If you’re looking for the absolute best of the best, check out our CRF450RWE Works Edition. No wonder the Honda CRF450R Works Edition is considered the ultimate Honda motocrosser!
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 Honda CRF450RWE: THE ULTIMATE MOTOCROSSER!
Introducing the 2026 Honda CRF450RWE…
Inspired by the factory Honda HRC Progressive machines of Jett and Hunter Lawrence, the CRF450RWE is a purpose-built race weapon, for riders seeking the ultimate motocross machine. The “WE” stands for Works Edition, and this model’s long list of top-shelf components—most of which come straight from the team’s partners—make the CRF450RWE the closest thing to the machines that sit proudly under the factory tent.
Honda CRF450RWE Competition Dirt Bike
If you’re looking for the absolute best of the best, check out our CRF450RWE Works Edition. It adds special touches like an exclusive Yoshimura exhaust, Twin Air filter, Throttle Jockey seat cover, Hinson clutch basket and cover, premium DID DirtStar LT-X rims, Kashima and titanium oxide-coated fork, a red cylinder head cover, and hands-on touches like special cylinder-head porting. No wonder the Honda CRF450R Works Edition is considered the ultimate Honda motocrosser!
2026 Honda CRF450RWE Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- PREMIUM FEATURES
Compared to the CRF450R, the Works Edition version has several special components:- Hinson clutch basket and cover
- Yoshimura exhaust with stainless-steel header pipe and titanium muffler
- Twin Air air filter
- Throttle Jockey Honda HRC Progressive graphics
- Throttle Jockey seat cover
- Matte Red Metallic cylinder-head cover
- Hand-polished cylinder ports
- D.I.D DirtStar LT-X rims
- Kashima-coated outer fork tubes
- Titanium oxide-coated fork legs
- Titanium oxide-coated 18mm shock shaft
- Hand-operated fork compression adjuster
- Black-anodized axle holder
- D.I.D DM2 gold chain
- Gray metallic coated triple clamps
- Renthal Kevlar grips
- Dedicated ignition and injection mapping
HISTORY
Introduced in 2019, the CRF450RWE was developed as a premium version of the already-excellent CRF450R, with factory-inspired components already installed. Two years later, the model received important updates aimed at improving power, handling and consistency, and a Hinson clutch basket and Twin Air air filter were added to the list of first-class parts. For 2022, the CRF450RWE received an updated ECU and suspension valving, for improved drivability and balance, while 2023 improvements included changes to the intake port and funnel, cam profile, throttle body, frame rigidity and more. Like the standard CRF450R, the CRF450RWE received a host of significant upgrades for 2025, including chassis-rigidity optimization for improving handing, suspension improvements, a different airbox, new bodywork and more.
Updated Transalp and NC750X Lead Honda’s Product Announcement
- XL750 Transalp receives comfort- and convenience-focused changes for 2025
- Improved styling and handling for the NC750X DCT
- Also: Nine CRF Performance models confirmed for 2026 model year
American Honda today announced the return of two standout motorcycles for the 2025 model year: the XL750 Transalp and the NC750X DCT, both of which receive important updates. The ADV category is famously varied, and while these two models share a common class, they represent very different approaches to adventure.
Already popular after just one year on the U.S. market, the contemporary XL750 Transalp is a true adventure machine that is maneuverable and compact, ready to tackle dirt roads and backroads alike. It’s back for 2025 with revisions aimed at improving comfort and convenience, including better aerodynamics, lighting, instrumentation and suspension.
On the other end of the ADV spectrum is the NC750X DCT, long familiar with U.S. customers as an exceptionally comfortable commuter and weekend explorer—and improved for 2025 with refreshed styling, lighting, braking and more.
“The XL750 Transalp and NC750X DCT demonstrate Honda’s ability to appeal to the varying needs of powersports enthusiasts,” said Colin Miller, Manager of Public Relations at American Honda. “While both machines are midsize adventure bikes, each is developed with a different application in mind—and each is extremely effective in its particular realm. That Honda not only offers both options, but has also improved them both for 2025, is just the latest example of our commitment to meeting the demands of any customer.”
Also included in this announcement are nine dirt-focused models returning for the 2026 model year. In the race-winning CRF Performance family are the Baja-dominating CRF450X, the closed-course off-road CRF250RX and CRF450RX, and the CRF450RL dual-sport bike, as well as the motocross-focused CRF450R, CRF450RWE, CRF250R, CRF250RWE and CRF150R.
