The 2017 Honda CRF450R – it looks different, feels different and delivers a whole new rider experience. In plain and simple terms it’s faster, much faster.

The CRF450R has defined the art of balance, with an engine that produces hard-hitting usable power in a race-ready package since 2002. It’s always been a machine that offers total control, together with the durability and longevity that Honda is long famed for.

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The 2017 model is re-imagined, it’s the first ‘from the ground-up’ redesign of the CRF450R for eight years and packs a powered-up HRC designed engine with an 11 percent overall power boost and stronger torque right through the rev range.

It gets an all-new seventh generation aluminium frame with new chassis geometry, lower centre of gravity and a titanium fuel tank making it lighter and more compact.

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The new CRF450R is fitted with factory driven 49mm Showa USD coil spring front forks, developed from a version supplied to MX race teams. They are everything one would expect from effectively race-spec suspension, the out of the crate fork action is supple, smooth and fully in control.

For the very first time, an electric-start kit is available on the CRF450R. Kit specification and local availability will be announced later.

The body is more compact with aerodynamically-efficient plastics with feature film insert graphics for optimum scratch resistance and a bolder effect.

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Direct input from Honda’s MX GP and AMA teams highlighted the need to develop a race partner with the unoquivical need to be first out of the gate, first into turn one and to punch out a blistering lap time.

Honda have taken this literally with the design inspiration completely underpinned by creating a machine that is the ‘Absolute Holeshot.’

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The central focus has been placed on ‘producing a new model with execptional engine performance, engine power, low centre of gravity and to offer outstanding rear wheel traction’ all in the one package.

It’s a lot to take in, a complete redesign and geometric rework that’s resulted in a stronger, lighter, sharper, faster machine.

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Engine/Drivetrain key features:
– Downdraft intake layout increases power by reducing resistance, improving air-charging efficiency.
– New combustion chamber with higher compression ratio, decreased valve angle for greater efficiency.
– Use of finger rocker arm allows increased valve lift while retaining compact Unicam layout.
– Coils on valve springs have oval cross-sections to allow low engine height.
– New port layout with straighter flow for increased efficiency.
– New piston with improved combustion efficiency.
– Diamond-like carbon (DLC) on piston pin, rocker arm reduces friction, increases durability.
– New compact dual muffler with more-gradual pipe bends for smoother exhaust flow.
– Shallower clutch assembly with fewer, thicker plates for narrower engine width.
– Kick start standard, with electric start available as an accessory.

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Chassis/Suspension key features:
– New layout allows improved traction through concentration of mass, lower center of gravity.
– Lighter sixth-generation aluminum twin-spar frame with revised geometry; allows improved cornering performance through reduction of torsional stiffness (lateral stiffness is unchanged).
– Lighter swingarm assembly with increased vertical and lateral stiffness.
– New rear-suspension location lowers center of gravity.
– Narrower cross section (down 30mm at radiator shrouds).
– Aluminum rear subframe with extruded gussets for lighter weight.
– Showa fork is now 49mm (up 1mm), with coil springs replacing air system.
– New lighter titanium fuel tank.
– The kill switch/ignition map adjustment switch has been combined into one unit for reduced weight.
– Dunlop Geomax MX3S tyres.
– Plastic bodywork with a smoother layout and have film-insert graphics for improved appearance and durability.
– The new front fender shape allows a more efficient air path to radiator.

Stay tuned for more to come or for more detailed information on this brand new CRF450R and to keep up to date with when it will hit Australian shores please visit www.hondacrf.com.au.