You've got it all wrong... The CRF250F is NOT the bike you think it is!

I've been getting a lot of comments recently on my CRF250F videos with people comparing this beginner friendly air-cooled Honda trail bike to dirt bikes that aren't even in it's class. I believe this comes from Honda's somewhat unfortunate naming structure for their CRF250 lineup which I explain more about in this video. Today, I'm debunking the incorrect comparisons of the Honda CRF250F once and for all and explaining what category of dirt bike this motorcycle truly falls into.
Thinking about purchasing the CRF250F? Dive into this video for valuable insights before making your decision! • 2024 Honda CRF250F Rev...
The CRF250F is actually kind of underpowered... • The CRF250F is a turd....
Wondering how the CRF250F performs on the motocross track? Watch to find out: • CRF250F Motocross Test...
See how the CRF250F performs on the trail: • CRF250F Trail Riding a...
Explore more videos in my 2024 Honda CRF250F playlist to learn all about this trail-blazing machine: • 2024 Honda CRF250F
Are you a beginner and looking to improve your dirt bike riding? Check out these videos:
• How to Ride a Dirt Bik...
• Beginner Dirt Bike Pra...
Curious about other bikes? Check out my first impressions of the 2024 Yamaha YZ250X • 2024 Yamaha YZ250X FIR... and the Suzuki DRZ400SM • MY NEW BIKE! - Suzuki ... where I even share a thrilling crash moment! • i crashed my brand new...
Get ready for Two-Stroke Thrills! | Trail Adventures on Yamaha YZ125 & YZ250X: • The YZ125 is BACK! [Ya...
Plus, enjoy some exciting trail rides with my buddy on his YZ250X:
• DIRT BIKES VS SNOW (En...
• Ultimate Dirt Bike Tra...
• The story of tree punc...
Vintage motorcycle enthusiast? Don't miss the throwback charm of the 1972 Yamaha LT100: • Teaching My Girlfriend...
And if you enjoy the content and want to support the channel, consider joining our Patreon community. / soupmoto
Get ready to rev up your excitement with the 2024 Honda CRF250F - subscribe now for more thrilling motorcycle adventures!
SoupMoto

[@notsoupmoto]

What do you think of the CRF250F?

[@DUNEATV]

I recently bought a 2024 250F…I have lots of dirt bike experience (weekend warrior) and I just love it. It’s just a bike…I can go out and have fun on. it takes me everywhere. I need to go and is very comfortable to manage. I feel like I can enjoy myself without running the risk of ending up in the hospital. 🤕

[@notsoupmoto]

@@DUNEATV So true! I wasn’t expecting to enjoy the thing as much as I have honestly. I find myself wanting to ride it more than my Mx bikes haha

[@PaulMelamed]

I used to ride dirt bikes when I was a much younger adult 😀, my last one was a Yamaha IT200, looking to get back into it now as a recreational rider and eyeing the CRF250F

[@DUNEATV]

@@PaulMelamed Similar situation for me. I think you’d like it!

[@notsoupmoto]

@@PaulMelamed the crf is so fun to just putt around on and get lots of seat time with! would be a great option to ease back into riding with!

[@mikecalhoun1563]

Yes, a tractor is a perfect word for the CRF250F and a perfect bike for the average weekend warrior, simple, good power and VERY reliable. I ride a Yamaha WR250f and I have a buddy that used to ride a Honda CR230f and he could ride it faster than me on my WR250F. The Honda air cooled 230 now 250's bikes are Bulletproof and still fun to ride and now they are fuel injected for even more reliability and power. Great bikes for single track, mountain or cross country riding. Keep it simple.

[@notsoupmoto]

Couldn’t agree more! Doesn’t wear you out as much so you can ride the crf250f for longer!

[@ryanbirmingham3183]

The gearing on the crf250f is so much better for very tight riding. I have one and I can do so much better in tighter areas then my buddy’s yz250f race bike.

[@MitchellMcDaniel-vb4yj]

I'm an older rider, and I love the simplicity and forgiving power.

[@notsoupmoto]

that's its biggest selling factor in my opinion! my gf loves the e-start... one of those features that makes it so simple for riders. thx for the comment!

[@PaulMelamed]

@@notsoupmoto Lol, the e-start is something I think is great, but the old school in me wants the kickstart! I wish it had both, but I understand that they probably removed it to reduce weight and cost.

