2017 Honda CRF450R Review

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2017 Honda CRF450R
2017 Honda CRF450R

2017 Honda CRF450R
2017 Honda CRF450R

2017 Honda CRF450R
2017 Honda CRF450R

2017 Honda CRF450R
2017 Honda CRF450R

2017 Honda CRF450R
2017 Honda CRF450R



2017 Honda CRF450R Review

2017 Honda CRF450R on www.Totalmotorcycle.com

Absolute Holeshot…

Open-class motocross might as well be called the unlimited class. There’s no room for anything but the best here, and the best keep getting better and better every year. Well, have no fear, because the all-new 2017 Honda CRF450R is here. Major improvements everywhere, especially to the engine’s increased power and peak torque, help drive you to the front of the pack. There’s even an optional electric starter this year. And when you’re in the lead in the first turn with an empty track in front of you, it’s a whole new kind of race.

Since its 2002 introduction, the CRF450R has earned an enviable racing pedigree, and the 2017 edition is the best yet, with superior technology and style. Riders know that the most important part of any motocross race is the start, and the new CRF450R Unicam® engine has been developed to achieve overwhelming performance in the first 100 feet of battle, offering increased power output but also allowing unparalleled traction. And while arriving to turn one first is significant, winning requires staying in front for the entire moto, which is why Honda engineers designed an all-new chassis with reduced weight and centralized mass. The result is a machine that is at once fast, reliable and forgiving, and that allows riders to more easily extract maximum performance, consistently turning low lap times while simultaneously taxing their bodies less.

On the motocross track. At the GNCC. Wide-open at hare scrambles, or on a tight woods trail. Honda’s 2017 CRF450R and all new CRF450RX have you covered—and that means you’re going to have the competition covered, big time. These two bikes offer the most off-road performance you’ve ever experienced. Which one is going to put you in victory circle?

Everything about the new-from-the-ground-up 2017 CRF450R is designed for the absolute holeshot. A new Unicam engine offers increased power and torque across the rev range, thanks in part to an ultra-direct downdraft air intake, steeper valve angle and twin exhaust system with smoother routing. The chassis boasts new geometry and packaging that results in a more concentrated, lower center of mass, helping to get the power to the ground, maximize stability and improve cornering performance. The lighter aluminum frame has a narrower cross-section and a lighter, extruded aluminum rear subframe. The motorcycle is equipped with a coil-spring 49mm Showa fork, while the rear suspension comprises a lighter swingarm assembly and a shock with a lower mounting position. Dunlop Geomax MX3S tires come standard, and the CRF450R is the first mass-produced motocross bike ever to come with a titanium fuel tank. Electric start is available as an option.

Constant Evolution

And of course, the CRF450R has constantly evolved, with every upgrade drawing on lessons learned in the white heat of Honda’s moto-cross racing programmes throughout the world. Over the years the CRF450R has been honed into one of the most complete race-ready rides. Europe’s favourite open-class moto-crosser is brand new, wielding a major power boost from its new engine, plus increased grip and drive from a redrawn chassis.

It looks different, feels different and delivers a whole new experience trackside. In plain and simple terms, it’s faster. Much faster.

 

Downdraft Fuel Injection

Part of an entire engine overhaul for 2017, the new downdraft intake tract and FI body help and increase both power and fuel-metering precision. It’s part of the reason the CRF450R offers such explosive power and massive torque, especially out of the starting gate and in the critical first 100 feet of the race to the first turn.

New Showa® Spring Fork

An all-new 49mm Showa® fork features a conventional spring design that helps increase the CRF450R’s front-suspension precision, handling and feel.

Next-Generation Aluminum Frame

New for 2017, our Next-Gen twin spar aluminum frame positions the new rear shock’s mounting point lower, opening up the airbox area and contributing to a lower center of gravity for more holeshots. The frame geometry also helps improve traction, feeling and steering precision.

Electric-Start Option

Looking for an awesome new option? Check out the electric-start kit available for the first time on the new CRF450R!

 



2017 Honda CRF450R www.Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

On the 15th anniversary of Honda’s original 450cc class four-stroke motocross model, Honda announces a revolutionary CRF450R that promises to be the most powerful, best-handling Honda motocross machine ever. Honda’s no-compromises approach to designing and developing the new bike was intended to put it at the front of the pack in all areas of performance, resulting in what Honda is calling the “Absolute Holeshot.”

Since its 2002 introduction, the CRF450R has earned an enviable racing pedigree, and the 2017 edition is the best yet, with superior technology and style. Riders know that the most important part of any motocross race is the start, and the new CRF450R Unicam® engine has been developed to achieve overwhelming performance in the first 100 feet of battle, offering increased power output but also allowing unparalleled traction. And while arriving to turn one first is significant, winning requires staying in front for the entire moto, which is why Honda engineers designed an all-new chassis with reduced weight and centralized mass. The result is a machine that is at once fast, reliable and forgiving, and that allows riders to more easily extract maximum performance, consistently turning low lap times while simultaneously taxing their bodies less.

