The 2008 Honda CRF250R is a highly sought-after motocross bike, part of Honda's renowned CRF line that debuted in the early 2000s. This model year falls within the second generation of the CRF250R, known for its aggressive styling and performance focus. It is a single-trim, competition-ready machine, designed purely for off-road racing and not street legal. Its popularity stems from its exceptional handling, powerful engine, and Honda's reputation for reliability in the motocross world. While new pricing varied, used models typically ranged from $2,000 to $4,000 depending on condition and modifications.
The Good
The 2008 CRF250R boasts exhilarating performance with a potent engine and agile handling, appealing to thrill-seekers. Its Honda reliability offers peace of mind for practical riders, while its refined design and accessible maintenance provide long-term value. It's a machine built for winning.
The Bad
Potential owners should be aware of its aggressive power delivery, which can be challenging for novice riders. Some common issues include clutch wear and valve adjustments, requiring regular maintenance. The suspension may also need tuning for specific rider preferences or terrain.
2008 Honda CRF250R: Quick Overview
- Engine: 249cc liquid-cooled four-stroke single-cylinder
- Engine Bore x Stroke: 78.0 mm x 52.2 mm
- Compression Ratio: 12.5:1
- Fueling: Keihin 37mm flat-slide carburetor with throttle position sensor (TPS)
- Ignition: Digital CDI with three-dimensional mapping
- Horsepower: Approximately 35-40 horsepower (claimed, at the crankshaft)
- Torque: Estimated around 18-20 lb-ft
- Transmission: Close-ratio five-speed manual
- Clutch: Multi-plate wet clutch
- Final Drive: Chain
- Suspension (Front): Showa 47mm inverted telescopic fork, 12.4 inches (315 mm) travel, fully adjustable
- Suspension (Rear): Pro-Link single shock with Showa shock, 12.5 inches (318 mm) travel, fully adjustable
- Brakes (Front): Single hydraulic disc with dual-piston caliper
- Brakes (Rear): Single hydraulic disc
- Tires (Front): 80/100-21
- Tires (Rear): 100/90-19
- Frame: Diamond-type, steel twin-spar
- Fuel Economy: Not officially rated, as this is a competition-only vehicle. Real-world mileage varies significantly based on riding style and conditions, but typically much lower than street bikes.
- 0-60 mph: Not applicable. This is a motocross bike designed for off-road acceleration and track performance, not road speed.
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable. This vehicle is not designed or intended for towing.
- Trim Levels: The 2008 Honda CRF250R was offered in a single, high-performance trim level, focused solely on motocross competition.
- Key Trim Features: Lightweight aluminum frame, high-performance engine tuned for MX, advanced suspension for optimal handling on rough terrain, aggressive styling, and durable components suitable for racing.
2008 Honda CRF250R Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2008 |
| Make | Honda |
| Model | CRF250R |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Motorcycle |
| Category | Motorcycle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | HAMAMATSU |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 249-CC |
| Engine Size | 249L |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2008 Honda CRF250R Have?
While the 2008 Honda CRF250R is generally considered a robust motocross machine, like any high-performance off-road vehicle, it has known areas that require attention. One of the more frequently reported issues across this generation is related to the clutch, particularly the clutch plates and basket, which can wear out faster under hard use. Regular inspection and timely replacement are crucial. Another common maintenance item is valve adjustment. The aggressive nature of motocross riding puts significant stress on the engine, and valve clearance can drift over time, leading to performance loss or potential damage if neglected. Owners often report needing to check and adjust valves every 50-75 hours of riding. The carburetor, while effective, can also be a source of minor issues if not kept clean, potentially leading to inconsistent fueling. Some riders also mention that the stock exhaust system can be restrictive, and aftermarket replacements are popular for improved performance. Suspension components, such as seals and bushings, can also wear over time, necessitating regular maintenance and occasional rebuilds, especially if the bike is used frequently on rough terrain. Honda issues recalls periodically for various models, but specific widespread recalls for the 2008 CRF250R concerning critical failure points are not prominently documented in general owner forums. However, it is always advisable for owners to check with Honda or official recall databases using their VIN for any outstanding safety campaigns. Long-term reliability heavily depends on how the bike was maintained and ridden. A well-maintained CRF250R that has been regularly serviced, had fluids changed, and components replaced as needed can provide many hours of enjoyable riding. Conversely, a bike that has been neglected or thrashed without proper care will likely present more mechanical challenges over time.
How long will the 2008 Honda CRF250R last?
Estimating average mileage for a motocross bike like the 2008 Honda CRF250R is challenging as usage is measured in engine hours rather than road miles. However, dedicated enthusiasts might put 50-100 hours per year on their bikes. With diligent maintenance, including regular oil changes, filter cleaning, valve adjustments, and suspension servicing, the core engine and chassis can last for several hundred hours of riding. However, wear-and-tear items like the clutch, piston, chain and sprockets, and wheel bearings will need replacement periodically. Over time, especially with hard use, owners might face increased costs for top-end rebuilds (piston, rings) and potentially transmission or crank bearing issues. The long-term durability is excellent if maintained religiously, but neglecting these can lead to significant mechanical failures. The aluminum frame generally holds up well unless subjected to severe crashes.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2008 Honda CRF250R is a purpose-built competition motocross motorcycle and, as such, is devoid of typical automotive technology like entertainment systems, driver-assistance features, or advanced safety amenities. Its design philosophy is centered entirely on performance and rider control on a closed off-road course.