[@notsoupmoto]

@@PaulMelamed i feel that. was one of the first things i noticed looking at it in the dealership. this bike is actually my first dirt bike with an e-start... i was skeptical before i got my drz400sm and after that i haven't looked back haha. they're nice to have on the street but even nicer on a dirtbike. never have to get in an awkward position on a hill to kick it again. although i think you're right... the 250f is heavy af so they probably didn't also put a kicker on it for that reason. unfortunate :(

[@alexchan3727]

​@@notsoupmotoheavy asf I felt it yesterday when got stuck in forest

[@RobinBrowne-k6k]

When you check prices the CRF F is a great deal.

[@notsoupmoto]

one of the reasons i bought it as well!

[@ZeLogicnator5k]

Bought this bike for my wife as her first bike. I ride it more than she does and have officially "procured" it since she never rides it. It's shockingly super fun because it is so easy to ride. Hill climbs, tight single track, light enduro (I don't do hard enduro, not my thing). This thing would be great to start doing hare scrambles. I need to do new springs and linkage lift. May do a can, ecu, larger pegs. I'm 6'4" 225 w/ gear and it's too soft for me unless it's pretty flat. I love my 350. It's snappy, light, and nimble. But the 250f really surprised me. I hope it keeps being labeled a "beginner bike" so the costs stay down. Plus....way way better maintenance.

[@notsoupmoto]

haha couldn't agree more about the "beginner bike" costs! thanks for the comment

[@outfitr9703]

I'm 70 and ride a built ktm 300 xcw. Its awesome BUT my next bike will be a crf 250. I'm well aware of the differences that is precisely why I'd get one. Your video is spot on, nice job!

[@notsoupmoto]

Appreciate that! Haven't got the chance to ride the 300 xcw but would LOVE to try one out! Glad to hear you've found the right bike for you in the crf250f though. Hope I'll still be ripping around at that age as well haha! have fun out there :)

[@last-life]

These are the two bikes im considering. Why from the 300 xcw to the 250? Im riding the CRF125FB and its amazing

[@outfitr9703]

@last-life not sure, now with a Rekluse clutch the 300 is so easy to ride I'll probably just keep riding it forever

[@last-life]

@@outfitr9703 Funny you said about rekluse clutch - yesterday in the mountains, I literally helped to help a dirt biker who was out of juice on a KTM 350, no kick start and apparently you can't bump start a rekluse. lol. Went searching for jumper cables

[@outfitr9703]

@last-life my '18 has a kick start fortunately, but you can bump start them, just have to adjust the free play

[@austinryan5420]

I'm faster in the woods on my crf 230 than any of my big bikes. Suspension and controls have been upgraded but that's it. Will be buying a 250F in the near future. Can't beat the amount of bike for the price. Thanks for the great content 🤙

[@notsoupmoto]

couldn't agree more! it's a badass little bike. thanks for the comment!

[@jwaller1327]

Totally agree with you. The CRF250F is way easier to ride off road than the mild 250 and 300 dual sports too. My first off road riding came on a KLX300, the dual sport version. A buddy had the CRF250F and let me try it. I decided to trade my KLX300 in on a CRF250F or KLX230R, which another buddy had let me try. I was even considering the KLX300R trailbike. I got to the dealership and none of those bikes were available. I got talked into getting the CRF250RX. Man, did I have buyer's remorse with that for a while! That was a difficult bike to ride for a dirt newbie like me. I've since traded back down, in a way, to a Beta XTrainer. That bike is a paradox: it's as easy to ride as a trail bike, but has performance closer to the full on competition bikes. It's been a while since I rode a CRF250F. I'd like to ride one back to back with my XTrainer and see how they compare. Maybe the XTrainer just feels super easy because I was coming off the CRF250RX with a non-linear power band.

[@notsoupmoto]

The xtrainer is such an interesting bike I’d love to try one out! Thanks for your input

[@philrc1]

I've never ridden an XTrainer but the way it is described, I think it is what ALL modern trail bikes should be. i.e. A bit more power than a trail bike and suspension more like a competition bike but with a reasonable seat height.

[@dirtydave2691]

Bought mine about a year ago. BBR fork springs, wider footpegs and handguards. It is an absolute blast to ride. My other bike is a YZ250FX.

[@notsoupmoto]

The essential upgrades for sure! What hand guards did you end up going with?

[@last-life]

I'm riding my boys CRF125FB man I love it. I'm 6'2" 205 pounds. The suspension bottoms out a bit on the rolling stuff, but i attack everything and my confidence is sky high. Because its pretty small but not too small. Very ridable and very fun. I'm now looking at the CRF250F and the KTM 300 XCW

[@notsoupmoto]

I really enjoyed riding my buddy's CRF125FB also! Super fun pitter. Haven't gotten the chance to try out a 300XCW yet but would love to. Let me know what you think if you end up getting one

[@cameronlee2678]

Something important to note it the maintenance on the differet style of bikes. The crf250f won't need much at all apart from air filter, oil, and pads. While the crf250r will need all of that at closer intervals and a top end at 50 hours, then a full rebuild at 100. This is significantly more expensive and i don't see this mentioned an any of the the videos on KZbin.

