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Good morning, I see in your video that you use a 110 90 19 tire on the KX450? 1: Is there any advantage or disadvantage to using a 110 tire on a 450cc? 2: I also see that you use suspensions from different shops and tuners. Best regards 🔥
Hey Casmoto...Had a question. On my 24 KX, I went to a 116L chain with stock gearing. Felt great and for some reason, added confidence, but did have to add some rear spring preload as it seemed to take weight off the front. First think I noticed with the longer wheelbase was how much more comfortable the bike felt, but seemed to lose some of the planted feel in corners that I liked with the 24 chassis. After some adjustments, it got better, but in some places it seemed to turn fine, or even better, but in other turns, again, it seems to have lost some of the planted feel. Also, with the longer chain, I'm now feel more front end chatter in smaller braking chop compared to before. Did you also experience some of this when going to a 116L? Forks are about 2.5mm in the clamps.
Good question: Short answer is Yes, going to the longer chain loads the front more and the bike will feel 'different'. I go from 2mm fork height to flush when moving the rear axle back with a 116L chain on 24/25 KX450's. In addition to adding a touch of shock HS and/or preload (as you rightly did, seeing that we increased leverage on the shock with the longer wheelbase), stiffening the forks is usually a good play as well, as-is testing varying fork heights. I'd start with +1 on fork compression, then possibly add another click if this direction felt good/eliminated some of that chatter/vagueness. Why? Long answer time. We can only (relatively easily/cheaply) move one pivot on a bike: The rear axle in this case. The front axle and swingarm pivot are situated in fixed locations, so clocking the rear axle back not only lengthens the wheelbase (stability), but also moves the engine's center of gravity forward (in relation to where we started, axle-positioning-wise). This means more weight is theoretically on the front end, even though we are also longer from front axle to back axle measurements. In my experience, going longer on chain length not only adds stability but also increases front wheel 'bite'. The chassis is longer, but the front wheel is also more precise. As you're encountering, fine suspension tuning is typically required. Great question and please keep me updated as you dial in your ride! Cheers
@@CasMoto Great insights CasMoto. I'll have to try moving down my forks. I wouldn't have gone in this direction, but since you've tested this, I'm sure it's a good idea. Maybe it will help with the newfound chatter I'm getting in the forks coming into braking chop as a result of the longer wheelbase. Thanks again. P.S: The 25 ECU can be swapped to the 24 to provide more tuning options. You need to swap ECU's to get it on the 24. It's not available in the app itself. Straight from Kawasaki.
New 25' CRF250R is very similar to previous generation YZ250F, for engine feel. Crisp EFI mapping and proper gear spacing make it an easy 250F to hop on and go fast. Ergos are much better than those YZ250F's and the build quality is high. Added bonus, no need to worry about frequent timing chain updates
Just after Noon (they close at 2P and "lock the gates" at 2.30P "SHARP"). After a 9.30/10AM watering it was so busy with a flurry of riders, but still DUSTY, that I had to wait it out for clear vision (and lungs)... Was an interesting day, especially on the prep side. Advertise a new layout, get a bunch of riders that haven't been to Lake Elsinore in a while, then drop the ball on prep and remind everyone that Elsinore can be a literal pit.
I LOVE me some 2019 - 2023 Kawi's! Haha the new Honda is good, great even, but still different than that generation Kawasaki. The 25' CRF feels a little more compact, nimble, and turns much easier than those KX450's. The frame has more consistent bump absorption compared to previous CRF's, but still feels like a Honda in overall dimensions if that makes sense. The Kawi had a longer, more stable, feeling that just fits for those of us 6' and taller. The CRF seat and shorter shift lever are noticeable, but not deal breakers; just different. Stock Showa suspension on both, with each being a touch soft in the front (stock for stock). Where the 2019-2023 Kawi rear end feels low and more dead, the CRF is lively and feels taller more often. Good question!
Riding the 25 CRF450R at Ironman is a lot different than Lake Elsinore! Hard to believe going stiffer was better. What are your thoughts now that you have some time on the bike on the dry hard pack and choppy tracks? Maybe the best CRF450 in a long time?