Built-in Tech: The most advanced technology you'll find is within its engine management system, which for this model year includes a Keihin 37mm flat-slide carburetor with a throttle position sensor (TPS). This system optimizes fuel delivery based on throttle input. The ignition is a digital CDI with three-dimensional mapping, allowing for precise spark timing. The suspension utilizes sophisticated damping technology developed by Showa, with full adjustability for rebound and compression, allowing riders to tune it to their weight, riding style, and track conditions.
Entertainment: There is no entertainment system. The focus is on the engine's sound and the thrill of riding.
Driver-Assistance: There are no driver-assistance features. This is a manual machine operated entirely by the rider's skill.
Safety Features: The primary safety features are the robust disc braking system front and rear, designed for maximum stopping power. The ergonomics are designed to provide a stable and comfortable riding position, contributing to rider control. However, it is crucial to remember this vehicle is not street legal and lacks features like headlights, taillights, mirrors, and turn signals, which are essential for road safety.
Optional Features: Optional features typically revolve around performance enhancements and protection. These can include aftermarket exhaust systems, different gearing ratios, upgraded clutch components, handguards for protection against roost and impacts, aftermarket seat covers for better grip, and graphics kits for personalization. Many owners also opt for aftermarket skid plates to protect the engine and frame from impacts.
Crash-Test Ratings: Motocross motorcycles are not subjected to crash-test ratings in the same way as road vehicles. Their design prioritizes durability and rider safety through structural integrity and rider protective gear. The focus is on absorbing impacts and maintaining control rather than adhering to standardized crashworthiness metrics.
Built-in Tech: The most advanced technology you'll find is within its engine management system, which for this model year includes a Keihin 37mm flat-slide carburetor with a throttle position sensor (TPS). This system optimizes fuel delivery based on throttle input. The ignition is a digital CDI with three-dimensional mapping, allowing for precise spark timing. The suspension utilizes sophisticated damping technology developed by Showa, with full adjustability for rebound and compression, allowing riders to tune it to their weight, riding style, and track conditions.
Entertainment: There is no entertainment system. The focus is on the engine's sound and the thrill of riding.
Driver-Assistance: There are no driver-assistance features. This is a manual machine operated entirely by the rider's skill.
Safety Features: The primary safety features are the robust disc braking system front and rear, designed for maximum stopping power. The ergonomics are designed to provide a stable and comfortable riding position, contributing to rider control. However, it is crucial to remember this vehicle is not street legal and lacks features like headlights, taillights, mirrors, and turn signals, which are essential for road safety.
Optional Features: Optional features typically revolve around performance enhancements and protection. These can include aftermarket exhaust systems, different gearing ratios, upgraded clutch components, handguards for protection against roost and impacts, aftermarket seat covers for better grip, and graphics kits for personalization. Many owners also opt for aftermarket skid plates to protect the engine and frame from impacts.
Crash-Test Ratings: Motocross motorcycles are not subjected to crash-test ratings in the same way as road vehicles. Their design prioritizes durability and rider safety through structural integrity and rider protective gear. The focus is on absorbing impacts and maintaining control rather than adhering to standardized crashworthiness metrics.
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2008 Honda CRF250R Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2008 Honda CRF250R was priced competitively within the motocross segment, typically retailing in the range of $6,000 to $6,500 USD. As a used vehicle, prices have depreciated significantly. Current used market prices for a 2008 CRF250R in average to good condition generally fall between $1,800 and $3,500. Factors heavily influencing resale value include the bike's overall condition (cosmetic and mechanical), the number of engine hours, the extent of modifications (performance upgrades can add value if done well, but shoddy work deters buyers), and whether it has been raced extensively or used more casually. Bikes with a documented maintenance history tend to command higher prices. Depreciation is steep initially but levels out as it ages, with well-maintained examples holding their value reasonably well within the enthusiast market.
2008 Honda CRF250R Cost of Ownership
Ownership costs for the 2008 Honda CRF250R are generally moderate to high, depending heavily on usage and maintenance habits. Insurance is typically low, often requiring a basic liability policy if used on private property or for competition. Fuel costs are also relatively low due to its small engine and off-road usage, though its carburetor is less efficient than modern fuel injection. Maintenance and repair are the largest cost factors. Regular oil changes, air filter cleaning, and valve adjustments are essential and can cost $100-$300 annually depending on DIY efforts. Major repairs like piston replacements or suspension rebuilds can easily run into several hundred dollars. It's a costly but rewarding vehicle to own if you're passionate about motocross.
2008 Honda CRF250R Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2008 Honda CRF250R Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2008 Honda CRF250R Insurance
Insurance for a 2008 Honda CRF250R is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Motorcycle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2008 Honda CRF250R Compare to Other Motorcycle?
