I'm a die hard two stroke guy through and through, but my favorite moto content is Gabe from Torture test magazine, racing clapped out trailbike. His DR200 24 hour ironman race was so awesome.
I had a TTR230 and loved it. I've owned the 450 and 250 race bikes but you right, the 230 and 250 air cooled trail bikes are a blast. I would even put the big wheel KLX140 and CRF 150 in there too. However, I have found that the CRF250X is the sweet spot for me (The Yamaha WR250F would be in the same category). It's based on a detuned, previous generation 250R which gives it a little more power than the air cooled trail bikes but isn't as high strung as the tweaked out race engines. The 250X and WR also has EXTREMELY better suspension than the trail bikes and if you're planning to buy used, the 250X is usually priced right along side the air cooled trail 250 class.
100% agree! I have a 20 year old WR250f. It’s easy to ride, the suspension can handle anything I can do, and they are made intentionally bulletproof by Yamaha (which is the same for the 250x). And they are usually available cheap bc ppl see them as “beginner” bikes so they are in a hurry to sell.
Many good points made in this vid. Dirt bikes are an excellent if not the best teacher for anyone new to off road riding. I moved from bikes to quads over 20yrs ago. Now starting the kids on bikes had me wanting another one myself and for them to graduate up to. I have to say this CRF250F is now a permanent machine in my line up. Such a blast.
It is fun go ride a skow bike fast, but as soon as I sold my KLX250 for my KTM250 race bike, I didnt know what i had been missing in terms of suspension, power, agility, and weight. My skillset also exponentially increased. My low powered bike was severely holding back my progress and potential. My wife and a few homies all have Crf250F's. While they are great bikes and super capable, I much prefer my KTM suspension and the power of my bike. My 250 is a good middle ground though. It's basically like a Honda 250F with juuuust a bit more pep and higher revving. Yes it requires a little more maintenance, but it's a cake-walk and its already street legal. If the CRF250F came w/ a headlight and extremely lightweight street legal system, it would be my go to urban trespass dual sport 1000%. But true off-road though, My KTM laughs at that bike. tho it IS still a great fun bike. Love the video pimp, just playing devil's advocate
Yeah when you actually compare the stats on them, it’s obvious actual race bikes outperform them. That fun factor is what threw me for a loop on the little trail bikes tho So mysterious haha
@@notsoupmoto that's totally valid! I also got sendy on my friend's crf250 F and within 5 minutes the brake lever got bent back from a root due to ground clearance around a berm and in ruts the pegs be scrapin'. But dude it's still a great fun bike!
A large part of your point is that when conditions require a handful of throttle, you can twist it on without worrying too much about flinging yourself into the trees.
Love this brother! Now I can't speak from a ton of experience, but ive been telling so many of my buddies that I enjoy riding smaller/slower bikes so much more. Im also a pretty small dude haha 5'7" 150lbs, so theres that factor as well lol, but I just feel these race bikes for the average weekend warrior are way too powerful. Also like u mentioned haha for the person who would rather not spend a ton of time wrenching, and would rather be on the trail/track these things are awesome. Ya they're not as sexy as a race bike in appearance, but if u just roll with that Carson Brown mentality it's so much more fun in my opinion haha. Well done dude I think more Moto folks need to hear this! Keep up the good work! SUBSCRIBED!
totally agree w you on that! sometimes the die hard moto guys can be stubborn tho lol. Glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for subscribing and commenting!
Honda's 230/250f bikes can be a blast. They can be ridden fast, but do have their limits the faster the speeds get. Ive got my race bikes for the majority of races, but occasionally I'll break out the 230 to just have fun and hurt some feelings. 😂
That quality of riding fast on a bike that really was meant to take it more slowly is what we call in the mountain biking world being “ under biked.” A trail that is a little tame on a more aggressive bike is way more fun on a mountain bike with less suspension travel and steeper geometry. You might be objectively going slower, but subjectively it feels fast, fun and a little sketchy. Maybe you motorcycle people say the same, I don’t know, I’m new to this and am watching because I just bought a 250F and love it. Great job with your vids, I really enjoy them. Thank you
Under biked is a great way to describe it! yes, I know exactly what you mean. That's why 125 two strokes are awesome on the mx track too. They're way underpowered compared to modern 4 stroke race bikes, and you may be going objectively slower but you can just scream the engines of those things haha. such a fun time. Glad you enjoy the new bike and the videos! thanks for joining the community
@@notsoupmotothanks man, I have ridden once at an MX track and was really pleased how nice and helpful everyone was to a newbie. Definitely excited to finally be riding a dirtbike. I just turned 40 and have wanted one since I was a kid, but went went down the mountain bike rabbit hole, instead.
That’s good to hear. Welcome to the sport! I’ve been kicking the idea around to get an eMTB because I have some nice trails around me for that but we shall see
One is definitely in my future. I live in Tallahassee, where I really don’t need one, but I go to Kanuga bike park near Brevard North Carolina and you can get to the top of the trails in less than half the time while using an e-bike. Prices are coming down. Check direct to consumer brands like YT and Canyon, great bikes
Riding a slow bike fast is so much fun. Same on my cb500f road bike which is meant to be a beginner bike but I ride it fast and keep up with the big bikes .
