF250R's are available now, if you can't wait out the Kawasaki arrival. If history repeats itself, Honda quality tends to be a bit better, but the Kawi fits taller (6' plus) riders best. Both will have Showa 49mm forks and similar Renthal 839 bars, so it's almost best to flip a coin if you don't have any brand/dealership loyalties. Personally, I'd hold out for some Kawasaki reviews, and possibly even wait until Spring 2025 when those Team Green deals traditionally arrive. Either way, that's a good spot to be in and enjoy whichever you choose 👍

@@CasMototy man I will be waiting for sure. I’m 6’1” so that makes the Kawi seem like a good option but it seems like splitting hairs so I will wait for reviews I appreciate the info!

Yeah buddy! Love hearing these stories from new owners. Cheers

He goes up Horsepower Hill at 1:00. Looks small on camera lol

@@MotoRacerGC Yes, thanks. This course is my favorite. I always loved watching the battle between Villopoto and Dungey on this track. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bn-TkqStrrJ0gM0si=TEJCJO1WfDn_RNpd

Group 1 on this day: Int./Pro

I agree, you nailed it. The complete 24' Brembo front assembly is a direct fit on your 23' as well - Just saying!

@@CasMoto That's cool I didn't know that. I'll probably just ride my 23 for another year then grab a 25.

Great time with a solid group - Always fun to put a face to a name! Cheers CW31

Not likely at this time, as Summer seems to be less racing and more early AM practice sessions for me! Pops and Don are much more entertaining, by the way - Great characters

Summer Tuesdays, Noon to closing time at Five, are about as thin as it gets!

For this video, was still on the stock Mikuni, yes. Currently on a Keihin 38 PWK AS (with TPS utilized) which is a little less temperamental. Mikuni is good when you keep up on air screw adjustments, and makes as good or better mid-top, but the Keihin has a smoother/cleaner/easier to tune low-end transition. Was running 410/420M, 50P, stock needle but a little leaner at position 2, and 1.5 - 2.25 on the AS depending on temps. Leaner main for hot SoCal summer conditions, 420 once temps cooled off. 50/50 blend of Sunoco 110L/91 pump helps keep any pinging under control, whether running Mikuni or Keihin. Good question, hope this answers it!

@@CasMoto great info, thank you! I've heard the PWK is the way to go on these, so I'll likely just end up going that route as well in the future.

1. Congrats on going with the KX250X: Your 22' is a beauty and likely as good or better than anything else that's out there! I still dig my 2020 KX450... 2. 'Any real difference in the feel of the bike over 2024?' - Oh yeah, even on a smooth day where everything comes easy, the balance, stock settings, and even pick-up are better than the 22-24 CRF250's. I'm not sold on the air filter design and consumer ease of use just yet (even if the new airbox location makes the performance better), but more time and testing will tell. Also to note, everyone is given the same PR packet, rides the same track, and had many of the same complaints with the previous generation. Good testers feel a lot of the same sensations, which explains similar feedback. Remember, these are first-impression videos where there's usually less than two hours or so of ride time...Longer term tests are a better indicator than these quick-reaction introductions. 3. 'Do you like it better than the KX's yet?' - No siree Bob. First-year models take time to learn, and the lack of aftermarket supplies is always a hindrance in the beginning. More testing will tell, and it's certainly a positive improvement and the right direction, but I'm not quite there (yet). Reliability, OE parts pricing, looks, and the Honda reputation are strong points for the CRF250R, but we all need more time than just one ride to come to many of these conclusions. The 25' CRF250R was better than I expected it to be, stupid fun to rip around Fox Raceway, but she'll likely come up short in the HP department against other 250F competitors. Not a bad thing, just something to note (And that's even with a 100/90-19 rear tire!). Cheers and Thank You for watching

@@CasMoto Thank you as always for your input!! Keep up the awesome footage, helps us old dudes keep the fire going!!! 😁

Yes, quite an improvement. Motor may only be slightly better, but the overall package/handling/and comfort are leaps ahead. A properly setup 2022-2024 is a good bike, but this platform has the ability to be great. Especially for those coming from other brands, it will be a much easier transition. Good question and Thank You for watching

At 6:44? That's a third gear corner, upshift to fourth for the rollers on my KX450. If that's not the right section, let me know with a timestamp and I'll be sure to update. Cheers

@@CasMotonah the jump before that at 6:25

@@jsflow9049 I've heard most 450 riders hit it in second gear (on the gas), but I prefer third. Nice run and arc entering allows for smoother drive. Any track always changes practice session to session, so it's best to feel it out on a day to day basis!