2019 HONDA CRF450RWE
FULL TEST
P64
performance.
Like before, there is a three-
level map switch on the handle-
bar, giving you the option of
standard, mild or aggressive
settings. You can toggle through
them while on the bike, in gear
and moving, but the engine must
be idling. This year, there is a
gear sensor, which means Honda
engineers were able to fine-tune
the power delivery for each gear.
Launch control is new this
year, too. You'd think it would be
accessed through the map con-
trol switch on the left handlebar
but you'd be wrong; it's operated
via the electric start button on the
right handlebar.
In the chassis department, the
frame has been designed with
more flex in mind to help tone
down any harsh feeling that might
be mistakenly blamed on the sus-
pension, which, by the way, has
new settings in both the shock
and fork.
The front brake has been
updated as well, getting larger
pistons and a higher quality brake
hose.
Honda got with the styl-
ing times and gave the new
CRF450RWE black rims.
Honda finally updated the
handlebar department, too, giv-
(Above) All dressed up in Ken
Roczen's livery, the 2019 Honda
CRF450RWE "Works Edition" sure
is pretty. (Left) A hand-ported
head and Yoshimura mufflers give
the WE a horsepower advantage
for the standard. (Far left) The
WE's 49mm coil-spring fully
adjustable forks feature special
internal and external coatings like
the factory bikes have.
