Riding up the into the Santa Ynez Mountains, the little CRF did a fine job of untangling the twisty, scabby pavement thanks to its wide bars and big wheels shod with narrow IRC rubber. Once at the summit we enjoyed some 30-plus miles of off-roading on loose fire roads and rough, steep single track. The CRF took it all in stride, though the front tire didn’t offer as much grip as we’d like for fast-paced dirt riding. Still, the CRF proved to be the perfect vehicle for adventure, and considering how well it worked in town and on the canyon roads coming up, it’s really impressive how versatile this little bike is. And all for just $4499! Yes, we mentioned that once already, but it bears repeating. In the CRF250L, Honda’s turned out a capable, remarkably inexpensive bike that doesn’t have to make many excuses for its performance.