I like it! I like it alot... Still out on the stock MX33 tires, but the most important parts of a 450 (chassis, suspension) are much improved. Always liked the Honda engine, from basically 2017 onwards, and even that is refined and smoother for 2025. Most improved award easily goes to Honda on both the 250 and 450 this year!
good morning. i'm thinking of trading my husqvarna 450 for a 350. since i don't ride much and i can go to the mx track a few times a month. i have 2 options, a 2022 chassis or the new 24. with very little money i can get a 2022 chassis and my suspensions made for me go directly into the 22. the 23 and up you have to put a lot of money to make it work so that it is comfortable. my weight is normally between 200 and 210 pounds and 6.1 tall. here in guadalajara mexico the tracks are very short and have very tight corners like plates. i am 48 years old. when i was young i rode the 125cc 2 strokes and that is my only doubt, i have to change my mentality, i only have 2 questions. 1: is there much difference in low to mid torque from the 350 22 to the 23? 2: do you still like the old 350 more today? that the new 350 bike with the new chassis? best regards and thanks for your answers I have a vortex ecu that could perhaps also improve the maps of the 22 bike a little.
Good to hear from you again! Yes, there is quite a big difference between 22' and 23' options. Engine AND chassis-wise. I still prefer the free-revving nature and lightness of the 2016-2022's, but the 23'+ would be easier to ride for those who don't like to rev as much. If you need more bottom for those tighter tracks, the new bikes are likely easier to ride. Personally, I can ride the 'old' bikes better and for longer motos, but they are both solid platforms - Just uniquely different. You are right about the newer bikes taking a little more fine-tuning (and money) to dial in. If you found happiness on your FC450, it would probably be easier to find similar comfort on the 22'...
@@CasMoto Thanks for your reply, I really appreciate your help. I took some time off motorcycles due to some knee and shoulder issues. I'm healing now, but it's been many months since I rode a bike. I'm over 18 and I'm not getting any younger, I'm already 48. Thinking about that now I just think about riding longer and having more fun. Maybe I can ride 3 to 5 times a month. The 2019 Husqvarna FC450 is lightly used, has smooth power with the Vortex ECU and suspensions that work very well. But when I get on that 450 I wear out in 2 or 3 laps and that's not as fun, nor does it help me regain my confidence. I need longer workouts, no matter how slow I ride for a while. Today I'm not thinking about competing to win races. I just want to regain my confidence and enjoy myself more with friends on the motorcycle track. And if I can go to another World Vet in Glen Helen, that will be great, regardless of the results. I just want to meet new people and enjoy the time. Best regards, and I hope to stop by and say hello to you at some MX event in California soon.
Full test coming soon, but SUPER impressed with this 250F! Not just for a first-year, new brand endeavor; Compared to every long-standing bike in this highly-competitive class...
i should be riding a kxf 250 2024 this week or next week. thinking of getting a 250 4 stroke but i dont know which one to get. i was thinking of husqvarna fc250 because of the low center of mass and lower suspension
Height and current weight? The Husky is a good option for shorter (5'6") riders, but the air forks often hold me back from referring more riders that direction...
@@DizzleMX32 FC250 should feel extremely similar, ergos wise, just less powerful than the TC250. PS: Your weight is perfect for any 250F. See how that KX250 rides and you'll know right away if any 250 four stroke is in your cards. Even at 84 kg I quite enjoy them!
Personally, I'm a Honda guy. Both 25' CRF platforms really have me impressed. Easier to ride and slightly slower than an Austrian 450, but no air forks to tinker with, better OE parts pricing and availability, as well as RWE packages to consider as well. Good question
I know the track wasn't rough but, in all honesty how was it? A lot us Honda die hards have moved on to other brands because the chassis was too freaking stiff, especially on dry hard-pack baked Socal tracks. Is this the Honda that lures us back in? Or is it a bit too early to tell?
Early to tell 100%, but I'm really digging these new 25' CRF's: Easily the best bike they've had in years. Will keep you updated as we prepare for ShootOut season and put more time on it!
Decision, decisions...While I have not yet ridden a 2025 KX250, I'm sure it will be leaps and bounds easier to ride than your 5-speed 2001 CR125! 25' Honda CRF250R's are available now, if you can't wait out the Kawasaki arrival. If history repeats itself, Honda quality tends to be a bit better, but the Kawi fits taller (6' plus) riders best. Both will have Showa 49mm forks and similar Renthal 839 bars, so it's almost best to flip a coin if you don't have any brand/dealership loyalties. Personally, I'd hold out for some Kawasaki reviews, and possibly even wait until Spring 2025 when those Team Green deals traditionally arrive. Either way, that's a good spot to be in and enjoy whichever you choose 👍
@@CasMototy man I will be waiting for sure. I’m 6’1” so that makes the Kawi seem like a good option but it seems like splitting hairs so I will wait for reviews I appreciate the info!
