Honda CRF 250L Long Term Review

I've had the Honda CRF 250L for exactly one year - here's my long term review after one year of ownership.....
I'm now on that Twitter thing! Join me @MissendenFlyer
I use the following equipment to record and edit my VLOGs:-
GoPro HD Hero 4 helmet camera amzn.to/2lQVI1a
GoPro Session (4) "B" Camera amzn.to/2lTT0oz
Nikon D7100 DSLR for static and video shots with various lenses amzn.to/2lU1gEX
Lavalier microphone and sellotape for in helmet audio amzn.to/2kOZVOU
BOYA BY-M1 3.5 mm Lavalier Microphone for in-garage pieces amzn.to/2pVAf4X
Movo LV20 Dual Lavalier Clip-on Microphones for 2 person interviews amzn.to/2qQuw5r
Power Director 8 for the PC (for video editing) amzn.to/2kP3HaR
Radio mic for in garage audio amzn.to/2lpq61B
Rode VIDEOMICPRO On Camera Microphone for general use amzn.to/2qvcZwv
Rode Deadcat VMPR Windshield to kill wind noise amzn.to/2qroOWG
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Goliton® Camera DSLR Triple Mount for LED Video Lights Microphones amzn.to/2rpUlGg
A pair of Lantoo LED Floodlight 50W for additional lighting amzn.to/2rpOKjs
My current motorcyles are:-
Honda CRF250L
Triumph Street Triple R
BMW R1200GS
Ducati 899 Panigale
For any additional enquiries please send a PM or leave a comment below...

[@neilcole4844]

Your right about not needing loads of power on a bike to enjoy it, I remember thrashing about on mopeds back in the day me and my mates had loads of fun..................God I sound like me dad!!!

[@oneandone2744]

These bikes lend themselves so well to the saying "more fun making a slow bike fast than keeping a fast bike contained". (something like that)

[@oneandone2744]

Refreshing to hear someone who invests time and learning on a bike, enjoys riding and can still offer a "grownup's" perspective on what is required to optimize what the platform offers.

[@TheCrumble]

Great review TMF! I agree with every word of the positives and negatives. I started to wear mountain bike shorts with a gel insert underneath my bike gear to cope with the seat! Nearly at new tyres stage and was going to go stock again but might investigate options. Mines up to 2500 miles now. I use it every day to commute and it's been great! Thanks for posting!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+The Crumble Cheers TC and great to hear from you again - I'm glad you concur with my findings....my commute is only from upstairs to downstairs so I don't really need the bike for that (although the stairs would be fun!) but I imagine this would make a spot on commuting bike. Must take mine into London one day and do some serious filtering - the FMF should come in handy for scaring pedestrians too (a la RJ). Will be interested to hear what you change your tyres too if you don't go stock, do you have any issues with wash out from the front??? I've come a cropper a few times because of it.....

[@leecourt8509]

Try motoskiveez.com/adventure-skiveez/ for an ultra comfy bum! Cheaper than buying a new seat and doesn't add anything to height/width.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Interesting idea Lee, not seen those before....as it happens I don't have an issue with the seat but duly noted for future reference! Thanks for stopping by - TMF

[@muhammedyorulmaz1729]

best review of crf 250l ive seen, thank you :D

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you - very kind :0)

[@c-19nonofyourbuisness16]

Great review-great info- I have the same bike-brand new-waiting for summer here to enjoy the bike-hello from the US/Illinois .

[@PennsylvaniaDualSport]

Cheers from Pennsylvania!! You are always very thorough with your videos. I appreciate you getting right to the point of things instead of listening to someone whom you want to reach into the Internet and grab them by the shirt and beg them to stop talking... Lol! I love my CRF250l. It's just the right size for my 8 year old daughter to reach the passenger pegs while not being too far away to hold on to me.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Matt Arey Thanks Matt, glad you have found my videos of interest and appreciate the kind words - all the best TMF

[@paulfowler7618]

This morning i comented on your newest video and i have to say what a fantastic amount of content is on your channel now. Some of your bike reviews have helped me decide to buy a certain machine. Including my old KTM390 duke which i had for 6 years. But none more so than my interceptor which i bought last year after watching all your videos on it. I now own 4 bikes all very different and im now looking for a cheap winter bike to also do some light green laning on so here i am again watching your old videos of the CRF250 which seems like the perfect bike. Thank you so much for all your help over the years and keep up the good work. 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Delighted to help Paul and doubly delighted that you’re watching my older content!