2026 Honda CRF450RWE Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
STYLING / DESIGN
The standard CRF450R is known for its excellent ergonomics; the CRF450RWE retains those, but adds a special look that comes straight from the Honda HRC Progressive factory race bikes. The radiator shrouds and side plates promote freedom of movement thanks to a smooth, flat surface, and although the bike is notable for its slim profile, the side-plate profile is wide enough to provide good contact for gripping the bike. Cooling the CRF450RWE’s engine is crucial to maintaining performance and overall durability. Computational fluid dynamics were used to design the air-outlet vents in the shrouds, and the radiator grilles are optimized in terms of both the number of fins and the fin angle. Each radiator shroud is produced in a single piece. The titanium 1.7-gallon fuel tank is exceptionally light.
A special Throttle Jockey gripper seat cover helps keep the rider in place while accelerating, and the seat base has a unique design, featuring rearward-facing tongues and front-located mounting tabs that utilize acceleration forces to keep the seat firmly in place. The Renthal® Fatbar® handlebar is mounted in a clamp that offers four possible mounting positions with a range of 26mm, thanks to the clamp’s two mounting locations and the ability to rotate it 180º. A single switch cluster on the left side of the handlebar has buttons for engine stop, ride modes and Honda Selectable Torque Control, while the starter and HRC launch control are located on the right side of the handlebar. Renthal Kevlar grips are standard.
Maintenance is simple, with only eight fasteners used to secure the main bodywork components, including the radiator shrouds, side plates and seat, all with 8mm bolt heads. Adding to the wow factor are a Matte Red Metallic cylinder-head cover, a gold D.I.D DM2 chain, gray metallic-coated triple clamps and Throttle Jockey graphics.
ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN
The CRF450RWE 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 12mm 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 for strong-but-manageable power delivery on corner exits, as well as resistance to stalling. Engineers followed the direction of Team Honda HRC Progressive by optimizing the cam profile for low-end torque. The cylinder head of the CRF450RWE features hand-polished ports, delivering precise power characteristics. The cylinder head cover is magnesium, with a thin-wall design for weight savings.
Intake
The airbox has a direct pathway for airflow, resulting in precise throttle control and excellent top-end power. A large air boot (4.1 liters on the clean side of the air filter) achieves strong torque at low rpm. Following feedback from HRC, the 44mm throttle body ensures smooth power delivery at low speed. In addition, the narrow intake port shape and long air funnel result in strong low-end torque and crisp throttle response. The airbox 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
True to its “Works Edition” name, the CRF450RWE is outfitted with a Yoshimura exhaust system, featuring a stainless-steel header pipe and titanium muffler. The exhaust system utilizes a resonator to increase power and torque. The engine’s exhaust port is centrally located, has an oval shape and is very straight, creating efficient, usable power in the low-to-mid rpm range. The centralized exhaust-port location enables the exhaust header and muffler to be positioned close to the vehicle’s centerline for a slim profile, contributing to freedom of movement for the rider.
Clutch
The clutch is hydraulically actuated and has eight plates and a large volume for good durability with minimal slippage and light lever pull. The Works Edition comes standard with a Hinson clutch basket and cover, further enhancing clutch performance.
Electronics
To mimic what the HRC factory riders were looking for, the engine uses selectable ECU maps that offer a smooth delivery while retaining strong torque and power throughout the rev range.
A gear-position sensor allows the use of three specific ignition maps for first and second gears, third and fourth gears, and fifth gear. There are options for Standard, Smooth and Aggressive ignition maps, selectable via a handlebar-mounted switch, enabling simple tuning depending on rider preference or course conditions.
- Mode 1: Standard
- Mode 2: Smooth
- Mode 3: Aggressive
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. A handlebar-mounted switch allows selection between modes, depending on conditions and rider preference. The three different modes differ in drive-management level, for differing riding conditions or rider preferences:
- Mode 1: The system intervenes the least 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 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.
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION
The CRF450RWE’s frame and suspension components are optimized for stability, comfort and precise handling. On the track, these advancements translate to a confidence-inspiring ride character, greater comfort and lower lap times for riders of all skill levels.
Frame / Subframe
The mainframe contributes to a comfortable and confidence-inspiring ride. Optimized torsional rigidity contributes to overall stability, while an ideal torsional/lateral rigidity ratio allows for precise cornering. Vertical torsional rigidity is designed to enhance stability in rough track conditions.
Perhaps counterintuitively, a relatively high overall frame rigidity helps give the model a compliant, composed ride character. As with the standard CRF450R, the subframe mounting point is positioned at a rigid location on the mainframe, minimizing energy transmission from the rear of the motorcycle to the front, contributing to excellent stability and comfort.
Suspension
The Pro-Link rear-suspension system uses a Showa shock absorber with a titanium oxide-coated 18mm shock shaft, an anodized adjuster cap on the right side and an ultra-light steel shock spring. Because of the optimized frame rigidity, the shock moves freely, minimizing harshness while offering hold-up for big impacts and performance in ruts.
