The early 2000s marked an exciting and transformative era for the ATV industry, and the introduction of the TRX™ 250EX perfectly encapsulated this shift. During this period, where high-performance, race-inspired machines dominated the market, Honda took a different approach with the Sportrax 250EX.
Introduced as a successor to the FourTrax 250R, the Honda Sportrax 250EX is a sport ATV that boasts a dynamic DNA and incorporates modern tech and advancements in its spirited design. It was slanted towards a broader audience, breaking the stereotype of niche, off-roading four-wheelers.
Unlike its predecessor, the Sportrax 250EX was both performance-oriented and recreationally versatile. It fostered the inclusivity of casual riders who are not as hard-core on the trails and simply looking for a sport quad to accompany them on their weekend adventures.
Thanks to this brilliant, ingenious machine, Honda captured a larger share of the ATV market and provided a compelling option for riding enthusiasts.
About the Honda Sportrax 250EX
The Honda Sportrax 250EX (a.k.a. Honda TRX™ 250EX) is one of several all-terrain vehicles launched by the Japanese manufacturer under its sport-ATV series. Introduced in 2004, the quad was first unveiled in Las Vegas, Nevada. It features styling cues reminiscent of the Honda FourTrax and Yamaha Raptor and is still produced in some markets.
Critics and riders appreciated the Sportrax 250EX’s user-friendly nature and responsive handling, strengthening its appeal to many riders and enthusiasts.
It was also suitable for trail riding, dunes, and other off-roading environments. The machine was compact, nimble, and agile, with a suspension geometry that offered a comfortable yet capable ride.
2006—2011 Honda Sportrax 250EX Specs
Engine
The 250EX uses an air-cooled, longitudinally mounted single-cylinder 4-stroke OHV engine. The compression ratio is set to 9.2:1, while a single 20-/22-mm PDC1G carburetor (#95 main, #42 slow jet) handles the air-fuel mixture.
The bore-stroke ratio is an almost-square 68.5x 62.2 mm (2.70 x 2.45 inches), providing reliable revving ability and throttle responsiveness. Meanwhile, piston displacement measures 229.2 cm³ (14 in³).
Overall, this engine configuration yields the following performance figures:
Description | |
---|---|
Top Speed | 50–55 mph (80–88 km/h) |
Horsepower | 17–20 hp (12.5–14.7 kW) |
Maximum Torque | 19–22 Nm (1.9–2.2 kgf-m, 14–16 lb-ft) |
Fuel Economy | 35–40 mpg (5.9–6.7 L/100 km, 15–17 kmpl) |
Approximate Tank Range | approximately 87.9–107.6 miles for a full fuel tank |
Fuel & Lubrication
Fuel tank capacity for pre-2007 models is 10.2 L (2.7 USgal) of unleaded gasoline with a minimum rating of PON 87/RON 91. Post-2007 models received a reduced tank capacity of 9.5 L (2.5 USgal), with minimal difference in reserve capacity and required fuel. Across all year models, using lower-Octane fuel is ill-advised as it can cause knocking and eventual engine failure.
Lube-wise, the Sportrax 250E has a Forged pressure wet sump system with the following oil requirements:
- After disassembly: 1.9 L (2.0 US qt)
- After draining: 1.6 L (1.7 US qt)
Recommended engine oil is SAE 10W-30 of Honda 4-stroke motor oil in Europe, New Zealand, and Australia and Pro Honda GN4 4-stroke oil or its equivalent in the U.S.
Other multigrade oils specified in the owner’s manual are permissible following changes in altitude, ambient temperatures, and riding conditions. OEM recommendations and alternative variants must have a minimum API certification of SJ and meet JASO T903 MA standards.
Drivetrain
The Sportrax 250EX roars to life via a 5-speed forward constant-mesh gearbox and a centrifugal, multi-plate wet clutch (with a gearshift sequence of R-N-1-2-3-4-5), delivering power to the wheels. Meanwhile, a #520 chain controls wheelspin. Should the stock chain become worn or damaged, you can replace it with Pro Taper 520 XRC Chain, 120 Links — Gold (view on Amazon).
For your reference, below are the stock gear ratios of the 2006 to 2011 models of the Honda Sportrax 250EX:
Description | |
---|---|
Primary Reduction Ratio | 3.086 (71/23) |
Transmission Gear Ratio – 1st | 2.846 (37/13) |
Transmission Gear Ratio – 2nd | 1.933 (29/15) |
Transmission Gear Ratio – 3rd | 1.444 (26/18) |
Transmission Gear Ratio – 4th | 1.130 (26/23) |
Transmission Gear Ratio – 5th | 0.913 (21/23) |
Reverse | 4.769 (31/16 x 32/13) |
Final Reduction Ratio* | 3.692 (48/13) |
Ignition & Electricals
Ignition is an AC-CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) system with a timing of 14° BTDC at idle (initial “F” mark) and 31° BTDC @ 3,750 RPM at full advance. It is mated to an electric starter and an NGK DPR8EA-9 or Nippon Denso X24EPR-U9 spark plug.
