CRF 250 RX (ME12)

The CRF 250 RX is Honda's answer to a specific question: what happens when you take a 249 cc motocross single and build it for closed-course cross-country racing? This is not a softened trail bike. It keeps the high-revving engine and sharp chassis of its CRF motocross sibling, then adds what off-road racing needs. You get fully adjustable suspension front and rear, with 12.0 in (305 mm) of travel up front and 12.3 in (312 mm) out back. The 18-inch rear wheel carries a tire with more sidewall, which helps against pinch flats and finds grip on slick ground. The tank is bigger than the MX version's, and Ride Modes and Launch Control come standard. At 245 lb (111 kg) wet, it's properly light.

On the trail it rides exactly the way it was designed to. It's light, it changes direction easily, and the adjustable suspension takes roots, rocks and chop while still holding up to big hits at speed. It's tough, and the aftermarket support is huge, so an owner can tailor it to their riding for years. Here's the honest caveat. My enduro rule is that rideability beats peak power, and this engine still has motocross DNA. It rewards revs and an active rider more than it rewards lazy lugging. With a 37.8 in (961 mm) seat and 2.2 gal (8.5 L) of fuel, it belongs to riders who race or ride hard, not to casual explorers. In typical Honda fashion, it's more thought-through than the spec sheet suggests.