[@GreatExplications]

Really professional content. Thanks for doing this!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You're very welcome!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Daren - much appreciate...

[@markjazzjarrett8780]

These videos regarding the 250l are brilliant 👏🏽 Thinking about getting one for all year commuting through lanes of Devon. It's top of my list at the moment for combination of running costs, fun and fuel economy. Thanks for all the information and content you provide. Keeps us all very entertained 👍🏽

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Very kind of you to say so - thank you Mark!

[@M4BoarBiker]

Very very good video, just the sort of review I'd look for if I was in the market this bike. Thanks for taking the time to make it.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Doug Lumsden Thanks for the kind words as ever Doug - doing a bit of market research is what the internet is all about (well that and the other thing ;0) so I hope this will be of use to some potential would be purchasers....all the best and cheers for watching and stopping by again....

[@systemfile]

I just bought a used 2015 with the FMF, EJK, Renthal 7/8" bars, and full graphics. I love it like I knew I would. - $2,700 USD I absolutely love how you added that you don't have to go fast to have fun. Coming from riding big cube Harley's people look at me like "why did you get THAT" and that's exactly how I describe it to people. Every where is a place to ride on it.. unlike the pavement only bikes that I've owned. Good content.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks - appreciate the kind comments

[@antonoat]

TMF you really have got this review thing down to a fine art, all the important information we need and your own personal take, which is very watchable. I didn't realise these were so affordable, you've got me thinking! cheers tony

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+antonoat Thanks Tony - glad you approve! ...and yes these bikes are peanuts to buy and run, brilliant fun, if you have the room, what's stopping you???

[@connor25]

Great review, I rode one of these in Thailand cross country, I loved it... when I get my next bike I won’t look anywhere else!

[@biggee9266]

SO glad I bought one, the mods are a must however. Now that I own one and have it customized to my liking I can't see myself ever selling it... so much fun for under $10k

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Completely agree - by far the "best bang for the buck" bike I have owned.....

[@V8AC]

Great points. One thing I didn’t like after coming off Supermoto bikes is the brakes. I’m a road going rider and immediately upgraded to a 320mm front rotor and braided brake hose. Might be a bit much for off-road though

[@kissofthelabrador3998]

Nice vid. Thanks very much. I agree about the tyres. I'm going to do my tyres and suspension over the winter. Mine cost me £100 to insure, with no no claims, but I'm 55. I'm in Amersham, so hope to see you out there someday!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

We're the same age!

[@guloguloguy]

IMHO: I'd definitely PREFER to make the bike AS QUIET AS POSSIBLE!!! I prefer to be able to sneak down a back woods trail without scaring all of the wildlife away!!...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair enough...

[@nk0surfer]

You sir and your videos are one of the reasons I am considering this bike and off-roading in general. I've been riding all my life only on asphalt but I guess it's about time to try a bit gravel and mud! Really useful videos, and I really like your style. Many thanks for your time and effort!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You're very welcome nk0surfer, chuffed you like my efforts! Thanks for the kind words and for stopping by - all the best - TMF

[@yoshialmighty8324]

Really great video. Just wanted to make a point about the height of the bike. It's very common for dual sports/dirt bikes to have quite high seats due to the wheel/tire combo and the amount of ground clearance necessary for off roading. As far as dual sports go, the CRF actually has one of the lowest seat heights in comparison to it's competitors (WR250R, DRZ400S, KLX250). I did my MSF course on one of these and I loved it. Great little bikes

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Yoshi Almighty Yes I realise that Yoshi - and one of the reasons I went for the CRF is that I could get on it where as some of the others were a struggle! I appreciate the off-road reasons for the height but if it's too tall to get on and ride it in the first place, then it's too tall (regardless of ground clearance)!! Cheers for watching and for stopping by...all the best - TMF

[@ian505050]

Great Video. I purchased the same bike and did the same mods based on your video. I have been riding for 10 years and bought the bike to do lite greenlaning with the Yorkshire TRF. We go out in groups of 7 or 8 about once a month in the Yorkshire Dales and ride some very interesting and more testing routes. I am sure you would absolutely love it on this bike. If you ever plan a trip to Yorkshire and I can pass you some details of events. It would definitely provide lots of interesting footage. Keep up the good work.

