Honda CRF150R Review – Everything You Need To Know

Trying to figure out if the Honda CRF150R is the right dirt bike for your kid?

I’ve owned 2 of them, so I’d like to share my personal review about this bike so that you can make a better buying decision, or simply get to know it better if you already have one.

CRF150R vs CRF150RB Differences?

They are almost the same bike, except the wheel sizes, wheelbase and slight suspension difference. The CRF150R is the small wheel version with 17/14″ wheel and tire size, while the CRF150RB is the larger and longer big wheel (AKA “Expert”) with 19/16″ wheel size and slightly stiffer suspension valving.

The CRF150R For?

The CRF150R is a motocross bike that’s not to be confused with the CRF150F trail bike. While the 150R is a kids bike, it’s a high performance race bike — basically, the bike is for future champions.

Age Range
The CRF 150R is built for racing in the 85cc/Supermini class, which is for kids age 12-16 years old. It’s currently the only kids motocross bike from Honda. The small wheel (standard model) is for a 12 year old, and the big wheel (expert model) is for ages 14-16 years old. However, your kid’s age shouldn’t be the only factor. They may be too small or big for it.

Rider Size
The small wheel CRF150R has a seat height of 32.8”. It will fit you if you’re between 4’10 and 5’2” (147-157cm). The big wheel CRF150RB has a seat height of 34.1” It will fit if you’re between 5’0” and 5’6” (152-168cm). With that said, your inseam length plays a big role in how you fit it as well. Whether you or your kid is the right size for the 150R or 150RB, skill level and the type of riding should be the biggest determining factor.

Rider Weight
There isn’t an actual weight limit, but the CRF150R/B is built for a rider that weighs about 80-120lb.

Where the CRF150R excels

Reliability was originally seen as an issue, but in actuality, that’s not necessarily true. Yes, the CRF150R is not as reliable as its CRF150F cousin, but that’s because it’s a race bike that requires you to ride it harder. The more RPM, the quicker the engine will wear out; it’s simple science.

Valve Adjustment

You’re not going to have to adjust the valves every 5 hours like some people may have said on forums. If you’re trail riding the CRF150R or are easy on the throttle and properly maintain it (oil and filter changes), it’s going to be pretty reliable. You might get 50 or 100+ hours on the engine before needing a rebuild.

Other Pros

• No mixing gas (It’s a 4 stroke engine)
• It’s lightweight for a 4 stroke
• It has more torque than an 85cc 2 stroke (YZ85/KX85/CR85)
• It can be a fun trail bike for an adult with some mods
• Is The CRF150R Reliable?

Basic Specs

Here are the basic specs for the Honda CRF150R and CRF150RB:

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