[@notsoupmoto]

So true glad you mentioned it! Definitely an overlooked aspect of the decision making process

[@motoriderguy3854]

50hrs ? No with clean oil and air you can easily do 150hrs ,unless you rev the shit out of it .

[@philrc1]

You're right. But, I've known guys that run their competition bikes on the trail and basically never ride them very hard as compared to what they were designed for. Those bikes can easily go 3 to 4 times longer than recommended maintenance intervals when ridden lightly (oil, air filter and brakes excluded). However, I still agree with you, that bikes like the CRF250F can go forever with the only basic service.

[@notsoupmoto]

@@philrc1 yeah I've definitely gone much further on service intervals on my race bikes. and typically its not even going to need the entire top end if you just get the valves checked and they look good. but if you're racing all the time then following closer to service intervals is probably a good idea. as for the trail bikes, they're nearly bulletproof. practically zero maintenance if we're being honest lol

[@notsoupmoto]

@@motoriderguy3854 yeah the manufacturers service recommendations are a bit overkill for most riding applications. same thing with the break in period. more to cover their ass from liability if something breaks

[@AgustinCacciabue]

In my country this model does not yet exist, but we have what would be the previous model, which has several differences in the chassis and engine but is essentially the same motorcycle. I have a heavy modified one that I use to compete in sand races, it has around 45hp and despite the numbers it is never close to a competition motorcycle like the CRF 250R would be, but it becomes a very fun tractor haha check the videos on my channel, in this year's races I am using this prepared engine. On the other hand, good video and perfect description of what the motorcycle is. greetings from Argentina!

[@notsoupmoto]

wow muchas gracias por el mensaje desde argentina jaja! voy a ver tus videos de seguro my spanish is a bit rusty but yes even though it's like a slow tractor it is still very fun to ride. i find myself wanting to ride it more than my mx race bikes. have fun in the sand on that xr!!!

[@Bluecollar_rigs]

It’s definitely a fun bike, I have one along with a yz250. The simplicity of the crf250 is great. It takes any beating you’ll throw at it and still is very fun to ride even though it only makes 20 hp. Super easy to wheelie too

[@notsoupmoto]

Couldn't agree more! Love the YZ250 also. I'd love to have one in the future

[@kuladeeluxe]

Currently on a WR250R setup for touring. I'd like to maybe re set it to be a bit more 250F like, but it certainly won't become a trail bike in the same way. It is certainly not tractor like. I really enjoyed my time on the 250F and made a lot of things I would find more intimidating easier.I'd love a 235 pound version with a beefier fork.

[@notsoupmoto]

agree big time on that. would be sick if they made a version that was much lighter and with better suspension.

[@jovisdedam4648]

I regret selling my 2022 crf250f, but i might just get another one.

[@notsoupmoto]

Did you end up getting something else instead?

[@jovisdedam4648]

@@notsoupmoto ended up getting the crf230f, i liked that it was lighter but the crf250f was peppier and had better suspension.

[@notsoupmoto]

@@jovisdedam4648 interesting! I was wondering how the 230 compared

[@accouswk]

Exactly the info I was looking for! Thanks for making such a great video.

[@notsoupmoto]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for the comment

[@GuavaClouds]

Thank you for the break down of class with these bikes

[@notsoupmoto]

No problem! I’m happy to help

[@silverfox__12]

Easiest explanation is the CRF250F is actually just what the CRF230F was. Same bike "class as the other brand's 230s", just with a CC bump (and other updates).

[@notsoupmoto]

Exactly

[@mikethemaniac1]

What I think causes AT LEAST half of what you're speaking on is the fact that Honda pretends their "Trail Bike" Has "Racing DNA" when really they just put race bike plastics on an XR250. There's not a great deal to really say is "Wrong" with it, but I wish "Trail bikes" would evolve a little to be better for this weird discipline the engineering teams on trail bikes must never do called "Trail riding." I'd like to take it on more technically challenging or single track and trails but the forks grab things to the side of the tire and the when you're next to a steep drop off like I was last weekend on the thing, it ends up feeling like you're suspended on a wet noodle. To me, the fact that the season where you can only really ride trail bikes and OLD race bikes sees a steep drop in riding, and still you mostly just see old race bikes, tells me that trail bikes need to be less like the trail bikes from the 1970's and more like the race bikes of the last 30 years. Is the 250F good for a beginner? Sure. Is it gonna stay good? I'm starting to doubt so.

