Since 2022, Honda’s CRF250R has been praised for abundant low-end power complemented by a strong midrange. Although it doesn’t produce as much peak horsepower and torque as the 2019, 2020, and 2021 models, test riders prefer the 2022–2024 and 2025 versions of Big Red’s motocross-focused quarter-liter four-stroke mill as it’s easier for a broader range of rider skill levels to use effectively. In other words, one doesn’t have to hold it wide open all the time and fan the clutch to maintain speed.
With the meat of its power being focused in the lower rpm, the CRF250R isn’t the most powerful up top. The good news is MY25 updates including a redesigned airbox, new ECU maps, increased crankshaft rigidity, and a straighter exhaust system improve it more than anticipated. As far as peak figures on Dirt Rider’s in-house Dynojet 250i dynamometer are concerned, the 2025 Honda CRF250R is good for 37.1 hp and 17.5 lb.-ft. of torque at the rear wheel.
“The Honda CRF250R made noticeable gains in the engine department for 2025,” test rider Casey Casper said. “Nothing earth-shattering, but more impressive on track than I expected upon perusing the PR literature. There’s a newfound crisp sound along with a snappy connection to the throttle hand, and top-end and over-rev are also noticeably more usable.”
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