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2020 Honda CRF450RX:
Ridden to the 2018 AMA National Grand Prix Championship (NGPC) by JCR Honda’s Trevor Stewart, the CRF450RX returns for 2020 with the addition of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), improving rear-wheel hookup in the limited-traction situations so common in closed-course off-road racing. A new battery position lowers the center of gravity for improved handling, and internal suspension updates yield improved machine balance. Just like the 2019 platform campaigned by Stewart, SLR Honda’s Ricky Dietrich and Phoenix Racing Honda’s Andrew Delong, the 2020 CRF450RX maintains its off-road pedigree with a model-specific ECU and 18-inch rear wheel, aluminum side stand and large fuel tank.
2020 Honda CRF450RX Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
449cc liquid-cooled Unicam single-cylinder engine
Fuel injection
Electric starter
Twin-muffler exhaust system
Next-generation twin-spar aluminum frame
Close-ratio five-speed transmission
Sidestand
Launch control
Engine mode select button
2020 Updates
- All-new 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.
- Revised mapping for 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.
- Revised internal fork and shock settings for improved chassis balance and overall handling.
- Battery position lowered by 28mm moves center of gravity downward to further improve chassis balance and handling.
- New rear brake-pad material for improved performance and increased durability.
- Elimination of lower rear brake-rotor guard, to improve heat dissipation and reduce unsprung weight.
- Updated graphics.
The newest iterations of Honda’s proven full-size motocross models—the CRF250R and CRF450R, as well as the elite CRF450RWE—all receive important upgrades to raise performance levels even higher, while the CRF150R mini is back again in 2020. The CRF450RX and CRF250RX closed-course off-road racers benefit from the same improvements as their track-focused siblings, while the CRF450X off-roader and CRF450L dual-sport machine return for the new model year with updated graphics. At the other end of the spectrum, the approachable, fun 2020 CRF250F, CRF125F, CRF110F and CRF50F await recreational riders with trail-focused performance and proven reliability.
“For generations, Honda has demonstrated its commitment to the dirt bike market, and that’s never been truer than now,” said Chris Cox, American Honda’s Manager of Experiential Marketing/Press. “Our 2020 lineup of off-road models, including the CRF Performance and CRF Trail families, comprises machines that are top-of-class for motocross, off-road competition, trail riding and, in the case of the CRF450L, even using streets to extend off-road adventures. With such a capable and diverse collection of motorcycles, you can once again expect to see a lot of red on tracks and trails from coast to coast.”
CRF PERFORMANCE LINE
Last year saw Honda significantly expand its CRF Performance family to include machines for riding applications including motocross, closed-course off-road, pure off-road, and even dual sport. For 2020, a number of models in the lineup get important upgrades to keep Red Riders running at the front of the pack.
CRF TRAIL LINE
Motorcycling is armed with legions of riders who got their start on Honda trail bikes, and with the 2020 lineup of CRF Trail models, that trend is sure to continue long into the future.
2020 Honda CRF450RX Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
Engine/Drivetrain
- 449cc single-cylinder engine with Unicam® cylinder head, downdraft intake tract, electronic fuel injection and electric start offers unparalleled “Absolute Holeshot” performance.
- 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
- 2.2 gallon resin fuel tank for completing long closed-course off-road loops.
- 18-inch rear wheel to enable taller tire sidewalls for improved traction in technical conditions.
- Forged aluminum side stand is designed to be lightweight yet strong.
- Sealed drive chain to withstand the elements.
- Suspension with settings dedicated to closed-course off-road use.
- Twin-spar aluminum frame engineered for great traction and cornering feel, and to minimize weight.
- 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 (30mm and 27mm) for optimal braking performance on a 260mm rotor with a petal pattern to best dissipate heat.
- Showa® shock and 49mm 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 26mm. With reversible handlebar clamp enabling an additional 10mm 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.
- 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.
- Dunlop Geomax AT81 tires provide optimum feel and traction in challenging riding conditions
ENGINEERING
Honda SELECTABLE TORQUE CONTROL (HSTC)
Notice that new button on the handlebar by the clutch perch? New for 2020, the CRF450RX gets our Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). You can choose from one of three settings to perfectly dial your bike in depending on how much traction is available.