A single-phase alternator with a rated output of 123 W @ 5,000 RPM serves as the quad’s charging system, and a 12V 8Ah battery powers lighting and electronics.
As for its lighting assembly, the Sportrax uses dual 12V 39/39 W headlights, LED brake/taillights, 14V 3 W neutral indicators, and a 12V 3.4 W reverse lamp.
Tires & Brakes
Aluminum wheels are equipped with tubeless Dunlop KT171/175 tires measuring AT22x7-10 at the front and AT22x10-9 at the back. These factory knobbies mount on 10×5.5 AT front and 9×8.0 AT rear rims and require a cold-tire pressure of 30 kPa (0.30 kgf/cm2, 4.4 psi), adjustable by ± 4 kPa based on the machine’s production year, driving speed, and payload.
As for brakes, dual 174-mm front hydraulic discs and a sealed mechanical rear drum provide the Sportrax 250EX with stopping power and complete its tire-and-wheel assembly.
Suspension
Double wishbones with tube dampers and a rear swingarm are enclosed in a double cradle steel frame (9° caster angle, 40 mm/1.6 inches trail).
These suspension units have a respective wheel travel of 150 mm (5.9 inches) and 145 mm (5.7 inches) and are augmented by a 1,124-mm (44.3-inch) wheelbase, a 149-mm (5.9-inch) ground clearance, and a 9.2-foot turning radius.
Dimensions
Overall dimensions of the Sportrax 250EX are 1,739 x 1,062 x 1,076 mm, with post-2007 iterations just slightly longer than earlier models. The saddle height is 797 mm (31.4 inches), perfect for taller, heftier riders. Conversely, the footpeg height is low-hung at 319 mm (12.6 inches).
Capacity-wise, the quad weighs roughly 172 Kg (379 lbs.) across all markets and production models. GVWR, on the other hand, is an estimated 292.5 Kg (645 lbs.) — inclusive of a 10.5-L full tank and fluids, curb mass, and a 110 kg payload limit.
Exterior
The Honda Sportrax 250EX combines sportiness, functionality, and durability in its styling. Its exterior is performance-oriented and aggressive, with sharp angles, sleek lines, and eye-catching graphics and decals.
The 250-class machine features a well-positioned saddle, ergonomic handlebars like ProTaper Sport 855-896 7/8-inch Sport Aluminum Handlebars (view on Amazon), and easily reachable controls.
Worth of a TRX™ 250EX Honda
Like most post-millennium ATVs, sources for the Sportrax 250EX are thankfully not obscure. However, finding a secondhand unit in pristine condition is another story, as claimed by consumers who have recently grown an interest in the decades-old quad.
Original MSRPs for this sport ATV range from $3,549 to $4,399 (2004 to 2012 year models). Low retail begins at $1,020, with average reseller pricing not too far off at $1,345.
Depending on the condition of the preloved unit or the site where it is listed, reseller values can go up to $1,830 for low retail and $2,405 for average retail (according to JD Power). Kelley Blue Book, for one, reports a trade-in value of $2,110 for a 2013 model.
About Honda
Honda Motor Company Ltd., a global frontrunner in robotics, energy solutions, AI, mobility, and automotive sectors, emerged from humble origins in 1946. Initially conceived within the Art Shokai garage in Hongo, Tokyo, the company grew beyond manufacturing piston rings, motorized bicycles, and surplus engines.
Honda is a globally respected industry powerhouse, renowned for its wide-ranging product portfolio and notable contributions to motorcycling and ATVs, including the Honda Sportrax 250EX.
Conclusion — Honda Sportrax 250EX
Rather than chasing sheer speed or aggressive styling, Honda recognized the growing demand for a versatile ATV that could provide a well-rounded riding experience. Hence, the Honda Sportrax 250EX emerged as a deliberate departure from the norm, appealing to riders of all ages and skill levels seeking a blend of reliability, all-terrain capability, and comfort.
Ultimately, there is no better quad to purchase than the Sportrax 250EX if you share such a preference. I (along with many other Sportrax aficionados) can confidently vouch for this machine’s ability to handle a variety of off-road adventures — from spirited trail rides to relaxed explorations.
Kris is an avid off-roader and outdoor enthusiast who loves to brave the elements and take on challenging terrain. He also enjoys sharing his passion and knowledge with others so that they, too, can appreciate the ride.
About Kris