Front suspension comprises a 49mm inverted Showa coil-spring fork and a gas-liquid separation structure. A compression adjuster on the fork allows the rider to adjust settings without tools. The fork setting is paired with that of the shock, for proper front-rear balance. The lower fork legs are coated with titanium oxide to minimize stiction and improve ride quality, while the outer fork tubes are Kashima-coated to enhance the Works Edition aesthetic. The fork cap is anodized blue, just like on the Honda HRC Progressive machines, and the fork lug is anodized black. The upper and lower triple clamps are gray and are designed to offer a good rigidity balance, for optimum handling and feel through corners.
Wheels
The black D.I.D DirtStar LT-X rims (21-inch front, 19-inch rear) deliver durable performance and good looks. The Dunlop MX33 tires feature technologies that deliver superior grip, slide control, bump absorption and durability. The CRF450RWE comes with a black-anodized axle holder, as well as a D.I.D DM2 gold chain.
Brakes
The front-brake caliper was developed based on feedback from Honda HRC Progressive riders, and it features two pistons (sized 30mm and 27mm), allowing for a smooth, linear feel that’s consistent throughout the moto. The caliper also features machined accents. The rear brake has a single piston. The brake rotors (sized 260mm front, 240mm rear) have a petal design to disperse heat.
Engine & Drivetrain
Ultimate Performance
Want serious performance and exclusivity? The CRF450RWE gives you all the awesome power and handling of the CRF450R, plus a whole bunch of extra top-shelf features. You’ll spot special components on the Works Edition CRF everywhere you look, including the metallic-red cylinder-head cover on the 449 cc Unicam engine.
Smoother Airflow
Torque output has been maximized with a unique airbox shape and filter design. The filter is easily accessible and features a gasket-less design for quicker and easier cleaning and servicing.
Yoshimura Exhaust
Paired with a less-restrictive air-intake system, the CRF450RWE’s Yoshimura exhaust delivers smoother engine performance in the mid- to high-rpm range and more controllable acceleration. An extended header pipe further supports power delivery at low to mid rpm.
Hydraulic Clutch
Big power requires a strong clutch, and this bike delivers with a smooth-operating hydraulic clutch. Ditching the cable improves consistency, control and feel at the lever. The light lever pull and generous clutch capacity help to maximize power transfer and durability, and to top it off, clutch slip is minimized at peak power. The CRF450RWE also gets a premium clutch basket made by Hinson, and a tasty Hinson clutch cover to top it all off.
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 bike will do the rest, launching you into the first turn with a big advantage.
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.
ECU Settings
Our engineers never stop searching for ways to make it easier to go faster. The ECU settings combine with the other chassis and powertrain improvements to make the CRF450RWE an all-around better performer.
Chassis & Suspension
Aluminum Frame
The CRF450RWE’s aluminum frame is engineered for increased rigidity and stability. Its structure enhances torsional and lateral stiffness in every direction, delivering more controlled and predictable handling — especially in rough conditions.
Special Showa Fork
The CRF450RWE also boasts the same extensively revised Showa spring fork as fitted to the R and RX, plus a few special touches.The Kashima-coated outer fork tubes and titanium-coated inner tubes help to prevent nicks, scratches and corrosion, while reducing friction for ultra-smooth operation.
Easier Shock Access
When you’re riding, you’ll appreciate the Pro-Link rear suspension with a new link system that’s less prone to flexing, and the redesigned shock with smoother action. When you’re wrenching, you’ll love the new ease of access to the rear suspension assembly. Removing the shock used to take about 21 minutes, by our watch, but can now be done in about nine minutes. No more removing the seat, muffler and rear frame. As well, the RWE’s shock features a titanium-coated piston rod for improved durability and reduced friction.
Large Front Brake
The large front-brake disc measures a whopping
260 mm, giving you superior stopping power while also being easy to modulate.
Black Rims
They may not help you go faster, but the black D.I.D® rims sure look good.
Cool Running
Another way the CRF450RWE keeps its cool: a large radiator, with fins that are designed for efficient airflow.
Additional Features
Works Styling
Throttle Jockey seat cover, special graphics on the bodywork, black top and bottom triple clamps, metallic-red cylinder-head cover… the new CRF450RWE would look right at home in a factory team’s paddock, and it’s yours to ride today.
Electric Start
Kickstarting? Maybe if you’re riding in the vintage class, but not here. By ditching the kickstarter entirely, our engineers were able to make a light bike even lighter. Electric starters and lithium-ion batteries are now so light and so good that putting them on a bike like this is a win/win combination. And winning is what the CRF450RWE is all about.