[@collectorguy4379]

Wish I had some spare money to get one too 😢 Great vid as usual cheers

[@jerrycoon4504]

Great review. I agree 100%. I bought my crf last spring and I can't believe how much fun it is to ride. I commute with it nearly every day. It's not a motocross bike and it's not a sport bike on the road but it's so much fun to ride. After watching your video on your exhaust install, I bought the same setup. It makes a huge difference in performance. I bought mine for mainly off road but it turn out I ride it about 80% on road. I was thinking it would be good to have a second set of wheels for street tires but instead I bought some Metzeler Sahara dual sport tires. I'm hoping for longer life on the road. They still look pretty aggressive so I'm hoping they will be good off road too. I haven't put them on yet but maybe by spring. I have almost 5000 miles on mine. Seems it's always a trade off with the tires. Great review... great bike...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Jerry Coon Cheers Jerry, glad you like the review and are enjoying your CRF - if you do try some new tyres let me know how you get on with them...as you say always a bit of a trade off between road manners and off road grip (but I too ride my CRF 80% on road - getting to the off road bits!)....all the best and thanks for stopping by - TMF.

[@AleksiJoensuu]

Absolutely awesome review mate! Hands down the most professional amateur review I've ever seen on KZbin. Wish all the pros were this concise and thorough! Also, way too few youtube moto people put their own face in their videos. I'm sure some of them have their reasons, but really it makes a review so much better to watch, and so much more personal! Here, have a like and subscribe - the very least I can do!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Aleksi Joensuu Thanks for the kind words Aleksi and welcome along to the channel! All the best - TMF

[@papyrusm]

Just picked one up and loved this video! Looking forward to slowly modding mine as well :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@TwoWheelReview]

Awesome review TMF, glad to hear yourself acknowledge just how much fun you can have on a small engine capacity bike!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers TWR - yes, sure is a mistake to think you can only have fun on a large capacity bike, I think lightness is the key for me!

[@michaelpryor2981]

i have 40,000 miles on my 2013 and it is still running fine!! change the oil and adjust the valves and run it till she blows!!!

[@TheDervMan]

That's gone by fast! Happy Birthday CRF 🎂🎉

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Time flies when you're having fun eh?

[@TheGarlee]

Great review and summary of your bike .very tempted tp get one of these bikes

[@lornescott-wilson6144]

Looks like a fun ride. You got me thinking about smaller capacity bikes: One bike I had great fun on was the Yamaha YBR125, which I tended to ride on twisty back roads because it was so light, so easy to putter around on in urban settings and so incredibly fuel efficient. In slow, tight trafficky situations the little bikes can be a blast too, especially when you compare them to the hassle of a car in similar situations or to the effort required on a bicycle to do the same ride. Also, rode a Honda PCX125 in Thailand and had a great time on it, especially enjoyed its ease of use around town and on backroads and its ability to swallow luggage-very convenient. I wish more countries would follow the Asian model and use more smaller bikes as transport solutions. Here in Australia the weather is largely warm and sunny, with milder winters generally, and 110Km/h maximum speed limits, it suits that biking model, but sadly most people still drive everywhere one up in their cars.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I love small bikes, uber practical and great fun as you say.....thanks for watching and for stopping by - TMF

[@ian505050]

Oh... if anyone plans to use the bike for anything more than lite greenlaning you will need to replace the clutch judder plate with an additional friction plate. If this is not done and you get stuck in a rut the clutch will burn out very vast. My stock clutch lasted less then 500 miles using the bike for extreme stuff. The standard clutch is sufficient unless you keep getting stuck.

[@tiger1050steveify]

Hi there, just checking my CRF 250 before its 1st MOT, agree with you , its a great bike for the money. I have fitted same bash plate, have changed gearing by fitting larger rear sprocket. Also heated grips, best invention ever. One of the better type of tyre I've found is the Michelin Sirac , this is a duel purpose tire rated at 60/40 percent bias to off road. Living in Cumbria I've done a fair bit of off road rides with these and found them very good in all except really bad mud. I have even been in rivers with the water over the pegs getting grip ok.I have covered just under 11000 miles in the 3 years of ownership and think this bike has given me as much or more fun than my Triumph Tiger 1050 due to its duel purpose capabilities.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Steve Green Thanks for the recommendation on tyres Steve - wow 11000 miles, that's pretty impressive stuff compared to my efforts! 'Course you could always fit knobblies to your Tiger 1050 (great bike by the way, I miss mine!)...

[@motonoob5485]

great work as always. that bike sounds amazing!

