2011 Honda CRF450R | Preview

Honda CRF450R Preview

Honda has always been a leader in the MX / SX and off-road motorcycle scene. And for 2011, the manufacturer wants to continue this trend by adding more improvements on their largest motocrosser, the CRF450R.

Honda revamped the CRF 450 R for 2011, tweaking the engine for more low-end and midrange grunt while improving throttle response. Also, Honda has upgraded the suspension with the all-new Honda Progressive Steering Damper (HPSD).

Bill Savino (Powersports Press Manager) says: “We’re proud to unveil our newest race bikes, the CRF450R and CRF250R motocrossers, plus a wide assortment of Honda off-road machines that have remained extremely popular with recreational riders over the years. With these models for 2011 and more to follow, this is certainly going to be a great year for riding enthusiasts.”

New For 2011:

• Revised engine tuning and new 46mm throttle body increase low-end and midrange power and give improved throttle response.
• Front fork features a lighter cartridge cylinder and all-new valving for improved control and increased ride plushness.
• Revised shock valving yields improved control and increased rear wheel traction.
• New suspension linkage produces improved chassis balance and increased rear wheel traction in rough-track conditions.
• Honda Progressive Steering Damper (HPSD) features larger piston diameter (20mm to 24mm) for improved tracking traits.
• Redesigned muffler lowers sound emissions to 94 dB.

2011 CRF450R Specs:

• Engine Type: 449cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke
• Bore and Stroke: 96mm x 62.1mm
• Compression ratio: 12.0:1
• Valve Train: Unicam, four-valve; 36mm intake, titanium; 30mm exhaust, steel
• Induction: PGM-FI, 50mm throttle body
• Ignition: Full transistor with electronic advance
• Transmission: Close-ratio five-speed
• Final Drive: #520 chain; 13T/48T
• Suspension Front: 48mm inverted KYB Air-Oil-Separate (AOS) with rebound and compression damping adjustability; 12.2 inches travel
• Rear: Pro-Link KYB single shock with spring preload, rebound damping adjustability, and compression damping adjustment separated into low-speed and high-speed; 12.5 inches travel
• Brakes Front: Single 240mm disc with twin-piston caliper
• Rear: Single 240mm disc
• Tires Front: 80/100-21
• Rear: 120/80-19
• Wheelbase: 58.7 inches
• Rake (Caster angle): 26° 52′
• Trail: 114.2mm (4.5 inches)
• Seat Height: 37.6 inches
• Ground Clearance: 13.1 inches
• Fuel Capacity: 1.5 gallons
• Color: Red
• Curb Weight*: TBD

MSRP: $7,199. Available in Red beginning October 2010.