I picked up a used ‘21 last summer. It really is a great bike. Sure, I wish it was 20lbs lighter and the suspension was a bit more capable. I solved the latter with a suspension kit from Tuscany, made a world of difference. For most people the suspension is probably fine but I’m 225 with gear, 6’1” and needed to beef it up a little. Now it’s perfect. These bikes are made in Brazil and have huge aftermarket support there.
My buddy has a 2t 125, and 2 crf 250r's. He rides his Crf 150f more than any other bike! I have a race bike because I have always owned one. But the trail bikes, are awesome man. They are just so fun to go out and ride! Great video man
My experience is different. I started on CRF 250L (F is not available in my country) and soon switched to an EXC 350 F and boy, what a joy it was! It had nothing to do with the power though. Most importantly, the suspension is so much better. It just glides over bumps even at 40-50 km/h where the Honda struggled. Sometimes I had to slow down to
Hey Soup, I just figured out I’m getting a 2023 Crf150r tomorrow morning, I’ve never been this exited in my life I feel like I’m skilled enough to handle a race bike, I’ve learned great throttle control on a trail bike and I’m great with maintenance. Also got full of gear for my safety too
@ just had my first few rides I’m loving it I nailed it with clutch and throttle control and I’m having more fun than I’ve ever had in my life I posted a couple vids on it and I might consider getting a GoPro and make riding videos!
My 300 xcw is my trail bike and my new 450 xcfw is my new trail bike, But 54yr. Experience all dirt. PS I also have a WR450F for dualsports and a XR200R (with 10” travel) as my farm bike and an XR650L was an all time favorite. So yea I see your points
I have a 22 gas gas ex350 but I also have an old Italian Husqvarna 2008 te250. The TE has been lowered 1 in, has electric start. And is a moderately powerful 90% woods dual sport. I'd put any adult beginner on it and feel comfortable. Oh..... It's also a freaking blast to ride. Been thinking about selling it lately but if I do I'll get me another mild-mannered trail bike like a kdx200 or maybe a Yamaha WR250f. Probably nothing more
Several posts compare the 250F to “ready to race” bikes, especially in the suspension department. That’s where the $5K+ price differential is readily apparent. However, the F’s stock fork & springs can be nicely upgraded for $1K, which along with more manageable power, makes the bike less fatiguing. Semi-serious riders would also benefit from upgraded pegs, levers, and bars. It’s a win-win as the bike will hold its own in the tight stuff and offer new riders a compliant platform.
I started at 32 on a crf250f. By 30 hours riding was losing its zeal. I switched to a TE300 and it lit an absolute fire in me. I will always keep and appreciate the 250f. However, for me, the change made riding so much more fun.
@@zachp1604 I did a similar transition going from a KLX 300R to a YZ 125x. I've got no desire to ride four strokes anymore. Two strokes are just special.
Yeah I often describe the crf and beginner trail bikes like it as a stepping stone for newer riders. They’ll definitely end up reaching a point where they outgrow it ability wise but it’s great for getting you started. Glad you like your 300!! Keep shredding
I have travelled alll over Greece on my CRF300L (suspension full upgrade) I often pass more powerful bikes if the rider is not the same level.If the rider is the same level I can struggle to keep up because the bike is underpowered esp on climbs. Imagine losing half or one second even on every straight track elevation. On the good side the bike is confidence inspiring and you always know you will complete your trip with a smile on your face. I also have a KTM 525 which rips and I like more, but I often think if anyone gets on it (without experience) they would hate it😀Rock hard suspension very tall seat, engine noise, vibration, not nice on the highway, knobbly tires howling away. Both is best!
@markwheat2668 depends on the rider and the terrain. the yz125 has much more horsepower that's for sure, but performance from one trail to another, bike to bike, rider to rider varies. there's a lot of variables that go into it
Bought a new crf230f awhile back and i've gone through 250s, 350s, and 450s, but still ride the 230 the most. At this point the motor is stroked, high compression piston, bigger carb, custom cam and ported and polished head. The linear power band is amazing and I'll never sell the 230.
@@notsoupmoto The biggest change was the pumper carb. Your 250f is damn near perfect in terms of the motor. Just need some good suspension work and it'll be a massive difference. Bruce Triplett makes custom damper rods (super reasonable price, ~$200), then get some stiffer springs from BBR (~$150-200). I'm sure there's manufactures out there for a rear shock. For the 230 I got one from Hagon out of the UK (~$500 shipped). Bruce can get everything you need in one order. Rough estimate would be around $800 but it'll be a different bike. MASSIVE difference in rideability.