[@notsoupmoto]

Yeah they should probably just be called something to the effect of “Beginner bikes” not necessarily trail bikes. Look into the beta x-trainer though. I think it would be something you’re kind of looking for to fill that gap. Still approachable for beginners but fully trail capable.

[@Running-with-skizers]

I got a drz 250 and I love it I've been thinking of getting a new crf 250 but only because my bike is 20 years old I could go for an all out enduro but I love my old suzuki and I think the crf would be a great second bike

[@notsoupmoto]

The crf would definitely be a nice upgrade for you if you wanted a bike with a similar power delivery and feel but with modern tech like e-Start, fuel injection etc! However the enduro bikes absolutely shred in the woods so if you’re looking for an actual step up/upgrade in power I’d definitely recommend trying one out! I don’t think you’ll be disappointed Check out my review of the YZ250X and see what you think. That’s an awesome woods bike for a reasonable price.

[@Running-with-skizers]

@@notsoupmoto thanks man I will for sure

[@notsoupmoto]

@@Running-with-skizers no problem. I like the username btw haha

[@Running-with-skizers]

@@notsoupmoto thanks man

[@05rickie]

This what I think after owning one,I purchased this CRF250F in 2019 when it first came out,at 265 pounds it is a PIG,especially when you have to pick it up off the ground,I tore my bicep tendon and had to have it surgically repaired,just trying to pick this pig up off the ground,it is HEAVY. I sold it after that,I owned it for six months.It may not feel heavy when sitting on it or even riding it,try picking it up off the ground.

[@notsoupmoto]

yeah I would definitely agree with that. the bike is extremely heavy

[@patrick2360]

Thank You Very Much For Sharing, I'm Finally Learning how to Ride My Bike. Thank You for Everything.

[@notsoupmoto]

Of course! Glad to hear you’re progressing What sorts of things are you working on learning?

[@alexchan3727]

Crf250f is the best for exploring and just chilling on the bike. At 45 thats all I need.

[@notsoupmoto]

So true

[@chriskucharik]

The 250F sounds perfect for my kids. How about the difference between CRF300L and CRF450X? Honda lists the 450X under "Trail" but isn't the 300L easier on a beginner? I have different kids of different ages and sizes. Looking for the best choice for them to start and grow into.

[@notsoupmoto]

the 450x is a competition woods bike. think hare scramble racing/gncc. the crf300L is actually a dual sport, meaning it's designed for on-road/off-road use. dual purpose. it is street legal whereas the 450x is not. the 300L wouldn't be bad for a beginner due to its gentle power delivery but just bear in mind that it's designed partially for road use so it won't be the perfect tool for off road trails. that being said, it is perfectly competent on the trails. if your 13 year old is looking to get into the competition side of things and you wanted to get a honda, i would recommend the 250X over the 450X just because that 450 is going to be a lot of bike for a beginner. check out my video on the distinction between competition bikes and beginner bikes here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYqopqxum7Wqr5I

[@Spitfire8o5]

I have a ‘14 Husqvarna TE310R. It was street legal plates so it’s a dual sport /. Enduro bike? I only want to ride trails, I’ve only gone out once and the power wasn’t really the issue. It was the overall grip and high centered weight that was tricky coming from 10 years on mountain bikes. Not sure if I should get non road dirt bike tires and try it again.. or sell and get into something like this?

[@notsoupmoto]

I would definitely recommend swapping the tires for a more aggressive knobby tire suited for the terrain you want to ride on. That’ll make a world of difference. If you still don’t like it then maybe try something else but I’d give the tires a shot first

[@philrc1]

KLX230, CRF230 (older version of the CRF250F), TTR230 are all comps to the CRF250F. The theme being "Air Cooled" trail bike. BTW: KLX300 is water cooled and not really a good comp. This class of bike will typically have around 20-25 horsepower where the competition bikes in the same 250CC size but water cooled, are basically race bikes and have around 40-45 horsepower.

[@notsoupmoto]

thanks for the comment! that's an important distinction on the KLX300

[@jasonbull179]

Hi, how tall are you. Would you feel way cramped on the 250f if your 6 feet tall.

[@notsoupmoto]

I’m 6ft! I don’t feel cramped just riding casually. If I were to have this be my main bike and ride it all the time I’d probably just get some taller bars and call it a day

[@enduro_j]

We beat ours to death. Super reliable, fun, easy bike. Will learn so much on this platform n these things are so fun to wheelie. Great value. Not powerful, not scary, once u get some skills.

[@notsoupmoto]

💪🏼

[@MarceloG..]

