Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Technical, Bike forums > Honda Tech
Honda Tech Honda Tech Forum - For Questions specific and of interest to Honda riders only.
Photo by George Guille, It's going to be a long 300km... Bolivian Amazon

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by George Guille
It's going to be a long 300km...
Bolivian Amazon



Like Tree21Likes

Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #16  
Old 12 Apr 2018
mollydog's Avatar
R.I.P.
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: california
Posts: 3,822
Quote:
Originally Posted by ouroboros2015 View Post
Sweet baby Jebus! I didn't want to start a ruck. I also ride an XT660Z, and the HP is a meaningless number to me. It has all the power I need and more. I'll test ride the CRF 250 and if it feels enough then I'll more than likely buy it. Don't care if it's got 5, 24 or 1000 horses. If it feels right for me, then that's all I'm fussed about. It's not worth arguing over; each to their own. As I said before: Horses for courses.
No worries mate, it's how things go round here. For us ... IT"S FUN!
We like "arguing" about bikes. And we all get along pretty well in the end.

The good news for you ... is that if you have a problem there are many here with LOTS of experience both traveling ... and working on bikes and keeping them going on a long run OUTSIDE the UK.

Some of the chatter can be pedantic and irritating at times ... but one can learn a lot too. Do your own research ... then ask questions about issues you don't understand or need opinions on. (lots of those on HUBB!)

Good luck with whatever you end up with. Hope you will check back in here ... so we can argue some more!

(all in good fun!)
Reply With Quote
  #17  
Old 12 Apr 2018
mollydog's Avatar
R.I.P.
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: california
Posts: 3,822
Quote:
Originally Posted by tremens View Post
I don't need rocket as well, but this thing rides as 125cc stock...
Mind you I ride xt660z tenere with only 48 hp.
48 HP? Did you Dyno your bike to get that figure?
If true, then that is pretty impressive.

My modded DR650 only puts out 40 HP (rear wheel). But my bike is a bit lighter weight than the Tenere' 660.
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 13 Apr 2018
Ian Ian is offline
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Aug 2000
Location: UK
Posts: 443
Crf250l

We bought a 2017 CRF250L (not rally) about one year ago to use as a travel bike. The Rally version had just been launched at the time, but we chose the 'standard' version for the lower height. We've done the following modifications:

Hyperpro fork springs and shock.
Renthal handlebars.
Koubalink lowering link.
Acerbis hand guards (the metal reinforced type).
Oxford heated grips.
Engine guard/skid plate.
Accessory socket.

Next will be an IMS tank and maybe some pannier racks, though we may go rackless, and an upgraded seat. No plans to fit a screen at this stage.

The bike has done some long trips including substantial amounts on and off tarmac and it's a keeper. It replaced a BMW G650 XCountry which was a great bike but a bit too tall and powerful for the rider.

I hope that helps.
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 14 Apr 2018
Snakeboy's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: Back into the hamster wheel again, in Oslo - Norway. Did a 5 year RTW trip/250 k kms, 2014-2019
Posts: 1,478
The L version pros:
Lighter, lower, cheaper, longer range if you add an aftermarket fuel tank which you imo will need if you are thinking about going on any overland or RTW trip.
Cons: No windscreen, short range if no aftermarket tank, shorter ground clearance

The Rally version:
Pros: better fuel range than original L version, better wind protection, higher ground clearance.
Cons: heavier, more expensive, higher if youre a short person.

Personally I think I would have gone with the L-version, its lighter, but for sure it would need a bigger gas tank. The Acerbis aftermarket tank for the Crf is said to take 13,5 liters and you would then be good for at least 400 kms range if ridden reasonably. The Rally has a gas tank who takes 10,1 liter and that would give a range of around 300 kms if reasonably ridden. And a good loooong range is imo a very good feature to have on a travel bike. I would add other things to such as a windscreen, handguards and upgrade other things too, so it wouldnt come out cheaper than the Rally. But it would be more useful. Just my 5 cents though

PS A little bird whispered in my ear that Honda will come with 450 Rally version next year....
__________________
In the end everything will be fine. If its not fine its not the end....
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 14 Apr 2018
Nuff Said's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 258
Quote:
Originally Posted by Snakeboy View Post
The L version pros:
Lighter, lower, cheaper, longer range if you add an aftermarket fuel tank which you imo will need if you are thinking about going on any overland or RTW trip.
Cons: No windscreen, short range if no aftermarket tank, shorter ground clearance

The Rally version:
Pros: better fuel range than original L version, better wind protection, higher ground clearance.
Cons: heavier, more expensive, higher if youre a short person.

Personally I think I would have gone with the L-version, its lighter, but for sure it would need a bigger gas tank. The Acerbis aftermarket tank for the Crf is said to take 13,5 liters and you would then be good for at least 400 kms range if ridden reasonably. The Rally has a gas tank who takes 10,1 liter and that would give a range of around 300 kms if reasonably ridden. And a good loooong range is imo a very good feature to have on a travel bike. I would add other things to such as a windscreen, handguards and upgrade other things too, so it wouldnt come out cheaper than the Rally. But it would be more useful. Just my 5 cents though

PS A little bird whispered in my ear that Honda will come with 450 Rally version next year....
Great opinion on both CRF from a person who knows?

