Issue link: http://trailridermagazine.uberflip.com/i/1525821
Honda CRF450L: My first impression is the CRF450L is a tall bike. Once aboard, I found the cockpit somewhat cramped for my size, with bars closer than I prefer. Now, this might be because I'm a Euro snob and am used to the roomier cockpit of my Italian and Austrian mounts. Given that, we head- ed out for another 20-mile loop. The 450L loves to be twisted and is quiet as a mouse while doing so. It's an awesome stealth bike with plenty of usable power. Ergos were great, with everything within easy reach. I did like the fact that the rear shock is adjustable. Right out of the crate, the CRF450L seems like a great commuter bike that could handle an easy trail ride no problem. Yamaha XT250: With a wide, low seat, the XT250 is reminiscent of enduro bikes from the 1970s. Si ng is extremely comfortable, and all controls are with- in easy reach. As with the other demo rides, our loop was just under 20 miles, and I was more than surprised at how well the li le XT250 goes down the road. For a four-stroke single-cylinder 250, it's apparent the motor is extremely well-balanced, as there is no vibra on transferred to the rider. It won't win any drag races, but I was impressed by how well the en re package works. In fact, while chasing the larger Yamaha ADV models, I saw 70 mph on the speedo with no complaints from the motor. Basically, the Yamaha XT250 does a lot of things quite well for what it is. In the end, I was more than impressed and would consider buying one if the opportunity arose. Honda CRF450L Honda CRF450L Yamaha XT250 Yamaha XT250 Triumph test rides were brisk and invigora ng Triumph test rides were brisk and invigora ng