Still going strong!
The saying goes ‘if it ain’t broke -don’t fix it’, so it’s no surprise to see an old favourite in the shape of the Honda CT125 still doing it like it always did, but with a revamp from the iconic CT110 that started things.
Continuing its long history of farm bikes in New Zealand, Honda now launches the all new CRF250F.
This newcomer is powered by a new, 250cc four valve engine with Keihin electronic fuel injection for increased power.
Strong torque and a linear power delivery enables new riders to learn at lower, less intimidating rpm, and advanced offroaders can use its torque for climbing on farm.
The increase in torque at all rpm also results in fewer shifts, allowing riders to focus more on the trail ahead.
Its tubular steel frame is durable and makes for excellent handling, a benefit appreciated by all riders.
And the repositioning of the exhaust muffler closer to the centre of mass helps give the bike a lighter feel, responsiveness and good handling especially at the entrance to corners.
The Pro-Link rear suspension puts the smooth power to the ground, and the Showa 41mm fork works with the new frame’s steering geometry for maximum front-wheel traction.
Braking is by new petal-style rotors for improved modulation, heat transfer and mud clearing.
The CRF Performance Line inspired bodywork - aggressive and compact - keeps the rider in touch with the machine.
Hot or cold, stored in the garage or stopped on a challenging hill, the CRF250F’s EFI and electric starter always does its thing. There are no carburetor circuits to clog with fuel residue if the bike has to sit for a long time.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says withdrawing from the Paris Agreement on climate change would be “a really dumb move”.
The University of Waikato has broken ground on its new medical school building.
Undoubtedly the doyen of rural culture, always with a wry smile, our favourite ginger ninja, Te Radar, in conjunction with his wife Ruth Spencer, has recently released an enchanting, yet educational read centred around rural New Zealand in one hundred objects.
Farmers are being urged to keep on top of measures to control Cysticerus ovis - or sheep measles - following a spike in infection rates.
For more than 50 years, Waireka Research Station at New Plymouth has been a hub for globally important trials of fungicides, insecticides and herbicides, carried out on 16ha of orderly flat plots hedged for protection against the strong winds that sweep in from New Zealand’s west coast.
There's a special sort of energy at the East Coast Farming Expo, especially when it comes to youth.

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