- Next-gen Honda CRF250L to receive a revised motor
- Engine features a twin-spark plug setup, direct fuel-injection and a mechanical fuel pump
- Could feature telescopic forks instead of inverted ones as on the current-gen model
The CRF250L is a dual-purpose motorcycle offered by Honda in the international market. Now, the manufacturer seems to be working on the next-generation model as patent images of the same have surfaced online. The leaked image provides a profile view of the motorcycle with detailed images of the engine section suggesting that Honda has extensively reworked on the 249.6cc single-cylinder mill that also does duty in the CBR250R sold in the country.
The patent images showcase the presence of the mechanical fuel pump that is camshaft operated followed by a direct fuel-injection system. The choice to opt for a mechanical fuel pump instead of an electrical one can be means to keep the system reliable, as motorcycles like these are often used in remote areas and difficult terrains. On the other hand, the direct fuel-injection will allow to improve the motor’s fuel economy and combustion efficiency while lowering emissions. Lastly, the ignition system also features a twin-spark arrangement instead of a single plug, for faster and complete combustion of the air-fuel mixture. The above changes to the motor can be linked to having the motor comply with the upcoming Euro 5 norms. Expect a slight change on the overall power output figures which currently stand at 24.1bhp and 22.6Nm. Transmission duties will continue to be taken care by a 6-speed constant mesh gearbox.
Apart from the changes to the engine, the patent images also show that Honda might be considering telescopic forks over the inverted Showa unit that currently feature on the current model. Besides that, other cycle parts on the motorcycle seem to be the same. In terms of design, the motorcycle continues to follow the same dual-purpose format as the existing bike. The only noticeable change can be seen in the headlamp unit featuring a curved shape and a slightly different cowl design.
Judging by the patent images, it is unlikely that Honda will bring in the production-ready model anytime before 2021. In the international market, Honda retails the CRF250L at 4,669 pounds which converts to Rs 3.9 lakhs in Indian currency, excluding taxes and duties. Currently, Honda seems to have no plans of bringing the CRF250L to India any time soon. However, bearing in mind the rise in demand for adventure motorcycles, we can only hope that dual-purpose motorcycles like the CRF250L are considered for the Indian market as well.