[@joelmichels5564]

great review ! coincidence .. I own a GS1200 and my CRF250 will be delivered beg. of april. I ordered this bike with the sole purpose of doing offroading.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Joel Michels Yeah me too, it's a great companion to the big BMW - exciting times ahead! Enjoy....TMF

[@TheRealPDaveTH]

Nice one TMF. Rode one of these around Thailand on a very long day out with Motoman, was great fun.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+OldManTriple Nice....although I hope it wasn't an entirely stock one?? (the bike is somewhat anaemic without the basic mods)

[@mmazourov]

Awesome review! Love the structure of it - you covered everything.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you max - I aim to please!

[@mmazourov]

TheMissendenFlyer If it's not too much of a secret - how much did it cost you to get the CRF to where it is? I am thinking if I want to buy a CRF and work on it or it would be more cost-effective to just get a racier four stroke (Husky TE250) that's capable "out of the box"?

[@jomarsarne2296]

Love the bike so much sir,,got mine,the allred 2020model. Nothing to worry all rounder bike..thanks for the review sir

[@spyder56]

Great review! Love mine. Such a fun bike, but will upgrade the tank. Im always the one bike on group rides that has to keep stopping for fuel. I upgraded the seat and it made a world of difference!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+spyder56 Thanks for the kind words....what seat did you upgrade too???

[@spyder56]

+TheMissendenFlyer Seat Concepts black with gripper top. A very nice seat and worth the price.

[@Matty7twin]

Fantastic. What seat abs tank did you upgrade to

[@grbrum]

you should ride standing up with the tip of the foot on the pegs. This gives you much better control and further absorption on rough terrain. If you need to change gear or break than move the corresponding foot into position. :) great review

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks Guilherme.....

[@gunton21]

once again tmf a good informative video. love it. they should have you on the new top gear doing a motorcycle section, look forward to the next one. thanks.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hah ha, yeah I wish! Thanks for your kind words once again Peter, all the best - TMF

[@petegorillo6254]

Good review,particularly the info re cost of ownership which many leave out. I'm seriously thinking of getting the M. Thanks for posting.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Peter Muttillo They're great little bikes Peter - did you see my 250M review?? Thanks for the kind words...all the best - TMF

[@andypomfret5631]

Really good and honest review with a summary of many of the things you would want to know. Cheers.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Andy, I aim to please! All the best - TMF

[@robsgsxr6]

Another great review from TMF! My next bike will be something similar! Thanks, Rob.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Robert Haigh Cheers Rob - you can't beat these for fin per £!!!

[@796monster]

fantastic review TMF ! like all the mods you did and the bike looks just great ! maybe I'll just get one of these instead of trading in my street triple for the panigale959 , miss those days of riding offroad trails, keep up the great vids, look forward to another one on your Duc soon ! big fan way over here in N.Y.. usa

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks Jim, of course the answer is to have the CRF as well as the Duc.....more vids to come on the Panigale soon, stay tuned!

[@brettkovak6344]

Hey great review! Concise and to the point! I have a 97 EXR 400, looking to update.Cheers from the US!

[@mannybonello4667]

Love your video...I have the same bike 2013 and 2003 100 year edition fat boy,seems I ride the Honda more BUT what I have noticed when I'm on the Honda 20-30 percent of bikers on Turing bikes will not give the biker wave ...I find that sad that I would be judged because of the bike I'm riding when my Hog it at home.🤔🤔

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yep, I find the same and I agree!

[@nicholstop8161]

I've had quite a few dirtbikes but this thing being street legal gets me in some deep shit, I make horrible decisions when it comes to riding spots lmao

[@redrider2503]

This is the review i needed ive found my next bike!

[@ATRVlogs]

What a comprehensive review, I watched some of yours and The Crumble's videos before purchasing one of my own and after owning it just over a month, I agree with just about everything you mentioned! Fantastic review, mine is stock at the moment, I have just received the same handguards as yourself but in red. They may be installed over the weekend! Keep the videos coming!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+ATR Vlogs Thanks ATR Vlogs, I'm glad we concur (and more importantly, I'm glad you like the bike....I assume?!). You MUST do at least the exhaust mod, it transforms the bike into an animal!! Cheers for stopping by! - TMF

[@ATRVlogs]

I absolutely love it! It is currently my only bike but it is so much fun to ride! The cheapness is definitely appealing as with myself being 21 insurance companies have charged me an arm and a leg for previous bikes but much, much less for this! I plan on doing the exhaust mod either late this month or next, heard too many positive things about it not to! Torn between the Megabomb and Powerbomb headers though as I use it to commute daily as well as some off road fun and I've heard of the header getting hot and burning trousers etc.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+ATR Vlogs ....yeah the header does get hot (I have some melted trousers stuck to mine to prove it) but that's all part of the fun! ;0) The Megabomb is better for low end grunt - which I wanted for slow speed off-road riding, and the power bomb is a better option for road riding (plus is narrower so the burned trousers thing would be less of an issue). You'll be amazed at the difference it makes to the bike, I guarantee you won't regret it....ride safe and enjoy!

