2009 450cc motocrossers turn a corner
Some big changes on the wayThe last few years haven’t been the most exciting in the 450cc motocross class.
Sure, there have been a few seminal moments, such as Suzuki going the way of fuel injection in 2008, but for the most part the changes have been limited to ergonomic, suspension and engine tweaks. All progress, but the fanfare’s been lacking.
But things are about to change for 2009, particularly from the Honda and Kawasaki bunkers. They have gone all-out with new models, which include EFI, while Yamaha, Husqvarna and KTM have also upped the ante.
Ironically Suzuki, which gained so much traction with its 2008 model RM-Z450, is the only manufacturer with a carry-over model, notwithstanding a little bit of graphic and colour work.
Following are the changes at a glance for all the 2009 models:
- New lighter, slimmer, aluminium frame
- New 450cc engine with fuel injection
- New Kayaba forks
- Revised swingarm
- New hock absorber and Uni-Trak rear suspension
- New petal discs
- Slimmer radiator shrouds
- New motocross-dedicated ECU
- New chassis dimensions
- Wider footpegs
- Now with Renthal handlebars
- Refined power delivery
- New throttle link
- New styling
- Limited-edition Monster Energy paint scheme
- Price and availability TBA
Honda CRF450R - New lightweight, battery-less fuel injection/ignition system - Fuel tank capacity deceased by 1.5 litres (because of improved fuel consumption) - New thin-walled crankcase 200 grams lighter - Rev limit increased 180rpm - Oil capacity decreased by 100ml - New HRC settings kit for setting up the machine to meet all race situations - Steering damper revalved - New frame is 410 grams lighter - A more open and ‘easy’ ride position - New exhaust header design from the left side of the cylinder head exhaust port - New KYB rear damper and bigger (48mm) KYB front fork - New longer swingarm and new, wider rear tyre - New grips - New seat - Improved clutch action - New plastic body parts featuring Honda Racing-inspired colours and graphics - Available late November at $11,590
Husqvarna TC450
KTM 450SX-F
- Price and availability TBA
- Matching seat cover
- Yellow front numberplate
- Colour change on radiator shroud
- Price and availability TBA
Yamaha YZ450F
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