Would love to see what you think of this bike compared to the bigger trail bikes - wr250, crf250x, wr450, crf450x, ktm/husky 500, etc. I would imagine the suspension on the 250f pales in comparison. Totally agree with reliability, not intimidating, riding a slow bike fast all that. But for someone experienced with race bikes that's loving the little trail bike, I'd imagine the big trail bike would be more enjoyable
My KTM300 was dead reliable, but I find I have the most fun on my old XR400R. Something about that old thing that will lug down so low and it's indestructible. If you take a spill on the XR the only thing you may break is a clutch or break lever nothing else is really breakable. Honda should bring back the 400 class air cooled bikes event at 34 hp stock they were pretty quick.
It’s not a “beginner trail bike.” It’s a “CHICK BIKE!” I’ve been doing this for decades. 20h.p. and a good front tire is all you need to run race pace on tight single track. Lots of fun! It drives guys on $10k race bikes nuts. I have a 2000 model Yamaha TT-R250 that still has the original tires on it! Welcome to the club!
@ Another cool thing about Chick Bikes is when you let a newbie ride it, and they like it, you can sell it to them. I owned one DRZ250 three different times before it found a new home. It went to a buddy I raced with in high school over 40 years ago! He had gotten out of riding but I invited him out and he loved it. He rips on that thing!
@@markwheat2668 man you’re so worried about that suspension 😂 trust me, it can handle it. Might not be pretty, but it can handle more than you think I promise
Great video. I dont disagree with anything you said and am a crf250f owner. I would love a video describing the other side. Like what are the advantages of a 300xcw? I would say money is a a huge factor that people have to balance, but if both bikes were the same price, people would pick the 300 xcw. It would be good to know why, so people could figure out if it's worth 6k+ more.
I’ve ridden a YZ250X but that’s the extent of my woods race bike experience so I’d like to get on a few more different ones so I have more experience to talk about. But that’s definitely a great video idea and one I’d love to do in the future for sure! Thanks!
i have no clue what you mean exactly because i only ever ridden my stark varg (im still a bad rider. only 1 month of riding in my life with just that bike), but i think the reason you prefer trail bikes is that you can reach the ground with your feet. so mistakes dont cost you your bones every time. and you can do stuff not possible without using legs. this is my biggest struggle on stark. i cant reach the ground with my feet so whenever i cant go forward i fall or almost fall.. its sad that there arent shrot options
One of the funniest things is smoking by squids on 450s on a play bike in the woods . The fact is most of those squids on a 450 would be faster less tired and have a whole bunch more fun and an old XR250 or maybe 400.
I just got a klx 230. I come from mtb. Its been awesome, ive been discovering trails aroud, with mtb my closest surrounding trails aren't that fun. Yesterday i went to shred with my mtb budy, i towed him on a mtb with a rope, and then at the trail started taking turns for riding the dirt bike. I hope he decides on getting his own dirt bike, it'd be awesome to ride together (he is reluctant bc of his gf, she says motos are far too dangerous). Dont get me wrong,Mtb still has its own charmns, but only at the mountains, all at least 30m from my place. Dirt bikes make any flat dirt trail fun.
Bought a tricked out XR250R for well under 2 grand in 2019 mad still absolutely love it. Couple thoughts on this: carb'd bikes (jetted right) have off idle throttle response that is so smooth and much more controllable than the on and off EFI bikes. Secondly, suspension: they are soft and comfortable and actually non fatiguing but also great over slow gnarly stuff. As my skills improved, instead of upgrading bikes, I put stiffer springs in and had the shocks revalved for more aggressive riding. These bikes are fantastic beginner platforms but you can grow with them. Surprisingly capable and versatile (6 speed, rear subframe) too and 1.7 liter oil capacity? 255 lbs ready to ride? I cant see myself needing more for a long time.
I loved my two days on the Honda trail bike going through tight single track. Just wondering if you have tried an old XR400? I am intrigued by this model. I've also ridden 300KTM,Beta and Husky 2 strokes. Great bikes, but I don't want to race, I'd prefer to flow on a trail bike. Currently on a WR250R. I like it, but it's too tall and is more work keeping it in the power band. Wish I had a street legal 250F.
I tell newbies all the time. don’t go buying a track bike that’s tall, too much power and more suspension then you need. Xr100, klx 140 or ttr 125 will be the funnest and safest time you have
that's more of a competition focused enduro bike. not really a beginner trail bike like I'm talking about. this video I made does a good job at describing the differences between bike types: ruclips.net/video/I9o67DJ7M4o/видео.html&lc=UgxRNPIe3WDTDVbMhmt4AaABAg
great bike! I did a video on it a while back: ruclips.net/video/3XOi6xVsWm0/видео.htmlsi=8qKiV2HG0ZL-DrrS but not an air cooled trail bike like the ones I'm talking abt in this video. the 250x is a cross country race bike
If you’re talking bikes: Trail - Air cooled trail bikes like CRF250F Soft enduro/xc - YZ250X or KTM 300XC Hard enduro - KTM 300 XCW If you’re talking just riding style/terrain: Trail would be just like basic beginner trails thru the woods, quad trails, forest roads, light single track, etc. Soft enduro as you call it would probably be intermediate single track with bigger elevation changes, intermediate obstacles like medium sized logs, rocks, off camber, easier hill climbs. Hard enduro is like very technical, big boulders, super large log crossings, slow technical hill climbs, creek beds, very steep, etc.
