We changed up the Honda CRF450X in a big way last year; and right out of the gate it went out and won the Baja 1000. And not just the motorcycle class either—it roosted on those million-dollar trophy trucks too. But that’s hardly a surprise; given how good this bike is for the serious off-road racer. For 2020 we freshened up the look a bit; but the hardware is still everything you want. Awesome motor. Wide-ratio six-speed gearbox. Aluminum chassis. Electric starter. And long-travel suspension designed for the desert; the woods; and everywhere in between.
Features may include:
ENGINEERINGHaving six speeds in the CRF450X’s transmission compared to an MX bike’s typical five gives you more choice; and makes this versatile bike even more versatile. You have a gear for everything from east-coast rock crawling to wide-open Baja blasts.
CONVEINENCEAn electric start system ensures trouble-free starting in all conditions. The electric starter also drives the clutch side of the crankshaft to provide superior lubrication to starter gears while producing a narrow engine with a short; strong crank.
PERFORMANCEHonda’s Unicam® cylinder heads combine the best of single- and double-overhead-cam designs. The configuration contributes to a compact engine that saves weight over a comparable dual-overhead-camshaft motor and also permits a narrow included valve angle. This flattens the combustion chamber to facilitate ignition flame propagation; allowing a high compression ratio. Since less space is taken up in the cylinder head; the camshaft sits lower in the head for a more compact engine and a lower center of gravity.
HANDLINGThe CRF450X uses a twin-spar aluminum chassis that takes advantage of all the lessons we’ve learned on the MX track and from winning countless Bajas. The frame is both light and stiff; and provides the basis for the CRF450X’s excellent handling. The chassis is also wider than the standard MX frame to accommodate the six-speed transmission.