Honda CRF230F Review (History, Specification And Comparison)

If you are thinking about buying a Honda CRF239F but aren’t sure if it’s the best choice for you, then I can guarantee that reading this article will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not to make the purchase.

The single most important thing for riders who are just starting out is to have a thorough understanding of both the specifications of the bike and the potential that it may offer. 

What can you anticipate from this bike if you decide to get it, so that you won’t have any second thoughts about your purchase and won’t have to worry about whether or not you should replace or improve it?

What benefits may you anticipate from making the purchase?

What is Honda CRF230F

The CRF230F is a trail bike that has a compression ratio of 9.0:1 and a single-cylinder 230cc four-stroke engine with air cooling.

It has a suspension and a chassis, both of which contribute to its impressive strength and price-worthiness.

CRF230F Engine

single-cylinder, air-cooled, SOHC, four-stroke engine having a bore to stroke ratio of 65.5 mm to 66.2 mm.

The displacement of the power mill is 223 cubic centimeters. With a 9.0:1 compression ratio, a 30-millimeter CV carburetor (equipped with a 28-mm piston-valve, 42-mm pilot, and 102-mm main) manages the air-fuel combination.

2.2 US gallons or 8.33 litres of fuel may be stored in the fuel tank, plus a 0.4-gallon or 1.5-liter reserve. Fuel capacity is 1.85 US gallons or litres for versions made in 2008 or after, including a 0.34-gallon/1.3-liter fuel reserve.

The 230 Dirt Bike uses just 3.4 gallons of fuel per 100 kilometres (83 mpg).

  1. The user-friendly power and torque of the 223cc single-cylinder air-cooled four-stroke engine are spread out across a wide rpm range.
  2. With a 28mm carburetor instead of a 26mm, the throttle response is precise.
  3. For simplicity of starting, use an electric start.
  4. light crankcase made of aluminium.
  5. CD ignition without maintenance.
  6. A heavy-duty clutch provides gradual, smooth engagement.
  7. a flexible, smooth-shifting six-speed gearbox.
  8. O-ring-sealed chain made of heavy-duty material for longevity and little maintenance.
  9. Chain adjusters with a cam design for simple maintenance.
  10. foam air filter that is washable and reusable to save money on maintenance.
  11. Steel sprockets for durability up front and back.
  12. USDA-certified quiet spark arrestor/muffler.
  13. Engine design complies with off-road regulations set by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and generates minimal emissions.

Bore and Stroke

A complete synthetic SAE 5W-40 four-stroke engine oil that may be used in any high performance multi-cylinder, multi-valve, V-Twin, air or water-cooled sports or race replica types of four-stroke Japanese and European motorcycles.

Jetting

Due to EPA and California rules, the CRF230F is manufactured with a lean jet, although this may be easily fixed.

To get it to operate smoothly if you leave everything in stock, you only need a few jets and perhaps a needle (for versions from 2006 and up).

Performance

If you grow bored, the CRF230F engine may be modified in a variety of ways. To accelerate the timing, you may use anything from a high compression, huge bore kit to a modified flywheel key.

The standard CRF230F has a peak speed of roughly 60 mph, which isn’t really significant either because you never hit full speed unless you’re riding on flat land for an extended period of time.

Horsepower

The average factory engine has roughly 18 horsepower, which is acceptable but not the most crucial figure. You want to look at the power figures below the peak, like I just mentioned above.

In fact, some of the most significant figures (1500-3000 RPM) aren’t even captured on a dyno chart since dynamometers can’t capture them correctly.

Fuel Delivery

Initially, Electronic Fuel Injection was only a standard feature on the CRF110F, CRF125F, and CRF250F models of these air-cooled, four-stroke bikes.

The lack of a carburetor on the motorbike made cold starting and maintenance simpler.

Ignition

A solid-state CDI push-button electric start system is used to start it. A single-phase output alternator is also included. For increased security and control over who rides when, the 2014 model has a keyless ignition switch.

CRF230F Suspension

The Honda CRF230F trail bike’s suspension is one of its main weaknesses.