Hey, thanks for the video. I have a CRF300L and want to get another bike. Do you think the 250F is more of the same? . I'm also thinking about the Husky FE250 to have a bit of a different bike. How do you think the two 250's compare, other than the height? I consider myself an "advance beginner". thank you!

[@notsoupmoto]

I've ridden the CRF300L as well! It's similar to the 250f in power delivery but the 300L is bigger and slightly more powerful & catered to the street, whereas the 250f is more tailored to the offroad and trails. The husky fe250 is an enduro bike so it will have the feel of the competition bikes i was talking about in the video. Much snappier power (although its set up for enduro so it will have more low end crawl than the mx models) If you've been riding the crf300L and are at an intermediate level then I don't think the fe250 would be a bad choice!

[@yukonjon5964]

to help us advise, can you tell us what type of terrain you ride? what gear mainly? what things make you wish for a diff bike? what about the 300 is holding you back etc?

[@ZeLogicnator5k]

The main thing about KTM and Husky is, as he said, competition bikes. Way lighter, snappier throttle, better out of the box suspension. You can reduce the snappy throttle with something like a throttle tamer. The main drawbacks of these, imo, is maintenance and cost.

[@chrisvozza6530]

I grew up on an xr200 and this bike would be fun as hell I think especially with that fuel injection both disc brakes . I wouldn't have to worry about the flame out with those motocross bikes with all that compression . I would definitely buy this bike and I would have alot of fun on it I know it

[@notsoupmoto]

Definitely would be reminiscent of the xr but with those modern touches for sure. 👍🏼

[@egirlegirlegirl]

i like the tractor analogy, esp when you consider how much more work it takes to maintain a race car than a tractor

[@notsoupmoto]

True facts. That’s something I forgot to mention in the videos but a commenter reminded me. A HUGEEE difference between beginner trail bikes and race bikes is maintenance intervals

[@egirlegirlegirl]

@@notsoupmoto yea race bikes forgo everything for speed and they only need to last a moto

[@jamesking4225]

If it had good suspension it would be my go to

[@notsoupmoto]

yeah the suspension is meh but adequate for what its designed for

[@Ryker-cj4py]

I don't what kind of bike to get. I'm 5'11" 230lbs. My sons are 5'6" and 5'8" both less than 150lbs. I used to ride dirt yrs. Ago but now street only. What would be in your opinion best single bike for them to learn and me enjoy? Thanks

[@notsoupmoto]

If you want one single bike for both them and you to ride and they are complete beginners, I’d say the crf250f is a good compromise. You may feel like it’s a bit small for yourself but it will be better for them to learn the fundamentals on than a full sized bike or one that’s got a snappier power delivery

[@dctrdredge2139]

Is the crf250f upgrade friendly say to develop more/different power as a person grows past the factory setup, Or suspension preferences?

[@notsoupmoto]

There are definitely ways to upgrade it. Specifically suspension wise, there are companies who have made stiffer springs, etc for them and you could always get them done custom for your weight and riding style. As far as engine upgrades go, I know it’s possible but I’m not sure where to find parts to do so. It doesn’t seem as upgradeable engine wise as other bikes are.

[@Frankiehall-fd2gw]

my buddys have 250 “race bikes” and im not as experienced for a race 250 but still want to be able to somewhat keep up with them on the trails and such. Would i be better off on a 150r or 250f?

[@notsoupmoto]

The 150r is probably going to feel a bit more spirited. That said if you’re on tight trails, either bike will be able to keep up. It’s just on straight aways where the more sluggish 250f will fall behund

[@BlackwaterAquatics]

I have a xt250, which is similar to the 250f but street legal. People always say these bikes are "pussy" bike but i swear im always passing guys on the ktms and 450 on the trails. After 2 years of trail riding, i come to the realization that most people suck at trail riding and enduro because they start out on full-blown race bikes. After riding some fast bikes, i honestly think all i need is a 250 air cool with suspension upgrades for some good enduro and trail riding. You won't be much slower than the weekend warrior.

[@notsoupmoto]

Couldn’t agree more. Most of the time people are talking shit on bikes it’s because they lack skill as a rider

[@bobcheesemin]

Aren't the ttr-230 and klx230r the same class?

[@notsoupmoto]

Yep. Same as the crf250f as well. Air cooled trail bikes

[@Maxsmotoshop]

It’s basically a heavy slow donkey with no suspension, but it will get you there and back again 100%

[@notsoupmoto]

Exactly

[@KhalidHayes-h6w]

Could this bike be good for an adult beginner just starting out riding?

