In the domestic market there are various categories of cross-country motorcycles. The most popular among them are 125- and 250-cc models. From the presented assortment there is something to choose for beginners and professionals. Consider the ranking of popular brands, their brief characteristics and owner reviews.
KTM 250-SXF brand
This cross-country motorcycle is rightfully included in the top five bikes of this class. Among the advantages:
- The excellent work of the hydraulic clutch, which clearly shows greater efficiency compared to conventional counterparts.
- The front brake is an example to follow. Even for such giants as Honda and Kawasaki, this unit is significantly inferior in most parameters.
- An electric starter makes starting easier, but the agility of the unit and its swiftness at high speeds should be taken into account.
- Reliability. The KTM 250-SXF looks slightly larger for its category, but is notable for its high maneuverability and reliability.
Now for the disadvantages:
- The 250 cubic meter cross-country motorcycle is equipped with a power unit that is quite unstable. It does not show all its capabilities until the revolutions reach an average level, then it works like crazy, to the mark of 13,400 rpm.
- The gearbox remained, like its predecessors, full of secrets and mysteries.
- First, the riders were delighted with the suspension with a new WP-4cs type plug. However, tests showed that the unit is far from perfect, it is characterized by increased rigidity, and the rear shock is also not ideal.
- Handling suffers due to a problematic suspension, especially when driving on broken tracks and entering sharp turns at high speed.
- Experts do not advise to brake the engine. The inclusion of a reduction speed at the last moment can lead to serious and unpleasant consequences.
Reviews about this manufacturer vary. Based on them, the conclusion suggests itself that KTM is a bike for professionals. Beginning racers for full satisfaction are often forced to decently spend on after-sales restyling.
HUSQVARNA FC250
This cross-country motorcycle in its characteristics is very similar to the previous model. There is a clutch with hydraulics, a reliable front brake and an electric starter. Management is better here, since the subframe takes on a certain percentage of stiffness from the rear shock. It definitely enhances ride comfort. FC-250 ignition cards switch on the steering wheel in two positions. One mode is standard, the second position is designed for a more aggressive ride.
The disadvantages are similar to the KTM: the scattered power range, the stiff suspension assembly, the unwanted engine braking. It is better to make an additional hole in the ventilation duct, and do not forget to regularly clean the air filter. As a result, Husvarna is also focused on professional racers or slow beginners who do not dare to switch above the second speed. Nevertheless, reviews about the manufacturer are mostly positive, although among the indicated minuses, consumers note a not very thoughtful design.
SUZUKI RM-Z250
The cross bike for 250 "cubes" of this brand is unparalleled when cornering, riding on hard tracks or dirt. The chassis of the bike is perfectly balanced, so "shifting" from one to the other side is not a problem. The racers include a fork with separate functions. Also pleased with the motor, the power range is optimal for riders of various levels.
In consumer reviews you can also hear an indication of certain shortcomings, namely:
- Poor grip, often requiring spring replacement.
- Weak stability during high-speed driving in straight sections.
- Unfinished front brake.
KAWASAKI KX250F
On Avito cross-country motorcycles of this brand can be bought at a price of 150 thousand rubles. They are very popular among domestic riders. The bike has one of the best engines in its class. The motor has an optimal power range, is equipped with a dual fuel injection system. Among other advantages:
- Reliable and high-quality suspension.
- Front disc brake with a diameter of 270 mm.
- The presence of adapters for changing modes. Thanks to them, the rider will be able to choose the best option, depending on his level and road surface.
The disadvantages include insufficient steering stability, complicated gear shifting, especially at high speed, when the “engine” is under load. The clutch also does not please everyone, experts advise you to purchase more rigid springs.
Honda CRF250
We begin the review of this cross-country motorcycle with minuses, the benefit is not so much of them. Claims against the manufacturer are made on the following points:
- Poor handling at high speeds, the front end has a lot of mass, the damper does not help much.
- Damage-prone twin silencer with increased weight.
- Bad and unreliable grip.
There are much more pluses:
- Great informative fork.
- Beautiful ergonomic design.
- Powerful and confident disc front brake.
- Good entry into turns of any complexity.
Cross-country motorcycles 125 cubic meters
At the end of the review, we will consider popular modifications in this category with brief characteristics
- Suzuki Van-Van 125. The model has a relatively old-fashioned design, but is popular among connoisseurs of classics. The power unit is able to accelerate the car to 110 km / h, while consuming about three liters of fuel per 100 km. "Tidy" is made in the traditional version, wheels - 18 inches, clearance - 200 mm.
- Yamaha YBR 125. The four-stroke engine aggregates with a five-band gearbox, accelerates to 120 km / h. The owners of the motorcycle note only two main drawbacks: a weak power unit, poorly pulling downhill, and small dimensions.
- Patron Enduro 125. The specified modification is made in China, however, claims to be the leader in sales in Russia. A bike is the best option for beginner riders. The machine has good controllability, is equipped with a four-stroke “engine” for 125 “cubes”. The pluses include an energy-intensive suspension, a 5-speed informative gearbox. The popularity of the Patron Enduro motorcycle is due to its low price, decent quality and original appearance.