2023 Honda CRF450RX: DIALED FROM THE START.
Introducing the 2023 Honda CRF450RX…
It’s every dirt rider’s dream: a bike with the power, light weight, and crisp handling of a factory motorcrosser, but with the fine tuning that makes it perfect for rides outside the track. And hey, it’s our dream too—which is why we build the CRF450RX. With all the updates of the 2023 CRF450R we’ve given it the magic touches that turn it into the perfect off-road enduro ride. In fact, things that make our 2023 CRF450R even better—like more low- and midrange torque—really take the RX to the next level. Other RX differences? Our Honda Selectable Torque Control lets you maximize available traction under different conditions. A lightweight chassis, 18-inch rear wheel, hydraulic clutch and special suspension settings help you take on varied terrain. And then there’s the big feature nobody can touch: our reputation for quality and reliability. You’ll be laughing—and riding—the next time your riding buddy tells you how he had to hike out ten miles in his motocross boots. Tell him he shoulda picked a Honda CRF450RX!
From high-speed NGPC and WORCS tracks to the technical woods riding of GNCC, the CRF450RX is a versatile, yet refined machine that is perfectly equipped for the variety of terrain found in closed-course off-road racing. To improve corner-exit acceleration and handling, the this model receives the same chassis and engine updates as its motocross-focused relative, the CRF450R. Built with off-road specific features like dedicated ECU and suspension settings, an 18-inch rear wheel, an aluminum side stand, a large 2.1-gallon fuel tank and hand guards, the championship-proven CRF450RX is ready for the track or trail, which is why it’s the motorcycle of choice for a variety of off-road racers, including the SLR Honda and JCR Honda teams.
READY FOR WHATEVER YOU’VE GOT
The new CRF450RX has a boosted low rpm torque output and HRC factory rider-specification chassis. And it’s cross-country ready with enduro-specific equipment – larger fuel tank, 18-inch rear wheel and sidestand – as well as unique engine mapping and suspension set-up. It’s our ultimate off-road tool – and ready for anything.
2023 Honda CRF450RX Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
Base Features
- 450cc liquid-cooled Unicam single-cylinder engine
- Fuel injection
- Electric starter
- Hydraulic clutch
- Single-muffler exhaust system
- Light twin-spar aluminum frame
- Close-ratio five-speed transmission
- Sidestand
- Resin fuel tank
- Handguards
- HRC launch control
- Selectable engine modes
Honda CRF450RX Aluminium Twin Spar Frame.
Aluminium Twin Spar Frame With Upgraded Rigidity Balance
HRC has also tuned frame ‘feel’ to deliver precise feedback front and rear, with maximum grip and total stability, for maximum control over a special test and any terrain.
Honda CRF450RX 3-level Honda Selectable Torque Control.
Performance You Have Complete Control Of 3-level Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and Engine Mode Select Button (EMSB) deliver the engine character and drive you want. HRC Launch Control owns the start.
Honda CRF450RX Engine.
High-Quality Engineering Built To Endure
Rock-solid reliability is built-in to the engine, with five-hole piston jet cooling and lubrication plus large-capacity scavenge pump using twin 12mm drums. You also look the part with new graphics and HRC logo celebrating the historic partnership between racing and development.
Honda CRF450RX torque
Increased Torque and Low-Down Power For Relentless Drive
What HRC’s factory racers want, they get. So can you. Try more low-down torque – 10.7% @ 5,000rpm, with smoother low-down power delivery to drive hard, everywhere.
Honda CRF450RX Showa Suspension.
Unique Showa Suspension Set-Up Delivers Supple Off-Road Control
The CRF450RX uses unique, new damping rates in both the 49mm USD forks and rear shock to deliver absolute compliance and traction over all sorts of ground.
Equipped To Run Hard and Fast
A larger fuel tank extends range. 21-inch/18-inch DID rims allow use of enduro-specific tyres, knuckle guards protect hands and levers while the sidestand is there if you need it for convenient standalone parking.
