Honda had a successful model year with the 2015 CRF450R, enjoying strong results in AMA Supercross stadiums (the bike finished on the podium at every round) and on dealership floors. As Honda's engineers developed the 2016 model, their focus was on refining performance, particularly in the area of handling.

CHANGES FOR 2016

IMPORTANT FEATURES

Chassis
Revolutionary 48mm inverted KYB PSF (Pneumatic Spring Fork) offers high- and low-speed adjustment for both compression and rebound damping, enabling precise adjustment of suspension performance no matter the conditions. The air fork also weighs less than a coil-spring fork, and making changes to spring rate is both easier and less expensive.

The Honda Progressive Steering Damper (HPSD) works in conjunction with the suspension to provide excellent steering precision, whether the rider is braking into a corner, accelerating out, skimming whoops or navigating ruts.

The large (260mm) front brake rotor allows excellent modulation, and its wave pattern minimizes weight. Dunlop's MX52 tires utilize "block-on-block" technology to provide excellent feedback and traction.

Engine
Honda's 449cc Unicam liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke power plant returns for 2016. The piston is specially treated for maximum durability, and the twin-exhaust system eases maneuverability by centralizing mass.

Settings on the PGM-FI (Programed Fuel Injection) emphasize low- and midrange power for smooth, predictable engine performance, and Honda's handlebar-mounted Engine-Mode Select button enables the rider to choose between three settings: Standard, Smooth, Aggressive. This feature can be used in conjunction with the available HRC Fuel Injection Setting Tool to further customize engine-output characteristics.