Only Honda could make the XL 250 R. There's tradition. This is Honda's third distinct 250cc dual-purpose machine, following the 1984 XL 250R (the CB350 Twin engine with mildly revised frame, high pipes and not much speed in the dirt) and the original XL250 of 1984, a four-valve Single of great strength and weight.
More in the present are the resources offered by Honda's extended family. The XL-series Singles evolved in various displacements, gaining two-port exhausts and later compound carburetors, then single rear shocks, disc front brakes from the XR and CR lines, and radially disposed valves to take full advantage of the four ports.
This has been a true evolution. When things work, for example the disc front brake, they are parcelled out to the various model lines. When they don't, as in the 23-in. front wheel and the open loop frame with stressed engine, they are never heard from again.
This gives Honda an unmatched flexibility. Having developed the four-valve radial head with compound carbs, the frame, suspensions brakes, etc., Honda can then deal them out as the market demands.
More in the present are the resources offered by Honda's extended family. The XL-series Singles evolved in various displacements, gaining two-port exhausts and later compound carburetors, then single rear shocks, disc front brakes from the XR and CR lines, and radially disposed valves to take full advantage of the four ports.
This has been a true evolution. When things work, for example the disc front brake, they are parcelled out to the various model lines. When they don't, as in the 23-in. front wheel and the open loop frame with stressed engine, they are never heard from again.
This gives Honda an unmatched flexibility. Having developed the four-valve radial head with compound carbs, the frame, suspensions brakes, etc., Honda can then deal them out as the market demands.