[@notsoupmoto]

Yes! in fact, that's pretty much exactly what this bike was designed for. Check out my CRF250F playlist to learn more about it! kzbin.info/aero/PLRd7LOh3HmfzSib0w7o17oG7HtpJXhy1R&si=htlJUyA6ZAuR5qpw

[@abeast9811]

I’m looking at getting crf 250f but I’m wondering what I should be looking for when buying it used?

[@notsoupmoto]

Luckily the crf250f’s don’t need a whole lot of maintenance so just take a look over it and keep an eye out for any rust on the chain or sprockets, if you can hear it running listen for any knocking sounds or anything odd sounding in the engine. It should just purr nice and smoothly. If you get a chance to test ride it the gears should shift smoothly as well, not super clunky or anything like that. But overall if it looks clean it’s probably fine

[@abeast9811]

@@notsoupmoto Thanks for the help man really appreciate it.

[@notsoupmoto]

@@abeast9811 of course! best of luck on your search

[@LouisPratt-wh9sy]

What do you think of the new GPX Moto FSE 250E. It is suposed to be a copy of of the Honda CRF 250F Engine with Fuel Injection and a 6 speed transmision. The bike frame and suspension is a copy of KTM but is made in China with linkless rear suspension and a dry weight of 237 lbs. The seat height is 37 inches. The price is cheaper than the Honda CRF250F. GPX Moto also makes a cheaper version of the FSE 250E that is more in line with the specs. of the Honda CRF250F at even a lower cost. Check out their Websight GPX Moto. They are located in Utah and according to the reviews the quality of the bikes is awesome along with their customer service with no issues in getting parts.

[@notsoupmoto]

might want to try to make your ad read a little more subtle next time bro lol

[@fishermanfelts1193]

I’m 5’6 got a 2022 kx112 first bike but now I want to upgrade to a 250 that is more suited for me. Bc I feel now I have outgrown the kx112 size wise now that I’ve been riding for 3 years and feel like I’m being held back from proper body position and etc. I mostly ride big open fields and trails. What would be good for me

[@notsoupmoto]

Honestly if you like riding two strokes, maybe look into a 125. Full size bike, and more power than the 112. They’re such fun bikes to ride. Check out my video on them. Might help you decide m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/qXabpKWkndFlZpo The 250f wouldn’t be a bad choice either but it’s smaller than a full sized bike. The 250f is more suited for chill and relaxing riding while the yz125 would be more fast paced and zippy haha

[@fishermanfelts1193]

@@notsoupmoto was wanting to go towards a 4 stroke 🤔

[@notsoupmoto]

@@fishermanfelts1193 gotcha! in that case, the 250f wouldn't be a bad option. also check into something like a wr250f. that's a full sized 4 stroke 250, liquid cooled woods "competition" (sort of) bike so it packs a bit more power than the crf250f. plus it's full sized

[@jeffpaxton9172]

The biggest problem with bikes like these is the suspension. For single track and tight woods riding the engine is enough to get the job done but the suspension will actually get you hurt.

[@notsoupmoto]

How will it get you hurt?

[@jeffpaxton9172]

@@notsoupmoto Take a set of med/large woops at a fast speed and see what happens to you.

[@notsoupmoto]

I think you just have to know the capabilities of your bike. I wouldn’t try to take a beginner trail bike off of massive jumps without expecting to completely bottom out the suspension. Same thing with whoops. You shouldn’t be riding over obstacles that are out of your skill range or your bikes ability anyway. So I wouldn’t say the bikes suspension will get you hurt. I think it would just be the rider deciding to take the bike on terrain it clearly can’t ride over getting themselves hurt.

[@jeffpaxton9172]

@@notsoupmoto True but you can take the same rider on the same track on a more capable bike and that rider will be safer. So in a case like this, its the bike; not the rider. The 250f has its purpose but most people will quickly out grow its capabilities and will want more bike.

[@TalenBoudreaux.9]

I’m 5’4 do you think I could fit on a 250f? Or a 150f

[@notsoupmoto]

At that height, I think you could comfortably fit on either one, however with the 250f you'll probably be better suited because you won't outgrow the power as fast. Either one would be a good option though. Both nice bikes

[@stevenwistner9391]

Im 6ft 2 , 260. Im 54 and just want to trail ride with my son. Is this bike too small for me?

[@notsoupmoto]

To make yourself more comfortable on it you’d probably want to get a set of taller bars and stiffen up the suspension a bit. But for light trail riding, this bike is perfect!

[@stevenwistner9391]

Ty so much brother. I appreciate it. Love the video. That helped me make up my mind about buying that bike. I wanted the KLX300 but for the price, it's hard to beat the 250F......

[@stevenwistner9391]

Who makes a taller handlebar for the 250 F, and who does suspension work in the Houston TX area? If you happen to know. Thanks again.

