2022 Honda CRF250RX: OWN THE TRAIL.
Introducing the 2022 Honda CRF250RX…
For 2022, this bona fide closed-course off-road weapon is all-new, with the same upgrades as the motocross-focused CRF250R. Those changes, which result in reduced weight, more low-end power and improved durability, are particularly well-suited to closed-course off-road series such as NGPC, GNCC and WORCS—the realms of top teams like SLR Honda, JCR Honda and Phoenix Racing Honda. Making the bike even better suited for those applications, the CRF250RX comes standard with model-specific features such as a resin 2.1-gallon fuel tank, dedicated suspension and ECU settings, an 18-inch rear wheel and plastic hand guards.
Like to ride demanding trails? Desert races? Enduros? Then this is your bike. Because our new 2022 Honda CRF250RX gets all the updates and performance enhancing features of our latest CRF250R, but wraps them in a chassis and suspension package that’s specially tuned the kind of riding you do. You’ll enjoy the power and handling of the MX machine, along with our new single-exhaust system and all the other 2022 R-model upgrades. Plus a few more, like new handguards this year, a tucked-in sidestand, and features like bigger fuel tank and an 18-inch rear wheel better suited for enduro-spec tires. Nimble and light, the CRF250RX is a joy to ride in the tight stuff, and a ton of fun everywhere you want to own the trail. And to make a great bike even better, it’s eligible for our Red Rider Rewards contingency program.
HIGH PERFORMANCE HOT SHOT
The CRF250RX is the off-road tool you’ve always wanted. It’s a high-performance trail/enduro hot shot, now with the lightweight chassis of the CRF450RX and more engine torque, built to exploit all the advantages a 250 offers; manoeuvrability and nimble agility.
READY FOR THE TOUGH STUFF
Ride easier. And faster.
The CRF250RX now has the same HRC-developed chassis as the CRF450RX. Its 249.9cc DOHC engine’s legendary top-end power is bolstered by strong mid-range torque and now, even stronger bottom-end drive. But it also has new steering geometry and Showa suspension re-set for use away from the MX track, an 18-inch rear wheel, larger fuel tank, knuckle guards and sidestand. So, when the going gets really tough – or tight and technical – and where bigger bikes become difficult and simply wear you out, this motorcycle shines. Its power delivery keeps you moving forward while the chassis finds all the grip there is. And helps you use it. The CRF250RX makes fast, easy.
2022 Honda CRF250RX Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
OBJECTIVES
The goal for the 2022 CRF250RX design team was ambitious, and to achieve the latest racing evolution, Honda’s engineers focused their efforts on making the model quicker, stronger and lighter, by boosting engine performance, increasing toughness and cutting weight.
Specifically, the redesigned engine produces more low-rpm torque without sacrificing usable top-end power, resulting in a broader powerband and more user-friendly delivery—vital for technical off-road conditions.
Significant weight savings were achieved through updates to the chassis, which also boasts improved ergonomics while preserving the handling prowess of its predecessor. That, along with the redesigned exhaust system and additional weight savings on numerous individual components, results in a substantial reduction of six pounds for the 2022 CRF250RX, to 238 pounds.
Finally, improved durability was accomplished by thoroughly reexamining the engine, its cooling system and the drive components, while notable improvements were also made to the clutch.
MODEL-SPECIFIC FEATURES
Compared to the 2021 CRF250R motocrosser, the CRF250RX has the following differences:
- A resin 2.1-gallon fuel tank (instead of the R model’s 1.7-gallon titanium cell), providing enough range to compete in closed-course off-road competition.
- Both front and rear suspension have dedicated settings developed specifically for closed-course off-road application, for improved compliance over technical terrain like rocks and roots.
- The CRF250RX’s ECU features a different fuel-injection map, with settings that deliver a smooth spread of power, maximizing traction in slippery, off-road conditions.
- Whereas the CRF250R has a 19-inch rear wheel, that of the CRF250RX is an 18-inch size, for a taller tire sidewall that better absorbs obstacles typically encountered off-road. In addition, front and rear tires are Dunlop Geomax AT81, which offer all-around performance plus high levels of ruggedness for off-road racing and riding.
- The CRF250RX comes standard with plastic hand guards, to help fend off trailside bushes and brush. It also has an aluminum side stand, which facilitates parking away from the pits but tucks out of the way when not in use.
All-New CRF250R is Lighter, Faster, Stronger for 2022
The bike raced by Team Honda HRC riders Jett and Hunter Lawrence, the CRF250R has been completely redesigned for 2022, Honda revealed today. The all-new model features a host of engine and chassis changes leading to improved acceleration on corner exits, increased agility, and better endurance over a race distance.