@ personally I daily a 99’ klx 250 and I found the 25’ 300 very nice, felt a lot lighter, power delivery was way nicer and the suspension was also way nicer
Subbed. Funny we watch all the same shit on RUclips. Kindred spirits for sure. I take my fucking PIG of an xr650L everywhere, mountain single track, the desert trails, all sorts of places it doesn’t belong and it’s been a blast
I'm around 240lbs and wouldn't enjoy spending a day actually riding a small trail bike. But if I had a place and time to practice a couple days per week, I'd 100% have a trail to use for practice. Not having to put wear & tear on my main bike would be great and the small bike would be ideal for polishing\learning skills. As it is now, I can only get out once a week, my riding areas are some distance, so I'm going on my 300XCw.😎.
My engine and pipe are stock but I have raised the suspension an inch and have Bruce’s Suspension front and rear. My racing day are waaay behind me but I do like the mods I have made for the way I ride now.
@dirtbikeheaven1129 yeah I think suspension upgrades are key on the crf250f. if you really wanna see a jump in performance, the suspension is where it's at compared to engine mods
Trail bikes just don't have quality suspension or brakes. Sorry to break it to you but the first real hill or rocky rutted out tree root infested trail will prove it. A ball park jetted YZ 125 with SSS - speed sensitive suspension is fun and effective. Suspension is the key to fun safe riding.
I get what you're saying, but it really depends on the bike too. My crf has pretty adequate disc brakes. The suspension is definitely meh, but if I really wanted to, I could upgrade it. Despite the meh suspension I still have a blast on it so idk man
@@notsoupmoto you get electric start and lower seat height too but SSS suspension has 2 different internal oil levels for adjustment. I have a 2016 yz 250 that I haven't had re- valved or changed the springs on and I weigh 146 lbs but older now and my hips don't like kickstarting the 250 so much. Lol!
Another great vid! I love my 25 model. I’ve had it in some wicked areas. I put the Bremer Power Pulse spark arrestor in mine. Makes it sound like an actual 250 lol. Check out the vid bro.
I don't mind an under-powered bike. But I need better suspension therefore race bikes are the only way for me to go. CRF250F suspension is hot garbage.
Klx300r owner, and have so much fun on it! There's a lot of advantages to the cheep, easy, "slow" trail bikes
Hell yeah! That’s for sure
lol I don’t think my 300 is slow at all I love it sm
I'm a die hard two stroke guy through and through, but my favorite moto content is Gabe from Torture test magazine, racing clapped out trailbike.
His DR200 24 hour ironman race was so awesome.
That was a god tier video
dude hell yes! that video was sick
Bought my bored out XR250R because of Gabe's review. 5 years later, I still love that thing. Fits me perfectly.
Its more fun to go fast on a slow bike than slow on a fast bike.
I had a TTR230 and loved it. I've owned the 450 and 250 race bikes but you right, the 230 and 250 air cooled trail bikes are a blast. I would even put the big wheel KLX140 and CRF 150 in there too. However, I have found that the CRF250X is the sweet spot for me (The Yamaha WR250F would be in the same category). It's based on a detuned, previous generation 250R which gives it a little more power than the air cooled trail bikes but isn't as high strung as the tweaked out race engines. The 250X and WR also has EXTREMELY better suspension than the trail bikes and if you're planning to buy used, the 250X is usually priced right along side the air cooled trail 250 class.
My cousin recently got a WR250 and I’m excited to test that out
100% agree! I have a 20 year old WR250f. It’s easy to ride, the suspension can handle anything I can do, and they are made intentionally bulletproof by Yamaha (which is the same for the 250x). And they are usually available cheap bc ppl see them as “beginner” bikes so they are in a hurry to sell.
Many good points made in this vid. Dirt bikes are an excellent if not the best teacher for anyone new to off road riding. I moved from bikes to quads over 20yrs ago. Now starting the kids on bikes had me wanting another one myself and for them to graduate up to. I have to say this CRF250F is now a permanent machine in my line up. Such a blast.
Nice! They are so fun
It is fun go ride a skow bike fast, but as soon as I sold my KLX250 for my KTM250 race bike, I didnt know what i had been missing in terms of suspension, power, agility, and weight. My skillset also exponentially increased. My low powered bike was severely holding back my progress and potential.
My wife and a few homies all have Crf250F's. While they are great bikes and super capable, I much prefer my KTM suspension and the power of my bike. My 250 is a good middle ground though. It's basically like a Honda 250F with juuuust a bit more pep and higher revving. Yes it requires a little more maintenance, but it's a cake-walk and its already street legal.
If the CRF250F came w/ a headlight and extremely lightweight street legal system, it would be my go to urban trespass dual sport 1000%.
But true off-road though, My KTM laughs at that bike. tho it IS still a great fun bike. Love the video pimp, just playing devil's advocate
Yeah when you actually compare the stats on them, it’s obvious actual race bikes outperform them. That fun factor is what threw me for a loop on the little trail bikes tho
So mysterious haha
@@notsoupmoto that's totally valid!
