Honda has come out with a light weight, fuel efficient, supermoto like motorcycle CRF230M. It is Honda’s response to Kawasaki’s KLX250SF or Yamaha’s WR250X when it comes to multipurpose motorbikes that stand for cheap commuting, user-friendliness and fun.

CRF230M belongs to Honda’s dual-sport kitty and is created both for urban and back road stunt riding. It is highly similar to its predecessor CRF230L, but with slightly higher speeds on the road and specially tailored for the streets.

The Honda CRF230M has a 223cc air-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke engine with 14 hp and 12 ft-lbs of torque. The engine offers tremendous power and lots of torque spread over an extensive rpm-range. There is not too much of an accelerative punch however, the six-speed transmission is extremely efficient. 30mm constant-velocity carburetor provides crisp throttle response. An electric starter makes getting going easier. In essence it is the same bike as the L model, but a one-tooth smaller wheel sprocket (38) against the L model’s 13 x 39 sprocket combo which allows it to achieve slightly higher speeds on the road.

Each bike run adjustable Show a shock out back and sports a 37mm Showa fork with 9.0 inches of suspension travel. The M model’s rear travel is a bit more at 6.6 inches versus the L model’s 6.3 inches which offers the optimal balance. Both machines also share a 240mm brake rotor on up front squeezed by a dual-piston sliding-pin caliper. The 220mm rear brake rotor grabbed by a single-piston sliding-pin caliper.

The CRF230M engine is supremely smooth and given a little assistance from the clutch its front wheel can be lofted with ease. The gearbox has a short throw, making clean, positive shifts. The suspension has been tuned with a considerable amount of compression. The bike claims a ready to ride weight of 276 lbs and The Dunlop airomax tires offers plenty of grip for this. In order to go around corners sharply its chassis features latest 23.90 degree rake and 3.58 inches of trail. It offers a tighter-steering geometry suited for quicker handling on the pavement. The 17 inch wheel makes use of popular street bike tires for superior traction and handling. The front brake makes up for any lack of stopping force in the form of feedback. The rear disk-brake offers a descent performance. Cleated brake pedal provides excellent traction.

The seat height is 31.7-inch which is a boon for the new, female or short-inseam rider and allows maximum rider movement. The low seat positions the biker in the ideal riding position which accounts for proper handling as the center of gravity is maintained. The CRF230M comes up with high-quality surface finishes of the frame, swing arm and engine. The headlight is well contoured while the side panels blend in with the 2.4 gallons tank perfectly. The bike’s diminutive stature and lightweight means it is capable of scooting through traffic or the tight confines of a parking lot.

With CRF230M Honda offers versatility and affordability in a powerful and attractive package.