HRC debuted a full factory CRF450R in Japan recently... is it the base of the 2013 model? Image: TWMX.

Honda has unveiled a heavily-revised factory CRF450R at the opening round All Japan National MX Championship at Kyushu Raceway over the weekend.

Expected to be the base of Honda’s 2013 model open-class contender, American magazine Transworld MX has a series of feature photos on the surprise entry.

Ridden by defending Japanese outdoor champion Akira Narita, the Japanese manufacturer has a history of debuting factory versions of upcoming models in the domestic series.

Key features of the HRC bike include a dual exhaust system, hydraulic clutch and an all-new chassis.

Head over to TWMX by clicking here for a complete rundown on the bike including detail images of all components added for this season’s Japanese title chase.