Another extensive CRF250L Chris Scott review from his Web site:
http://adventure-motorcyclingh.com/2...mile-review-2/

Seems like a great little bike. I have experience with the earlier CRF230R ... the Brazilian made Air Cooled one. Two versions: Off road only or Street legal L version. The 250 version is NEW, made in Thailand now. Great reviews.

I worked quite a bit on the air cooled off road version. Before doing extensive Carb and exhaust mods it was quite weak ... gutless really. But by opening up air box, re-jetting Carb and adding aftermarket pipe the little 230 picked right up. MUCH BETTER ... and especially good in slow, technical trail riding. Gearing on the Off road version is TOO LOW for street duty.

But the biggest let down of the CRF230 (IMO) was the poor, out of balance suspension. Too stiff, harsh rear, too soft front forks.

On Thumper Talk I found the CRF230 suspension Guru ... a guy in San Jose, CA. He rebuilt and re-valved the shock for UNDER $200. Huge, positive difference for 185 lbs. rider.

For the forks I added Race Tech emulators, drilled damper rods and heavier springs and oil. Fantastic difference. Now this little bike was ready to handle ANY tough enduro trail. NO ... still was not "Fast" ... but it could make through just about anything and climb nearly any steep hill.

It sounds like this new liquid cooled version is better all the way around. But looks like it still needs suspension work. Most loaded up travel bikes need help in this area, no surprise there.

I ride an air cooled bike with a Carb. (DR650) I appreciate the basic simplicity of NO radiators and NO Fuel Injection.

But would I let that put me off the new CRF250L? No. I trust Honda to have built a tough and reliable system that will stand up to abuse.

Your own experience on the Rental bike in Thailand, IMO, is an excellent test. I'd estimate the CRF250L is better than most realize and may be surprised at what the bike is capable of. Buy one, do the suspension upgrades, fit luggage and GO!
Not many better choices in the world, IMO.

Saludos!


Chris Scott's test bike with luggage, riding in the UsA