Model year 2023 - the Honda CRF450R

Thomas Wachsmuth 30 May 2022 Honda, Motorcycle / Scooter News & Tuning

Reading time 11 Min.

With the rich experience and know-how from factory races around the world, Honda was able to further develop and improve its MX flagship. The 2023 CRF450R shines with significantly higher torque in the lower rpm range and smoother power delivery to make maximum acceleration even more efficient and powerful when exiting corners. In addition, the frame stiffness and suspension have been revised in order to generate more stability when braking and increased agility when turning thanks to better grip on the front wheel. The latest CRF450R allows you to go faster and set better lap times with ease.

2023 Honda CRF450R

The modernized HRC logo catches the eye in the design with new graphics. Parallel to the 2023 vintage of the CRF450R, the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer is offering the CRF450R 50th Anniversary, an anniversary model that honors the CR250M Elsinore, the legendary motocrosser with which Honda first offered a commercially available competition MX machine 50 years ago. The CRF450R has been the reference in motocross since it was launched in 2002 and is considered a prime example of a well-balanced sports machine that offers hobby enthusiasts and professional MX racers the ideal combination of power, agile handling and the best controllability. All this combined with the unsurpassed quality and reliability that Honda has rightly been credited with for many years.

At the same time, further development and improvements were constantly promoted. For the 2017 model year, Europe's most popular big-bore MX machine has been completely renewed under the motto "Absolute Holeshot". The developers donated a completely revised chassis to a new engine with significantly improved performance. In 2018 it was equipped with a standard electric starter, in the following model year a newly developed cylinder head significantly increased power and torque, with HRC Launch Control also being added. Then, starting with the 2020 model year, HSTC traction control upgraded the CRF450R.

Wheels and basic engine architecture aside, the 450 CRF2021R was a completely new development with improvements following Tim Gajser's successful CRF450RW, which the Honda factory rider used to win the MX-GP World Championship in 2019 and 2020. In the 2021 World Cup, the speedy Dutchman and the HRC team just finished third in the final. Refinements followed for the 2022 CRF450R. But since technical development is constantly progressing, the latest machine for the model year 2023 again offers a large number of improvements to the engine and chassis, which the HRC team and its factory riders have worked out at MX races in Europe, America and Japan. The aim is always to improve performance and drivability in order to be able to drive even faster and easier - and ultimately to the benefit of all customers.

The 2023 CRF450R vintage is special because it marks 50 years of Honda offering competitive motocross bikes to its customers. Introduced in October 1972 and available from March 1973, the CR250M Elsinore (then with a two-stroke engine) celebrated legendary success and marked the beginning of a highly successful MX model family. As a tribute to this first production racer and motocross milestone, the 2023 CRF450R in also a CRF450R 50 in the usual red outfit^th Anniversary variant offered in a limited edition, whose visual appearance is reminiscent of historical models. As always, the CRF450R is, and will remain, at its core an HRC competition crosser for sale.

Model overview

HRC Honda riders from FIM World MXGP, AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross championships provided input for the further development of the CRF450R. This has made it possible for the 2023 vintage bike to be ridden more easily and faster – and thus allows for better lap times with less effort, even over longer distances. The frame's revised stiffness allows for an increase in rear spring rate and damping for improved control without unwanted stiffness or harshness. At the same time, there is increased grip on the front tire. With this, along with the tuned suspension response, the 2023 CRF450R is more stable and allows for a nimbler gait compared to last year’s machine.

On the one hand, the new chassis allows higher speeds when entering corners and earlier acceleration afterwards. On the other hand, the revised engine produces significantly more torque at low revs in combination with smoother power delivery. This results in new intake ports, a longer air funnel, a smaller diameter throttle body and revised camshaft timing. The rear silencer was also modified. The graphics of the MX racer in Racing Red adorn a revised HRC logo. The abbreviation stands for "Honda Racing Corporation", the racing department that has been responsible for all factory racing activities since 1982 - now for two-wheelers as well as for automobiles. In turn, HRC is linked to Honda R&D development to ensure the transfer of know-how and new techniques to serial products; the training of young engineers and the introduction to higher tasks are also traditionally part of the tasks.

The HRC logo on the CRF450R indicates the development input provided by the HRC factory riders from various MX championships. With the addition of the limited-edition CRF450R 50^th Anniversary celebrates the legendary CR250M Elsinore, with which Honda began making motocross competition machines available to everyone 50 years ago.

Features

3.1 Styling & Chassis

Frame with a new rigidity balance for increased stability, in combination with adapted spring elements.
Rear wheel shock absorber with increased spring rate for optimized propulsion over ruts and increased traction.
49mm Showa telescopic fork with revised damping.
Seat and plastic parts designed for optimized freedom of movement; plus new graphics plus modernized HRC logo.
Model year 2023 additionally with 50^th Anniversary Edition of the CRF450R.