[@ATRVlogs]

+TheMissendenFlyer I think I'd probably go for the Powerbomb as I've also read that you can easily attach the stock heat shield over the top which would prevent any melted trouser mishaps! I'll have to let you know once I have bought one and got it installed! Ride safe!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+ATR Vlogs Yes good point on the heat shield......

[@christophercox3752]

Love watching your reviews etc full of usefull info and honest opinions

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Christopher Cox Cheers Chris - appreciated

[@CastleBomb44]

Good review! THanks for posting all the mods. I thinking about this VS the WR250

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Ross!

[@enthaa]

Great long term review.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks Howard, glad you approve - all the best - TMF

[@rvtssrvtss3630]

Acerbis fuel tank 3.1 gallon otherwise my 2013 is the same good riding mate

[@flippflopps4026]

Great video as always. I’m torn between one of these and a KTM 690 enduro for commuting / green lanes. The KTM is around the same weight but with around 70bhp but much more expensive. But then with the Honda mods added on top not a massive difference 🤔

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Very true....tricky one I agree!

[@Thomas-zh4dy]

Huge difference between the ktm 690 and this. Do yourself a favor and spend the extra money and get the ktm. I have both, and regret buying the Honda.

[@shaneweightman]

thumbs up Mr Flyer,,good clear detailed video ,reminds me must do a similar video,,in may will have owned my speed trip for 12 months anyhow take care as always shane

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+shaneweightman Cheers Shane - thanks for stopping by once again.....

[@snifflytooth]

A good review, a couple of things. That 'quiet' exhaust does sound a lot louder than my Yoshi. One other mod I would highly recommend is to change the stock clutch plates with an EBC kit for the CBR250R with springs. Get rid of that judder spring. Time it in with a service where you'll be dropping the oil, cost... around £100 with oil and coolant. Search clutch upgrades in CRF250L thread on Thumpertalk for a full how to do it guides I'm on 8000 miles now and still loving it. One more thing, how do you know the BOATs on an OS map? How are they marked differently to a track?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi DD - thanks for the kind words - the BOATs are marked on the 1:25,000 OS maps as a green line with green crosses on (a green dashed line being a public footpath and a green line with green diamonds being a bridleway....just compare how many of them there are to BOATs!!). Cheers - TMF

[@GeordiLaForgery]

Since you've done a few thousand miles, could you confirm what she is like on a motorway journey - as in - any problems holding 70mph?

[@verdancy67]

Great video, I'm 5'7-5'8 and i think if i grow a bit by next may I want to get this bike

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'm 5'8" and the height is no issue (the suspension compresses quite a bit) - if it is a problem then lowering it by shortening the suspension link would be quite straightforward....enjoy!

[@verdancy67]

Thanks, Do you think you could get a black seat cover for this bike or black seat? I think it would look better idk If so i will if i get this bike.

[@rc2634]

Your handguards are from a Portuguese manufacturer! Yeah! Nice vídeo!

[@DirtyWeekendsAway]

Great review matey! Still considering one of these for my first dirt bike since I was a kid :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Twitchel AU Thanks - glad you liked it. These are great little bikes, can't really go wrong from an ease of use viewpoint....go for it!

[@DirtyWeekendsAway]

Its a toss up between this and a DRZ for me at the moment. Can get one of these for $1000 cheaper than a DRZ at the moment (and a good 4-5 years newer)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Twitchel AU ...it's a no brainer then! ;0)

[@russbug3766]

At the moment I ride just a sport bike, I am looking for a trail bike and this seems to fit the bill nicely,

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Go for it - these are great fun little bikes, but you must do the mods! All the best - TMF

[@jackwednesday]

Great review. I am so tempted to get one of these. How easy are the green lanes to find on the OS maps and what are the politics of use like? I often see muddy guys at box hill who have obviously been on lanes. I'm down in Brighton and know of nowhere that I could green lane?! You are becoming my favourite moto vlogger. Humble, wise and genuinely interesting. And a courteous rider, could learn a lot from you in that department!! Cheers, Jack