260mm FRONT BRAKE
The CRF450RX’s large front-brake disc measures a whopping 260mm. You get great brake feel and a pattern that cuts down on weight. Front and rear brake-disc guards are part of the package too.
ENGINE MODE SELECT BUTTON
This simple handlebar-mounted button lets you dial in engine power delivery character with a push of your thumb. Choose between Standard, Smooth and Aggressive, depending on track conditions.
HIGH-CAPACITY RESIN FUEL TANK
For longer enduro loops, the CRF450RX features a bigger fuel tank that holds a full 2.25 gallons.
HRC LAUNCH CONTROL
We’re talking about a special ECU program here: push the button to select the mode, hold the throttle open, release the clutch, and the CRF450RX will do the rest, launching you into the first turn with a big advantage. It turns your bike into a holeshot-seeking machine!
LIGHT OVERALL WEIGHT
On a racebike, less weight is always better. That’s why our engineers are such fanatics when it comes to trimming grams from the CRF450X. You’ll feel the benefits everywhere: in acceleration, in suspension action, and most of all at the end of the day.
NEW REAR BRAKE PADS
Brakes are for more than just stopping: they help you set up the bike in turns and jumps. This year we changed the pads on the 2020 CRF450RX so they’ll last longer and give you even more stopping power—a real win/win to help you win.
CONVENIENCE
ELECTRIC START
Kickstarting? Maybe if you’re riding in the vintage class, but not here. By ditching the kickstarter entirely, our engineers can make the CRF450RX lighter. Electric starters and lithium-ion batteries are so light now and so good that putting them on a bike like this is a win/win combination. And winning is what a CRF450RX is all about.
PERFORMANCE
449cc UNICAM® ENGINE
Honda’s Unicam® cylinder heads combine the best of single- and double-overhead-cam designs. The configuration contributes to a compact engine that saves weight over a comparable dual-overhead-camshaft motor and also permits a narrow included valve angle. This flattens the combustion chamber to facilitate ignition flame propagation, allowing a high compression ratio. Since less space is taken up in the cylinder head, the camshaft sits lower in the head for a more compact engine and a lower center of gravity.
DOWNDRAFT FUEL INJECTION
The CRF450RX features a downdraft intake tract and FI body to help increase both power and fuel-metering precision. It’s part of the reason the CRF450RX offers such explosive power and massive torque, especially out of the starting line and in the critical first 100 feet of the race to the first turn.
TITANIUM INTAKE VALVES
Lightweight titanium intake valves cut down on reciprocating mass and permit the use of smaller valve springs, reducing overall engine height.
DOUBLE-SPRAY INJECTOR SETTINGS
The CRF450RX’s fuel-injection system sprays twice per intake cycle. That helps increase fuel atomization without adding the weight or complexity of a second injector. The better fuel atomization means more power in the midrange and on overrev—you’ll feel it the first time you race.
13:5:1 COMPRESSION RATIO
The CRF450RX features a refined squish area that helps boost compression to an impressive 13.5:1. That means improved combustion efficiency for more power.
CYLINDER HEAD LAYOUT
The CRF450RX uses our latest finger-follower rocker design. The Unicam cylinder head remains one of the most efficient in the off-road world, giving you the design and performance of a double-overhead-cam layout but the compactness of a single-overhead-cam design.
UPDATED “IN MOLD” GRAPHICS
With all the time you’ll be spending in victory circle, you need to look your best. The 2020 CRF450RX has you covered. Our redesigned “in mold” graphics look great, and stay looking good.
SKID PLATE
A factory skid plate is light and offers the engine and lower-frame protection that a racer demands.
HANDLING
DUNLOP GEOMAX TIRES
The CRF450RX’s Dunlop Geomax tires are specially designed for enduro use. The AT81 tires are spec’d at 90/90-21 for the front and 120/90-18 for the rear. You read that right: the CRF450RX rolls on an 18-inch rear wheel.
RELOCATED BATTERY/BATTERY BOX
For 2020, we designed a new battery box for the CRF450RX that moves the battery 28mm lower. That helps lower the overall center of gravity, which is always a benefit for responsive handling.
SHOWA® SPRING FORK
The 49mm Showa® fork is specially tuned just for the CRF450RX, and features a conventional spring design that helps increase the CRF450RX’s front-suspension precision, handling and feel.
