TEST Honda's enduro alternative: CRF-X 2019
The Italian Honda distributor REDMOTO invited us to get acquainted with their extensive range of Honda enduro motorcycles. Together with the Belgian importer JMG Racing, we flew to Genoa a few weeks ago for an extensive introduction!
It's a beautiful picture: the four specially developed engines that welcome us neatly in a row. The cross-pollination between RedMoto and the factory in Japan is certainly visually successful! A look at both the look and the finish makes it clear that these are, above all, real Hondas. The fact that this collaboration is a success is evident from both the sporting results of the RedMoto enduro World Cup toppers and the increasing interest in these special CRF motorcycles in both Belgium and the Netherlands.
Based on the CRF dirt bikes, RedMoto takes care of the conversion to enduros. Real enduro motorcycles, by the way, which all have a European type approval and meet the Euro-4 emission standards. No 18” wheel; a quickly added side stand or contrived attempts to 'entertain' the crossers into enduro. RedMoto has worked hard to offer seasoned enduro and off-road riders a motorcycle that meets their high expectations. Coupled with Honda's legendary product philosophy, this exercise produces a very interesting cocktail!
Richly equipped
At the front we find the Showa 49mm fork that has a specific setting for the occasion. From the camshafts and injection, the electric starter, three power curves, a double Termignoni exhaust line with carbon end caps, a transparent 7.3 liter fuel tank, launch control that limits power if there is insufficient grip, a fan and radiator brackets in stainless steel, protection for the engine block, flexible handguards from Circuit, protection of the front disc brake, efficient LED lighting front and rear, a Rental handlebar (without crossbar) and an anti-theft lock...
They all contribute to a high-quality enduro feeling. In terms of appearance, the black anodized aluminum wheels, equipped with Metzeler 6 Days Extreme tires, complete the presentation. Promising!
On to practice. How does this Japanese-Italian beauty perform in our special for the day? We are presented with a winding and quite tough 'test' between the trees. You won't hear us complaining, but it's a shame that we weren't able to try the four engines in a softer, more fluid environment. After all, the more relaxed off-road ride is high on the favorites list of the average Dutch or Belgian endurist.
CRF 300 X
I'll start with the 300, there's not much to complain about in terms of ergonomics. The Honda is indeed somewhat smaller, but for those of larger stature, the necessary adjustment of the handlebars, which can be placed more forward, provides relief. One push of a button and the engine quickly comes to life. Unfortunately without hydraulic clutch (or in 2020?). A shortcoming that makes itself felt in the hyper-technical, winding work that we are faced with today. As a result, we constantly keep the index finger on the lever.
The three different mappings each give a completely different character to the engine. In itself, this middle class car can best be described as a large quart, with more punch. We liked the 250 cylinder that was bored out to 295,5cc, with the addition of a Vertex piston, the most in “map 3”. Immediately the most aggressive setting, but it also offers the most natural response to the throttle. The frame is very precise and encourages you to rush through the ruts, with the risk of understeer.
Although the suspension still feels quite firm, the combination with the engine is certainly not bad. This bike is playful, easy to handle and versatile on the different sections of our route. During my second session in the afternoon I choose “folder 2”. Then the fastest lines are much harder and I adapt my driving style myself. I let the bike run and try to round the corners as smoothly as possible. In this guise, the CRF300 is less demanding. Yes, the team po was lower, but the engine was certainly no less efficient.
CRF 400 X
The little 450 is more nervous in the tough sections. Here “folder 1” seems to be the best compromise. Really attack because you are limited too much by the combination of the five-speed gearbox and the cable clutch. Of course, this 400 is more powerful, it fatigues more and, technically speaking, it simply demands more from the rider. That is why this is certainly not everyone's friend. Too bad because this engine capacity is popular after all. We would actually have liked to put this CRF400 X through its paces in the surrounding mountains or on a nice special. We are sure that this motorcycle would perform better in other terrain, read: with more space.