UNSTOPPABLE
Reach for it. You know you can. It’s why you ride the CRF450RX. The engine? Amazing. So strong, everywhere. But with smooth delivery that doesn’t wear you out. The chassis? Delivers the feedback for grip and handling control you need while absorbing the big – and small – hits. And it’s ready to do it all day. As are you. Because you ride the CRF450RX. Together you are unstoppable.
Ride Faster With Less Effort For Longer
HRC has made the 449.7cc Unicam engine even more potent – and usable. Narrower intake ports, a longer air funnel and smaller, 44mm diameter throttle body deliver higher-velocity gas flow to create the extra low-down torque. New valve timing (taken straight from Tim Gajser’s #243 MX machine) and ECU settings for the injection and ignition ensure smooth power and precise response.
Honda Celebrates 50 Years of Motocross With 2023 CRF450R
50th Anniversary Edition version honors 1980s CR models
CRF450R, RWE and RX receive significant engine and chassis updates
Celebrating five decades of elite motocross heritage, Honda today unveiled the latest edition of its flagship motocross bike, the 2023 CRF450R, during a media event. Held on the eve of the opening 2023 AMA Pro Motocross round at Fox Raceway, the function featured the entire Team Honda HRC lineup – Ken Roczen, Chase Sexton, Hunter Lawrence and Jett Lawrence – as well as Honda legends from the past, including champions Gary Jones, Johnny O’Mara, Rick Johnson and Trey Canard, as well as former Team Manager Dave Arnold.
Introduced 50 years after the debut of the 1973 CR250M Elsinore – Honda’s original motocross machine – the 2023 CRF450R receives key engine updates and chassis revisions targeted at enhancing corner-exit acceleration and improving handling. In addition, a 50th Anniversary Edition is offered, honoring Honda’s motocross heritage with a special livery evoking the iconic CR models that dominated 1980s AMA Supercross and Motocross.
Honda’s success in motocross started with the aforementioned 1973 CR250M Elsinore, which Jones piloted to Honda’s first AMA Motocross Championship. In the half-century since, additional titles have been delivered by a long list of champions including Marty Smith, Chuck Sun, Johnny O’Mara, Ron Lechien, David Bailey, Darrell Schultz, Micky Dymond, Rick Johnson, Jeff Stanton, Jean-Michel Bayle, Mike Kiedrowski, Doug Henry, Steve Lamson, Jeremy McGrath and Ricky Carmichael, culminating in current Team HRC rider Jett Lawrence delivering the 2021 AMA Pro Motocross 250 crown, as well as the 2022 AMA Supercross 250SX West Region title. These renowned riders have played an integral role in the development and innovation of CR and CRF motocross bikes, while cementing Honda’s legendary status in the sport. Originally introduced in 2002, the CRF450R continues Honda’s tradition of race-driven innovation by incorporating feedback from Team Honda HRC riders.
“Honda is synonymous with motocross, and that’s a direct result of our dedication to the sport for the past five decades, as well as the invaluable contributions of top riders – from Gary Jones in 1973 to Jett Lawrence in 2022,” said Brandon Wilson, American Honda Manager of Sports & Experiential. “The 2023 CRF450R is worthy of that heritage, and the 50th Anniversary Edition pays tribute in a way that we’re sure will be appreciated by motocross enthusiasts. We look forward to current and future Honda champions continuing to grow our motocross legacy.”
For 2023, The CRF450R’s engine and chassis updates also carry over to the premium CRF450RWE and the closed-course off-road-focused CRF450RX, raced by the SLR Honda and JCR Honda teams in the NGPC and WORCS competition.
While Honda celebrates 50 years of motocross heritage with the 2023 CRF450R, the rest of Honda’s popular CRF Performance lineup, including the CRF450R-S, CRF450X, CRF450RL, CRF250R, CRF250RX and CRF150R, continues to deliver industry-leading performance and reliability.
2023 Honda CRF450RX Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
UPDATES FOR 2023
- Narrower intake-port shape and longer intake funnel, for improved engine response and torque, resulting in improved acceleration on corner exits.