In addition, Honda is offering a brand-new model, the CRF450RX, which is based on the 2017 CRF450R but with a number of differences that make it appropriate for closed-course off-road racing like the GNCC series. Like its motocross-focused sibling, the CRF450RX is designed for maximum agility and performance, offering owners superior power along with effortless handling—the ideal woods-racing combination.

Honda also took the opportunity to announce the remainder of its 2017 model-year CRF competition dirt bike model line, including the CRF250R and CRF150R motocross bikes and CRF450X and CRF250X off-road motorcycles.

“We’re very proud to introduce the milestone 2017 edition of Honda’s legendary CRF450R, as well as the brand-new CRF450RX,” said Lee Edmunds, Manager of Motorcycle Marketing Communications at American Honda. “Both of these models are high-performance machines that represent the epitome of dirt bike engineering. Over the years, each of the milestone CRF450R models has been eagerly anticipated, and the 2017 version is the best yet. We can’t wait to see these models being piloted at the front of the pack by our factory Team Honda HRC and Johnny Campbell Racing squads, our satellite teams, our amateur racers and our customers.”

CRF450R
Everything about the new-from-the-ground-up 2017 CRF450R is designed for the absolute holeshot. A new Unicam engine offers increased power and torque across the rev range, thanks in part to an ultra-direct downdraft air intake, steeper valve angle and twin exhaust system with smoother routing. The chassis boasts new geometry and packaging that results in a more concentrated, lower center of mass, helping to get the power to the ground, maximize stability and improve cornering performance. The lighter aluminum frame has a narrower cross-section and a lighter, extruded aluminum rear subframe. The motorcycle is equipped with a coil-spring 49mm Showa fork, while the rear suspension comprises a lighter swingarm assembly and a shock with a lower mounting position. Dunlop Geomax MX3S tires come standard, and the CRF450R is the first mass-produced motocross bike ever to come with a titanium fuel tank. Electric start is available as an option.

Grab more holeshots

More power, more torque, higher rev limit… the CRF450R’s Unicam engine has been radically improved to get you out front right from the drop of the gate. And keep you there.

New cylinder head

Completely new Unicam cylinder head design uses finger rocker arms, oval cross-section valve springs, bigger intake valves, and increased valve lift to boost horsepower and allow a higher rev limit.

Improved combustion efficiency

By straightening the intake path, reducing valve angle, and revising both combustion chamber and piston shape, engineers were able to improve flow and increase compression ratio for an even bigger power boost.

Better lubrication

A new scavenge pump system with no separate oil tank improves engine lubrication, reduces friction, and requires less oil for reduced overall engine weight.

Programmed for power

The CRF450R’s Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) settings contribute to the engine’s strong low-end torque, remarkable top-end power and generous over-rev capability.

Engine Mode Select button

The CRF450R’s Engine Mode Select (EMS) system lets you modify fuel-injection and ignition mapping with the simple push of a handlebar-mounted button. Choose between Standard, Smooth and Aggressive to dial in the best power curve for better starts, better drive out of corners, better traction, or simply to better suit your riding style. Mode selection is easily accomplished without changing your hand position or shutting down the engine (as long as the engine is idling).

Twin to win

Shorter for 2017, the CRF450R’s twin-muffler exhaust system not only contributes to the engine’s exceptional power characteristics, it’s also positioned tightly to the frame’s centre to take weight off the rear end and optimize mass centralization for improved handling.

Extra durability

Extra-strong transmission gears enhance durability while delivering smooth, sure shifts.

Lighter, more-responsive frame

Not only is the CRF450R’s improved twin-spar aluminum frame lighter for 2017, its torsional stiffness has been reduced to give you more feedback and to improve turn-in and corner-exit performance, without giving up high-speed stability.

Precise handling

Thanks to the new frame, revised swingarm location, centralized rear shock, and other improvements, the CRF450R boasts a lower overall centre of gravity and a shorter wheelbase for 2017. Both contribute to the type of precise handling that wins motos, and championships.

Latest Showa fork

Easy to tune to match changing track conditions or your riding style, the CRF450R’s new Showa coil-spring fork was developed to work in conjunction with the improved chassis for enhanced traction, agility and stability.

Keeping cool

A new front fender and reshaped tank shrouds increase airflow to the radiators, keeping the engine running at peak efficacy from gate drop to checkered flag.

Excellent traction

Dunlop MX3S tires offer excellent traction in a wide variety of conditions.

Titanium fuel tank

The CRF450R’s new titanium fuel tank reduces high-mounted weight, thereby lowering centre of gravity and improving mass centralization.

Enhanced mobility

Smoother bodywork with fewer edges allows you move even more freely in the CRF450R’s saddle, while improved durability of plastic components and graphics keeps your CRF looking new win after win.

Agility plus comfort

Revised rider ergonomics with a very narrow midsection allow you to fully utilize the CRF450R’s incredible agility.