CRF 450 X
As soon as you take off you immediately feel the power of the engine. However, neither when braking nor in potholes do you notice the extra weight. You just have to steer a little more carefully. Even when riding technically, the bike responds linearly and progresses quite effectively on tough climbs. In the first map, the most aggressive, the bike is actually easier to handle. This gives the CRF450
Two years ago I got to try this 450 in Sardinia. At the time it could not convince me as an enduro weapon. Now the cards are different. This is certainly not an engine for everyone, but it does have promising arguments.
CRF 250 X
We end with the “velooke”, the lightest motorcycle in the RedMoto enduro range. This newcomer is perfect for riders discovering the discipline. For the most demanding riders, selecting the most aggressive mapping is a must as the Honda lacks some power.
At higher speeds and especially during changes of direction, the front end was a bit wobbly and uncomfortable. This problem should be resolved by a softer setting of the fork at the beginning of the compression. We noticed this phenomenon on all four models, but especially with the plume weight of the family, the quarter liter was most noticeable.
On the other hand, the CRF250X does have significant advantages once you have sufficient grip. Thanks to the hyper-reactive and precise chassis, you can overcome obstacles both in “attack” mode and “calmly”. Everyone will find something to their liking!
My personal preference
If you ask me, my personal preference is the CRF300X. Because of its versatility and ease of use. The 250 and the 450 come second. They each have a lot to offer, regardless of the level of the rider. As far as I'm concerned, the 400 falls a bit short due to its shortcomings in terms of progressive response to the throttle. The time between the moment you step on the gas and the response in terms of power gives you an ON/OFF effect.
However, one thing is beyond dispute. All four are very high-quality bikes that finally offer a new Japanese enduro alternative. Next year they should benefit from a hydraulic clutch and possibly a 6-speed gearbox. Two ingredients that would definitely make them stand out.
Those who are already excelling can go to RedMoto for a special series with all kinds of racing parts and yes, even that famous hydraulic clutch. This limited edition is absolutely fantastic. Expect to pay around €1600 on top of the original budget to call one of these little gems yours!
DISTRIBUTOR BELGIUM
JMG Racing BVBA
Long Distance Jowa 2A
4890 THIMISTER
Mobile: 0486 77 00 10
IMPORTER THE NETHERLANDS
Mulders Motoren
Freedom Road
9641 KP Veendam
T: 0598-614 506
E: sales@muldersmotors.nl
Prices 2019
CRF250RXK ENDURO: €9.899 – NL Price: €10.990
CRF300RXK ENDURO: €10.299 – Price NL: €11.450
CRF400RXK ENDURO: €10.499 – NL Price: €11.850
CRF450RXK ENDURO: €10.499 – NL price: €11.850
CRF450RXK SUPERMOTO: €11.199 – NL Price: €12.599
CRF 2019 EDITION SPECIAL
CRF250RK ENDURO SPECIAL: €10.999 – NL Price: €12.399
CRF250RK ENDURO SPECIAL CORE MANUAL: €11.400 – NL Price: €12.799
CRF250RK ENDURO SPECIAL RADIUS CX: €11.580 – Price NL: €12.980
CRF300RK ENDURO SPECIAL: €11.360 – Price NL €12.799
CRF300RK ENDURO SPECIAL CORE MANUAL: €11.785 – Price NL €13.099
CRF300RK ENDURO SPECIAL RADIUS CX : €11.940 – price NL €13.250
CRF400RK ENDURO SPECIAL: €11.845 – Price NL €13.350
CRF400RK ENDURO SPECIAL CORE MANUAL: €12.270 – Price NL €13.799
CRF400RK ENDURO SPECIAL RADIUS CX: €12.420 – Price NL €13.950
CRF450RK ENDURO SPECIAL: €11.845 – Price NL €13.350
CRF450RK ENDURO SPECIAL CORE MANUAL: €12.270 – Price NL €13.799
CRF450RK ENDURO SPECIAL RADIUS CX: €12.420 – Price Nl €13.950
Optional Termignoni complete line: € 1.490 – Price NL € 1399
Tekst: Christopher Bertrand
Photos: RedMoto
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