- Cam profile is changed, further increasing torque.
- Throttle body diameter is reduced from 46 mm to 44 mm, for smoother power deliver at low speeds.
- Frame rigidity optimized by increasing material thickness at joint where horizontal braces meet down tube, and at upper shock mount, enabling freer functioning of front and rear suspension.
- Engine hangers changed from aluminum to steel, to match frame changes and improve front traction.
- Because changes to frame rigidity allow freer suspension movement, shock damping could be made stiffer without introducing harshness.
- Fork setting changed to match rear suspension and ensure front/rear balance.
- Muffler is quieter thanks to change of inner-pipe design. Switch of aluminum material (A6061-T6) of muffler body increases strength without increasing overall weight.
- Radiator shroud graphics feature new HRC logo.
ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN
The CRF450RX engine boasts exceptional bottom-end and midrange power and torque, making for a linear delivery that is strong but manageable, even as the rider tires, while peak power is also very good. A five-hole piston oil jet and dual 12 mm drum scavenge pump manage lubrication.
Cylinder Head: The design of the Unicam® cylinder head, with the decompressor system’s counterweight on the left end of the camshaft, contributes to combustion stability in the extremely low rpm range and for a strong-but-manageable power delivery on corner exits, for example, as well as resistance to stalling. For 2023, engineers followed the direction of Team Honda HRC by updating the cam profile for better low-end torque. As before, the cylinder head cover is magnesium, with a thin-wall design for weight savings.
Intake: The CRF450RX features a downdraft intake design that delivers strong, efficient power, and a large air boot (4.1 liters on the clean side of the air filter) achieves in strong torque at low rpm. Following feedback from HRC, the throttle body has a smaller diameter (44 mm instead of 46), for smoother power delivery at low speed. In addition, the intake port has a narrower shape, while the air funnel is longer, a combination that results in increased low-end torque and improved throttle response. The air box is accessed with the removal of a single side-panel bolt. The 60º fuel-injector angle enables the spray to reach all the way to the back of the butterfly, thus cooling the upstream side of the intake path for maximum intake efficiency and torque feel.
Exhaust: The engine’s exhaust port is centrally located, has an oval shape and is very straight, optimizing exhaust efficiency and torque characteristics. With the engine’s central exhaust-port location, the exhaust header and muffler are positioned close to the vehicle’s centerline for a slim profile, contributing to freedom of movement for the rider. For 2023, the muffler has a new inner-pipe design to reduce noise without affecting power or weight (the entire system weighs 8.5 pounds). In addition, the muffler body is now made from a new aluminum material called A6061-T6, which is five times more resistant to impacts. As before, two resonators (one after the front U-bend and another at the upstream end of the muffler) boost power and reduce noise.
Clutch: The clutch is hydraulically actuated and has eight plates and a large volume for good durability with minimal slippage and light lever pull.
Electronics: A gear-position sensor allows the use of three specific ignition maps for first and second, third and fourth, and fifth gears. There are options for Standard, Smooth and Aggressive ignition maps, selectable via an all-new handlebar-mounted switch, enabling simple tuning depending on rider preference or course conditions.
In addition, Honda Selectable Torque Control offers three levels of intervention. HSTC monitors rpm spikes and responds by temporarily reducing torque by retarding ignition timing and controlling PGM-FI to aid rear traction. The three different modes differ in drive-management level, for differing riding conditions or rider preferences:
- Mode 1: The system intervenes most lightly and waits the longest to do so—useful for reducing wheel-spin and maintaining control in tight corners.
- Mode 2: A midpoint between modes 1 and 3 in terms of how quickly and assertively the system intervenes.
- Mode 3: The system intervenes most quickly and assertively, which helps in conditions that are slippery or muddy.
The CRF450RX’s handlebar-mounted switch allows selection between three modes, depending on conditions and rider preference. The HSTC system can also be switched off completely.