[@notsoupmoto]

Unfortunately I’m not familiar with companies in that area But if you call up any moto suspension places they may be able to do it or they could put you in the right direction. I’ve heard a lot of people online mention Bruce’s suspension

[@notsoupmoto]

As for the handlebars, there are a ton of companies that make bars of various shapes and sizes. The crf runs a 7/8 size bar so any 7/8 bar will fit. You can also get a 1 1/8 bar to fit with an adapter.

[@SeanCunningham-qj6fh]

So i was wondering just for fun if you had to buy another bike what would it be and why

[@notsoupmoto]

personally I would love to get a 2 stroke enduro/woods bike. something like the yz250x for an affordable option or the ktm 300xc if I wanted to splurge haha. i would love a 450 for motocross though at some point. i got to ride a 2020 (i think it was?) crf450 and absolutely loved it.

[@KhalidHayes-h6w]

Could this bike be good for an adult beginner ?

[@notsoupmoto]

Yes! in fact, that's pretty much exactly what this bike was designed for. Check out my CRF250F playlist to learn more about it! kzbin.info/aero/PLRd7LOh3HmfzSib0w7o17oG7HtpJXhy1R&si=htlJUyA6ZAuR5qpw

[@07scoobywrx]

The crf250f is a modern day xr200 great all around bike, reliable useable power!

[@notsoupmoto]

Hell yeah!

[@dbmission123]

Any overheating issues for tight slow trails in the summer?

[@notsoupmoto]

I have not experienced any overheating issues yet. Seems like a solid, well designed motor.

[@MathewMasuskapoe]

Yes

[@yukonjon5964]

a modern 250F MX bike will easily overheat in the woods. this is one of the huge benefits of an old school 4 stroke like the bike in this vid. lower RPM, piston dimensions and mild porting are a lot of it. but in reality you cant compare the engines at all.

[@Paul-gu2lv]

Unfortunately they are not available in my part of the world and I ended up getting a wr250f which has now because a motocross race bike🤦. It's great, but not what I want.

[@notsoupmoto]

That’s unfortunate:( what part of the world are you from?

[@jasonlemmond3012]

I’m about 6ft 2- 250 I have had a road bike and road it a few years and am looking for a bike to ride trails maybe jump some hills I have 2 k cash so either looking for used or will pay notes

[@jasonlemmond3012]

Ps I’m a diesel technician and can definitely fix things but don’t want something I have to work on before I can ride it much

[@notsoupmoto]

I’d maybe look into a dual sport Something like the DRZ400S, CRF300L, KLX300 Maybe even a WR250 something like that Those are all full size bikes so they’d fit your frame better.

[@kevinkindright]

I weigh 285.. I have 2 crf250fs ....they ride and run like they don't care if I am fat..... I have never bottomed out the suspension and they hill climb with power to spare.....

[@notsoupmoto]

Solid bikes for sure

[@triplec3804]

How does it not overheat riding tight wooded areas?

[@notsoupmoto]

It gets hot but I’ve never had any overheating issues where I’ve lost performance or anything. I guess they just designed it well

[@bideybikrammalla5057]

Well said and true..

[@notsoupmoto]

Thanks for the comment!

[@joshuabroadhurst936]

How tall are you ? Because i am interested in buying a bike like this but im 6ft tall i dont want to feel cramped on the bike

[@notsoupmoto]

I’m also 6ft tall and I feel fine on it

[@joshuabroadhurst936]

@@notsoupmoto alright thanks

[@notsoupmoto]

@@joshuabroadhurst936 no problem!

[@sumatai1]

Bamboozald!! Well explained

[@notsoupmoto]

Haha thanks!

[@Nicko_92]

My neighbour just got a 2018 rmz 450 and within 5 minutes of riding it I realised the 450 is too much power for me im definitely getting 250 now lol

[@notsoupmoto]

Yeah 450s are definitely wicked

[@Ghost11-kL3fx]

I've been riding an apollo 125 four stroke for awhile now and I'm looking to get a new bike in the future but i don't know what to get dose anyone have and suggestions I'm a intermediate rider and I'm under 16 I don't want to give my age

[@notsoupmoto]

Thanks for the comment! To help us give a better recommendation, could you tell us around how tall you are and what type of riding you plan on doing? Like motocross, trail riding, enduro, etc?

