TRF Forums

My Honda CRF250L is getting the raw end of the deal of my newness to green laning (and motorcycling). So I would like to lessen the impact of the inevitable drops to prevent the need for major repairs and at least preserve some resale value (when it comes to it - not soon though!).

Beyond me getting better (working on that) any suggestions?
(Currently have hand guards, aluminium sump guard, folding gear shift and will be replacing the (broken) mirrors with folding ones.)

Have seen some engine covers, radiator guards and frame sliders but not sure how good these would be.....

Big issues at the moment are the ever increasing number of gouges in the engine cover, fairing, swing arm basically all over... perhaps I should buy a tank, or wrap it in bubble wrap or just crack on.

You have done the basics, so all good. Plastics will get scratched as normal............its called wear and tear

You haven't mentioned handlebars

I found them very weak - bending with a decent off - and I replaced with Renthal Dakar Bars (from Totally TTRs) and whilst at it put on Heated grips.

You have possibly came from the world of road bikes, where things are kept clean and bikes last a long time.


You have then bought a new trail bike and while wanting to learn a new skill, you also want to maintain your bike to the standard you are used to to maximise the value it will command when the time comes to sell it.

There is also a certain amount of guilt you feel inside when you damage something new and shiny.

I have travelled (still travelling) this path.


My advice is to make sure you have decent tyres, take it easy and build up slowly.

You will damage your bike but this is inevitable, detach yourself from it, deal with it.

Learn to smile on the outside and weep inside as you pick up the shattered bodywork and bend the levers back into shape

Trailbikes should be black or orange and scuffed.

I don't feel like I've gelled with a bike until I've put my mark on it - a few scuffs, dings, bloodstains........

you have done the basics......

personally id ditch the mirrors anyway.

i dont have graphics or anything on my drz.....just scratched plastics

Thanks for all the comments and advice. Cheers


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