HRC Launch Control provides the best option for a strong start and also has three modes to choose from:
- Level 1: 9,500 rpm, for high-traction conditions and/or advanced riders
- Level 2: 8,500 rpm, for high-traction conditions and/or average riders
- Level 3: 8,250 rpm, for slippery conditions and/or novice riders
The Engine Mode Select Button (EMSB) alters the engine’s characteristics and three maps are available to suit riding conditions or rider preference:
- Mode 1: Standard
- Mode 2: Smooth
- Mode 3: Aggressive
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION
The motorcycle’s heavier components are positioned centrally and as low as possible for precise cornering without sacrificing high-speed tracking, and to achieve minimal squat under acceleration and negligible pitching during hard braking. For 2023, updates to the suspension settings and frame improve stability and turning.
Frame / Swingarm / Subframe: The frame uses narrow main spars and features optimized reinforcement ribbing on the backside of the pivot plate, contributing to the low frame weight of just 18.5 pounds. For 2023, frame rigidity has been optimized by increasing the thickness of the aluminum material at the joint where the twin horizontal braces meet the down tube, from 4 mm to 6 mm. Similarly, the material at the upper shock mount has been increased from 4 mm to 6 mm. These changes allow the front and rear suspension components to move more freely and avoid binding, improving stability and bump absorption. In addition, the engine hangers are now made from steel instead of aluminum, a switch that works with the revised frame rigidity to improve front traction.
As before, the subframe features a simple design that weighs just 2.0 pounds. The swingarm is narrow, providing good clearance in ruts, with rigidity tuned to maximize rear traction and cornering.
Suspension: As before, the Pro-Link® rear-suspension system uses a Showa shock absorber with adjusters on the right side and an ultra-light steel shock spring. Because of the updates to the frame rigidity, the shock now moves more freely, which allowed the switch to a stiffer spring rate (from 54N/mm to 56N/mm) without introducing harshness. Hold-up is improved as a result, for better performance in ruts.
Front suspension comprises a 49 mm inverted Showa® coil-spring fork and a gas-liquid separation structure. For 2023, the fork setting has been updated to the changes to the shock, for proper front-rear balance. The upper and lower triple clamps are designed to offer a good rigidity balance for optimum handling and feel through corners.
Wheels: Black D.I.D rims deliver durable performance and good looks. Petal-style brake rotors disperse heat, and a low-expansion front brake hose gives strong feel and consistent stopping power. The CRF450RX comes with Dunlop’s rugged AT81 tires, designed for all around performance across a variety of off-road terrain.
DESIGN
As before, both versions of the CRF450RX have slim bodywork, with a smooth junction of the radiator shroud and side panel, facilitating rider movement and cornering. Each radiator shroud is produced in a single piece instead of two separate parts, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) were used to design air-outlet vents in the shrouds. The radiator grills optimize the number of fins and their angle, maximizing cooling performance.
The seat base has rearward-facing tongues and front-located mounting tabs, easing installation, and using acceleration forces to keep the seat securely in place. The larger polyethylene fuel tank holds 2.1 gallons
Only eight fasteners are used to secure all of the main bodywork components—both radiator shrouds, both side panels and the seat, and all of the bolts for the main bodywork parts have 8 mm heads, simplifying maintenance.
A single switch cluster addresses several functions: engine stop, ride-modes and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). The starter and HRC launch control are on the right side of the Renthal® Fatbar® handlebar. There are two locations for the handlebar clamp, and the clamp can be turned 180º; as a result, four different mounting positions are possible, through a range of 26 mm.
Off-Road Features: The CRF450RX comes with a number of off-road-focused features that set it apart from its motocross-focused CRF450R sibling.
Softer suspension settings enhance performance over rocks and roots while the dedicated ECU map optimizes power delivery for low-traction off-road conditions. The 18-inch rear wheel allows for a taller tire sidewall, improving compliance over rough terrain and the 50-tooth rear sprocket (compared to the R’s 49) adapts the gearing for increased torque. A 2.1 gallon resin tank increases range between fuel stops.