With over 58.000 km ridden on my modified 2016 CRF L and apart from the fuel tank size (which was not needed in Thailand) you are spot on, but if I may add 1 extra item, the lights on the old and the new "L" version and just SHIT.
So a good set of 60 W LED spotlights are a must IMO.

CRF with a 450cc that would be nice, so now it will have as much HP as a 190cc bike.
Reply With Quote
  #21  
Old 14 Apr 2018
mollydog's Avatar
R.I.P.
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: california
Posts: 3,822
Quote:
Originally Posted by Snakeboy View Post
PS A little bird whispered in my ear that Honda will come with 450 Rally version next year....
Honda already make a 450 Rally bike ... but you have to be a HRC race team rider to get hold of one or an approved AA Enduro racer pro.
Probably cost about $100K USD per copy.

If you're talking about a CRF450L (road version) ... well, now THAT would be interesting! I'd love to see a reliable 450 Adventure spec bike from Honda.

Until Honda improve the valve gear design on these CRF's ... I would steer clear. They don't last.
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 14 Apr 2018
Snakeboy's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: Back into the hamster wheel again, in Oslo - Norway. Did a 5 year RTW trip/250 k kms, 2014-2019
Posts: 1,478
Quote:
Originally Posted by mollydog View Post
Honda already make a 450 Rally bike ... but you have to be a HRC race team rider to get hold of one or an approved AA Enduro racer pro.
Probably cost about $100K USD per copy.

If you're talking about a CRF450L (road version) ... well, now THAT would be interesting! I'd love to see a reliable 450 Adventure spec bike from Honda.

Until Honda improve the valve gear design on these CRF's ... I would steer clear. They don't last.
It was not the already exisiting Rally 450 with race specs that was mentioned, it was a totally new 450 L model. But the rumours have gone through a few links so take it for that....
__________________
In the end everything will be fine. If its not fine its not the end....
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 14 Apr 2018
Snakeboy's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: Back into the hamster wheel again, in Oslo - Norway. Did a 5 year RTW trip/250 k kms, 2014-2019
Posts: 1,478
Quote:
Originally Posted by Nuff Said View Post
Great opinion on both CRF from a person who knows?

With over 58.000 km ridden on my modified 2016 CRF L and apart from the fuel tank size (which was not needed in Thailand) you are spot on, but if I may add 1 extra item, the lights on the old and the new "L" version and just SHIT.
So a good set of 60 W LED spotlights are a must IMO.

CRF with a 450cc that would be nice, so now it will have as much HP as a 190cc bike.
I own a Crf and have ridden a few kms on it. You are right about the lights. Im thinking about getting some extra LEDs, just dont know where to mount them.
__________________
In the end everything will be fine. If its not fine its not the end....
Reply With Quote
  #24  
Old 14 Apr 2018
Nuff Said's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 258
Hi

Cant work out how to load pictures on the HUBB
So the best I can do is post a link to where I have posted a few pictures of my CRF with the spotlights mounted.

Maybe it will help in your discussion.

The brackets were custom made by me if you need further details just ask.
Location is spot on and gives very good light coverage.


Pictures posted om next post.

Last edited by Nuff Said; 14 Apr 2018 at 22:18.
Reply With Quote
  #25  
Old 14 Apr 2018
Nuff Said's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 258
Load picture here now.






















The last few pictures should give you a better idea how I fix them.


Brackets are very strong and no light movement.

Also no damage with a fall which in my case is often
Reply With Quote
  #26  
Old 15 Apr 2018
Snakeboy's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: Back into the hamster wheel again, in Oslo - Norway. Did a 5 year RTW trip/250 k kms, 2014-2019
Posts: 1,478
Looks great those lights. What brand are they and where did you purchase them?
And the softbags, what brand and where did you buy them?
__________________
In the end everything will be fine. If its not fine its not the end....
Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 15 Apr 2018
Nuff Said's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 258
Live in China mate.
All item was purchased from the online store Taobao (Chinese Ebay)

All item are very good quality if you know what to buy from Taobao
People, who live outside China can buy but by way of an agent?
If you wish to purchase these items please let me know and I dig out the links for you ok.
Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 14 May 2018
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2015
Posts: 131
Well; I took a test ride (on an L, no rally available for testing). Really liked it, so I bought a Rally. Early days, but for me, it's an excellent little bike. Great fun to ride and I actually enjoyed the slower pace (breaking in the engine, so not revving the tits off it yet). Not for everyone I know, and I'm sure other bikes are "better", but I'm a very happy camper at the moment.
Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Honda Crf 250 L as overlander Snakeboy Which Bike? 23 17 Jan 2016 06:29
2013 Honda CRF 250 L Ron Connors Other Bikes Tech 3 27 Feb 2013 23:10
Rally Around the World First-Leg Ride - Nasvhville TN - Sat July 28, 2012 Bradthompson59 Motorcycle Events around the world 0 6 Jul 2012 21:49

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

HU Event and other updates on the HUBB Forum "Traveller's Advisories" thread.
ALL Dates subject to change.

2024:

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

HUBBUK: info

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.




All times are GMT +1. The time now is 19:39.