Since its 2004 introduction, the CRF250R has amassed nine Regional AMA 250SX Supercross titles (including the 2019 and ’20 East Region crowns), plus two AMA 250MX Championships. Phoenix Racing has also won the last three AMA Arenacross titles with the CRF250R, with Kyle Peters going undefeated during the 2021 season. With seven of 12 rounds completed, Jett and Hunter Lawrence have both earned 250MX overall wins in the AMA Pro Motocross series, and they sit second and third in the title chase, respectively.
Nonetheless, Honda engineers weren’t interested in letting the model rest on its laurels for 2022, as they introduced a host of updates that raise the bar for usable power, impeccable handling and robust durability, by boosting engine performance, increasing toughness and cutting weight. The redesigned engine produces more low-rpm torque without sacrificing usable top-end power, resulting in a broader powerband. Chassis updates delivered significant weight savings and improved ergonomics while preserving the model’s renowned handling prowess. A redesigned exhaust system and additional lightened components resulted in a substantial reduction of 8 pounds, for a 229-pound vehicle curb weight. In addition, durability was improved by thoroughly reexamining the engine, its cooling system and the drive components, while notable improvements were also made to the clutch.
“The CRF250R has always been all about racing, and its success record proves that, with top results at the factory level by Jett and Hunter Lawrence, and also in the amateur ranks,” said Brandon Wilson, Sports & Experiential Manager at American Honda. “With reduced weight, increased power where it matters most and improved durability, the all-new 2022 CRF250R is more competitive than ever, and we can’t wait to see what the Lawrence brothers and all Red Riders do with it on motocross tracks across the U.S.”
Each of the CRF250R’s updates is transferred to the 2022 CRF250RX, whose closed-course, off-road realm is the ideal application for the increased low-end power. The CRF250RX also has model-specific features to provide appropriate suspension performance, power delivery, fuel range, hand protection and convenience, making it an appropriate machine for SLR Honda rider Tallon LaFountaine (the reigning AMA NGPC Pro 250 Champion), JCR Honda’s Tarah Gieger and Phoenix Racing Honda GNCC riders Ruy Barbosa and Cody Barnes.
While the focus is on the all-new 2022 CRF250R and CRF250RX, Honda also announced the returning CRF150R and CRF150R Big Wheel, as well as the hugely popular full CRF Trail lineup—the CRF250F, CRF125F and CRF125F Big Wheel, CRF110F and CRF50F—all of which are year-round off-road legal in all 50 states.
2022 Honda CRF250RX Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN
Improvements to the CRF250RX’s 249cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, double-overhead camshaft four-valve design achieve even greater engine performance and durability. Significantly, low rpm torque is improved through modification of the air intake, revisions to the valve timing and a straightened exhaust port. The changes result in a 20% increase in power at 6,500 rpm, while strong top-end power is retained.
Intake
Changing the shape of the airbox has increased its capacity by 78 percent, primarily on the clean side of the air filter. The fuel injector’s angle is increased from 30 to 60 degrees, enabling the spray to reach all the way to the back of the butterfly, and the throttle bore is 44 mm. Together these changes better cool the intake charge, improving air-intake efficiency and torque at low revs. An added benefit of the airbox redesign is improved serviceability of the air filter, with a spring-loaded clip replacing the previous threaded design.
Head
Changes to the four-valve cylinder head are numerous. Titanium 33 mm intake and 26 mm exhaust valves are once again utilized, but now the intake valves feature dual springs (one inside the other) to ensure precise movement at higher revs. The intake camshaft sprocket is now press-fit, which improves valve-timing accuracy while reducing weight.
The camshaft holder has a more rigid design that maintains camshaft-journal roundness, contributing to timing accuracy and reduced friction at higher rpm. Valve action at higher revs has been further improved through redesign of the rocker-arm shaft’s alignment. Also, durability at higher engine speeds was enhanced by revising the camshaft’s oil-supply journal, increasing flow by 80%. Oil volume to the cylinder head has also been increased, through a change to the ratio of the oil pump’s driven gear.
Carrying over from 2021, the bore and stroke are 79.0 mm and 50.9 mm, respectively, and the compression ratio is 13.9:1 To take advantage of the numerous cylinder-head improvements, the shapes of the piston and connecting rod have been modified to improve durability at high revs. Also, the water-pump gear is thicker to improve strength.
Exhaust
The exhaust system now utilizes a single straight exhaust port, which improves torque and low-rpm drivability. The single muffler has internal baffling that is optimized for torque delivery, and it contributes to a weight reduction from the previous dual-muffler design. The single exhaust header is now routed 74 mm closer to the engine on the right side, while the left header and muffler have been eliminated, resulting in a narrower cross-section and improved rider mobility.
Electronics
To fully realize the engine’s performance potential, the ECU provides all-new mapping to supply the optimum air/fuel mixture and ignition timing at all throttle positions and engine speeds. HRC-inspired launch control facilitates consistent holeshots.
