2023 Honda CRF450 First Look
Cycle News Staff | May 28, 2022
Honda announced its line of 2023 CRF450 motocross and off-road models. The flagship CRF450R receives “…key engine updates and chassis revisions targeted at enhancing corner-exit acceleration and improving handling,” says Honda.
2023 50th Anniversary Edition Honda CRF450R.
To make this happen, the ’23 CRF450R has a narrower intake-port shape and longer intake funnel, revised cam profile and smaller throttle body diameter, resulting, Honda claims, “in smooth power delivery and increased torque, improving acceleration out of corners.”
The frame’s rigidity has been optimized by increasing material thickness in strategic locations and the use of steel engine mounts (replacing aluminum) helps improve front-end traction. A higher-rate shock spring and revised fork settings complement the rigidity-optimized frame without introducing harshness.
To enhance strength and reduce noise, the muffler body is constructed from heat-treated aluminum, and a new inner-pipe design is used.
All these changes have been carried over to the CRF450RWE and CRF450RX off-roader. The CRF450R-S, CRF450X and CRF450RL all return as they were.
In addition, a 50th Anniversary Edition CRF450R will be available. This model pays homage to the original Honda CR250M Elsinore which made its debut in 1973. It will feature livery reminiscent of the 1980-’90 era CRs. This version features a blue seat cover, white number plates, gold rims, gold handlebar, gray-metallic triple clamp and special graphics.
You can check out more photos and details from Honda in the video below:
2023 Honda CRF450R.
2023 Honda CRF450R, left rear view
Another view of the 2023 50th Anniversary Edition Honda CRF450R.
The CRF450R Works Edition receives similar updates to the base model plus it includes several upgrades to the exhaust, suspension and engine.
The more off-road friendly CRF450RX receives similar updates for the 2023 model year.
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