Easy to adjust

Quick-adjust clutch perch simplifies cable adjustment.

Reduced rider fatigue

Aluminum handlebar is rubber-mounted to reduce rider fatigue and improve comfort.

Preventative indicator

The engine stop switch with integrated LED indicator lets you know if the PGM-FI system is working properly.


 

 

2017 Honda CRF450R www.Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

Engine/Drivetrain
•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.

Chassis/Suspension
•New layout allows improved traction through concentration of mass, lower center of gravity.
•New, lighter sixth-generation aluminum twin-spar frame with revised geometry; allows improved cornering performance through reduction of torsional stiffness (lateral stiffness is unchanged).
•New, 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.
•Kill switch/ignition-map-adjustment switch combined into one unit for reduced weight.
•Dunlop Geomax MX3S tires.
•Plastic bodywork with smoother layout and film-insert graphics for improved appearance and durability.
•New front fender shape allows more-efficient air path to radiator.
•Consult owner’s manual for optional racing parts
•Meets current CARB and EPA emissions standards





 

2017 Honda CRF450R – www.Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $8849 USD

” ENGINE
Engine Type
449cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke
Bore And Stroke
96mm x 62.1mm
Compression Ratio
13.5:1
Valve Train
Unicam® four-valve; 38mm intake, titanium; 31mm exhaust, Steel
Induction
Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI), 46mm downdraft throttle body
Ignition
Fully transistorized with electronic advance
” DRIVE TRAIN
Transmission
Close-ratio five-speed
Final Drive
#520 Chain; 13T/49T
” CHASSIS / SUSPENSION / BRAKES
Front Suspension
49mm inverted Showa fork with rebound and compression damping adjustability; 12.0 inches of travel
Rear Suspension
Pro-Link® Showa single shock with adjustable spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability; 12.3 inches of travel
Front Brake
Single 260mm disc with twin-piston caliper
Rear Brake
Single 240mm disc
Front Tire
Dunlop MX3S 90/100-21
Rear Tire
Dunlop MX3S 120/80-19
” DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase
58.3 inches
Rake
27° 22′ (Caster Angle)
Trail
116mm (4.6 inches)
Seat Height
37.8 inches
Ground Clearance
12.9 inches
Fuel Capacity
1.7 gallons
Curb Weight
243 lbs (Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel-ready to ride.)
” OTHER
Available Colors
Red
Model ID
CRF450R



 


 

2017 Honda CRF450R – www.Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: $9999 CDN

Engine & Drivetrain
Engine type
Liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke
Displacement
449.7 cc
Bore & stroke
96 mm x 62.1 mm
Compression ratio
13.5:1
Valve train
Unicam, 4 valves
Fuel delivery
PGM-FI electronic fuel injection with 46 mm throttle body
Transmission
Close-ratio, five speed
Final drive
#520 T-ring-sealed chain; 13T/49T
Chassis & Suspension
Front suspension
Showa telescopic inverted coil spring. 305 mm (12.0 in ) travel.
Rear suspension
Pro-Link® KYB single shock with adjustable spring preload, rebound damping adjustability, and compression damping adjustment separated into low-speed and high-speed; 314 mm (12.4 inches) travel
Dimensions & Additional Information
Tires
80/100 – 21 front; 120/80 – 19 rear
Brakes
Front 260 mm disc with dual-piston caliper; rear 240 mm disc
Ground clearance
328 mm (12.9 in.)
Seat height
960mm (37.8 in.)
Wheelbase
1,482 mm (58.3 in.)
Curb weight
110.6 kg (243.8 lb) including required fluids and full tank of gas – ready to ride
Fuel capacity
6.3 litres
Colour
Extreme Red




 

2017 Honda CRF450R – www.Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See dealer GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

Engine

Bore × Stroke (mm) 96.0 x 62.1
Carburation Fuel injection
Compression Ratio 13.5 : 1
Engine Displacement (cc) 449.7
Engine Type (cm³) Liquid-cooled 4-stroke single cylinder uni-cam
Starter Kick

Wheels

Brakes Front 260mm hydraulic wave disc
Brakes Rear 240mm hydraulic wave disc
Suspension Front Showa 49mm coil spring fork (305mm)
Suspension Rear Showa monoshock using Honda Pro-Link system (133 stroke, 314mm axle travel)
Tyres Front 80/100-21 Dunlop MX3SF
Tyres Rear 120/80-19 Dunlop MX3S
Wheels Front Aluminium spoke
Wheels Rear Aluminium spoke

Dimensions and Weights

Caster Angle 27° 22′
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) 2,183 x 827 x 1,274
Frame type Aluminium twin tube
Ground Clearance (mm) 328
Kerb Weight (kg) 110.6
Seat Height (mm) 960mm
Trail (mm) 116
Wheelbase (mm) 1482

Transmission

Clutch Wet multiplate
Final Drive Chain
Transmission Type Constant mesh



Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).

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