I also got sendy on my friend's crf250 F and within 5 minutes the brake lever got bent back from a root due to ground clearance around a berm and in ruts the pegs be scrapin'. But dude it's still a great fun bike!
@ yeah they’re so low😂 my buddy’s legs are all screwed up from hitting rocks and stuff
A large part of your point is that when conditions require a handful of throttle, you can twist it on without worrying too much about flinging yourself into the trees.
Haha exactly
Love this brother! Now I can't speak from a ton of experience, but ive been telling so many of my buddies that I enjoy riding smaller/slower bikes so much more. Im also a pretty small dude haha 5'7" 150lbs, so theres that factor as well lol, but I just feel these race bikes for the average weekend warrior are way too powerful. Also like u mentioned haha for the person who would rather not spend a ton of time wrenching, and would rather be on the trail/track these things are awesome. Ya they're not as sexy as a race bike in appearance, but if u just roll with that Carson Brown mentality it's so much more fun in my opinion haha. Well done dude I think more Moto folks need to hear this! Keep up the good work! SUBSCRIBED!
totally agree w you on that! sometimes the die hard moto guys can be stubborn tho lol. Glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for subscribing and commenting!
@ thats for sure man. They need to start consuming more of Carson Browns content haha. Keep up the good work!
Honda's 230/250f bikes can be a blast. They can be ridden fast, but do have their limits the faster the speeds get. Ive got my race bikes for the majority of races, but occasionally I'll break out the 230 to just have fun and hurt some feelings. 😂
Haha that’s what’s up!
I got a CRF250F. I Love mine. Wouldnt trade it for nothing.
such fun bikes!
That quality of riding fast on a bike that really was meant to take it more slowly is what we call in the mountain biking world being “ under biked.” A trail that is a little tame on a more aggressive bike is way more fun on a mountain bike with less suspension travel and steeper geometry. You might be objectively going slower, but subjectively it feels fast, fun and a little sketchy. Maybe you motorcycle people say the same, I don’t know, I’m new to this and am watching because I just bought a 250F and love it. Great job with your vids, I really enjoy them. Thank you
Under biked is a great way to describe it! yes, I know exactly what you mean. That's why 125 two strokes are awesome on the mx track too. They're way underpowered compared to modern 4 stroke race bikes, and you may be going objectively slower but you can just scream the engines of those things haha. such a fun time.
Glad you enjoy the new bike and the videos! thanks for joining the community
@@notsoupmotothanks man, I have ridden once at an MX track and was really pleased how nice and helpful everyone was to a newbie. Definitely excited to finally be riding a dirtbike. I just turned 40 and have wanted one since I was a kid, but went went down the mountain bike rabbit hole, instead.
That’s good to hear. Welcome to the sport!
I’ve been kicking the idea around to get an eMTB because I have some nice trails around me for that but we shall see
One is definitely in my future. I live in Tallahassee, where I really don’t need one, but I go to Kanuga bike park near Brevard North Carolina and you can get to the top of the trails in less than half the time while using an e-bike. Prices are coming down. Check direct to consumer brands like YT and Canyon, great bikes
Thanks I’ll definitely look into those brands!
Riding a slow bike fast is so much fun. Same on my cb500f road bike which is meant to be a beginner bike but I ride it fast and keep up with the big bikes .
Great video. I have a 250F with a 310 kit, the torque is amazing. team INDY.
nice!!
I picked up a used ‘21 last summer. It really is a great bike. Sure, I wish it was 20lbs lighter and the suspension was a bit more capable. I solved the latter with a suspension kit from Tuscany, made a world of difference. For most people the suspension is probably fine but I’m 225 with gear, 6’1” and needed to beef it up a little. Now it’s perfect. These bikes are made in Brazil and have huge aftermarket support there.
My buddy has a 2t 125, and 2 crf 250r's. He rides his Crf 150f more than any other bike! I have a race bike because I have always owned one. But the trail bikes, are awesome man. They are just so fun to go out and ride! Great video man
Glad you liked the video! Thanks for the comment!
My experience is different. I started on CRF 250L (F is not available in my country) and soon switched to an EXC 350 F and boy, what a joy it was! It had nothing to do with the power though. Most importantly, the suspension is so much better. It just glides over bumps even at 40-50 km/h where the Honda struggled. Sometimes I had to slow down to
Scott Summers won many GNCC on XR600
Hey Soup, I just figured out I’m getting a 2023 Crf150r tomorrow morning,
I’ve never been this exited in my life
I feel like I’m skilled enough to handle a race bike, I’ve learned great throttle control on a trail bike and I’m great with maintenance. Also got full of gear for my safety too
Congratulations! Have fun rippin
@ just had my first few rides I’m loving it I nailed it with clutch and throttle control and I’m having more fun than I’ve ever had in my life I posted a couple vids on it and I might consider getting a GoPro and make riding videos!
@@wesley_estilette have fun!
That’s fantastic! Glad to hear you’re liking it so far.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about making the riding videos:)
KDX200!
Sick!!