It’s disappointing that Honda won’t upgrade the suspension on its off-road trail motorcycles, but it makes sense given that they are more expensive than new motocross or enduro bikes.

Front Suspension

Although the forks are poor, they are manageable if you are under 150 pounds or don’t ride hard. Simply said, they are low-tech and incredibly soft.

This is totally OK if you want a comfortable ride to practise riding. It is gentle at low speeds and will withstand minor jolts and trail roots.

Rear Suspension

The default rear shock is not particularly effective. That understates the case. 

Despite the stock shock’s relative softness, it dampens relatively slowly. When you bike faster over bumps and unsteady terrain, this results in “bucking.”

Front Brake

The substance used to make brake pads is semi-metallic. Riding for General Use.

It is advised for riders who want excellent off-road stopping power and long-lasting brake pads when riding on challenging off-road surfaces.

The K5 series is made to have the extended life, minimal abrasive interaction with the rotor, and self-cleaning properties required for off-road riding.

To achieve the best friction properties, friction materials use metal-ceramic with a sophisticated bronze-graphite and full-metal mixture formulation.

Rear Brake

  • Your bike stands out from the competition because to its CNC-made T6061 aluminium alloy construction, stunning shining surface, and anodized treatment lever that increases corrosion resistance and toughness.
  • Toe kick is composed of stainless steel to prevent slipping and better accommodate riders.
  • For extra grip, the CNC tip also has stainless steel cleats.
  • Function: The CNC-machined tip guards against collision and impact damage.
  • Easy To Install: 100% brand-new rear brake gear pedal levers that can perfectly replace the original model can be installed without the need for installation instructions.
  • Brake shifting levers are included in the package, but there are no instructions.

Front Tire

Great riding performance is facilitated by excellent grip and simple handling. All-weather compound designed for all seasons. In muddy circumstances, knobby open thread cleans out easily.

Rear Tire

  • For a list of further machines this part fits, see the fitment guide graphic. Technical single track and hard enduro riding call for the use of high-performance off-road hybrid tires.
  • tire with tubes.
  • To provide stability and a strong bite in bends, the “Fatty” front Recon has a stronger rubber compound than the rear.
  • The front Recon tire’s “Fatty” design has a larger profile to better handle difficult terrain including ledges, pebbles, and roots.
  • The broader footprint offers the best grip possible in slick situations.

CRF230F Dimension

CRF230F
DIMENSIONS2,059mm x 801mm x 1,190mm
WHEELBASE1,372mm
RAKE(CASTER ANGLE)26°45′
TRAIL111mm

Trail
111mm (4.4 in.)

Wheelbase
54.0 in.

Fuel Capacity
CRF230F fuel capacity is around 1.9 gal. incl. 0.4-gal. reserve.

Seat height
34.6 in.

Weight
The 2007 CRF230F weighs around 238 pounds.

Honda CRF230F Specifications

Here we will talk about the different specifications of this model.

Engine/Drivetrain

  1. The dependable 223cc single-cylinder air-cooled four-stroke engine provides a lot of usable power and torque across a wide rpm range.
  2. 26mm carburetor for responsive throttle.
  3. For simplicity of starting, use an electric start.
  4. light crankcase made of aluminium.
  5. CD ignition without maintenance.
  6. A heavy-duty clutch provides gradual, smooth engagement.
  7. a flexible, smooth-shifting six-speed gearbox.
  8. O-ring-sealed chain made of heavy-duty material for longevity and little maintenance.

Dimensions and Chassis

  1. Suspension Front: 9.5-inch travel, 37mm leading-axle Showa fork
  2. Rear: 9.0 inches of travel; Pro-Link Showa single shock with adjustable spring preload
  3. Front brakes: a single 240mm disc
  4. Back: Drum Tires Front: 80/100-21
  5. Rear: 100/100-18
  6. 54.1 inches is the wheelbase.
  7. Angle of rake (Caster): 27.3o
  8. Length: 112 mm (4.4 inches)
  9. Height of the seat: 34.1 inches
  10. 11.7 inches of ground clearance
  11. 1.9 gallons of fuel, plus a 0.4-gallon reserve, are available at the curb.

