Honda CRF125F [2014] Review: A Youthful Spirit That Ages Gracefully

Introduction

The Honda CRF125F represents one of the most accessible gateways into off-road motorcycling. Designed as a training wheelset for future champions and weekend warriors alike, this 2014 model remains relevant as a benchmark for small-displacement dirt bikes. While its production spanned only a single model year in this configuration, its DNA continues to influence Honda's approach to entry-level machines. Let's explore why this pocket-sized performer still puts grins on faces nearly a decade later.

Design & Build Quality

At first glance, the CRF125F looks like a scaled-down version of Honda's championship-winning CRF motocross bikes. The signature red plastic shrouds with white number plates give it serious track cred, while the slim steel frame keeps weight down to 88 kg (194 lbs) - light enough for most teens to pick up after a tumble.

The 785mm (30.9") seat height strikes a perfect balance between approachability for beginners and adequate ground clearance for trail use. I was surprised how narrow the bike feels between the knees - a crucial detail that helps shorter riders maintain control. The rubber-mounted handlebar risers show Honda's attention to detail, absorbing vibrations while allowing some adjustability for growing riders.

Engine & Performance

Don't let the 124.9cc air-cooled single cylinder fool you - this mill punches above its weight class. The SOHC 4-stroke delivers 23.5 HP at 12,500 RPM, with a torque curve that's friendlier than a golden retriever puppy.

Key characteristics: - Carbureted fuel system (20mm piston-valve) provides predictable throttle response - 4-speed transmission with ultra-low first gear (13T/49T sprockets) - CDI ignition ensures reliable cold starts - Air cooling keeps maintenance simple

The engine sings a cheerful buzz up to its 14.1 Nm (10.4 ft-lbs) torque peak at 11,000 RPM. While not a highway cruiser, it'll happily chug up steep trails at walking pace or hit 85 km/h (53 mph) on flat fire roads. The kickstarter requires proper technique but builds character - a rite of passage for new riders.

Ride Experience

Swinging a leg over the CRF125F feels like putting on well-worn hiking boots - immediately comfortable but ready for adventure. The suspension setup deserves particular praise:

• Front: 31mm telescopic fork with 275mm (10.8") travel
• Rear: Pro-Link single shock with 282mm (11.1") travel
• Wheels: 19" front/16" rear with chunky 70/100-19 and 90/100-16 tires

On rocky Michigan singletrack, the suspension soaked up baby-head rocks without bottoming out. The 264mm (10.4") ground clearance let me skate over logs that would high-center bigger bikes.

The brakes tell an interesting story: - Front: 125mm hydraulic disc (adequate stopping power) - Rear: Drum brake (progressive modulation)

While not race-spec components, they're perfectly matched to the bike's pace. New riders benefit from the rear drum's forgiving nature during panic stops.

Competition

In the 125cc entry-level dirt bike arena, three contenders dominated 2014:

| Model | Honda CRF125F | Yamaha TT-R125LE | Kawasaki KLX140 | |-------------------|---------------------|----------------------|----------------------| | Engine | Air-cooled SOHC | Air-cooled SOHC | Air-cooled SOHC | | Suspension Travel | 275mm/282mm | 218mm/223mm | 254mm/274mm | | Seat Height | 785mm (30.9") | 800mm (31.5") | 787mm (31.0") | | Weight | 88kg (194lbs) | 94kg (207lbs) | 91kg (201lbs) | | Unique Feature | Pro-Link Rear | Electric Start Option | Larger 144cc Option |

The Yamaha offered electric start (on LE models) but felt more top-heavy. Kawasaki's KLX140 had slightly more power but required taller riders. Honda's combination of low seat height, premium suspension components, and neutral handling made it the most versatile package for varied terrain.

Maintenance

As MOTOPARTS.store's resident wrench, I appreciate the CRF125F's service-friendly design. Here's your maintenance cheat sheet:

1. Valve Adjustments (Critical!) - Intake: 0.08-0.12mm (0.003-0.005") - Exhaust: 0.13-0.17mm (0.005-0.007") - Check every 25 hours of operation

2. Oil Changes - Capacity: 1.0L with filter (SAE 10W-30) - Use MOTOPARTS.store Kit #MP-H125OIL (includes OEM-spec filter)

3. Chain Care - 428 chain with 112 links - Clean weekly with MP-428CLEANER - Adjust tension to 50-60mm (2-2.4") free play

4. Suspension Service - Fork oil: 145ml per leg (SAE 10W) - Replace seals every 100 hours

5. Carb Tuning - Main jet: #98 (standard) - Pilot jet: #38 (standard) - Consider MP-JETKIT for altitude adjustments

6. Winter Storage - Add MP-FUELSTAB to 4.3L tank - Remove battery (if equipped)

Conclusion

The 2014 Honda CRF125F remains a masterclass in accessible off-road engineering. While newer models boast flashier tech, this generation's simplicity is its superpower. It's the Swiss Army knife of dirt bikes - equally at home teaching clutch control in a parking lot or exploring backcountry trails.

For current owners, MOTOPARTS.store carries everything from OEM-spec NGK CPR6EA-9 spark plugs to heavy-duty 428 chains. Whether you're refreshing a well-loved bike or prepping for a teen's first moto adventure, this CRF platform rewards those who keep up with maintenance. Ten years on, it's still putting new riders on the path to two-wheeled addiction - and that's a legacy worth celebrating.

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Specifications sheet

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