Clutch
Getting all the power to the rear wheel reliably required a redesign of the clutch assembly. The clutch pack now has nine discs instead of eight, which increases the amount of disc friction material and lowers the load on the individual discs. The clutch basket is made more rigid for added durability, an additional friction spring reduces spring load, and lubrication is optimized to reduce wear. The primary ratio is now lower (3.047 vs. 3.473) and lubrication is optimized, improving clutch endurance by 21%. In addition, clutch-engagement feel is enhanced, and lever pull is 4% lighter.
Transmission
Inside the five-speed gearbox, changes were made to reduce friction and improve feel when making up- and downshifts between second and third gears—a very common operation on a 250 closed-course off-road bike. Only one shift fork is operated to execute this gear-change (rather than two, as before), the countershaft has improved rigidity, and the shift drum is now 17 percent lighter thanks to a larger through hole and reduction of the number of lead grooves, from three to two.
The improvement results in better gear-shifting feel for the rider, and gear ratios are changed to better utilize the newfound engine power in the low and middle rpm ranges, with all gears now being taller, and first and third being useable across broader speed ranges.
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION
For Honda’s engineers, improving upon the previous CRF250RX generation’s exemplary handling was a significant task, as the frame was already known for delivering reliable tracking, precise turning, exemplary straight-line stability and overall rideability. The goals were to ensure that the engine’s newfound power would not upset these traits, and to reduce the overall weight of the machine.
Wheelbase is now 10 mm shorter (at 58.1 inches), rake is relaxed .04º (to 27.15º), trail is 29 mm longer (now 144 mm), the seat height is 5 mm taller (at 38.0 inches) and ground clearance is increased by 5 mm (now 13.2 inches).
Frame / Subframe
The aluminum frame is 1.5 pounds lighter for 2022, drawing heavily from the CRF450RX. Updates include widely curved main spars with smaller cross-sections, plus optimized rib placement in the backs of the pivot plates. Longitudinal rigidity is maintained for straight-line stability, while lateral rigidity is reduced by 20% to enhance handling feel when cornering.
The subframe features a simplified design that enabled the elimination of a separate seat support, achieving a weight reduction of .7 pounds.
Suspension
The coil-spring Showa fork is a 49 mm fully adjustable leading-axle, inverted telescopic design with 12.2 inches of stroke. The upper and lower triple clamps have been redesigned, with rigidity rebalanced via updated reinforcement ribs, delivering increased flex characteristics for improved handling and feel through a corner. Traction and bump-impact performance are better as well, and the bike has an agile corner approach, with sharp handling characteristics.
The Pro-Link® rear-suspension system has a revised ratio and uses a Showa shock absorber whose shape has been adapted to work with the new frame, with adjusters moved from the left side to the right. Rear travel is 12.3 inches. An ultra-light steel shock spring contributes to the shock being .24 pounds lighter than last year’s component. The swingarm is also narrower, providing increased clearance in ruts, with rebalanced rigidity tuned to match the frame and improve rear traction and cornering.
Wheels
The black D.I.D rims (21-inch front, 18-inch rear) deliver durable performance and good looks. Petal-style brake rotors (260 mm front, 240 mm rear) disperse heat.
The 2022 CRF250RX comes with Dunlop Geomax AT81 tires, which offer excellent all-around performance plus high levels of ruggedness for off-road racing.
DESIGN
Rider-active design is key feature of the 2022 CRF250RX, which inherits many of the design features of the CRF450RX. The right and left side plates are 20 mm and 50 mm more inboard, respectively, for a 70 mm narrower cross section at the rear, and the rear portion of the seat is 10 mm lower for a flatter layout. The radiator shroud-side panel junction is smoother as well. These user-friendly ergonomic changes permit the rider to more easily adjust body position when cornering, accelerating, jumping and braking.
The radiator shrouds are new, and each is produced in a single piece instead of two separate parts. Cooling the 2022 CRF250RX engine is crucial to maintaining its increased performance and overall durability. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) were used to design air-outlet vents in the shrouds, and the radiator grills were redesigned, optimizing the number of fins, as well as their angle. The radiators’ area of heat radiation was also increased by 6%.
Whereas the seat was previously installed by sliding it forward onto the subframe and then securing it at the rear, the new seat base has rearward-facing tongues and front-located mounting tabs. This eases installation, and acceleration forces keep the seat securely in place.
Engineers looked for and capitalized on every opportunity to cut weight for improved handling. For example, only eight fasteners are used to secure all of the main bodywork components—both radiator shrouds, both side panels and the seat—instead of 12 as before. In addition, all of the bolts for the main bodywork parts now have 8 mm heads, simplifying maintenance.