I'm in the XR cult. I'll purchase a new machine when they make one as reliable and bulletproof as my 20 year old XR400R. Liked and subscribed.
Hell yeah! I’d love to rip one of those things man
Thanks for subscribing!
That woods loop looks sweet!
It’s a fun one!
My 300 xcw is my trail bike and my new 450 xcfw is my new trail bike, But 54yr. Experience all dirt. PS I also have a WR450F for dualsports and a XR200R (with 10” travel) as my farm bike and an XR650L was an all time favorite. So yea I see your points
I have a 22 gas gas ex350 but I also have an old Italian Husqvarna 2008 te250. The TE has been lowered 1 in, has electric start. And is a moderately powerful 90% woods dual sport. I'd put any adult beginner on it and feel comfortable. Oh..... It's also a freaking blast to ride. Been thinking about selling it lately but if I do I'll get me another mild-mannered trail bike like a kdx200 or maybe a Yamaha WR250f. Probably nothing more
nice! that sounds like a super fun bike
Several posts compare the 250F to “ready to race” bikes, especially in the suspension department. That’s where the $5K+ price differential is readily apparent. However, the F’s stock fork & springs can be nicely upgraded for $1K, which along with more manageable power, makes the bike less fatiguing. Semi-serious riders would also benefit from upgraded pegs, levers, and bars. It’s a win-win as the bike will hold its own in the tight stuff and offer new riders a compliant platform.
@@bryanweaver9565 exactly!
As the saying goes "its more fun to ride a slow bike fast then a fast bike slow"
@ftreddie2816 yup!
I started at 32 on a crf250f. By 30 hours riding was losing its zeal. I switched to a TE300 and it lit an absolute fire in me. I will always keep and appreciate the 250f. However, for me, the change made riding so much more fun.
@@zachp1604 I did a similar transition going from a KLX 300R to a YZ 125x. I've got no desire to ride four strokes anymore. Two strokes are just special.
@coltonowens2742 I agree 100%
Yeah I often describe the crf and beginner trail bikes like it as a stepping stone for newer riders. They’ll definitely end up reaching a point where they outgrow it ability wise but it’s great for getting you started.
Glad you like your 300!! Keep shredding
I have travelled alll over Greece on my CRF300L (suspension full upgrade) I often pass more powerful bikes if the rider is not the same level.If the rider is the same level I can struggle to keep up because the bike is underpowered esp on climbs. Imagine losing half or one second even on every straight track elevation.
On the good side the bike is confidence inspiring and you always know you will complete your trip with a smile on your face.
I also have a KTM 525 which rips and I like more, but I often think if anyone gets on it (without experience) they would hate it😀Rock hard suspension very tall seat, engine noise, vibration, not nice on the highway, knobbly tires howling away.
Both is best!
Yep if you can have a variety, that’s the ticket haha! But any day on two wheels is a good one
I love trail riding my cr125. I really wanna get an XR650L
An xr650 would be sick!
Fun fact 230/250 trail bike are faster in single track than a motocross bike
Maybe for you but a YZ 125 with SSS suspension 2007 and later will smoke any trail bike.
Probably so! Definitely does depend on the rider tho of course
@markwheat2668 depends on the rider and the terrain. the yz125 has much more horsepower that's for sure, but performance from one trail to another, bike to bike, rider to rider varies. there's a lot of variables that go into it
@@notsoupmoto trail bike make torque thats why they are great at lower rpm sometime you have to be slow to go fast😝
@@notsoupmoto very true, a big reason for me getting YZ's was the top stock suspension and overall reliability plus it is so fun!
Thank You Very Much For Sharing 👍
No prob!
I watched your other videos about it and just got one yesterday
Nice! Congrats on the new bike
@@notsoupmotothx
Bought a new crf230f awhile back and i've gone through 250s, 350s, and 450s, but still ride the 230 the most. At this point the motor is stroked, high compression piston, bigger carb, custom cam and ported and polished head. The linear power band is amazing and I'll never sell the 230.
that's sick!
@@notsoupmoto The biggest change was the pumper carb. Your 250f is damn near perfect in terms of the motor. Just need some good suspension work and it'll be a massive difference.
Bruce Triplett makes custom damper rods (super reasonable price, ~$200), then get some stiffer springs from BBR (~$150-200). I'm sure there's manufactures out there for a rear shock. For the 230 I got one from Hagon out of the UK (~$500 shipped). Bruce can get everything you need in one order. Rough estimate would be around $800 but it'll be a different bike. MASSIVE difference in rideability.
thanks I'll have to look into that
@@MrCodgedodger or just get a YZ 125, faster lighter more power and better brakes.
@@markwheat2668 Wow, you missed the point entirely. 🙄
Would love to see what you think of this bike compared to the bigger trail bikes - wr250, crf250x, wr450, crf450x, ktm/husky 500, etc. I would imagine the suspension on the 250f pales in comparison. Totally agree with reliability, not intimidating, riding a slow bike fast all that. But for someone experienced with race bikes that's loving the little trail bike, I'd imagine the big trail bike would be more enjoyable
All of those Definitely on my list of bikes to try out!
