All-new 2021 Honda CRF450R revealed
Honda's CRF450R has undergone several overhauls since its introduction in 2002, but 2021 might just be the biggest yetThe 2021 Honda CRF450R has been revealed, with the open class motocross machine undergoing a complete overhaul. Honda has given the CRF450R significant updates for 2021 in what it describes as ‘a new chapter’.
The Japanese manufacturer states its design philosophy for the updated machine as ‘Razor Sharp Cornering’ with the three main goals of ‘improving power on corner exits’, ‘improving handling’ and ‘achieving more consistent lap times over the course of a moto’.
Honda’s open-class machine has been redeveloped off the back of Honda HRC’s 2019 MXGP World Championship triumph with Slovenia’s Tim Gasjer. German rider Ken Roczen also finished third in the 2020 AMA Supercross Championship aboard his factory Honda CRF450R.
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At the forefront of the overhaul is an all-new, and lighter, twin-spar aluminium fame that is designed to reduce lateral rigidity for improved cornering performance and stability. There is also a new swing arm designed for improved traction.
The 449cc Unicam engine has been carried over, but it too has received a number of updates including changes to the decompression system, intake and exhaust, with hopes for improved low and mid-range performance. Notably, gone are the signature twin-mufflers, with a new single muffler resulting in a narrower profile.
Honda has kept the 49mm Showa spring fork, but it has added 5mm extra stroke for better handling and rider comfort. At the rear, a new shock has been fitted to the new frame design with a new lighter steel spring.
Electronically, the bike features HRC launch control, Honda Selectable Torque Control and three engine modes. All these features are controlled by a new handlebar mounted switch block.
Also new for 2021 are redesigned radiator shrouds and bodywork, a new triple clamp design, a new hydraulic clutch and clutch structure, a newly-designed seat, revised air-filter system, a revised fuel pump and of course, bold new graphics.
The spec sheet shows that the bike weighs 105.8kg and carries a 6.3l fuel tank. It also features EFI, 260mm (front) and 250mm (rear) brake discs, plus Dunlop MX33 rubber.
Motocross bike releases don’t get much bigger than this with the new machine set to arrive in October alongside the 2021 CRF250R and 2021 CRF150R. Pricing is yet to be announced. Head to motorcycles.honda.com.au for more information.
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