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+jackwednesday Thank you Jack - very kind of you to say so! Green lanes are few and far between in the UK - they are clearly marked on OS maps but there aren't many in the South East. That said the CRF is a great value fun bike - recommended....all the best and thanks for stopping by - TMF

[@andrewhill112]

Thanks for all the uploads on the CRF, they were part of the inspiration for me to recently buy a CRF after 25 years away from bikes. A question about the bashplate - does it create any "judder noise"?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...no, none at all, wouldn't know it was there... :0)

[@pedrolast9537]

In my CRF 250l I placed a piece of rubber in between the skidplate that touches between the frame and the skidplate not to create judder noise during fine vibration.

[@daryllenjau7283]

Sir..you're good in British language 👍. I want recommended you too try Malaysia jungle ride 👌. Your exhaust system is good and nice bike 🤝.

[@n-gov]

Great video! I've been thinking about buying a KTM Six days, like 250 or 350.. They ain't cheap right now tho, but it would be great fun!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Marcus Östlin Yes I like the look of the KTMs - it's probably where I'll go when the time comes to replace the little Honda (which won't be anytime soon as it's a great little machine for my purposes)....thanks for stopping by - TMF

[@DrisMatias]

Hi from Argentine, great videos of crf, you help me alot!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hey great stuff, glad to be of service! All the best - TMF

[@joentexas]

I'm looking at this bike as I write this. Great review and very very informative Comments. I'm between the CRF250L and the WR250R. I'd like to hear what you would have to say helping me make this decision. $1700 more for the WR250R but comes with a race engine. Thinking about it, $1700 would buy a lot of mods on the CRF250L. After a 40 year hiatus I bought a Honda Shadow a year ago and now I want to continue where the road ends. Any input would be appreciated. Again, Great video and I really like reading your's and reader comments. Lots of helpful information there also. Thanks, Atlanta.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Joe-n-Tex Thanks Joe-n-Tex, appreciate the kind words! The Yam is the better spec out of the box but as you say costs a lot more - I'm not sure how the service intervals compare? I bought the CRF because I'm inexperienced off-road (so don't need huge spec) plus it's very easy to live with from a servicing/reliability point of view. I guess it comes down to the size of your pockets!! All the best - TMF

[@thehillbillyhoarder4996]

Very nice video. Thank you for sharing

[@Niamhcotts]

Fantastic review tmf I've just ordered one. Starting to get a bit bored with my big fat heavy 1200 bandit lol, btw drop the suspension a couple of notches.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Brendan, it'll take you a while to get used to the power reduction! .....but do the mods (especially the exhaust) and you'll have a blast.....

[@timinno]

Just discovered your channel. Great videos!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+timinno Thank you - welcome along!

[@borreltjuh83]

Great review, nicely done!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you....

[@samporter4818]

Please tell me who makes the luggage rack?? I'm thinking of drastically downsizing and love the Rally version and they are dirt cheap here in the United States! Love your stuff and watch all of your Videos although when you are in London traffic it scares me! 87 bikes and 56 years of riding and I need something lighter! TU Sam:)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sadly I can't remember Sam it was an E-Bay special!

[@safedrivingsuffolk8893]

Now that ... Was a proper review

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you - glad you thought so! :0)

[@theimaginarygarage]

Nice review TMF, thanks! You're entirely self-taught so far in terms of off-road - that's great! Do you have plans to do any off-road training courses? They do look like a lot of fun and no doubt you'd pick up some new skills.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+ImaginaryGarage Hi again IG -Yes it's on the long term bucket list, I fancy one of those Wales courses that BMW sponsor with Simon Pavey, would love to try someone elses GS off road :0) Cheers for watching and good to hear from you again, it's been a while!

[@theimaginarygarage]

+TheMissendenFlyer I'm lining one of those BMW courses up for this year, most likely April or May. Looks like a lot of fun.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+ImaginaryGarage Great stuff - will be interested to hear how you get on....

[@FerdinandPick]

i'm waiting for the crf 250 rally, nice review.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Ferdinand Pick Thanks Ferdinand....

[@johnsaggot4810]

Ferdinand Pick did you get the rally?

[@KLP2566]

fantastic review! would you recommend this for beginners?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes very much so - great bike and easy to ride......

