CR Frame Difference

[thek]

I want to get a CR 250 2001. So I would like to know a little about the frame. Specifically I would like to know whether the 2001 frame is the same as the 2002 or even the 2003. I have tried looking at pictures but I can't really tell for sure.

Also I would like to know how to tell the bike is a 2001 and not a 2000. I think the frame was straight in 2000 and in 2001 in had a small bend in it. Are there any other cosmetic differences?

I know I could call honda with the frame number but if there is a way to visually separate the two I would like to know.

Thanks for the help.

Michael,

 

[Dirtvet]

The 2000 & 2001 frames are identical. The 2002 frame is different, and very close if not identical to the 2003. There should be a plate on the left downspar near the steering stem to tell you what year it is. I love my 2001 250R - good power & handling. The 2000 model has a Keihin carb, while the 2001 has a mikuni.

 

[Zero]

The 2000 CR is one of the best bikes I have ever owned....

97-98-99 1st generation Frame
2000-01 2nd generation frame
02-03 3rd generation frame
2004 4th generation frame

 

[motometal]

I don't think the 4th gen frame will be on the CR250 in 2004.

keep in mind there are minor revisions throughout each style of frame.  I'm pretty sure a '99 is significantly different than a '97.

 

[Zero]

umm, yeh, I am not sure about the 2004. I know the new frame is out there somewhere and I don't think the CRF450 will have the new frame. But wasn't sure about the CR250.

The 99 frame still sucked just as much as the 97 frame though, IMO. :)

I wonder when the other big 4 will finally cross over to the all aluminum frame design on a more permanent basis?

 

[motometal]

I don't think you will see any other brands with the aluminum frame any time soon, unless there has first been extensive (years) of testing and proving out first.  I think they are focusing most of their efforts on four stroke engine technology and making the bikes lighter.  From what i've seen on Hondas, the frame has it's good points but hasn't really given a significant weight advantage.

 

[markthomps]

Yamaha has been doing works bike frames in aluminum for years, but still won't commit to production versions. They'd be my bet for eventually joining the tin foil crowd. I also like the handling of the '00-01 aluminum CRs. Very decent and rock solid in lines. Almost makes me forget the gawd-awful '97 I hated.