Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/1456050
RIDE REVIEW I 2022 HONDA CRF250RX P80 T he CRF250RX's bigger brother, the '22 CRF450RX, didn't get the full treatment as the 250, and for a good reason—it got it last year. The '21 450RX ar- rived on the scene with the same updates as the fully revamped CRF450R while, of course, retaining all of its off-road-specific touches: a softer suspension setting, an 18- inch rear wheel, Dunlop AT81 tires, a larger 2.1-gallon plastic (versus titanium) fuel tank, handguards, a kickstand, etc. As a result, the 2022 CRF450RX returns much like it was last year. However, the '22 450RX did get some refining, and the suspension and ECU settings were the subject of those refinements. Honda said it focused on "drivability and balance." Still, updates or not, the '22 CRF450RX is not for the faint of heart. It's still a lot of motorcycle on the trail, but we already knew that from riding previous 450RXs. It would take a lot more than just fine-tuning the ECU and suspen - sion to change that. But that's okay. Because when the trail opens up, that's when the best of the CRF450RX is revealed and explains why the 450RX is a proven racing weapon out West in faster and more open WORCS and AMA National Grand Prix Championships. You don't see any 450RX's in the top 50 at last week's GNCC opener in South Carolina, most racers choos- ing the tamer and more manage- able off-roaders from Austria and Europe for the tight stuff. Yes, the 450RX loves the fast stuff, it's just not happy at all on the single-track twisties, but not to worry, this is what the 250RX is for. However, the 450 handles technical trails better than its motocross cous- in because of the RX's higher-profile rear tire and plusher suspension that soaks up the rocks and roots better, and the motor that is a little more manageable and controllable than the harder-hitting motocrosser. At speed, the CRF450RX is so much fun. Our first day on the '22 450RX was spent at Cahuilla MX Park which is surrounded by some excellent single-track trails over technical and rolling terrain. We eventually ditched all that and spent the rest of our day on the facility's more open GP-style tracks, where the 450RX feels more at home. The 450RX handles well, is very fast, has good brakes, and the hydrauli - cally operated clutch is durable and has good feel. We just wish it had a lighter pull. Otherwise, we had little to complain about when riding the 450RX on faster terrain, which is re - ally what this bike is really designed to be on. Like the CRF250RX, the 450RX cost a little more than its motocross cousin. MSRP is $9899 for the '22 CRF450RX, $300 more than the CRF450R. GP-style racing and the CRF450RX go hand in hand. PHOTO: MARK KARIYA No major changes for the '22 CRF450RX. It got 'em all last year. THE BIG RX