Honda reveals frame and engine updates to CRF450 and two limited-edition models
Honda has just launched six new CRF models including two limited-edition HRC variants, while a new frame and engine highlight the major changes.
Honda has unveiled its new CRF450 and 250 off-road range featuring two HRC-WE models, alongside major updates to its CRF450R and 450RX bikes.
The updates include a new frame and engine, with the latter offering 10 per cent more power and four per cent more torque. Those numbers differ slightly for the CRF450R, which gains 10.3 per cent more power and 3.7 per cent more torque.
The all-new 449.5cc engine boasts a bigger bore, shorter stroke and larger diameter inlet and exhaust valves, as well as a new piston and camshaft. The Japanese company has also tweaked the transmission with revised gear ratios, while the new clutch system introduces a world-first rubber damper-activated Back Torque Limiter (BTL).
Both models share the same frame, which is said to be 70 per cent new, plus a completely new Showa suspension and two-piston Nissin front brake caliper. The more enduro-focused CRF450RX also shares the same redesigned bodywork as its MX sibling, and for the first time ever, the same titanium fuel tank that’s housed by the CRF450R.
The electronics package features HRC Launch Control and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), which have been updated with settings taken directly from factory race machines.
Joining the CRF450R and CRF450RX is the new HRC-WE limited-edition model, which also gains a titanium header pipe, unique graphics and a seat cover.
The WE model, which stands for Works Edition, also benefits from a bespoke Yoshimura titanium exhaust and Twinair filter that boosts peak power. The new range-topping model is accompanied by a smaller CRF250 HRC-WE variant, while Honda has also updated the CRF250R and CRF250RX models with the same revised graphic package as the 450cc duo.
The CRF250R and CRF250RX also feature full Showa suspension and two-piston Nissin front brake. All MY27 models use Extreme Red as the base colour, as well as all-new HRC-inspired graphics.
In terms of price, the flagship CRF450 HRC-WE will cost £11,399, while the RX model is over £2,000 cheaper at £9,199. The CRF450R is the cheapest motorcycle of the three at £8,199.
Additionally, the CRF250 HRC-WE gets a price tag of £10,549, while the RX variant gets the same price as the CRF450R (£8,199). Finally, the CRF250R is the most affordable of the six bikes at £7,649.
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After graduating with a sports journalism degree, Robert joined Crash.net to lead the WorldSBK coverage in 2021, while also providing MotoGP coverage. Fulfilling that role for over three years, Robert was able to put his knowledge about all things racing to the test.