Smart ECU
The CRF450RWE boasts a special ECU with mapping, ignition and injection adjustment capability — perfect for riders looking to tune performance to perfectly suit track conditions and their riding style.
2026 Honda CRF450RWE – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ See Dealer USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ 14,857 CDN (includes Freight, PDI and Fees)
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See Dealer for Pricing in GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
| Model | CRF450RWE |
| ENGINE | |
| Type | 449.8cc liquid-cooled 10º single-cylinder four-stroke |
| Valve Train | Unicam® OHC, four-valve; 38mm intake, titanium; 31mm exhaust, steel |
| Bore x Stroke | 96.0mm x 62.1mm |
| Compression Ratio | 13.5:1 |
| Induction | Programmed fuel-injection system (PGM-FI); 44mm throttle bore |
| Ignition | DC-CDI |
| Starter | Push-button electric starter |
| Transmission | Constant-mesh 5-speed; manual |
| Clutch | Multiplate wet, hydraulically actuated (6 springs, 8 plates) |
| Final Drive | #520 D.I.D DM2 gold chain; 13T/49T |
| SUSPENSION | |
| Front | 49mm fully adjustable leading-axle inverted telescopic Showa coil-spring fork; Kashima coating on fork tubes, titanium-nitride coating on fork legs; 12.2 in. travel |
| Rear | Pro-Link system; fully adjustable Showa single shock w/ titanium-coated 18mm shaft; 12.2 in. wheel travel |
| BRAKES | |
| Front | 2-piston caliper (30mm, 27mm) hydraulic; single 260mm disc |
| Rear | 1-piston caliper hydraulic; single 240mm disc |
| TIRES | |
| Front | Dunlop Geomax MX33 80/100-21 w/ tube |
| Rear | Dunlop Geomax MX33 120/80-19 w/ tube |
| MEASUREMENTS | |
| Rake (Caster Angle) | 27.3° |
| Trail | 4.53 in. (115mm) |
| Length | 85.9 in. |
| Width | 32.6 in. |
| Height | 49.8 in. |
| Ground Clearance | 13.1 in. |
| Seat Height | 37.8 in. |
| Wheelbase | 58.3 in. |
| Fuel Capacity | 1.7 gal. |
| Curb Weight* | 249 lbs. |
| OTHER | |
| Color | Red |
*Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel—ready to ride
Specifications subject to change
2026 Honda CRF450RWE – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details
| ENGINE | |
| Type | 449.8cc liquid-cooled 10º single-cylinder four-stroke |
| Valve Train | Unicam® OHC, four-valve; 38mm intake, titanium; 31mm exhaust, steel |
| Bore x Stroke | 96.0mm x 62.1mm |
| Compression Ratio | 13.5:1 |
| Induction | Programmed fuel-injection system (PGM-FI); 44mm throttle bore |
| Ignition | DC-CDI |
| Starter | Push-button electric starter |
| Transmission | Constant-mesh 5-speed; manual |
| Clutch | Multiplate wet, hydraulically actuated (6 springs, 8 plates) |
| Final Drive | #520 D.I.D DM2 gold chain; 13T/49T |
| SUSPENSION | |
| Front | 49mm fully adjustable leading-axle inverted telescopic Showa coil-spring fork; Kashima coating on fork tubes, titanium-nitride coating on fork legs; 12.2 in. travel |
| Rear | Pro-Link system; fully adjustable Showa single shock w/ titanium-coated 18mm shaft; 12.2 in. wheel travel |
| BRAKES | |
| Front | 2-piston caliper (30mm, 27mm) hydraulic; single 260mm disc |
| Rear | 1-piston caliper hydraulic; single 240mm disc |
| TIRES | |
| Front | Dunlop Geomax MX33 80/100-21 w/ tube |
| Rear | Dunlop Geomax MX33 120/80-19 w/ tube |
| MEASUREMENTS | |
| Rake (Caster Angle) | 27.3° |
| Trail | 4.53 in. (115mm) |
| Length | 85.9 in. |
| Width | 32.6 in. |
| Height | 49.8 in. |
| Ground Clearance | 13.1 in. |
| Seat Height | 37.8 in. |
| Wheelbase | 58.3 in. |
| Fuel Capacity | 1.7 gal. |
| Curb Weight* | 249 lbs. |
| OTHER | |
| Color | Red |
*Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel—ready to ride
Specifications subject to change
2026 Honda CRF450RWE – Totalmotorcycle.com Europe Specifications/Technical Details
NA
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
Posted on Thursday, July 31st, 2025 by Michael Le Pard
