The off-road category has seen exceptional growth in recent years, creating strong demand for 450cc motocross machines. And while many off-road riders demand the latest technology, a large number of customers also see value as a top priority, while still not willing to make a big sacrifice in terms of performance. By creating the all-new 2021 CRF450R and making an additional production run of 2020 units that will be available at a permanent price reduction, Honda looks to address the needs of both groups.
The same platform raced by Team Honda HRC's Ken Roczen and Justin Brayton in the 2020 AMA Supercross series, the 2020 CRF450R features proven performance alongside electronic rider aids like Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), which maximizes rear-tire hookup to keep all of the Unicam® engine's horsepower driving the bike and rider forward.
Engine / Drivetrain
- 449cc single-cylinder engine with Unicam cylinder head, downdraft intake tract, electronic fuel injection and electric start offers "Absolute Holeshot" performance.
- Honda Selectable Torque Control with three levels of intervention. HSTC monitors rpm spikes and responds by temporarily reducing torque to aid rear traction. A handlebar-mounted switch allows selection between three modes, depending on conditions and rider preference.
- Ignition mapping with riding modes in Standard, Smooth and Aggressive options, selectable via a separate handlebar-mounted switch, enables simple tuning depending on rider preference or course conditions.
- Selectable HRC launch control provides a steady stream of torque for excellent performance on race starts.
- Electric starter (powered by a lightweight lithium-ion battery).
- Shift sensor allows a dedicated ignition map for each gear, enabling optimum running.
Chassis / Suspension
- Twin-spar aluminum frame engineered to offer strong handling performance for track riding.
- Chassis layout allows heavier components to be located as centrally and low as possible for nimble handling and feel.
- Front-brake caliper uses a pair of pistons (30 mm and 27 mm) for optimal braking performance on a 260 mm rotor with a petal pattern to best dissipate heat.
- Showa® shock and 49 mm coil-spring fork.
- Front brake hose resists expansion for precise, consistent braking feel.
- Top triple clamp has two handlebar-clamp locations for moving the handlebar back and forth by 26 mm. With reversible handlebar clamp enabling an additional 10 mm of adjustment from the base position, there are a total of four different handlebar positions.
- Black Renthal® Fatbar® handlebar encourages active riding position, while also contributing to light steering feel.
- Footpegs shed mud and give the rider great feel and confidence in all riding conditions.
- Lightweight, compact 1.66 gallon titanium fuel tank keeps weight to a minimum.
- Black D.I.D rims deliver a strong presence on and off the track.
- Minimization of lines and gaps in the plastic panels results in a smooth surface, facilitating riding-position changes.
- In-mold graphics are durable and resistant to peeling caused by washing or abrasion.
- Available only through Honda dealers, Dunlop Geomax MX3S tires provide superior bump absorption and excellent grip.
Rear brake-pad material yields both performance and durability.
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