[@oatcam9205]

Have you done anything to the suspension? I'm contemplating buying a CRF250L but the stock suspension is too soft and an ohlines kit is big money considering the price of the bike. With thanks.

[@ernieengineer3462]

Hey, i just subscribed to your channel. I have an F800 GSA and am strongly considering a lighter bike that i can be a little more aggressive with off-road. I think I’ve zeroed in on this bike, maybe the Rally version. I was trying to follow yours cost explanation but being from the US, don’t know the “Quid to Pounds” conversion rate. Also, any need for steering damper? I love the exhaust, if i do get this bike, i am definitely setting it up with the system you got. Thanks for posting!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure - a quid is the same as a pound and no, no need for a steering damper....

[@WillPower46]

Thank you for another great vid. I have just ordered a FMF pipe on based on your recommendation. Your advice has always been spot on. Just curious does that power bomb header pipe not need a heat shield? Have you scorched any of your pants on it?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I have!

[@WillPower46]

@@TheMissendenFlyer ok thank you I think I will fit some fibreglass wrap around the header, cheers for the info.

[@07canuck]

just bought a 2016 250L, and it's a great bike! Totally agree with your review of this motorcycle! How many KM on it now? you only insure it in the winter? How many motorcycles do you own? Keep up the great videos!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good choice 07canuck - I hope you've done those mods??? I don't ride the CRF long distances so only have a couple of thousand KMs on the machine, love it though...and it is insured all year round (the CRF brings my total at the moment to 4 bikes....always room for another though!)....cheers - TMF

[@mallywoods28]

thanks for answering my last question, I like your tail tidy mod and will do that, What size number plate did you use? I will find one on eBay , thank you.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I don't recall exactly - 10 x 6 seems about right??

[@MotoGoYo]

Another good thorough review. Sounds like a fun bike to have as a second or third bike. Did I hear you say you spent £750 on your GS first service?!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+gadgetsandwheels You did - but that did include the supply and fit of the aux driving lights....but you get the general point!

[@MotoGoYo]

TheMissendenFlyer ah yes, they cost £500 so that explains it. You had me worried :-)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+gadgetsandwheels ...indeed - it's still £250 for the service though, I pay less than that to have my Mercedes serviced (well sometimes)...!

[@LenScapoff]

I do fancy something like that for winter. A question that's occurred to me before, but I don't think I've asked. Why "59"?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Len Scapoff No reason other than I thought with a "5" and a "9" I could make a fair range of numbers as the 9 doubles as a 6! Get yourself a CRF, dead cheap to buy and run, no reason not to have one....or are you afraid of the Mrs ;0)

[@tre271]

You forgot about the bash plate! Good vid, thanks

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+treacle Well spotted - I did indeed, doh......

[@marcobecerra5943]

hello what is the great benefit that fmf exhaust brings to the motorcycle engine greetings great video ..

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Noticeable increase in power and great sound!

[@marcobecerra5943]

@@TheMissendenFlyer thanks 👍

[@superbenandbooks]

Hi TMF, Love your review and work, I was wondering for how long have you been riding?? remember you mentioning you started riding back in 2012, seems like you have been riding for ages.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi bcop1534, I'm a relatively new rider, I started in late 2011 so it's only around four or so years since I've been on two wheels....should have started way earlier! Glad you like my videos, thanks for stopping by and for your kind words - all the best - TMF

[@m.hussainsolorider_zx3474]

Fantastic review,,.. My bike display is blinking on off, shuts the engine😕,..what the cause🤔?! , can someone help, pls..

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

What when you try and start it you mean? My guess is flat battery - needs charging....

[@m.hussainsolorider_zx3474]

@@TheMissendenFlyer its while im on ride,..happens time to time..

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Weird - no idea I'm afraid!

[@The333]

I have been considering one of these lighter ADV bikes - great mods and review - very helpful. Curious to know why you went for the 250L as opposed to the 450L (it's bigger brother)? Size and price? The 250L certainly seems capable for most green lane use - the 450L maybe better for quicker/longer road stretches perhaps?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

When I bought mine the 450L didn't exist! Not that I would go for one now due high price and servicing regime...the 250L is very easy to live with.

[@safedrivingsuffolk8893]

Like the idea of doing the Cairngorms ... How would you get on in the event of breakdown recovery?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Very good question! Be in for a long wait from the AA I guess!