Lightweight plastic handguards provide knuckle coverage from brush and roost and can be easily removed. The CRF450RX is also equipped with a forged-aluminum side stand for convenient on-trail parking.
2023 Honda CRF450RX – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: from $8799 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See Dealer GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
ENGINE
Type 449.8 cc liquid-cooled 10º single-cylinder four-stroke
Valve Train Unicam® OHC, four-valve; 38 mm intake, steel; 31 mm exhaust, steel
Bore x Stroke 96.0 mm x 62.1 mm
Compression Ratio 13.5:1
Induction Programmed fuel-injection system (PGM-FI); 46 mm throttle bore
Ignition Full transistorized
Starter Push-button electric starter
Transmission Constant-mesh 5-speed; manual
Clutch Multiplate wet, hydraulically actuated (6 springs, 8 plates)
Final Drive #520 sealed chain; 13T/50T
SUSPENSION
Front 49 mm fully adjustable leading-axle inverted telescopic Showa coil-spring fork w/ 12.2 in. travel
Rear Pro-Link system; fully adjustable Showa single shock w/ 12.3 in. travel
BRAKES
Front 2-piston caliper (30 mm, 27 mm) hydraulic; single 260 mm disc
Rear 1-piston caliper hydraulic; single 240 mm disc
TIRES
Front Dunlop Geomax AT81 90/90-21 w/ tube
Rear Dunlop Geomax AT81 120/90-18 w/ tube
MEASUREMENTS
Rake (Caster Angle) 27.3°
Trail 114 mm (4.48 in.)
Length 85.6 in.
Width 33.0 in.
Height 50.4 in.
Ground Clearance 13.1 in.
Seat Height 38 in.
Wheelbase 58.3 in.
Fuel Capacity 2.1 gal.
Color Red
Curb Weight* 251 lbs.
2023 Honda CRF450RX – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Type Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Displacement 449 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 44 mm throttle bore
Transmission Five-speed
Final Drive #520 chain; 13T/50T
Chassis & Suspension
Front Suspension 49 mm inverted Showa fork with rebound and compression damping adjustability;
273 mm (10.7 in) travel.
Rear Suspension Pro-Link® system; fully adjustable Showa single shock; 313 mm (12.3 in) travel
Dimensions & Additional Information
Tires Front: 90/90 – 21
Rear: 120/90 – 18
Brakes Front: 260 mm disc
Rear: 240 mm disc
Ground Clearance 334 mm (13.1 in)
Seat Height 965 mm (38 in)
Wheelbase 1,477 mm (58.1 in)
Curb Weight 114 kg (251 lb.)
Fuel Capacity 8 litres
Colour Extreme Red
Warranty No warrranty
2023 Honda CRF450RX – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Engine
Bore × Stroke (mm) 96.0mm x 62.1mm
Carburation Fuel injection
Compression Ratio 13.5 : 1
Engine Displacement (cc) 449.7cc
Engine Type Liquid-cooled 4-stroke single cylinder uni-cam
Starter Electric
C02 Emissions (g/km) 96
Wheels
Brakes Front Single 260mm disk
Brakes Rear Single 240mm disk
Suspension Front Showa 49mm USD fork
Suspension Rear Showa monoshock using Honda Pro-Link
Tyres Front Dunlop MX3SF
Tyre Size Front 90/90-21 54M
Tyre Size Rear 120/90-18 65M
Tyres Rear Dunlop MX3S
Wheels Front Aluminium spoke
Wheels Rear Aluminium spoke
Dimensions and Weights
Caster Angle 27.4°
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) 2,174 x 839 x 1,280 mm
Frame type Aluminium twin tube
Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres) 8.5 litres
Ground Clearance (mm) 334mm
Kerb Weight (kg) 113.6kg
Seat Height (mm) 961 mm
Trail (mm) 116mm
Wheelbase (mm) 1,477mm
Transmission
Clutch Wet type multi-plate
Final Drive Chain
Transmission Type Constant mesh, 5-speed manual
Instruments and Electrics
Ignition System Digital CDI
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
