[ 2012 Honda CRF450R ]
It’s not even halfway through 2011 and Honda has teased us with the first class-of-2012 motocrossers to break cover, before the 2011 Supercross series has concluded! In one of the most competitive SX seasons in memory, title-contender Chad Reed has ridden what is essentially an off-the-showroom-floor CRF450R—that any consumer could build—into contention in one of the most difficult and demanding championships in racing. That not only says a lot about Reed but also a lot about his motorcycle.
With momentum building—Honda hasn’t won an MX or SX title since Ricky Carmichael did in 2003 (MX) and 2004 (SX)—and with future title hopefuls like Trey Canard and veteran Reed at its disposal, it wasn’t a good time to slow development. The woeful economy and poor sales, be damned.
CRF450R
Highlights for the 2012 CRF450R include a host of updates aimed at the chassis and in particular the suspension. A new Pro-Link shock linkage is specified to improve rear suspension control, while fork and shock valving were changed, too. More rigid outer fork tubes are used to improve steering precision. Stiffer fork springs are fitted to reduce bottoming and improve front-to-rear balance approaching and landing from jumps.
CRF250R
Compared to the 450, the Lites-classer gets extensive updates for 2012. Starting with the new third-generation Unicam engine, an all-new cylinder head with revised port shapes, a more durable camshaft and new exhaust valves for better low- to midrange rideability. A different throttle body is designed to improve low- to midrange power delivery, as well. A quieter high-capacity muffler meets global noise and emission regulations without sacrificing power, says Honda. Chassis highlights include a redesigned Pro-Link shock linkage and revised suspension valving front and rear.
CRF150RB
Honda’s ultra-high-tech CRF150RB remains in a class of its own. But that didn’t stop Honda from updating the bike despite little in the way of competition. A new cylinder head with a revised combustion-chamber shape, updated camshaft and short-skirt forged piston are among the big changes. Chassis updates include revised suspension settings front and rear.
Honda has yet to release pricing on these models, so stay tuned for more info.
2012 Honda CRF250R
