2006 Honda CRF150F Review

Hailed as the ideal ride for off-road adventure, the CRF150F redefines fun in 2006 thanks to an all-new engine with push-button electric starting, new transmission ratios and new suspension settings that provide even better handling.

When Honda redesigned its XR100R, it made a big stink of how heavy the TT-R125 was. But now that it has shown its hand, Honda has basically said, "We’ll call your 20 pounds and raise you 20 pounds." At a claimed 218 pounds, the CRF150 weighs 16 pounds more than the full-sized Honda CR125R motocrosser and nearly the same as the CR250R. When the 150 was parked next to the Suzuki DR-Z125L, it dwarfed it. In spite of those facts, we asked five-foot-two-inch Nick Nowak, Chad Hartley and five-foot-three Stacy Bremner to be our test riders. Nick and Chad normally ride Honda CR80Rs, and Stacy races a Yamaha YZ125 in the women’s novice class. Naturally, we couldn’t keep the dads at bay, so we had pilots as heavy as 220 pounds on the bike as well.

All were impressed with the solid feel of the chassis and the stable handling. Chad and Nick (at less than 90 pounds) felt the 150 was a great trailbike and much more forgiving on the hills with its torquey power delivery. Chad even spent a good deal of time on the mini motocross track at Hungry Valley OHV’s Quail Canyon. In the morning when the track was freshly plowed he noticed the weight, but as the track wore in, he felt he could go every bit as fast as he could on his 80. He said bottoming wasn’t a problem either. The boys also thought the reach to the ground on the 150 with its 16/19-inch wheel combo was roughly the same as on their small-wheel (14/17-inch) 80s.The CRF150F is a lot more motorcycle than Honda’s XR100R was, and it raises the bar in the class. If weight isn’t an issue, then the CRF is a winner.

Compared with the new wave of improved 125cc four-stroke playbikes, the CRF150F is more serious in almost every way. It has a larger displacement, bigger riding position and aluminum rims in addition to a larger fork. Weight is the only penalty it pays.

Features

All-new 149cc engine for increased performance.
Electric starter for convenient starting in all conditions.
New transmission ratios more closely match engine power characteristics.
Revised suspension settings for improved handling and rider comfort.

Engine/Drivetrain

Dependable 149cc single-cylinder air-cooled four-stroke engine produces smooth, easy-to-use power that’s ideal for ecreational riders.
24mm carburetor offers excellent throttle response.
Ultra-reliable CD ignition never needs maintenance.
Convenient electric starting.
Heavy-duty clutch offers smooth engagement and durability.
Smooth-shifting five-speed transmission.
Chassis/Suspension
Lightweight semi-double-cradle high-tensile steel frame.
35mm leading-axle Showa front fork offers 9.1 inches of compliant suspension travel.
Pro-Link® rear suspension with box-section aluminum swingarm.
Heavy-duty Showa rear shock offers 8.9 inches of travel.
Powerful 240mm front disc brake.
Lightweight rear drum brake.

Additional Features

Engine design produces low emissions and meets California Air Resources Board (CARB) off-road standards.- -Maintenance free battery.
Snail-type chain adjusters for easy maintenance.
Durable body components.
2.2-gallon fuel tank and thrifty four-stroke engine for long range.
High-impact plastic skidplate for undercarriage protection.
Motocross-style seat is low, comfortable and allows maximum rider movement.
Cleated, folding and self-cleaning footpegs offer secure footing.
Folding shift lever and brake pedal tips.
Fork boots keep dirt and moisture away from fork seals.
Durable steel sprockets.
Washable, reusable foam air filter.
Quiet, USDA-qualified spark arrester/muffler.
CRF-R inspired bodywork.
Transferable six-month limited warranty.
Keyed ignition switch.
Ownership includes one-year complimentary membership for an individual in the Honda Rider’s Club of America™ (HRCA®). Benefits include: discounts, travel benefits, roadside assistance, one year of Honda Red Rider™ magazine, access to HRCA Clubhouse Web site (www.hrca.honda.com) and access online to Honda Common Service Manual

SPECS

Model: CRF150F
Engine:  149cc air-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke
Bore and Stroke: 57.3mm x 57.8mm
Compression Ratio: 9.5:1
Valve Train: SOHC; two-valve
Carburetion: 24mm piston-valve
Ignition: CDI
Transmission: Five-speed
Final Drive: #520 O-ring-sealed chain; 13T/48T
Suspension:

• Front: 35mm leading-axle Showa fork; 9.1 inches travel
• Rear: Pro-Link Showa single shock; 8.9 inches travel

Brakes:

• Front: Single 240mm disc
• Rear: Drum

Tires:

• Front: 70/100-19
• Rear: 90-100-16

Wheelbase: 52.2 inches
Rake (Caster Angle): 26.7°
Trail:  87mm (3.4 inches)
Seat Height: 32.5 inches
Ground Clearance: 10.0 inches
Dry Weight: 223 pounds 
Fuel Capacity: 2.2 gallons, including 0.4-gallon reserve
Color: Red
Meets CARB off-road standards.