As before, the Renthal® Fatbar® handlebar is held by a clamp that can be turned 180º; because the clamp itself has two mounting locations, there are four possible mounting positions for the handlebar, through a range of 26 mm.
CONCLUSION
Honda has set new standards in the 250cc four-stroke closed-course off-road competition segment. The 2022 CRF250RX showcases the most usable engine performance ever offered in the best handling chassis in its class. Riders of all experience levels will benefit from the machine’s excellent acceleration and sharp cornering, while also appreciating Honda’s legendary durability, quality and reliability.
2022 Honda CRF250RX – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: from $8499 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $10999 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
| ENGINE | |
| Type | 249.43cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke; 9º inclined from vertical |
| Valve Train | DOHC, four-valve; 33 mm intake, titanium; 26 mm exhaust, titanium |
| Bore x Stroke | 79.0 mm x 50.9 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 13.9:1 |
| Induction | Programmed fuel-injection system (PGM-FI); 44 mm throttle bore |
| Ignition | DC-CDI |
| Starter | Push-button electric starter |
| Transmission | Constant-mesh 5-speed return; manual |
| Clutch | Multiplate wet; 9 plates, 5 springs |
| Final Drive | #520 chain; 13T/50T |
| SUSPENSION | |
| Front | 49 mm fully adjustable leading-axle inverted telescopic Showa coil-spring fork; 12.2 in. stroke |
| Rear | Pro-Link system; fully adjustable Showa single shock; 12.3 in. travel |
| BRAKES | |
| Front | 2-piston caliper (30 mm, 27 mm) hydraulic; single 260 mm disc |
| Rear | 1-piston caliper hydraulic; single 240 mm disc |
|
TIRES |
|
| Front | Dunlop Geomax AT81 90/90-21 w/ tube |
| Rear | Dunlop Geomax AT81 110/100-18 w/ tube |
| MEASUREMENTS | |
| Rake (Caster Angle) | 27.15º |
| Trail | 114 mm (4.5 in.) |
| Length | 85.7 in. |
| Width | 33.0 in. |
| Height | 50.4 in. |
| Ground Clearance | 13.2 in. |
| Seat Height | 38.0 in. |
| Wheelbase | 58.1 in. |
| Fuel Capacity | 2.1 gal. |
| Color | Red |
| Curb Weight* | 238 lbs. |
2022 Honda CRF250RX – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine type Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Displacement 249 cc
Bore & stroke 79.0 mm x 50.9 mm
Compression ratio 13.9:1
Valve train DOHC, four-valves
Fuel delivery PGM-FI electronic fuel injection with 44 mm throttle body
Transmission Close-ratio five-speed
Final drive #520 sealed chain; 13T/50T
Chassis & Suspension
Front suspension 49 mm fully adjustable leading-axle inverted telescopic Showa SPG coilspring fork; 310 mm (12.2 in.) travel
Rear suspension Pro-Link® Showa single shock with adjustable spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability; 313 mm (12.32 in.) travel
Dimensions & Additional Information
Tires Front: 90/90-21
Rear: 110/100-18
Brakes Front: 260 mm disc with dual-piston caliper
Rear: 240 mm disc with single-piston caliper
Ground clearance 335mm (13.2 in.)
Seat height 965 mm (38 in.)
Wheelbase 1,475 mm (58.1 in.)
Curb weight 108 kg (238 lb.) *
Fuel capacity 7.9 litres
Colour Extreme Red
Warranty No warrranty
2022 Honda CRF250RX – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Engine
Bore × Stroke (mm) 79mm x 50.9mm
Carburation Fuel injection
Compression Ratio 13.9 : 1
Engine Displacement (cc) 249.4cc
Engine Type Liquid-cooled 4-stroke single DOHC
Starter Electric
Oil Capacity (Litres) 1.35 litres
Wheels
Brakes Front 260mm hydraulic wave disc
Brakes Rear 240mm hydraulic wave disc
Suspension Front 49mm Showa (Hitachi Astemo, Ltd) coil-spring USD fork
Suspension Rear Showa (Hitachi Astemo, Ltd.) Mono shock with Honda Pro-Link
Tyres Front Dunlop AT81
Tyre Size Front 90/90-21
Tyre Size Rear 110/100-18
Tyres Rear Dunlop AT81
Wheels Front Aluminium spoke
Wheels Rear Aluminium spoke
Dimensions and Weights
Caster Angle 27.15°
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) 2,176 x 839 x 1,281mm
Frame type Aluminium twin tube
Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres) 8.0 litres
Ground Clearance (mm) 335mm
Kerb Weight (kg) 108kg
Seat Height (mm) 964mm
Trail (mm) 114mm
Wheelbase (mm) 1,477mm
Transmission
Clutch Wet multiplate
Final Drive Chain
Transmission Type Constant mesh
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