The 2008 Honda CRF250R competed fiercely in the 250cc four-stroke motocross class against formidable rivals such as the Yamaha YZ250F, KTM 250 SX-F, and Suzuki RM-Z250.
Performance: Honda has always been known for its potent and tractable engines. The 2008 CRF250R offered a strong mid-range hit and good overall power, making it accessible for a wide range of riders. Yamaha's YZ250F was often praised for its class-leading handling and strong top-end power. KTM's SX-F models are typically known for their raw power and aggressive performance, often requiring more rider input. Suzuki's RM-Z250 was renowned for its exceptional cornering ability.
Features: In terms of features, this era of motocross bikes was relatively basic, focusing on function over electronic aids. All major players offered robust suspension (Showa for Honda, KYB for Yamaha and Suzuki, WP for KTM), hydraulic disc brakes, and durable chassis. Honda's use of a carburetor was standard for the time, while some competitors might have been experimenting with early fuel injection on larger displacement models or later in the year.
Reliability: Honda has a strong reputation for reliability, and the CRF250R generally lived up to that. While not immune to wear and tear common in motocross, they were often considered more user-friendly in terms of maintenance than some European counterparts. Yamaha also boasts excellent reliability, often seen as on par with Honda. KTM's reliability has improved significantly over the years, but historically, they could be more demanding of maintenance.
Price: The pricing was very competitive across all these brands, with only minor variations. Used prices for all these models from this era tend to be in a similar range, dictated by condition and hours.
Alternatives: For a similar experience, the 2008 Yamaha YZ250F is an excellent alternative, often favored for its sharp handling and responsive engine. If seeking a slightly more aggressive feel, the 2008 Suzuki RM-Z250 is also a strong contender, particularly for its cornering prowess. For riders who value a more European feel and potentially higher performance ceiling out-of-the-box, a 2008 KTM 250 SX-F could be considered, though it might require more specialized maintenance. Newer models from any of these manufacturers will offer advancements in technology like fuel injection and improved suspension, but the 2008 CRF250R remains a capable and enjoyable machine for its intended purpose.
Performance: Honda has always been known for its potent and tractable engines. The 2008 CRF250R offered a strong mid-range hit and good overall power, making it accessible for a wide range of riders. Yamaha's YZ250F was often praised for its class-leading handling and strong top-end power. KTM's SX-F models are typically known for their raw power and aggressive performance, often requiring more rider input. Suzuki's RM-Z250 was renowned for its exceptional cornering ability.
Features: In terms of features, this era of motocross bikes was relatively basic, focusing on function over electronic aids. All major players offered robust suspension (Showa for Honda, KYB for Yamaha and Suzuki, WP for KTM), hydraulic disc brakes, and durable chassis. Honda's use of a carburetor was standard for the time, while some competitors might have been experimenting with early fuel injection on larger displacement models or later in the year.
Reliability: Honda has a strong reputation for reliability, and the CRF250R generally lived up to that. While not immune to wear and tear common in motocross, they were often considered more user-friendly in terms of maintenance than some European counterparts. Yamaha also boasts excellent reliability, often seen as on par with Honda. KTM's reliability has improved significantly over the years, but historically, they could be more demanding of maintenance.
Price: The pricing was very competitive across all these brands, with only minor variations. Used prices for all these models from this era tend to be in a similar range, dictated by condition and hours.
Alternatives: For a similar experience, the 2008 Yamaha YZ250F is an excellent alternative, often favored for its sharp handling and responsive engine. If seeking a slightly more aggressive feel, the 2008 Suzuki RM-Z250 is also a strong contender, particularly for its cornering prowess. For riders who value a more European feel and potentially higher performance ceiling out-of-the-box, a 2008 KTM 250 SX-F could be considered, though it might require more specialized maintenance. Newer models from any of these manufacturers will offer advancements in technology like fuel injection and improved suspension, but the 2008 CRF250R remains a capable and enjoyable machine for its intended purpose.
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Honda CRF250R a Good Motorcycle?
The 2008 Honda CRF250R is an ideal choice for intermediate to expert motocross riders looking for a reliable and potent machine to compete or hone their skills on the track. It's less suited for beginners due to its aggressive power delivery and competition focus.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially on the used market, provided it has been well-maintained. Given its age, buying new is not an option. The key is to find a unit with reasonable engine hours and a history of diligent maintenance. Inspecting for worn components, especially the clutch and suspension, is crucial.
For this specific model year, there's only one trim level, so the decision hinges on condition and price. If you find a CRF250R from 2008 that has been cared for, it represents excellent value for a capable motocross bike that embodies Honda's renowned performance and durability.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially on the used market, provided it has been well-maintained. Given its age, buying new is not an option. The key is to find a unit with reasonable engine hours and a history of diligent maintenance. Inspecting for worn components, especially the clutch and suspension, is crucial.
For this specific model year, there's only one trim level, so the decision hinges on condition and price. If you find a CRF250R from 2008 that has been cared for, it represents excellent value for a capable motocross bike that embodies Honda's renowned performance and durability.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.