The CRF450R's razor-sharp handling is further improved over the previous model. The machine is more stable when braking, turns in more precisely and easily, allows even the tightest turns in curves and accelerates out earlier. The reason for this is the specifically adapted rigidity of the aluminum frame construction. This is because the suspension elements, which have also been modified, harmonize better. The connection between the front down tube and the bracket now has a wall thickness of 6 mm (previously 4 mm); Likewise, the upper shock absorber mount is now designed with a wall thickness of 6 mm (previously also 4 mm). The suspensions on the cylinder head are now made of steel (aluminum on the previous model). In combination, the changed frame stiffness and the modified suspension significantly improve traction on the front tire.

The aluminum swingarm measures 585,2 mm in length, the Showa shock absorber is linked via Pro-Link linkage levers, which ensure the desired progression. There are 11 settings for rebound and 6 for high and low-speed compression. The damper oil volume is 421 milliliters. The newly selected, harder shock absorber spring rate is 56 N/mm (previously 54 N/mm). Together with the revised damping, the propulsion could be increased, especially on challenging uneven surfaces, without a stiff feeling, which would be counterproductive.

The fully adjustable 49mm USD fork (with coil springs) is a derived version of the Showa Factory fork used by Honda's official MX racing team in the Japanese Championship. The component offers 310 mm of travel, 13 adjustment positions for rebound and 15 clicks for compression. This provides sufficient opportunities for an optimal front/rear balance. The oil volume is 387 milliliters. The steering head angle and trail are measured at 27,7 degrees/113,9 mm, the wheelbase is 1.481 mm and the ground clearance is 336 mm. The dry weight is 105,8 kg and the weight distribution is 49/51 percent front and rear.

A lightweight Renthal Fatbar handlebar supports precise steering commands. The upper triple clamp has two mounts for the handlebar brackets, which allow the handlebars to be mounted 26 mm backwards or forwards. If the holders are rotated 180 degrees, the handlebars can be offset by a further 10 mm, so that a total of four sitting positions can be adjusted for drivers of different heights. On the front wheel, the double-piston brake calliper for the 260 mm wave brake disc is equipped with pistons of different sizes (30 and 27 mm Ø). Together with high-strength brake hoses, the brake feel and braking performance are supported. The 240 mm Wave disc brake on the rear wheel decelerates using a single-piston caliper.

Lightweight DID aluminum spoke rims with a special spoke pattern are finished in black. The front wheel rim measures 21 x 1,6 inches, the rear wheel rim, which has been lighter and reinforced since model year 2021, measures 19 x 2,15 inches. Dunlop MX33F/MX33 soft terrain tires are mounted on it as standard. Seat and bodywork are optimized with regard to ergonomics and freedom of movement. The best access for maintenance work was also considered, the side parts on the right/left can be dismantled in no time at all with four 8 mm screws. Narrow silhouette and aerodynamically optimized front fender direct the air flow to the side water cooler. The cooling system, including the cover hoods, has been carefully optimized for maximum air throughput using computer-aided flow simulation. The tank is made of lightweight sheet titanium and has a capacity of 6,3 liters. For the 2023 vintage, the CRF450R will receive newly designed graphics in addition to the well-known handsome lines, which will also be adorned with modernized HRC stickers.

450 CRF50R^th Anniversary Limited Edition special model

50 years ago, Honda first mass-produced a competitive motocrosser – the now legendary CR250M Elsinore – and offered it to its customers worldwide. As a tribute to this milestone, Honda is providing a special CRF450R to accompany the 2023 vintage – the 450 CRF50R^th Anniversary Limited Edition. This limited edition shines with a special look inspired by the HRC machines of the 1980s. The main differences to the standard machine are:

Blue seat cover
White number plates on the front and on the side covers
Special decor for the radiator covers
Rims and handlebars gold-colored
Metallic gray upper and lower triple clamps
Front fender with Honda wing logo

3.2 Engine

10,7% more torque at 5.000 rpm and extra power that can be optimally dosed from low revs.
Intake duct slimmer, longer airbox manifolds, 44mm throttle body and revised ECU control unit.
Stronger aluminum muffler without adding weight.

The specification for the further development of the 449,7 cm was to improve acceleration out of corners in particular³ Four-valve Unicam engines for the 2023 vintage: generate more punch at low revs. This goal was successfully implemented. Maximum torque has been retained, but an additional 5.000% is now available at 10,7rpm. This makes it easier to use higher gears and reduces fatigue over the course of a race. The new CRF450R engine develops noticeably more power at low revs, while power at maximum revs has been reduced by 5%.

To generate more punch down the RPM scale, the airbox intake snorkel (as on the CRF450RW HRC bike) is longer and has a reduced intake opening, which increases gas flow. Also carried over from the HRC racer is the 44mm diameter throttle body (2mm smaller than the previous model) to smooth out the low-end power delivery. New valve springs and revised camshaft timing are the direct result of feedback from HRC factory riders and the specifications that are preferred.

