2008 Honda reviews

I have been riding big V-twin Cruisers for 14 years and recently decided to leave the cruiser scene. I first spotted the CRF230L on the showroom floor back in 2008, and I finally found a good, clean, 1 owner 2008 model just a couple months ago, June of 2012. I am brand new to off road riding, and I have to say that this little 230 is a kick-in-the-pants! I am absolutely loving it as a commuter and on trails and logging roads. And you just can't go wrong with Honda's quality and reliability. If you want to travel down the hiway at 55+ mph., you better get a bigger bike because this little jewel is not really designed for that. However, I am very satisfied with my work commute at 40-45 mph. which nets me 96 mpg. As for off-roading, I do not know the full potential of this bike because as I mentioned earlier, I am brand new to trail riding, but so far the bike has served me well. I get 74 mpg. off road. And if I do a fairly even split of on road/off road riding, I get 84 mpg. The only complaint I have is with the terribly uncomfortable seat, but that can be changed easy enough. Overall, I love this little bike and only wish I had bought it sooner! Show less

Now that I've put about 600 miles on my CRF230L since buying it in May, I can say that it is a great bike. But what I have found out is that it's not really meant to be a highway bike. If you plan on riding on rural-type roads at speeds between 35-50 mph, the bike is a lot of fun. It has razor sharp handling due to its relatively short rake and trail, but at speeds above 50 mph, it does get squirrely--especially when it's windy. It's not a highway cruiser due to its light weight (267 lbs.) and high center of gravity. Gusty winds will push it around on the highway, so be prepared. But--it is what it is---and that's a great off-road bike and a great bike to learn on and commute with. I'm averaging around 86-88 miles per gallon, which is amazing. The motor is rock-solid and never misses a beat--typical Honda. I would recommend the bike to anyone, but I will be moving up to a larger bike next year for more highway use. Show less

After a long illness, this bike was just the right size for me. It's a great looking bike, too. Show less

I've had this bike for about two months now (bought it used) and it is perfect in every way. As my first (road) bike, it was very easy to learn on. Although very unforgiving and powerful, a first timer should have no problem - granted they take things slow. The powerband is amazing. I now understand when others told me it kind of just sucks you in from 6,000 rpms. I can't really give any more of a review since I have no experience on anything else. But so far it has proved to be the best purchase I have ever made, hands down. Now if I could only come up with another few grand to take it to the track. Show less

This is probably my last bike. Over the years I've had more than a few bikes, mostly Honda and mostly Cruisers. I can't say enough about Honda reliability. This bike was bought new in 2010 as a left over 2008 (saved a bunch of $). The stock seat as with most bikes was comfortable for short distance, but we went for the Mustang wide touring seat for all day comfort. This bike will go all day with her sweet spot around 80-85 mph. With accessories as noted below we have a solid touring bike with enough roll on power to pass all traffic. Show less

Turn on the music, turn off your stress, and become one with the road. This bike has an amazing capability to give the rider everything you can imagine. It is a steady ride, has amazing response on tight turns and comfort that is second to none. Take it on a long ride along Hwy 1 or park at the grocery store. The bike turns heads and out come the smiles. Every season is GoldWing season. With the power and smoothness of this Honda, you will never want to ride any other bike again. Show less

I have owned all other brands of 450's and this is by far the best handling bike yet. The power is smooth with lots of it. The brakes are great as well. Show less

I'm a real kid from California and my parents got me the CBR 600RR and I couldn't ask for anything else because this bike couldn't be any more comfortable. It's easy to ride, it's just an overall, well-rounded bike! I'd recommend it to anyone! Show less

The front springs are too soft, but can be replaced with little problem. I set up a back rest, not a butt rest and have a great ride. You can ride with the big boys all day, with more storage, just get over the "macho" thing and you will be way ahead. No more so-called bikes for me. Show less

This is my first motorcyle (5+ years on a 400 cc maxi-scooter, though). I was blown away by the ease of operation. Slow speed handling takes some getting used to, but at highway speeds the Wing handles as well as the scooter. The handlebars are just slightly too far front for 100% comfort, so I will have to extend them back about 1 to 1.5 inches at some point. The stereo is awesome. GPS is adequate although I understand there may be no map upgrades available, which may eventually be a problem. i highly recommend this bike! Show less