Entry-level Honda dirtbike gets real

Published Dec 10, 2013

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Honda's new-for-2014 CRF125FB entry-level off-roader replaces the previous CRF100F model, with a longer stroke for plenty of novice-friendly bottom-end torque, plus an electric start for when newbie riders get it wrong.

Its 124.9cc air-cooled SOHC single is mounted in a new frame with uprated suspension and brakes, and new plastics scaled down from the rip-snorting CRF450R open-class moto-crosser. Honda insists that, small as it is, the CRF125FB is not a pit-bike or a Pee-Wee - it has a four-speed manual gearbox and clutch, justifying the slogan "Your first real dirtbike".

Reduced valve overlap and lift speed up gas-flow velocity for improved bottom-end performance, with peak outputs of 6.6kW at 7000rpm and 10.2Nm at 4500.

DIAMOND FRAME

The all-steel diamond backbone frame has its integrated air box/battery bracket mounted lengthwise to keep the bike slim and seat height down to 785mm, making it a manageable starter machine for most riders aged 10 and above.

Fork diameter is up from 27mm to 31mm, while the new rear shock has a 32mm piston damper and separate air/oil/gas pressurisation chambers to reduce emulsification, modulating as steel swing-arm via a Pro-link setup with needle bearings throughout to reduce friction.

The handlebars are a little narrower than previously to suit younger shoulders while the foot-pegs and brake pedal are set wider apart for better balance (and more confidence) when standing on the 'pegs.

The CRF125FB runs on 19" front and 16" rear wheels for big-bike stability, while a 220mm front disc (with adjustable-span lever) and a straight-forward 95mm single leading-shoe rear drum take care of braking.

The Honda CRF125FB is available now from Honda dealers at R22 990.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine:124.9cc air-cooled four-stroke single.

Bore x stroke:52.4 x 57.9mm.

Compression ratio:9.5:1.

Valvegear: SOHC with two overhead valves per cylinder.

Power:6.6kW at 7000rpm.

Torque:10.2Nm at 4500rpm.

Induction:20mm slide carburettor.

Ignition: DC-CDI Battery.

Starting: Electric and kick.

Clutch: cable-operated wet multiplate clutch.

Transmission: Four-speed constant-mesh gearbox with final drive by chain.

Front Suspension:31mm conventional cartridge forks.

Rear Suspension: Pro-link with hydraulic shock absorber.

Front brakes:220mm disc with single-piston floating calliper.

Rear brake: Cable-operated 95mm single leading-shoe drum brake.

Front tyre:70/100 x 19 tube type.

Rear tyre:70/100 x 16 tube type.

Wheelbase:1254mm.

Seat height:785mm.

Kerb weight:88kg.

Fuel tank:4.3 litres.

Price: R22 990.

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