Honda CRF250L launched in Japan. Fair possibility of Indian launch

Honda recently launched its on-off road CRF250L in Japan. This bike makes use of the CBR250R’s single cyl. 250cc power plant and buzz is in the air that the new bike has a very high likelihood of making it to the Indian shores. Regulars here will remember that we have always wished to have a punchier motor in the Hero Impulse and the CRF250L should fulfil our wish of having a powerful off road performer. While the engine is a direct lift off from the CBR250R, the transmission should employ a shorted gearing for that distinctively off road character. Visually the new CRF will have a sharper and more aggressive stance when compared with its CRF predecessors. The surface comprising tank shrouds, side covers, and a rear fender has been made flush for to lend the new machine the sharp look. The muffler cover on the left side adds some more raciness to the design by creating a ‘side racing number plate’ look. 

To keep the cost low, the frame would be made of a steel twin-tube. The bike has inverted front suspension. The swing arm is cast aluminum monoblock and is paired with a Pro-Link rear suspension.

The CRF250L comes with a multifunction digital instrumentation with Speedo, fuel gauge, clock, and trip/odo meter. The visor has a rugged shape and houses a multi-reflector 60/55W headlight. There is protection to prevent mud and ruts from damaging the engine. Fuel tank capacity, however is rather less with a volume of 7.7 liters. The bike is optimistically prepared for the long haul though, replete with cargo hooks in the rear fender section to make loading convenient.

Displacement    249cc
Bore × Stroke    76.0×55.0
Compression ratio    10.7
Maximum output    23PS/8,500 rpm
Maximum torque     22 Nm
Fuel efficiency    44.3Kmpl