My KTM300 was dead reliable, but I find I have the most fun on my old XR400R. Something about that old thing that will lug down so low and it's indestructible. If you take a spill on the XR the only thing you may break is a clutch or break lever nothing else is really breakable. Honda should bring back the 400 class air cooled bikes event at 34 hp stock they were pretty quick.
I'm looking into getting an XR400R to do some vintage harescramble racing!
I took it one step further. Surron, now I go absolutely anywhere I want to. Total freedom
Surrons are sweet man!!
Total freedom until bored cop takes it away
@alexchan3727 if they can catch u!
It’s not a “beginner trail bike.”
It’s a “CHICK BIKE!”
I’ve been doing this for decades. 20h.p. and a good front tire is all you need to run race pace on tight single track. Lots of fun! It drives guys on $10k race bikes nuts.
I have a 2000 model Yamaha TT-R250 that still has the original tires on it!
Welcome to the club!
you speak the truth! haha
@ Another cool thing about Chick Bikes is when you let a newbie ride it, and they like it, you can sell it to them. I owned one DRZ250 three different times before it found a new home. It went to a buddy I raced with in high school over 40 years ago! He had gotten out of riding but I invited him out and he loved it. He rips on that thing!
It’s more fun to ride a slow bike fast than a fast bike slow.
facts
If the suspension and chassis can handle it. Best stay in a nice flat, smooth meadow!
@@markwheat2668 man you’re so worried about that suspension 😂 trust me, it can handle it. Might not be pretty, but it can handle more than you think I promise
I don't know. I have a blast on my 2024 crf450rx.
Race bikes are fun too!
Great video. I dont disagree with anything you said and am a crf250f owner. I would love a video describing the other side. Like what are the advantages of a 300xcw? I would say money is a a huge factor that people have to balance, but if both bikes were the same price, people would pick the 300 xcw. It would be good to know why, so people could figure out if it's worth 6k+ more.
I’ve ridden a YZ250X but that’s the extent of my woods race bike experience so I’d like to get on a few more different ones so I have more experience to talk about.
But that’s definitely a great video idea and one I’d love to do in the future for sure!
Thanks!
Love my CRF 250F 😊
Glad to hear:)
i have no clue what you mean exactly because i only ever ridden my stark varg (im still a bad rider. only 1 month of riding in my life with just that bike), but i think the reason you prefer trail bikes is that you can reach the ground with your feet. so mistakes dont cost you your bones every time. and you can do stuff not possible without using legs. this is my biggest struggle on stark. i cant reach the ground with my feet so whenever i cant go forward i fall or almost fall.. its sad that there arent shrot options
Yeah the shorter seat height of trail bikes is a huge plus!
One of the funniest things is smoking by squids on 450s on a play bike in the woods .
The fact is most of those squids on a 450 would be faster less tired and have a whole bunch more fun and an old XR250 or maybe 400.
The big bikes really take it out of ya
It’s true
I just got a klx 230. I come from mtb. Its been awesome, ive been discovering trails aroud, with mtb my closest surrounding trails aren't that fun. Yesterday i went to shred with my mtb budy, i towed him on a mtb with a rope, and then at the trail started taking turns for riding the dirt bike. I hope he decides on getting his own dirt bike, it'd be awesome to ride together (he is reluctant bc of his gf, she says motos are far too dangerous). Dont get me wrong,Mtb still has its own charmns, but only at the mountains, all at least 30m from my place. Dirt bikes make any flat dirt trail fun.
Wonder if he’d be able to keep up w you on an eMTB? Haha hopefully he comes around and gets a dirtbike tho
Mtb is kinda more dangerous if you ride like he do in the video its kinda safe
Do you ride buttermilk in kittanning? Kibuks is right behind it
I’ve been to buttermilk but never ridden those trails on a dirtbike
@ the gas company simply asks that you police your trash when you’re done. Loads of fun riding up there
Good to know
As the saying goes it’s more fun to ride a slow bike fast, than to ride a fast bike slowly.
Yep!
Bought a tricked out XR250R for well under 2 grand in 2019 mad still absolutely love it. Couple thoughts on this: carb'd bikes (jetted right) have off idle throttle response that is so smooth and much more controllable than the on and off EFI bikes. Secondly, suspension: they are soft and comfortable and actually non fatiguing but also great over slow gnarly stuff. As my skills improved, instead of upgrading bikes, I put stiffer springs in and had the shocks revalved for more aggressive riding. These bikes are fantastic beginner platforms but you can grow with them. Surprisingly capable and versatile (6 speed, rear subframe) too and 1.7 liter oil capacity? 255 lbs ready to ride? I cant see myself needing more for a long time.
Exactly
I have several two and four stroke race bikes, but I find my honda crf250f more fun for riding on the trails.
just somethin about them...
I loved my two days on the Honda trail bike going through tight single track. Just wondering if you have tried an old XR400? I am intrigued by this model. I've also ridden 300KTM,Beta and Husky 2 strokes. Great bikes, but I don't want to race, I'd prefer to flow on a trail bike. Currently on a WR250R. I like it, but it's too tall and is more work keeping it in the power band. Wish I had a street legal 250F.
