Since the beginning of 2000, Honda developers began to gradually change the line of motorcycles XR to CRF. The new models are offered in three versions:
- Honda CRF450R - cross version . There are no mirrors, headlights, or minimal electrics.
- Honda CRF450F - motocross tires , retuned suspension and engine are features of hard-enduro.
- Honda CRF450X is a symbiosis of both models . It belongs to ENDURO, but has a full set of electrics, mirrors and head optics .
Honda CRF450R – cross.
Honda CRF450F – hard enduro.
Honda CRF450X with headlight.
In 2006, the line underwent rebranding, which is discussed below. The release of updated versions continues. Initially intended for domestic markets, the models can be seen at American and European Honda dealers.
Specifications
When creating an engine for the line, the developers took into account that air cooling in cross-country racing conditions is often not enough, so the new version of the bike is liquid cooled.
The aluminum radiator of the cooling system is located under the gas tank.
No other special solutions were used and the bike received a 4-stroke engine with the following parameters:
- working volume - 448 cm3;
- power - 48 hp;
- number of valves - 4;
- cylinders - 1;
- cooling - liquid;
- fuel supply - carburetor;
- ignition - electronic;
- start - kick starter;
- fuel tank - 8 l.
Engine start
On the first models, starting the engine was possible only from the kick starter foot.
Minimum electrics did not provide the possibility of starting the engine from a button. But after the rebranding of 2006, such an opportunity arose. Buyers of the X version were offered a choice of three options:
- kick starter leg only;
- electric start button only
- both options at once.
Those who wanted to have a second or third option had to pay extra for wiring additional electrical equipment.
Transmission and clutch
The bike is equipped with a 5-speed gearbox, specially rebuilt for cross-country competitions.
The volume of oil poured into the crankcase is indicated on the engine body.
Unlike the standard sequential circuit the gear ratios were reconfigured (reduced) and the pedal stroke length was changed. This was appreciated by both athletes and off-road enthusiasts. The box switched without problems , reacting very sensitively to the movements of the motorcyclist’s legs.
- Multi-disc clutch in oil bath.
Next to the clutch cover is an aluminum alloy brake foot.
- Drive by chain.
Traditional chain drive.
Chain tension roller.
Brakes
Both axles use disc hydraulics.
Front brakes:
- number of disks - 2;
- disc diameter - 240 mm;
- support - 2 pistons (Nissin).
Front brakes.
Rear brakes.
Rear brakes:
- number of disks - 1;
- disc diameter - 240 mm;
- support - 1 piston, floating bracket (Nissin).
No additional options are provided.
2022 HONDA CRF450R-S
The SUV category has witnessed exceptional growth in recent years, which has generated strong demand for 450cc motocross bikes. See While many racers demand the latest technology, a large number of customers also consider price as their top priority, without making much sacrifice in terms of performance. Offering both the enhanced CRF450R and the CRF450R-S (based on the 2020 CRF450R platform), Honda caters to the needs of both groups. Riding on the same platform raced by Team Honda HRC's Ken Roczen in 2021, the CRF450R-S features Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) which maximizes rear tire connection to keep the Unicam engine's power moving the bike and the rider. forward.
- Red color
- MSRP: $8599
- Available: September
Driving performance
Fuel consumption directly depends on the quality of the road surface. Depending on their driving style, users give different numbers. Average - 8 liters per 100 km (it is worth noting that the tank has the same volume).
Maximum speed
The maximum declared speed is 100 km/h.
According to user reviews, the bike is dynamic and accelerates quickly. This largely depends, of course, on the conditions of use.
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h
To accelerate from 0 to 100 km, the developers voice a figure of 4.2 seconds .
Dimensions and weight
Attempts to lighten and accelerate the motorcycle as much as possible have led to the fact that the dry weight of the models is not much higher than the weight of the average pit bike - 116 kg.
The equipped motorcycle (filled with all fluids) weighs 123 kg.
The side stand adds a couple of kilograms to the weight. Whoever fights for lightness can take it off.
Before describing the external parameters, it is worth recalling that enduro has a high seating position by definition. This affects both ground clearance and the rider's riding position.
The motorcycle has:
- in length - 2180 mm ;
- width - 780 mm (including protruding mirrors on X versions - 820 mm );
- height - 1275 mm , seat - 863 mm .
Wheelbase and ground clearance are 1490 and 340 mm, respectively.
Who is it suitable for?
Despite the initial positioning of the bikes only for Japanese markets, tall European users note that it is quite comfortable to sit and ride. The steering wheel does not touch the steering wheel; it reaches extreme positions without problems.
This powerful cross bike leaves a lot of positive emotions after the first ride.
As a result of the 2006 redesign, versions of subsequent years of production have no height/weight restrictions .
Rebranding 2006
Taking into account the negative comments and opinions collected over several years, in 2006 the concern’s engineers reassembled the line in a new way.
Rumors that the bikes of the new “bottling” will become much more expensive have not been confirmed. The concern's marketing department froze the price. Authorized Hobda dealers around the world began to offer new models at the prices of old ones.
In 2006 in the lineup:
- The engine was moved . 5 mm down, 5 mm forward. The result is increased maneuverability.
- The radiator was moved . 5 mm down. The result is a lower overall center of gravity without reducing ground clearance, resulting in better handling.
- Reduced exhaust pipe noise. According to the new rules of Japanese law, it should not exceed 96 dB.
The mufflers are raised high to the seat and covered with plastic covers.
- The front fork cups were replaced, as well as the front wheel hub . The result is that the motorcycle has become lighter. The consequences have become a whole range of qualities on which comfort when moving depends.
- We used new material for the intake valve seat, carburetor needle, and water pump impeller . The result is an increase in the service life of the corresponding units, and as a result, an extension of the overall service life of the model.
- Separate adjustments have been made to the suspension components , which generally affect driving comfort.
Flaws
The Honda CRF-450 is definitely suitable for experienced pilots, and beginners will be crazy about it. However, beginner riders will still be more suited to a more modest bike, for example, the Honda CRF-250.
Of course, after the announcement of the reassembly of the line, many users expected the inclusion of features that had proven themselves on equipment from other brands. But, as you know, Honda has never pursued new products, focusing on safety and cost . Therefore, many users, speaking about the disadvantages, describe the disadvantages of all enduro equipment.
- Honda CRF450 requires some riding experience . But any off-road, hard or light, will require advanced control skills from the pilot, and the brand is no exception.
- Fuel reserve is small . The developers are positioning the bike primarily as a sports equipment, not a road bike. Due to the forced engine and cross-country settings, the bike needs to be serviced more often than a regular one . Well, with frequent maintenance, refilling is just part of the process...
A rather serious disadvantage is the carburetor, not the injector . But converting to an injector will require rebuilding the bike, while a new needle will allow the carburetor to last longer. But among cross-country and enduro fans there is a large caste of people who only recognize the carburetor.
Advantages
The motorcycle will most likely appeal to those riders who like to combine motorsports disciplines such as motocross and classic enduro.
Just like the disadvantages, the advantages of the model are often the advantages of the brand. In addition to the additions used during rebranding, users note:
- good handling;
- reliability;
As well as a large number of both components and tuning opportunities . Moreover, in some cases, the concern contributes to the latter by releasing for sale a small number of models converted at the factory.
