BIKES: 2013 Honda CRF110F First Ride

New Models

BIKES: 2013 Honda CRF110F First Ride

The 2013 Honda CRF110F is an all-new model that replaces the CRF70F, with more displacement and electric start.

Michael Pomeroy | Posted February 28, 2013 Eugene, OR

The 2013 CRF110F replaces the 2012 CRF70F in the Honda Off-road line. (Photo: MotorcycleUSA.com)

Honda is on a mission to bring new riders into the sport of motorcycling in every demographic. The recent release of the NC700X, three new 500cc street bikes and the CRF250L are all value-based machines that appeal to new or less-experienced riders. Honda knows that fostering brand loyalty can begin at an early age, and with the all-new 2013 Honda CRF110F, the manufacturer looks to grab some young new dirt fans.

The 110F replaces the CRF70F in the Honda line-up and is positioned between the CRF50F and the CRF80F. While the displacement has grown, the size has only increased marginally in some measurements, and the price has only grown by $39. For that small increase in MSRP the list of additional features is impressive. First and foremost is the electric start with a kickstart backup. While the 70F had three speeds, the 110F now has a four-speed transmission with an auto clutch. Lastly the small CRF has the strong racing lines of the CRF Motocross line.

When the invite for the introduction arrived at our offices, it was requested we bring a test rider of the appropriate age, size and skill level. It just so happened my nine-year-old nephew Ryan fit the bill. He has limited experience on motorcycles, but he’s learning quick and gets more confident each time he twists the right grip. A quick call to my brother and Ryan got a note to get out of school for his first test-riding gig.

Honda chose to introduce the media to the CRF110F at its Rider Education Center in Colton, California. The dirt training course is perfectly suited for small sized off-road bikes and young riders. The two-acre dirt course has a flat training area and numerous off-road single-track style trails that snake through 2500 different plant species and five different ecosystems. This would give Ryan a chance to try out the CRF110F on flat ground, small hills, single-track and even whoops.

Right from the get-go our junior tester liked the look of the new 110F, saying it was “really red” and looked like the big bikes. Jumping on the bike his 4’6” frame fit the chassis well, and the reach from the 26.3-inch high seat was easy with both feet able to touch the ground securely. Starting the Honda was a breeze with a push of the starter button. Later in the day he also tried the kickstart lever with equal success.

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