2015 Honda CRF450R - First Look

We've lost track of how many Ten Best awards the Honda CRF450R has taken home, but the last few years have seen the competition walk away with the coveted hardware. That, together with a lack of success on the racetrack, has obviously gotten under Big Red's skin.

For 2015, the CRF450R receives numerous upgrades that address the bike's previous deficiencies. Equally interesting, Honda is introducing an industry-first (for motocross) Ride Mode Select button. Modes can be selected via a right-handlebar-mounted button, allowing the rider to choose among three EFI/ignition options. Additionally, custom maps can be created using the HRC accessory tuning tool and accessed in the same manner.

On the hardware side, the 2015 Honda CRF450R has a new cylinder head and piston, plus an exhaust with a larger-diameter pipe and silencer outlet. Revised EFI/ignition settings are aimed at better top-end performance and more overrev. Also, a new flywheel with more mass should make for smoother power delivery and better bottom-end response. Improving rider interface are a lighter throttle-return spring and a clutch requiring less effort at the bar.

At the front, a brand-new KYB Pneumatic Spring Fork (PSF) has provisions for high- and low-speed rebound and compression damping, plus air-spring adjustability. Out back, the shock’s rebound adjuster has been made more accessible to simplify changes. Completing the changes are a larger 260mm wave-style front brake disc (and rear of the same design), which should improve power and feel, while the latest Dunlop Geomax MX52 tires are fitted as standard.

Is this enough to make the CRF450F start winning awards and races again? Only time will tell.