If hardcore racing is not on the agenda, and having a great time on a fun and easy to ride bike is what you are after, consider looking at the Honda CRF 230 for a great time with very little maintenance. The CRF230 was my introduction into the fantastically exciting world of MX riding. It’s hard to believe that just 2 short years ago we purchased a pair of Honda’s, the 230 and a 150. It all started so innocently, just a way to blow off some steam and get outside and have some fun. Next thing we knew it was off to the track and time to learn to fly.

Sure enough, the CRF 230 had some wings, in fact it was the perfect bike to start riding on as it’s not overwhelming, very easy to control, excellent for a practice day at the track and really shines on the trails around our home here in Kenai, Alaska. Ok, ok, so most people do ride dogsleds around here, sorry I can’t stand the scenery.

Review of the Honda CRF230.

So here is my honest observation from owning one of these mid-sized Honda's and some of the things I like about it and some that I dislike about the bike.

First off, the 230 are sized for a smaller rider and a perfect fit when I was a young 14-year-old of 5’8”. I found the bike easy to ride, very stable and light to the feel. Confidence in riding was nearly immediate, as this bike is very easy to ride. Power rolls on in a very linear curve building steadily through the powerband. Never did you feel out of control unless you just nailed the throttle while in a lower gear. The bike will wheelie with a good twist of the grip and powering up hills and through the sand never was a real problem. Yes, more power was always wanted especially after the first season but all in all it’s a great play bike that still deserves a home in our garage.

Catching some air time on the CRF230 on the track in Kenai Alaska.