I have not tried out an XR400 yet but would love to get one!
I tell newbies all the time. don’t go buying a track bike that’s tall, too much power and more suspension then you need. Xr100, klx 140 or ttr 125 will be the funnest and safest time you have
100%
Helps them learn the fundamentals so by the time they get on a race bike, they can actually use it how it’s meant to be used
How about a KTM EXC 250-F?
that's more of a competition focused enduro bike. not really a beginner trail bike like I'm talking about. this video I made does a good job at describing the differences between bike types: ruclips.net/video/I9o67DJ7M4o/видео.html&lc=UgxRNPIe3WDTDVbMhmt4AaABAg
What about a yz250x? A good compromise.
great bike! I did a video on it a while back: ruclips.net/video/3XOi6xVsWm0/видео.htmlsi=8qKiV2HG0ZL-DrrS
but not an air cooled trail bike like the ones I'm talking abt in this video. the 250x is a cross country race bike
Its more fun to drive a slow bike fast than a fast bike slow.
I miss my ttr 125 even know I'm 6'4"
those little bikes have such personality to them haha
what is the diffrence between trail, hard enduro and soft enduro?
If you’re talking bikes:
Trail - Air cooled trail bikes like CRF250F
Soft enduro/xc - YZ250X or KTM 300XC
Hard enduro - KTM 300 XCW
If you’re talking just riding style/terrain:
Trail would be just like basic beginner trails thru the woods, quad trails, forest roads, light single track, etc.
Soft enduro as you call it would probably be intermediate single track with bigger elevation changes, intermediate obstacles like medium sized logs, rocks, off camber, easier hill climbs.
Hard enduro is like very technical, big boulders, super large log crossings, slow technical hill climbs, creek beds, very steep, etc.
Question is there a larger plastic fuel tank available? Was thinking of tagging it got other bikes but was curious not seeing much on it.
hyperlite moto may have one... all I'm seeing is an auxiliary tank tho so idk
What do you think of the klx300r. Is it in the same category of this bike.
Never ridden one but I bet it’s a great bike too! Very comparable to this one
Ridden both a 06 klx 300r and a 25 klx 300r, most definitely in that sort of class
@@Cpslw I really want the KLX. Did you like the 2025? I’m 6ft 190 and a beginner. And 50!
@ personally I daily a 99’ klx 250 and I found the 25’ 300 very nice, felt a lot lighter, power delivery was way nicer and the suspension was also way nicer
Subbed. Funny we watch all the same shit on RUclips. Kindred spirits for sure. I take my fucking PIG of an xr650L everywhere, mountain single track, the desert trails, all sorts of places it doesn’t belong and it’s been a blast
Hell yeah that’s what’s up! 😎🤘🏼
I'm around 240lbs and wouldn't enjoy spending a day actually riding a small trail bike. But if I had a place and time to practice a couple days per week, I'd 100% have a trail to use for practice. Not having to put wear & tear on my main bike would be great and the small bike would be ideal for polishing\learning skills. As it is now, I can only get out once a week, my riding areas are some distance, so I'm going on my 300XCw.😎.
As long as you’re on two wheels!
I just got a 250r I became so much better starting out on a 150 f
That’s awesome! Congrats on the new bike
What's your thoughts on performance mods for trail bikes? Defeats the point? Or why not?
If someone wants to mod it then I say have at it. I usually keep my bikes pretty close to stock but whatever floats ur boat
My engine and pipe are stock but I have raised the suspension an inch and have Bruce’s Suspension front and rear.
My racing day are waaay behind me but I do like the mods I have made for the way I ride now.
@dirtbikeheaven1129 yeah I think suspension upgrades are key on the crf250f. if you really wanna see a jump in performance, the suspension is where it's at compared to engine mods
You the man
Trail bikes just don't have quality suspension or brakes. Sorry to break it to you but the first real hill or rocky rutted out tree root infested trail will prove it. A ball park jetted YZ 125 with SSS - speed sensitive suspension is fun and effective. Suspension is the key to fun safe riding.
I get what you're saying, but it really depends on the bike too. My crf has pretty adequate disc brakes. The suspension is definitely meh, but if I really wanted to, I could upgrade it. Despite the meh suspension I still have a blast on it so idk man
@@notsoupmoto you get electric start and lower seat height too but SSS suspension has 2 different internal oil levels for adjustment. I have a 2016 yz 250 that I haven't had re- valved or changed the springs on and I weigh 146 lbs but older now and my hips don't like kickstarting the 250 so much. Lol!
Another great vid! I love my 25 model. I’ve had it in some wicked areas. I put the Bremer Power Pulse spark arrestor in mine. Makes it sound like an actual 250 lol. Check out the vid bro.
Oh nice I’ll have to check it out!
I don't mind an under-powered bike. But I need better suspension therefore race bikes are the only way for me to go. CRF250F suspension is hot garbage.
Your opinion boss. If you can’t afford to buy a new bike buy used.
there were many more reasons other than price
No, they’re not
Care to explain?