During a successful debut year with the “Absolute Holeshot” philosophy that achieved optimum power and centralized mass, the revolutionary CRF450R has become the industry’s top-selling 450cc motocrosser. For 2018, an electric starter is now standard, powered by a lightweight lithium-ion battery. CRF450R upgrades for 2018 also include updated suspension settings aimed at improving chassis feel and overall action, and new ECU settings for a more useable power delivery.
| FEATURE | DETAIL | BENEFIT | |
| ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN | |||
| Downdraft intake layout | Air intake is above shock | Increases power by reducing resistance, improving air-charging efficiency | |
| Updated ECU | More useable power delivery | ||
| High combustion ratio | 13.5:1 | Maximizes efficiency | |
| Narrow valve angle | 10.5º intake, 9º exhaust | ||
| High-combustion-efficiency piston | Flat-top design | ||
| Use of finger rocker arm | Operates intake valves | Maximizes lift while retaining compact Unicam® layout | |
| Oval-section coils on valve springs | Allows low engine height | ||
| Diamond-like carbon (DLC) on piston pin, rocker arm | Minimizes friction, maximizes durability | ||
| Compact dual muffler | Gradual pipe bends | Smooth exhaust flow | |
| Shallow clutch assembly | 77mm | Helps achieve narrow engine width | |
| Electric start standard | Lithium-ion battery | Easy starting, light weight | |
| CHASSIS / SUSPENSION | |||
| Efficient vehicle packaging | Concentrates mass, lowers center of gravity | Maximizes traction | |
| Lightweight aluminum frame | Sixth-generation, twin-spar design | Precise cornering performance | |
| Lighweight aluminum swingarm assembly | Optimized vertical and lateral stiffness | ||
| Updated suspension settings | Improved chassis feel and overall action | ||
| Low rear-suspension location | Low center of gravity | ||
| Aluminum rear subframe | Extruded gussets | Lightweight | |
| Titanium fuel tank | 1.6 gal. | ||
| Single, dual-function switch assembly | Kill switch & ignition-map adjustment | ||
| Dunlop Geomax MX3S tires | Block-in-block knobs | Superior bump absorption, grip in wide variety of conditions | |
| Plastic bodywork with smooth layout, film-insert graphics | Sharp appearance, durable | ||
| Carefully shaped front fender | Allows efficient air path to radiator | ||
| Updated engine hangers | Different flex on cylinder-head hangers | Improved handling characteristics | |
Consult owner’s manual for optional racing parts
Meets current CARB and EPA emissions standards