Chassis/Suspension

  1. Aluminium swing arms with box sections are the best in their class.
  2. High-tensile steel frame with a semi-double cradle that is lightweight.
  3. Showa front fork with 37mm leading-axle and 9.5 inches of suspension travel.
  4. Fork seals are protected from moisture and dirt by fork boots.
  5. Rear shock from Showa is heavy-duty and has 9.0 inches of travel.
  6. Rear suspension with Pro-Link®.
  7. Chain adjusters with a snail design for simple maintenance.
  8. front disc brakes with 240 mm of power.
  9. rear drum brake that is lightweight.
  10. Straight-pull spokes on sturdy, light rims.

Honda CRF230F History

Since its release in 2003, the CRF230 has essentially not been altered. The 230’s electronic start and powerful 4-stroke engine make it a favourite among off-road enthusiasts.

Although the 230 and 150F share a lot of similarities, relatively few parts are actually interchangeable.

The dependable 223cc single-cylinder air-cooled four-stroke engine powering the Honda CRF230F Trail Bike provides plenty of user-friendly power and torque over a broad rpm range.

2019 saw the introduction of the Big Wheel and 50-cc up to 250-cc displacements in the CRF-F series (CRF125F).

Initially, Electronic Fuel Injection was only a standard feature on the CRF110F, CRF125F, and CRF250F models of these air-cooled, four-stroke bikes.

The lack of a carburetor on the motorbike made cold starting and maintenance simpler. Honda produced the Honda CRF230F dirt bike in this range from 2004 until 2019.

Out of all the CRF series models, the 230 bike was the most trail-friendly. This trail bike’s powerful four-stroke engine, first-rate shocks, and cool electronic start provided great stability and tolerance across challenging terrain.

It initially featured a 30-mm CV carburetor, but by the end of its life, it got an EFI version.

Common CRF230 Issues?

Although it has an electric start, it is a normal Bulletproof XR. They are excellent bikes with the exception of their 238-pound, bone-dry weight.

How Much Does A CRF230F Cost?

Price of the 2019 Honda CRF230F: $4,349 $2,810 Value

Is A CRF230F A Good Beginner Bike?

Its torque-based, low-end engine is smooth and ideal for beginning riders. One of the reasons the CRF230F is listed in my best beginner dirt bike guide is because of this.

Is CRF230 Better Than TTR230?

The Honda CRF230F has a slight advantage over the competition because of the engine’s greater low-end torque and the larger aftermarket supply of power and suspension upgrades for challenging enduro trail riding.

Is A CRF230 2 Stroke?

The CRF230F takes pride in being compact and easy to maintain. Its strong construction makes it ride like a workhorse, and its electric start ensures safety in all conditions.

A flat torque curve is produced by the 223cc 4-stroke, air-cooled, single cylinder engine, which also boasts a smooth-shifting six-speed gearbox.

Honda CRF230F Top Speed

The stock CRF230F has a top speed of about 60 mph, which isn’t particularly significant either because you never reach max speed unless you’re riding on flat ground for an extended period of time.

Conclusion

While modifications are fantastic, there is one issue that will prevent you from moving quickly and safely. Your riding style is the first step in the process. Turning the throttle is simple, but maintaining control of your motorcycle on the trails is difficult.

The 2016 Honda CRF230F, which sits atop the Honda CRF-F food chain, serves as a viable transition vehicle between the CRF150F big wheel and CRF250X enduro bike.

It won’t blow you away with its performance, staying true to its F roots, but it is more than capable of going practically wherever you choose to take it.

Happy riding!

Sources:

Honda CRF230F Review [Specs, History & Comparison]

Honda 230 Dirt Bike Specs and Review

https://www.crfsonly.com/reviews/engines-only/engines-only-crf230-big-bore.php

https://www.rickramsey.net/CRF230F.htm

https://www.vincheckup.com/motorcycles/honda/crf230f