TEN YEARS AGO TODAY: 2016 MXA 250 FOUR-STROKE SHOOTOUT

A decade on from the 2016 MXA 250 Four-Stroke Shootout, the comparative test of six leading motocross bikes remains a valuable reference for riders considering a 250cc four-stroke machine. The contenders included the Honda CRF250, Husqvarna FC250, Kawasaki KX250F, KTM 250SXF, Suzuki RM-Z250, and Yamaha YZ250F. The MXA team undertook an extensive evaluation process over several months, involving racing, dyno testing, and real-world riding to provide a thorough assessment of each bike’s strengths and weaknesses. The shootout emphasised that choosing the right bike depends heavily on individual riding style and priorities rather than simply opting for the outright winner. The Suzuki RM-Z250 was praised for its exceptional cornering ability and agility, making it a favourite for riders who prioritise handling and precision in turns. However, the bike’s performance was hampered by an underpowered engine, producing the lowest horsepower and torque figures among the six bikes tested. Despite numerous updates to the engine, the RM-Z250 lagged behind its competitors in terms of power delivery, and its braking system was criticised for being outdated and prone to overheating. The bike’s weight was also on the heavier side, tying with the Kawasaki KX250F, which affected its overall competitiveness on the track. Honda’s CRF250 was highlighted as a bike with great potential, offering a balanced powerband that improved notably in top-end power compared to previous models. The 2016 iteration featured significant engine upgrades, including new pistons and valves, which enhanced its performance without sacrificing low-to-mid range power. Nevertheless, the CRF250 still fell short of the more powerful Husqvarna and KTM models in the test. Its suspension system, featuring Showa SFF-TAC air forks, was sophisticated but potentially complex for average riders to optimise fully. The bike’s weight was slightly lighter than the Suzuki but could be further reduced by design changes, such as removing the twin exhaust pipes. The shootout underscored the importance of power output as a critical factor in motocross performance, though it was not the sole determinant of a bike’s success. While bikes with higher horsepower did not automatically win, those lacking competitive power struggled to keep pace. The detailed insights from the MXA team serve as a reminder that riders must weigh multiple factors—including handling, suspension, braking, and engine character—when selecting a machine. For Suzuki and Honda, the test highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in engine performance and weight reduction, suggesting that future models could benefit from focused development to regain their competitive edge.