[@paulgw101]

Just wondering what phone mount n case you're using on the CRF! Always enjoy your vids. 🏍👍🏻

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Paul White Thanks Paul - it is just an eBay special...unfortunately I don't have a link to hand - TMF

[@abikeandabackpack9711]

How you do IT with tire presure? On/off road

[@Rick8231]

Very nice review amigo, really thorough and unbiased. That equals honesty. Thank you for sharing your experiences and making the video.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks Rix - glad you found it of interest....

[@cataldoannunziata2083]

Great review but the reason the seat is hard is because professional dirt bike riders helped design the bike and for the most part off-road your standing up well at least for them lols

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+cataldo annunziata Thanks Cataldo, to be honest I don't have a big issue with the seat (as I don't tend to ride this bike for longer distances), I find it quite adequate for my purposes. Thanks for stopping by - all the best - TMF

[@snox7320]

Thinking of getting one and leaving the sportier bikes behind . Are they fun on the road ?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great fun!

[@WhiteLineRacer]

You still have the same front tyre after a whole year? I know it was 2016 but how many miles did you cover on that tyre it looks new!

[@greygoose4x46]

Great video really appreciate all the information ... I've had a Harley iron 883 and currently have a fat bob with the 103, seriously considering selling it and buying one of these ... Have you ever ridden two up ? Just for short periods ?? Thank you

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I have as it happens, was a bit of a struggle with the Mrs on board but that was off-road! For short periods it can be done but I wouldn't want to do a journey of any length two up....

[@greygoose4x46]

TheMissendenFlyer thanks man really appreciate it !!

[@Tija92]

Thanks for your videos, I've watched a few of them already and I don't even have the bike yet! I'm hoping to get one within the next couple of weeks and look forward to doing some of these mods. You recommend the FMF pipe and header first for the biggest performance increase? Also if I do that, do you think the EJK is necessary? Thanks again, keep up the good work and ride safe!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+CJ Marincus Yes definitely do the pipe first, I found that was the biggest improvement - and yes you will need the EJK longer term but it's not essential. Glad you like the videos, enjoy your new bike! - TMF

[@Tija92]

+TheMissendenFlyer Do you think just a Slip-On will help improve performance or do you recommend I go with a full exhaust and header setup?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+CJ Marincus Yes I'm sure it would - but the full system is the way to go if you can afford it...is pricey though given the base cost of the bike....

[@pffantv302]

Very good review! I just have one question. Dual sports don't have key slot like road bikes (usually). Does the crf250l have.. I plan to sell my 03 Hornet 600 for a crf250l.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes - it hasd a standard ignition barrel set up....

[@petergrimshaw5808]

My 2014 model is being delivered tomorrow and I can hardly wait. Im selling my KLR 650 which is almost 100 pound heavier, she has been loads of fun but back trouble means she has to go. You mention the stock front tyre being rubbish, what type is it please ? Pete. P.s, i'm in Tring and have only done the Icknield at Risboro locally so would love to learn of others.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

The OEM front is some cheapo tyre they put on - can't recall the make - I have Michelin T63's (IIRC) now...soooo much better....

[@super117knight]

can a 5,3 guy ride that thing?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sure could, might struggle getting on and off and stopping though - on the plus side it is pretty easy to lower the suspension if needed (at the cost of ground clearance of course).....

[@pudsboi5203]

Great review thanks

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+puds boi Thank you for watching and commenting....

[@etownump]

Great vid. Thanks! I had a question. Would the volume of the exhaust be an issue for an 8 hour 300 mile ride? For a ride that long, would you rather sacrifice power for a quieter ride and use the stock exhaust?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I think if it was a one-off I'd put up with the noise (I wear ear plugs and it's not THAT bad when riding) - if I was going to always be doing very long days in the saddle then yes, I'd stick with the stock exhaust.....thanks for watching and for the kind words! - TMF

[@tonyosullivan6137]

Hi, 250L looks good, I also have GS but need something lighter for real mud. I'm wondering, did you find it hard to locate suitable offroad locations? How are all-vehicle paths marked on your OS maps? Also is there a quieter exhaust providing the same power boost?? I like nature, but there won't be much around with that mega-bomb...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi Tony - the legal trails I look for a are known as "Byways open to all traffic" and they are clearly marked on the 1:25000 OS maps as a green crossed line - so easy enough to locate providing you have some in your area! Unless you're in Wales they are few and far between. I've only used the FMF (I have the Q4 - Q=Quiet) so I can't comment on any others - presumably anything that is more straight through than stock will be louder....so you may have an issue there. All the best - TMF