[@Ghost11-kL3fx]

@@notsoupmoto I'm 5'8 and i just want something that i can ride tracks or just around my house on some dirt roads

[@notsoupmoto]

If you like the way your current bike delivers power and just want something with a little more juice I’d recommend the crf250f. Wouldn’t be a bad bike at all. For something a little more snappy though, I really love a yz125 two-stroke or something comparable. Check out my video to learn why: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qXabpKWkndFlZposi=0xdV5N8jbNUtmS69 It’s a great all around bike, you can ride it on trails track and anything in between

[@Ghost11-kL3fx]

@@notsoupmoto ok I'll check them out

[@notsoupmoto]

sounds good!

[@benschlechter2868]

Is the top speed the same as a race bike

[@notsoupmoto]

From what I’ve seen, the top speed of the 250f stock is somewhere in the ballpark of 60-70mph. Race bikes vary but it seems the stock top speed of a CRF250R is similar at around 65-70mph. You have to keep in mind, gearing will change the top speed wildly as some people gear their bikes to slower more technical terrain and others gear them super tall for high speed desert riding. It’s all relative to what you want to be doing on the bike. You can buy aftermarket sprockets to change your gearing.

[@KentwoodWarrior]

You should try the klx230 dual sport

[@notsoupmoto]

Looks cool I’ll have to search more into it ! Thanks!

[@Allstar-0702]

shoudl i get a crf 250r instead

[@notsoupmoto]

What type of riding do you do? What’s your skill level?

[@Allstar-0702]

@@notsoupmoto maybe a little race and a little trail

[@notsoupmoto]

@@Allstar-0702 what's your skill level and how long have you been riding?

[@Dean_Richard]

A good beginner bike

[@notsoupmoto]

Facts

[@sfsf9954]

Its an amazing bike ! My wife lives it......

[@notsoupmoto]

😎

[@je7647]

Honda make that 250f. And R confusion intentional I swear, even if not looking at hondas the fact they did this causes confusion

[@notsoupmoto]

Yeah it’s weird

[@notsoupmoto]

Definitely seems intentional 😂

[@MathewMasuskapoe]

I hate this bike I’ve been riding for 1.5year and this is my current and first bike, I hate it because it’s so slow and the suspension is terrible and so soft you can’t jump it at all the speed is only good up to fourth gear and basically no fifth I’d perfer going for a 250rx but learning on a lower gear my next bike is 250r and I do not ride motocross but if your just looking for something fun and a farm bike I’d get it

[@notsoupmoto]

yeah if you want to hit jumps and go fast on an mx track, the crf250f isn't the right tool for the job

[@yukonjon5964]

wait... why not get the CRF250RX? more usable that the MX model. better suspension for most things too.

[@danten7774]

f is ❤for fun

[@notsoupmoto]

haha exactly! that's what honda says on their website too

[@BrianSmith-ql5nj]

Yamaha xt250

[@notsoupmoto]

looks like a cool little dual sport. never ridden one. would like to try it out!

[@octodadmtbmartyrichards2862]

Should be called xr250

[@notsoupmoto]

i would agree

[@rfiskillingussoftly6568]

People are dumb!

[@notsoupmoto]

lol I feel the sentiment but I think they’re just misinformed. That’s why I made this video

[@Moreymoto]

the people who dont know the difference between this and a ktm 300xc should definitely buy this bike if they dont want to die

[@notsoupmoto]

Yeah…😂

[@HolaSeal]

soupermoto

[@notsoupmoto]

Soupercomment

[@natew9617]

I wanna buy a 250f and turn it into a dual sport

[@notsoupmoto]

Check out Adventure Daily. He did exactly that!

[@twowheelsdown2002]

That is a good option as long as you will be on secondary roads. The 250F only has a 5 speed, so the gearing limits it on the road. I was thinking of doing this too, since I watch that channel too. But I travel in an RV, and really need something that gets down the road better. The CRF300L has an overdrive 6th gear, and can cruise at 70, and has 3.6 gallon fuel tanks cheaply available. A Ktech suspension upgrade for $1,000 ups the off road capability enormously. Still not as light as the 250F, but a very versatile bike.

[@daverossignolful]

Did this with my 2022 to use around town and commute to work on occasion, also nice to leave the house and hit the trails without trailering. Changed the gearing to a 14 on the front, could use a 45 on the rear due to that 5 speed. Still a blast in the trails. I come from a competition enduro tx300, the Honda crf is just as fun in its own way, the low maintenance and cost of ownership is a huge bonus. We have a lot of fun on this bike.

[@KhalidHayes-h6w]

Could this bike be good for an adult beginner just starting out riding?

[@notsoupmoto]

Yes! in fact, that's pretty much exactly what this bike was designed for. Check out my CRF250F playlist to learn more about it! kzbin.info/aero/PLRd7LOh3HmfzSib0w7o17oG7HtpJXhy1R&si=htlJUyA6ZAuR5qpw