Get FinancingHonda's New CRF450R Celebrates 50 Years Of Honda CR Motocross Machines
Honda’s original motocross machine was the 1973 CR250M Elsinore, which gained immediate fame when it carried rider Gary Jones to Honda’s first AMA Motocross championship. Jones and a host of other past and present Team Honda riders recently attended a 50th anniversary celebration where Honda unveiled the 2023 CRF450R. The new flagship motocross bike is available in both the conventional Team Honda red graphics and in a limited-edition 50th anniversary design whose blue seat cover, white number plates, gold rims, and gold handlebar honor the iconic look of the 1980s CR models.
"Honda is synonymous with motocross, and that's a direct result of our dedication to the sport for the past five decades, as well as the invaluable contributions of top riders—from Gary Jones in 1973 to Jett Lawrence in 2022," says Honda’s Brandon Wilson. "The 2023 CRF450R is worthy of that heritage, and the 50th Anniversary Edition pays tribute in a way that we're sure will be appreciated by motocross enthusiasts. We look forward to current and future Honda champions continuing to grow our motocross legacy."
Updates To Take The Podium
Honda says it increased the bike’s low- and mid-range torque and improved acceleration out of corners. Technical updates included a narrower intake port shape and longer intake funnel, along with a revised cam profile and smaller throttle body diameter. The manufacturer also optimized the rigidity of the CRF450R’s frame, and improved front-end traction by replacing the aluminum engine mounts with steel ones. Honda tuned the suspension to compensate for the increased rigidity and included a higher-rated shock spring and revised fork settings to avoid a harsh ride. The new CRF450R features a new muffler body made from heat-treated aluminum to enhance the muffler’s strength and reduce noise.
Key Features & Specs
Honda equips the CRF450R with a 450-cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder Unicam engine and a hydraulic clutch that’s also used on Honda’s Grand Prix MX machines. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) lets riders dial in torque based on preference and track conditions, and a handlebar-mounted button makes it easy to select Standard, Smooth, or Aggressive engine power profiles. A large, 260-millimeter (10.2-inch) front disc brake offers plenty of braking power.
Find Your Honda Motocross Machine
You will find a large selection of new and used Honda motor sports vehicles for sale on MotorSportsUniverse.com, including a number of Honda motorcycles like the CRF450R.
Source: Honda