Honda FourTrax Recon TRX250TM [2021-2022] Review: The Unapologetic Workhorse of the Trails
Introduction
The Honda FourTrax Recon TRX250TM needs no introduction for those who’ve spent time on farms, hunting trails, or muddy backroads. This isn’t an ATV designed to win beauty contests or break speed records—it’s built to outlast apocalypses while hauling firewood, plowing snow, or navigating rocky terrain without complaint. For the 2021-2022 model years, Honda refined its legacy of simplicity and durability, creating a machine that feels as at home in a rancher’s stable as it does on weekend trail adventures. After spending days wrestling this quad through Appalachian mud pits and using it to haul gear at a remote campsite, here’s why it remains a benchmark in the entry-level utility ATV segment.
Design & Build Quality: Function Over Flair
The TRX250TM’s design philosophy screams “no-nonsense.” With a boxy steel cargo rack up front (rated for 49 lbs/22 kg) and a larger rear rack (99 lbs/45 kg), this ATV prioritizes utility. The 2021 model offered colors like Beige and Active Yellow, while 2022 leaned into earthy tones like Moose Brown and Zest Orange—choices that hide mud scratches better than you’d expect. At 1,905 mm (75 inches) long and 1,034 mm (40.7 inches) wide, it’s compact enough to maneuver through tight forest trails but substantial enough to feel stable on uneven ground.
The steel frame and plastic body panels are thicker than what you’ll find on recreational quads, and the longitudinally mounted engine sits low, contributing to a center of gravity that prevents tip-overs during aggressive turns. Ground clearance of 152 mm (6 inches) isn’t class-leading, but combined with the 22-inch tires, it shrugs off most roots and rocks without scraping its underbelly.
Engine & Performance: Old-School Reliability
Powering the TRX250TM is a 229cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine—a design that hasn’t changed dramatically since the 1990s. With a carbureted fuel system and overhead valves, this isn’t the most modern powerplant, but it’s nearly indestructible. The engine produces modest power (Honda doesn’t publish horsepower figures, but expect around 15-18 HP), which is routed through a 5-speed manual gearbox with a clutchless automatic transmission.
On the trail, the TRX250TM feels like a tractor. Throttle response is deliberate rather than snappy, and the engine thrives in the mid-range. First and second gears are reserved for crawling over obstacles or towing, while third and fourth handle most trail riding. Fifth gear tops out at around 72 km/h (45 mph)—enough for dirt roads but not highway use. The inclusion of reverse gear is a blessing when you’re stuck in a muddy dead-end.
The electric starter (with kick backup) fired up reliably even after the quad sat overnight in 4°C (39°F) weather, though the carburetor required a generous choke. Fuel economy averages 18-20 km/l (42-47 mpg), giving it a 160-180 km (100-112 mi) range from its 9.1L (2.4-gallon) tank—enough for a full day of ranch work.
Riding Experience: Comfort Meets Control
Honda’s Independent Double-Wishbone Front Suspension offers 130 mm (5.1 inches) of travel, soaking up washboard trails and small jumps without bottoming out. The rear swingarm with a single shock provides 124 mm (4.9 inches) of travel, which feels slightly stiff when the rear rack is loaded but prevents sagging under weight.
Seat height is 792 mm (31.2 inches), low enough for shorter riders to plant both feet, and the narrow seat (compared to recreational quads) encourages an active riding posture. After three hours of trail riding, my legs appreciated the occasional stand-up breaks, but the upright handlebar position reduces wrist fatigue.
Drum brakes front and rear drew skepticism initially, but the dual hydraulic front drums provided adequate stopping power even descending a 30% gravel incline. That said, aggressive riders might crave disc brakes for faster heat dissipation during prolonged abuse.
Competition: How It Stacks Up
The TRX250TM’s closest rivals include:
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Yamaha Kodiak 450:
More power (421cc) and CVT convenience, but heavier at 272 kg (600 lbs) and pricier. The Kodiak excels in technical terrain but lacks the Honda’s analog simplicity. -
Suzuki KingQuad 400:
Fuel-injected and smoother, with 4WD optional. However, its complexity means higher maintenance costs over time. -
Can-Am Outlander 450:
A performance-oriented beast with 38 HP and IRS suspension, but overkill (and over-budget) for casual users.
Verdict: The TRX250TM wins for buyers valuing mechanical simplicity, low ownership costs, and a proven design. It’s the AK-47 of ATVs—not the fanciest, but it’ll work when others fail.
Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive
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Carburetor Care:
The 22mm carburetor is reliable but demands seasonal cleaning if left unused. Consider installing a fuel stabilizer or upgrading to an aftermarket carb kit for ethanol-heavy fuels. -
Air Filter Vigilance:
The foam air filter needs oiling every 50 hours. Swap it for a high-flow filter from MOTOPARTS.store if riding in dusty conditions. -
Drum Brake TLC:
Adjust brake shoes annually and replace springs if engagement feels mushy. Our store stocks heat-resistant brake pads for heavy loads. -
Shaft Drive Lubrication:
The shaft drive requires grease every 100 hours. Use a waterproof marine grease to prevent corrosion. -
Tire Upgrades:
The stock 22x7-11 front tires lack bite in deep mud. Pair our 6-ply radial tires with lightweight aluminum wheels for better traction.
Final Thoughts
The Honda FourTrax Recon TRX250TM isn’t trying to impress you—it’s here to work. Whether you’re maintaining a 40-acre plot or teaching a teenager responsible riding habits, this ATV delivers durability that borders on boring. Yes, the drum brakes could use an update, and fuel injection would simplify cold starts, but those quirks are part of its charm. For riders who value function over frills, the TRX250TM is a lifetime investment. And when it eventually needs parts—decades from now—MOTOPARTS.store will have the upgrades to keep it running like a Swiss watch.
Specifications sheet
Engine | |
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Stroke: | Four-stroke |
Fuel system: | Carburettor (22mm) |
Displacement: | 229 ccm |
Fuel control: | Overhead Valves (OHV) |
Bore x stroke: | 68.5 x 62.2 mm (2.7 x 2.4 in) |
Configuration: | Single |
Cooling system: | Air |
Compression ratio: | 9.2:1 |
Number of cylinders: | 1 |
Dimensions | |
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Wheelbase: | 1130 mm (44.5 in) |
Seat height: | 792 mm (31.2 in) |
Overall width: | 1034 mm (40.7 in) |
Overall height: | 1069 mm (42.1 in) |
Overall length: | 1905 mm (75.0 in) |
Ground clearance: | 152 mm (6.0 in) |
Fuel tank capacity: | 9.1 L (2.4 US gal) |
Reserve fuel capacity: | 2.27 L (0.6 US gal) |
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc: | 198 |
Drivetrain | |
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Driveline: | 2WD with reverse |
Final drive: | shaft |
Transmission: | 5-speed automatic |
Additional Features | |
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Starter: | Electric & kick |
Color options: | Red, Moose Brown, Zest Orange, Beige, Active Yellow, Metallic Blue |
Factory warranty: | 1–3 years (varies by region) |
Carrying capacity: | Steel cargo racks front and rear |