The exhaust system muffler is newly made of specially heat-treated aluminum to better withstand external stresses such as impacts or impact contact when touching competitors during hectic starts. An increase in weight is not associated with the use of the more resistant material. The four-stroke single cylinder bore and stroke remained unchanged (96 mm x 62,1 mm), the compression ratio is 13,5:1. A gear sensor makes it possible to control a total of three specially tuned ignition mappings when shifting gears - for first and second, third and fourth and fifth gear.

A hydraulic clutch with 8 discs ensures optimum control, the best feel at the clutch lever and constant lever play under extreme loads. This also rules out obstructive slippage under heavy loads when continuously calling up peak performance. Honda reliability has always been a strength of the CRF450F. For example, for optimal internal cooling, the piston is sprayed with oil from the underside from an oil nozzle with 5 holes, and the capacity of the oil pump is strengthened by double supply lines with 16 mm Ø, which helps to significantly increase the lubricant circulation.

3.3 Electronics

The HSTC traction control (Honda Selectable Torque Control) offers 3 modes and can also be switched off completely.
Three-stage HRC Launch Control (automatic launch).
Three modes are available via the EMSB switch (Engine Mode Select Button) to control the performance characteristics.
HRC Setting Tool for individual adjustment the ignition mappings.

The CRF450R's HSTC traction control minimizes rear wheel spin to aid traction. The system works without a wheel speed sensor in order to support the feel of the throttle in a practical way. Power is managed by retarding ignition timing and responding appropriately by PGM-FI injection when it electronically senses that the RPM has exceeded a set value. The three modes of HSTC traction control manage the intervention behavior for different driving conditions:

Mode 1 is most likely to intervene, and for a longer period of time, when it is desired to reduce wheel spin and maintain control in tight corners.
Mode 3 allows the system to engage more quickly and with more force, making it particularly useful in slippery, muddy conditions.
Mode 2 provides a practical midpoint between settings 1 and 3 in terms of speed and engagement level.

Summarized on the left side of the handlebar are: Lauch control display, EFI injection lights, HSTC and EMSB switches and LED display. Pressing and holding the HSTC switch for 0,5 seconds activates the next level, the LED lights up green for confirmation: One flash for mode 1, two flashes for mode 2 and three flashes for mode 3. The HSTC Disable traction control completely. The last selected setting is activated when the ignition is switched on. The HRC Launch Control (automatic launch) makes perfect launch maneuvers easier for experienced drivers and those who are just getting started. There are three preset settings to choose from:

Level 3 – starting speed 8.250 rpm, for muddy surfaces or MX novices.
Level 2 - starting speed 8.500 rpm, standard setting for dry ground.
Level 1 – starting speed 9.500 rpm, for dry terrain or drivers with professional demands.

Activating the HRC Launch Control is easy to do in practice. To switch on, pull the clutch and press the starter button (on the right). Then the LED indicator light for level 1 flashes once. Press the starter button again (or 0,5 seconds longer when boarding) and the Level 2 LED indicator light will flash twice. Press the starter button again (or hold it down when boarding) and the Level 3 LED will flash three times. With the selector mode switch EMSB (Engine Mode Select Button), the engine setup and thus the power delivery can be determined as desired:

Mode 1 - Standard/fits most tracks, riding styles and surfaces.
Mode 2 - Smooth/traction-friendly power delivery.
Mode 3 - Aggressive and full power/for deep bottoms and sandy surfaces.

The LED light will illuminate blue to indicate which motor setup is activated. Mode 2 and mode 3 can also be modified as desired with the "HRC Setting Tool" available as an accessory and adapted to the respective driver's preferences - right up to particularly sensitive response for easy-going demands or targeted aggressive characteristics, as it should be Competitors want in races.

Technical data

MOTOR
Type	Liquid-cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder, Uni-Cam
Capacity	449,7 cm³
Bore x stroke	96,0 mm x 62,1 mm
compression	13,5:1
FUEL SYSTEM
mixture preparation	PGM-FI fuel injection
Tankinhalt	6,3 liters
ELECTRICS
Starter	E-Starter
DRIVE
Clutch	Multi-disc clutch in an oil bath
Transmission	5 gears
Final drive	Chain
FRAME
Type	Aluminum twin tubes
FRAME
Dimensions (LxWxH)	2.182 x 827 x 1.267 mm
wheelbase	1.481 mm
Steering head angle	27,7°
trailing	113,9 mm
seat height	965 mm
ground clearance	336 mm
Weight	dry 105,8 kg / fully fueled 110,6 kg
WHEEL SUSPENSION
ahead	Showa 49mm USD spring fork
behind	Showa mono shock, aluminum swingarm, Honda Pro-Link
BIKES
Rims v/h	Aluminum spoked wheels

Front tire size	80/100-21-51M Dunlop MX33F
Tire size rear	120/80-19-63M Dunlop MX33
BRAKES
Front brake	Disc brake, 260 mm Ø, hydraulically operated
rear brake	Disc brake, 240 mm Ø, hydraulically operated
FURNISHING
Electronics	HRC launch control HSTC Traction Control

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