Honda is introducing a supermoto-type variant of its CRF230L dual-purpose bike. The new 2009 CRF230M is the third 250-cc supermoto to make a foray into the Canadian market this year.

The CRF230M is an entry-level supermoto for those who want to explore the wonderful world of light, agile, quick and well handling simple bikes. It is more of a street bike than am off road machine, specially with the stock tires, more at home on winding roads than in the trails.


The 230M is built around a classic Honda double-cradle steel frame and box-section aluminum swingarm. As befits a street mission, the bike gets 17-inch wheels, Dunlop GT401 Arrowmax tires and, unfortunately for some of us, a narrower seat than standard street machines. The 37-mm Showa fork and rear shock use firmer settings than the dual-sport variant to maximize control for spirited pavement riding.

The seat is slightly lower than the average supermoto and should therefore instill confidence in shorter riders and beginners alike. The CRF230M sports two stylish plastic guards that protect the steel fuel tank in the event of a fall, a useful feature on this type of machine. You will find the same 240-mm front disc and 220-mm rear disc as on the CRF230L.

Likewise, the engine chosen by Honda is the reliable, well-proven 223-cc, air-cooled single-cylinder. Power is mainly delivered at low and medium revs, which should make the learning process easier. This simple yet effective powerplant uses a traditional carburetor with 30-mm bore, calibrated to increase power at higher revs. Said power is transferred by a precise-shifting, 6-speed transmission requiring little to no effort.

The new 2009 Honda CRF230M was designed to deliver tons of fun at a cheap price. With a new supermoto-style design, black paint and trim, and basic yet functional features, success is almost a given.


Photo Credit : Honda