I’ve been on husky for about 5 seasons, this year I grabbed a 24 kawi 450 because my local dealer got me out the door at 7600 on one.. and I do not regret the color change. I instantly felt comfy soon as I pulled on the track with it I had zero time getting used to a new chassis. I’m a green believer for sure and the fact is was about 4500 dollars cheaper than a FC is even better
@@MotoRacerGC Yes, thanks. This course is my favorite. I always loved watching the battle between Villopoto and Dungey on this track. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-8N0aqwyMAJk.htmlsi=TEJCJO1WfDn_RNpd
I own a 2023 and I finally rode my buddy's 24 at Glen Helen Thursday. No joke, the biggest difference I noticed was the front brake! The Brembo system is awesome, obviously. The 24 falls into ruts a bit easier too. I'm sure if I bought one I could get super comfy on it. But for now I'm really happy with my 23. Kawi really outdid themselves with both bikes. I would say they are leading the class as far as chassis feel and comfort when the track gets rough.
Had a good time meeting and hanging out with you on the 4th of July! Give me or the #845 a shout if you do make it up here for the National race, typically we just go full blast Saturday night and leave Sunday morning.
Was wondering if you had any plans to be at Cahuilla for the OTHG/OTMX races on Sunday Aug. 18th? I've met your dad & Don. You're the missing link so to speak. lol
Not likely at this time, as Summer seems to be less racing and more early AM practice sessions for me! Pops and Don are much more entertaining, by the way - Great characters
For this video, was still on the stock Mikuni, yes. Currently on a Keihin 38 PWK AS (with TPS utilized) which is a little less temperamental. Mikuni is good when you keep up on air screw adjustments, and makes as good or better mid-top, but the Keihin has a smoother/cleaner/easier to tune low-end transition. Was running 410/420M, 50P, stock needle but a little leaner at position 2, and 1.5 - 2.25 on the AS depending on temps. Leaner main for hot SoCal summer conditions, 420 once temps cooled off. 50/50 blend of Sunoco 110L/91 pump helps keep any pinging under control, whether running Mikuni or Keihin. Good question, hope this answers it!
Congrats on the test day. It was crazy watching everyone that was there, that reviewed the 2025 CFR250R. They all said the same thing about the bike. No real personal opinions. I watched at least 5 different reviews and they were all the exact same content, scripted even!! What do you think? Any real difference in the feel of the bike over 2024? Do you like it better than the KX's yet? I chatted with you about the differences between the KX250F and the CRF250R. For me, after it was all said and done, I did end up going with a 2022 KX250X. I still love my 2003 CR250R as my number 1, but for the trails, ease of operation, and overall, the KX250X is growing on me.
1. Congrats on going with the KX250X: Your 22' is a beauty and likely as good or better than anything else that's out there! I still dig my 2020 KX450... 2. 'Any real difference in the feel of the bike over 2024?' - Oh yeah, even on a smooth day where everything comes easy, the balance, stock settings, and even pick-up are better than the 22-24 CRF250's. I'm not sold on the air filter design and consumer ease of use just yet (even if the new airbox location makes the performance better), but more time and testing will tell. Also to note, everyone is given the same PR packet, rides the same track, and had many of the same complaints with the previous generation. Good testers feel a lot of the same sensations, which explains similar feedback. Remember, these are first-impression videos where there's usually less than two hours or so of ride time...Longer term tests are a better indicator than these quick-reaction introductions. 3. 'Do you like it better than the KX's yet?' - No siree Bob. First-year models take time to learn, and the lack of aftermarket supplies is always a hindrance in the beginning. More testing will tell, and it's certainly a positive improvement and the right direction, but I'm not quite there (yet). Reliability, OE parts pricing, looks, and the Honda reputation are strong points for the CRF250R, but we all need more time than just one ride to come to many of these conclusions. The 25' CRF250R was better than I expected it to be, stupid fun to rip around Fox Raceway, but she'll likely come up short in the HP department against other 250F competitors. Not a bad thing, just something to note (And that's even with a 100/90-19 rear tire!). Cheers and Thank You for watching
Yes, quite an improvement. Motor may only be slightly better, but the overall package/handling/and comfort are leaps ahead. A properly setup 2022-2024 is a good bike, but this platform has the ability to be great. Especially for those coming from other brands, it will be a much easier transition. Good question and Thank You for watching
At 6:44? That's a third gear corner, upshift to fourth for the rollers on my KX450. If that's not the right section, let me know with a timestamp and I'll be sure to update. Cheers
@@jsflow9049 I've heard most 450 riders hit it in second gear (on the gas), but I prefer third. Nice run and arc entering allows for smoother drive. Any track always changes practice session to session, so it's best to feel it out on a day to day basis!
Most of them, yes, but there are a few right out of turns that are more difficult on small-bores! Haha I posted some YZ125 footage from Elsinore with a similar layout, can check that out to see the lines and shift points. Always moto within your ability and enjoy the ride