NEXT-GENERATION ALUMINUM FRAME
The CRF450RX’s Next-Gen twin spar aluminum frame positions the 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.
SWINGARM
The CRF450RX’s swingarm uses a special fabrication technique that lets us fine-tune the flex to work with the chassis and give you better rear traction and cornering precision.
TWIN-MUFFLER EXHAUST SYSTEM
The CRF450RX’s dual exhaust system is light, compact, and positioned close and low in the frame to take weight off the rear end and bring more mass to the bike’s center for improved handling. It also allows for more air flow, and that equals added horsepower.
COMFORT
RENTHAL “FATBAR”
The aluminum Renthal Fatbar features a bend that’s even better than the legendary Honda “CR” bar. It’s the new standard of excellence—you’re gonna love it!
FLAT SEAT/TANK JUNCTION
The CRF450RX features a flat seat/tank junction, including a titanium fuel tank. The superior ergonomics make it easier to move forward and back on the bike, increasing your control.
BLACK RIMS
They may not help you go faster, but the black DID DirtStar rims sure look good.
SIDESTAND
Real enduro bikes need a sidestand, and we’ve given the CRF450RX a great one. Tucked up high and out of the way, this forged alloy piece is just another example of how the CRF450RX gets it right.
2020 Honda CRF450RX – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: starting from $9699 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $10699 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
| ENGINE | |
| Type | 449.7cc liquid-cooled 10º single-cylinder four-stroke |
| Valve Train | Unicam® OHC, four-valve; 10.0mm intake, steel; 8.8mm exhaust, s |
| Bore x Stroke | 96.0mm x 62.1mm |
| Compression Ratio | 13.5:1 |
| Induction | Programmed fuel-injection system (PGM-FI); 46mm throttle bore |
| Ignition | Full transistorized |
| Starter | Push-button electric starter |
| Transmission | Constant-mesh 5-speed return; manual |
| Clutch | Multiplate wet (6 springs) |
| Final Drive | #520 sealed chain; 13T/50T |
| SUSPENSION | |
| Front | 49mm fully adjustable leading-axle inverted telescopic Showa coil-s |
| Rear | Pro-Link system; fully adjustable Showa single shock w/ 12.4 in. |
| BRAKES | |
| Front | 2-piston caliper (30mm, 27mm) hydraulic; single 260mm disc |
| Rear | 1-piston caliper hydraulic; single 240mm disc |
| TIRES | |
| Front | Dunlop Geomax AT81 90/90-21 w/ tube |
| Rear | Dunlop Geomax AT81 120/90-18 w/ tube |
| MEASUREMENTS | |
| Rake (Caster Angle) | 27°25’ |
| Trail | 116mm (4.6 in.) |
| Length | 85.6 in. |
| Width | 32.6 in. |
| Height | 49.6 in. |
| Ground Clearance | 12.9 in. |
| Seat Height | 37.8 in. |
| Wheelbase | 58.2 in. |
| Fuel Capacity | 2.25 gal. |
| Color | Red |
| Curb Weight* | 255 lbs. |
*Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel—ready to ride Specifications subject to change
2020 Honda CRF450RX – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Type
Liquid-cooled single-cylinder 4-stroke
Displacement
450 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 sealed chain; 13T/50T
Chassis & Suspension
Front Suspension
Showa 49mm telescopic inverted coil spring with rebound and compression damping adjustability. 268 mm (10.55 in ) travel.
Rear Suspension
Pro-Link® Showa single shock with adjustable spring preload, rebound damping adjustability, and compression damping adjustment separated into low-speed and high-speed; 312 mm (12.28 inches) travel
Dimensions & Additional Information
Tires
Front: 90/90-21 Rear: 120/90-18
Brakes
Front: 260 mm disc with dual-piston caliper Rear: 240 mm disc
Ground Clearance
328 mm (12.9 in.)
Seat Height
959 mm (37.8 in.)
Wheelbase
1,477 mm (58 in.)
Curb Weight
116 kg (256 lb) including required fluids and full tank of gas—ready to ride
Fuel Capacity
8.5 L
Colour
Extreme Red
Warranty
No warrranty
2020 Honda CRF450RX – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
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