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Honda MotorradAll models 2026 · 2027
2027

The Honda CRF450R motocross bike: technology and variants

The Honda CRF450R is Honda's motocross competition model with a displacement of 449 cc. For model year 2027 the model was fundamentally redeveloped: a new engine, an aluminium frame that is 70 per cent new in design, and less weight.

Honda CRF450R motocross bike with 449 cc for closed-off tracks
  • 449 cc, 108 kg, titanium tank with 7.1 l
  • New engine: over 10% more peak power, 4% more torque
  • HSTC traction control and HRC Launch Control, three modes each
  • Slipper clutch with back-torque limiter
  • Aluminium frame 70% new, up to 5.6 kg lighter
  • HRC Works Edition variant with titanium exhaust

Character: a pure motocross competition bike

The CRF450R is designed entirely for motocross. A 19-inch rear wheel, motocross tyres and suspension tuned for jumps, tight corners and braking bumps make the purpose clear: it is ridden in training and racing on closed-off tracks.

As a competition motorcycle for track and off-road use, the CRF450R is not road legal. The model is intended for advanced riders. The larger moving mass in the 450cc engine works against the rider's body movements off-road and makes the motorcycle feel heavier than the scales suggest.

Honda CRF450R competition motorcycle with aluminium frame and titanium tank
Motocross on the Honda CRF450R in training and racing

New engine, clutch and rider aids

The completely redeveloped engine has a larger bore, a shorter stroke and improved airflow. Honda states more than 10 per cent more peak power and 4 per cent more torque than the previous model.

Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) manages traction in three modes, and HRC Launch Control, also with three modes, assists at the start. New is a smaller, lighter slipper clutch with back-torque limiting and rubber dampers.

Frame, weight and ergonomics of the 450

The aluminium frame is 70 per cent new in design, with revised geometry and a new swingarm. The engine is 17 mm narrower; together with the new rear wheel, this saves up to 5.6 kg. The weight is 108 kg and the ground clearance 333 mm.

The titanium tank holds 7.1 litres. More compact bodywork, reshaped radiator shrouds and side covers for better knee grip and a revised seat profile complete the package. The new suspension set-up is designed to provide consistent control throughout the entire stroke.

Variants: standard version and HRC Works Edition

Alongside the standard version there is the CRF450R HRC Works Edition, also referred to as the RWE. The Works Edition comes with handcrafted parts, a Yoshimura titanium exhaust, exclusive ECU settings and upgraded suspension.

If you mainly ride enduro, trails and longer off-road races, the CRF450RX is the matching sister model, with an 18-inch rear wheel, enduro tyres, hand guards and a side stand.

CRF450R variants

VariantPowerModel year
CRF450R–2025, 2027
CRF450R HRC Works Edition–2027
CRF450RWE–2025

Prices, colours and delivery times of the variants are available from Honda CRF450R at Honda Motorrad Zürich.

Frequently asked questions about the Honda CRF450R

Who is the Honda CRF450R suitable for?

For advanced motocross riders who train or race on closed-off tracks. For getting started off-road, a 250cc is usually the better choice, even with a lot of experience on the road.

Is the CRF450R road legal?

No. The CRF450R is a track and off-road competition bike with no road approval. It is ridden on motocross tracks and other closed-off grounds.

What does HSTC do on the Honda CRF450R?

HSTC stands for Honda Selectable Torque Control. The traction control system works in three modes and helps to put the power down in a controlled way, depending on the ground conditions.

What sets the HRC Works Edition apart?

The HRC Works Edition adds handcrafted parts, a titanium exhaust from Yoshimura, exclusive ECU settings and improved suspension to the standard version.

MX-Academy

Riding skills for your CRF450R

Learn, try or refine your riding skills – on closed-off grounds at the MX-Academy, with rental gear and coaches.

Motocross riding

Ride motocross yourself – with rental bike, protective gear and coach, no driving licence needed.

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Motocross course

Courses for beginners and advanced riders on the motocross grounds.

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Motocross training

Training days in small groups by level, with your own bike or rental gear.

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Motocross bike

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Gift idea

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