Honda CRF250R 2019 — Specifications

One year. That's all it took for Honda to go back to the drawing board. The 2019 Honda CRF250R arrives with a list of targeted modifications, even though the model's complete overhaul dates back only to 2018. In the MX2 world, the competition never sleeps, and the Yamaha YZ250F and KTM 250 SX-F are pushing hard. Honda knows it, and this 2019 version focuses its efforts where it counts: low-end torque, braking, and cockpit ergonomics.

On the engine side, the 249 cc single-cylinder four-stroke retains its bore and stroke dimensions of 79 x 50.9 mm, its 13.9:1 compression ratio, and its four titanium valves. The Honda CRF250R is indeed a four-stroke — don't confuse it with the competition's two-strokes. Engineers worked on the engine's breathing: the intake body reduced by 2 mm to accelerate gas flow at low revs, redesigned ports, a revised exhaust cam, and a silencer shortened by 50 mm. The result translates into more generous torque coming out of corners, where every tenth of a second is gained with the throttle pinned. The 44 hp is still on tap in the upper rev range, but the rider feels a more decisive push from the mid-range onward. To put the performance in perspective, the CRF250R's top speed sits around 120 km/h, a figure comparable to the YZ250F, while a KTM 250 SX two-stroke climbs noticeably higher thanks to its more explosive nature.

The big news for this model year: a three-mode Launch Control system, derived directly from the HRC program. Mode 3, set at 8,250 rpm, is aimed at beginners or muddy conditions. Mode 2 goes up to 8,500 rpm for experienced riders on dry terrain. Mode 1 pushes to 9,500 rpm for experts looking to snatch the holeshot. Activation is done simply via the starter button with the clutch pulled in, and an LED confirms the selected mode. Add to that the three EMSB engine maps (Standard, Smooth, Aggressive) and you get a bike capable of adapting to all rider profiles. The difference between the Honda CRF250R and the CRF250F becomes clear right here: the R is a pure competition machine, packed with race-derived electronics, while the F remains geared toward recreational riding and trail use.

The chassis is built around the seventh-generation aluminum twin-spar frame, unchanged but still effective, with a wheelbase of 1,481 mm and a curb weight of 108 kg. The 49 mm Showa inverted fork with coil springs, derived from the factory kit used by the official Japanese teams, delivers top-level travel and precision. The Showa Pro-Link rear shock is fully adjustable. The real evolution lies in the braking: the new front caliper with staggered 27 and 30 mm pistons, paired with a low-expansion brake line, provides a more progressive feel and consistent power on the 260 mm petal disc. The Renthal Fatbar handlebar, fitted as standard, lightens the front end and offers welcome flexibility for the wrists. Four adjustment positions on the triple clamp allow the riding position to be fine-tuned. With its seat height at 960 mm, its 6.3-liter titanium fuel tank, and its DID rims with a black finish, the CRF250R sports a clean look and ergonomics designed for aggressive riding.

At €8,899, the 2019 Honda CRF250R positions itself against the YZ250F and the KTM 250 SX-F with a compelling argument: HRC technology accessible to everyone. The updates across the 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 model years have continued to refine the formula, but this 2019 vintage marks a turning point in making race electronics accessible on a quarter-liter motocross bike. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a licensed regional championship rider, this CRF puts a serious tool in your hands, calibrated for victory. Its only real shortcoming remains a fuel tank that's a bit tight for long motos, and a price tag that climbs compared to some European alternatives. But when you want Honda reliability and HRC expertise on a 250 cc dirt bike, the price of admission is justified.